I remember when I graduated from school. I was tapped out financially. Each week’s paycheck meant that I could slowly add to my household goods. A sleeping bag on the floor was my bed,  stacked newspapers were my chairs, extra plastic forks from KFC were my cutlery and when it came time to buy gas, I scrounged on the floor of my 1972 super beetle for small change.

Times were tight, no question about it. But I realized even then that I had to start saving a small portion of my paycheck for emergencies. It started out as just $10 or $20 a week. My first big purchase was an antique Hoosier Kitchen Cabinet. My next was a mattress. Eventually I had furniture, plates and silverware.

I raised the amount earmarked for my savings.

When my VW’s engine needed to be rebuilt I paid for it with my savings. Two years after graduation when I grew tired of unreasonable landlords I bought a house.

I didn’t have a credit card until I was 27.

It isn’t only smart that you save for the unexpected, it is absolutely imperative that you save.

Saw this interesting article in the Seattle Times this weekend that I thought you’d enjoy.

Congratulations to the class of 2010! I can’t wait to see what you do next!

Ran across this article today and thought you all might like it. John Mireles is a photographer and business coach who knows his stuff.