As Kenny and I are getting closer and closer to the end of our plan to be debt-free (see how we’re doing here: Debt-free Journey), we have decided to take a closer look at our future financial plan.  Neither of us are big spenders or ever want to be.  Of course, we like to do fun things: go out to eat, travel, visit friends, go to concerts, etc., but we never feel like we need many things.  We are excited for the time when we can spend on these experiences without thinking about it so much, but we are just as excited to give our income to important causes and people in need.  To celebrate being debt-free, we plan on giving $1,000 to a cause that is important to us.  We both believe that we are here to make a difference in this world, and we intend to do that not only by giving our money, but also by giving our time and energy to help ourselves, our family and friends, our community, and our world.  With that said, below are our 8 Financial Steps with the 8th step being complete financial freedom for us:

1. Begin emergency fund ($1,000) – DONE
2. Pay off remaining debt ($48,000) – Done in 1 year, 3 months (If you have debt and you want to get rid of it, check out this article: How to Become Debt-Free Fast)
3. Give to an important cause ($1,000) – Done in 1 year, 3 months
4. Complete emergency fund ($9,000) – Done in 1 1/2 years
5. Buy a reliable, used car ($10,000) – Done in 1 year, 9 months
6. Save for down payment on home ($20,000) – Done in 2 years, 3 months
7. After bills (To see how to figure out your bills and set a budget, go here: A Simple Guide on How to Budget), leftover money will be allocated as follows: Pay Down House (70%), Invest (10%), Give (10%), Spend (10%) – Done in 7 years (pay off house in 5 years)
8. COMPLETE FINANCIAL FREEDOM: After bills, leftover money will be allocated as follows: Invest (50%), Give (25%), Spend (25%)

What are the steps you’re taking to achieve financial freedom?