The recent economic downturn and banking mess has revealed something startling. Most Americans only have money in their homes and nothing beyond that. This lack of saving is a recipe for disaster as we grow older.

So, why is saving so difficult for us? Well, you can blame it on a culture that thrives upon spending or you can blame it upon yourself. There is plenty of blame to go around for both. Either way, there is a simple way to save your money.

The first thing that you have to do is set up a few goals for yourself. Try and figure out what it is that you want to save money for. If you want to buy a large item, you will need to find out the total cost. If you want to simply save money for a rainy day, find out how much you can put aside each paycheck.

Now put a realistic timeframe into effect. Write down a specific date that you want to have your money saved by. Make sure that this date is one that can be achieved, or you may just wind up frustrating yourself. Now comes the hard part (ready?).

We are beings of routine. We do the same things over and over each day because it is part of our routine. Make saving money part of your routine. Put some money aside each day. It can be a tiny amount because it will add up over time.

As you work through your savings plan, write down everything that you spend. This way you can keep track of your spending habits. If you see that you are spending too much money in one area, see whether or not you can cut back on that spending habit.

It is important that you not include luxury costs as necessary costs just because they are part of your routine. Going out to eat breakfast every morning is not necessary. At $5 to $10 a pop, that is a lot of money. Cut back and save big.

Once you start trying to save money, there can be a tendency to overdue it. The goal is to save money, not become offensively cheap. Set aside some splurge money, but do not spend more than that.

We are a society of debtors. Everyone seems to be up to their eyes in debt. It is incredibly stressful, so why do it? Cut your expenses. Save some money. Pay off your debts and be truly free. No credit card company should every have authority over you.