Running low on cash even though pay day was only a week ago? No need to panic. Money management is not a lost cause. It’s just a matter of having discipline and making the right decisions. As long as you’re serious about solving your financial woes, you’ll make it through.

So what is the first crucial step in gaining control over money? Scroll through the gallery to find out!

(First published as "Marie Claire's Ultimate Money Guide" in the "Money Special" section of Marie Claire Philippines' June 2008 issue. Adapted for use in Female Network.)