David W Mullins | Source | Financial Advisor at David Mullins Wealth Management

If you receive a 10% salary increase, for example, and invest the extra income in your 401(k), your pay stays the same, while your savings goes up substantially.

The key is to make sure every cent you bring in is accounted for and being proactively allocated toward its own bucket. As each bill comes due, simply find the corresponding envelope and pay the bill either directly, or by deposit and a check.

To create wealth, you must take the necessary steps to control your destiny, spread your risk, and be ready to capitalize on opportunities when they present themselves. If not, you will always be held back.