Piracy has made a surprising comeback on the high seas, but little pirates have been attacking my financial ship for years. Just like shipping interests have had to alter their methods of operation, I’ve had to alter my habits and my budget ^[2] to insure that these pirates don’t make me walk the plank.

^[3]
Pirate #1 — Spending More Than I Earn

The king of the personal finance rules of thumb, spending less than I earn is easier said than done – but name one thing that isn’t. Living on less than I earn began with changing my personal spending philosophy ^[4]. I’ve had to learn to moderate my cash outflows and avoid reckless spending. The gratification I get from knowing I don’t have to walk the plank is surprising. It really is a freeing experience to know that things have less control over me.