Step 1: Know Where You Stand (The Net Worth Reality Check)

Alright, let's get uncomfortable for a minute - you can't fix what you ain't measuring. Most folks be out here stressing about money but don't even know their own numbers. That's like driving with your eyes closed and hoping you don't crash.

Here's how to do a real net worth check, no BS:

1. Add up all your assets (savings, investments, that crusty old 401k from your last job)

2. List every damn debt (credit cards, student loans, even what you owe your cousin)

3. Subtract debts from assets - that's your net worth, baby

Don't get shocked if it's negative - most people start there. The point ain't to feel bad, it's to know exactly where you starting from. Can't map a route if you don't know Point A, right?

Pro tip: Do this every 3 months. Watching that number climb (even slowly) gives you the motivation to keep grinding. First step to winning any money game is knowing the score.