How to Live Rich

Just because you aren't a millionaire, doesn't mean you can't live like one. The rich are rich because they know how to make money, keep money, and use their credit. Investing in yourself first is they key to living a life of luxury.

Save your money. If you're working, try and save 10% of your income from every paycheck. The current economy is in chaos but if you can't save 10%, shoot for five. Put it in a savings account or a high-yield money market account that you don't have access to.

Buy designer at a discount. Thanks to Bluefly, Eluxury, and Overstock, designer clothes don't have to come with a designer price tag. With savings of up to 70% off or more, wearing designer clothes won't break the bank. Invest in key pieces for your wardrobe, such as a fabulous cashmere coat, a structured black suit, or a pair of killer designer heels for a fraction of the cost.

Decorate like a designer. Interior designers find things for your home and mark them up as much as 30%. Cutting out the middleman by scouring local furniture stores, online sales, outlets, and flea markets will help your turn your house into a home. Great stores like West Elm, Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Ikea have reasonably priced statement pieces you can make your own with the right accessories.

Avoid falling victim to the new electronics. Electronic gadgets drop in price every three months, wait until then before you make a purchase. Every other week there's a new cell phone and I'll be damned if I don't want the next best thing. But for now, I'll just stick to my pink Palm Centro thank you very much.

Don't lease your car unless you plan to get rid of it within two or three years. Cars usually lose 30% of their retail value during the first year. Buying the car outright will save you a ton of money.

Pay bills on time. Paying your bills on time will increase your credit rating, pure and simple. Paying bills like rent/mortgage, utilities, and car payments should take priority over everything else.

Schoomze with high-society. Volunteer for an organization that donates to charity. You can usually attend their galas for free and you never know who you might meet. A lot of up and comers make connections this way.

Give freely. Good karma will come back to you. Sometimes the smallest dose of generosity can enable you to reap huge benefits.

Lastly, never apologize for wanting to be rich or successful. Ambition is sexy, poverty is for the lazy folks. Go after your dreams full speed ahead.