My husband Paul and I are in Week 12 of the 13 week Financial Peace University here in St. Louis offered by Dave Ramsey, best selling author of Total Money Makeover and talk show host of The Dave Ramsey Show (www.DaveRamsey.com/FPU). I have to admit that when Paul broached the idea of going, I wasn't interested. I didn't really think we had a "debt" problem but after much urging, I went to appease my husband. I have been really impressed with the program and have fully embraced what I've learned. I should listen to my husband more often!
It's all about "baby steps" like setting up an emergency fund first, getting a budget in place (a what???), then funding 6 months of living expenses in a liquid account, cutting up credit cards, (ouch) etc. Each week is a different topic and Dave Ramsey is highly entertaining (via video) at the same time being very direct and passionate about turning the tide of Amercians spending above their means. His mantra is you will "live like no one else so later you can LIVE like no one else!"
We now pay with cash divided into special envelopes marked for groceries, dining out, hair care, clothing, etc that we don't go anywhere without. Sure, we used to pay off our credit card every month too, but now that we pay cash, it hurts more to part with it so we spend FAR less than we used to. We have actually spent 1/3 less on groceries than we used to because with credit I never cared how much it cost or how much we might waste. We still eat well but we don't waste food anymore. Some women can't help themselves in a clothing store...I cannot help myself in a grocery store!
There are numerous classes coming up at various churches around St. Louis Metro area. Even if you think you don't "need" this class, I encourage you to check out his website for yourself.