I figured if I paid double the minimum payment, I would still be able to go my expensive hairstylist every week. If you can, pay for your groceries, gas and other small utility bills in cash. I was offered a huge credit limit.- You do not need dozens of credit cards. I somehow felt that I had to use my card to the max.When I first got my credit card, it felt like I was three phase meter current transformer a never-ending shopping spree and that I could buy the world. - Stress on affordability when applying for a credit card.Here is a little trick I learned from my mother -- after I was camped in my old bedroom, unable to pay for my rent. - If you don't need it, don't buy it.- Pay on time! You will be the one to benefit if you follow this mantra. You see, it is the thought of having so much money at your disposal, money that's not even yours, that makes spending it so much easier. Stories about other people filing for bankruptcy were just that for me -- tales that should arouse a little curiosity. Thank goodness, my friends intervened and helped me realize the mistakes I've made with my credit. When it is sale season, make this your motto even as you get assailed by signs of "half-price". One is enough. If you have extra cash, put it in your retirement fund or pay off some of your debts. Was I ever wrong! After barely a year, I experienced the humiliation of having a credit card payment declined; that too, in front of my family and friends.- When the bills are relatively small, try not to charge them. Her tip was that I should use the card only when I am sure that I have enough cash to back it up. Late payment charges will increase your debt and affect your credit rating. And I wish they had, because if they had given me a slight hint of trouble caused by credit cards I would have stopped myself from spending what I can. In fact, not once did I hear my parents complain about finances while I was growing up. Then there is also the fact that finance companies "forget" to tell you about finance charges, late payment charges and other kinds of fees you only thought possible in your nightmares. - Banks offer automatic payments for credit card bills from your savings account, and it is best if you avail of this service. That should have been reason enough to stop, but I refused to. To some extent, I guess I was not too mechanical latching relay educated about the importance of using my credit cards intelligently. Within a few months, I was reeling under a huge debt. Even if they're cutting off 25% from the price tag, the other store could have it at 50% off. I thought that my salary could handle all the monthly minimum payments; after all I would be paying for the shoes, clothes, and make-up in installments. If you don't want to be bothered by credit card debt, just make sure that you have adequate savings in your account. - Pay more than your minimum monthly payments. It is never a good idea to have a number of unused cards lying around.