“Pay yourself first.” Many have heard that term but fail to implement it into their personal finance strategy. Those who either have a savings goal OR have trouble prioritizing their savings may want to set up a routine, automatic “periodic investment program” into a solid growth and income mutual fund.  It’s less complicated than its name. Just specify the amount per month (say $100) that you think you can afford. The amount can be withdrawn automatically from your checking account. And, try to save at least 25% of annual bonuses or windfalls to this periodic investment program. This investment style, sometimes referred to as “dollar cost averaging” is a good approach to investing because you end up purchasing more shares when the price of the fund is low. It’s a proven technique, but remember, dollar cost averaging does not assure a profit or protect again loss in declining markets.