B. Manage your credit and debt wisely

As a nation, we are up to our eye-balls in consumer debt. The average
household boast $10,000 on credit card debt, mortgages that top the
$200,000 mark and students loans exceeding $25,000 +. Unfortunately,
for many amid the current credit crunch, now more than ever, is impera-
tive to manage credit and debt wisely, because if you should need a loan or
credit for any reason, you are up against some tough requirements. These
days, banks and other lending institutions want to see Fico scores of 700
or higher, in fact, for the best mortgage rates you are now required to
have scores of 740 or higher. So, whether you are in the market for a
new home, a car, student loan or even a new job or career opportunity,
all of these things now require that you have stellar credit.

Common myth–
My credit score will in no way affect my professional profile.

Here's what you need to know....If you are presently
trying to find a job or simply making a career change, understand that not only lenders, but potential employers can legally pull your credit report to determine whether
or not to give you a job. So be sure to not keep your self
out of the running by neglecting to be deliberate about caring for your financial profile.

Important tip— If you do nothing else but pay your bills on
time for the next 6 months (provided that you don't create
any new negative activity such as applying for new credit
cards, running up old ones or closing out any accounts)
you can begin to dramatically improve your credit rating.