When I was trying to figure out a financial plan to meet our goals I used Quicken… I had already been using quicken to track spending – but it’s got a planning section – you can set up your goals (kids college, retirement, etc.) It allows you to “what if” based on various saving scenarios.
I found it really useful. As an older parent with young kids – I’m looking at college concurrent with retirement – not a typical scenario… So I was able to ensure I was saving properly to cover both major goals.
I agree with the advice that Russell gave – to have friends who don’t spend money… It’s good advice. Use them as examples. I use my spender friends as examples of how NOT to live… Seeing their stress makes me clamp onto my money even tighter.
