For those who have been reading these threads, they will probably realise that there is a common vein about being free of debt.

IMO, that alone won't generally provide economic freedom.
What is needed also, is investment in self-sufficiency.

If you really want economic freedom, then you must be able to survive comfortably without reliance upon others.
Unfortunately, this is a bit of a political deadend, because our economy is not geared to self-reliance.

It is a natural right to be self-sufficient and free of outside influence, however, it is hardly attainable by looking at the common channels these days.

But be assured, that it is still attainable when you know the rules of the game.
There is no paradigm of politics which can entirely cut out the opportunity for self-sufficiency, because self-sufficiency is the crux of all political idealisms.

Amadd wrote on Jan 25^th, 2012 at 7:50am:

For those who have been reading these threads, they will probably realise that there is a common vein about being free of debt. IMO, that alone won't generally provide economic freedom. What is needed also, is investment in self-sufficiency. If you really want economic freedom, then you must be able to survive comfortably without reliance upon others. Unfortunately, this is a bit of a political deadend, because our economy is not geared to self-reliance. It is a natural right to be self-sufficient and free of outside influence, however, it is hardly attainable by looking at the common channels these days. But be assured, that it is still attainable when you know the rules of the game. There is no paradigm of politics which can entirely cut out the opportunity for self-sufficiency, because self-sufficiency is the crux of all political idealisms.

As suggested, by your thread title, a Budget is an excellent starting point, if anyone is looking to become self sufficient and an Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet is a great way to start your planning.

The Excel Spreadsheet is widely available and it enables YOU to TAYLOR MAKE your own Monthly, Annual & even 3 & 5 year Expenses & Incomes Budgets, as well as correlating those facts into Profit & Loss worksheets & Running Totals worksheets.

This enables all aspects to be budgeted and it enables a plan of attach to be laid out, as you plan to reduce your existing Debt, over time.

Remember, reducing your Debt is like dieting, you didn't get to be overweight, overnight and whether its dieting or reducing your Debt, it will take time to get back to your proper weight/Debt, for your age!

So, good luck & WATCH THE DEBT!