As a guideline, your savings should come to about 20 percent of your net salary. If you are a member of a retirement fund, remember to take this into account. If you?re not close to the 20 percent mark, go back to your budget. Odds are that your debt is eating up most of your savings capacity. Talk to your banker about what you can do about this. If this fails, fight the urge to upgrade your car or house when the next cycle comes around. Note this on your to do list.

If you can save more by following the above steps, the reward is simple. You will become financially independent earlier and will be able to start living the kind of life you want to live. This is what real freedom is all about.

acsis Limited is an authorised financial services provider. The response to the question covers some of the issues in a general and factual manner and does not constitute advice. It is important to consult with a financial planner who, after an analysis of the individuals? personal needs, goals and circumstances, will be able to provide comprehensive and appropriate advice.