<prompt> Human: I could not be more excited! This is a major milestone for me, and I want to point out that a lot of the advice I have seen on this sub has worked out. Thank you all for your excellent advice, interesting topics, and tips. Here are screenshots from MintSince I also want to generate a discussion instead of having this be a cookie-cutter brag post, I want to leave some tips behind for some of the fellow redditors looking to get better footing in their finances.1. Make a budget. You need to have a foundation to your finances before you can start on your structure Also, they say that a penny saved is a penny earned. If thats the case, then cutting your budget is giving yourself a raise. Ive used Mint, others recommend YNAB, spreadsheets, envelopes, or pen-and paper methods.2. Stick with the plan. Youre in this for the long haul, and are not going to see instant results unless youve run into a rare windfall. If youre discouraged, look back on your progress and pursue your goals ever more boldly. Finances and fitness are related; anything worth having is going to be challenging, and challenges require discipline.3. Learn as much as possible. Since about this time last year, I have spent a lot of time obsessing over this subreddit and the informative topics that come up every now and then. Its not greed; its an addiction to resource allocation. The sidebar and FAQ are great starting points. I have gotten into books on the subject of PF, and have picked up a couple blogs along the way, too.4. Dont panic. You are on an exponential curve up right now, and it always gets better. Its like a game of Cookie Clicker in slow motion; your money can work harder than you do. Just stick to your plan and allow for a lifestyle you would be happy living.So in short: stay with it. It gets better.Best of luck, everyone!  <response>: I hit zero net worth about a year ago and its already up to 15k. Its shocking how fast it increases, provided you continue good habits. 