My co-worker shared an idea with me that she does to keep her finances on track. She has 2 separate banking accounts at different places. She has her paychecks direct deposited 50/50 into these accounts. One account is strictly for monthly bills. The other is for wants/needs/debt repayment. Next week I intend to set up an account at a different institution than where I have my checking account. This new account will be for my bill pay and will be mostly hands off. I will not take any cash withdrawals out of it. In doing this I can insure I get the necessary bills paid and will have a better concept of what money is left for discretionary spending/debt repayment.

What a great idea! I was thinking about this goal, because it's such a common one on the site and in real life. Everyone is focused on ways to alleviate the stress of being in debt, and right now, more money flowing in isn't possible for so many. I think the two accounts is a great solution. Did you set it up? How's it working for you? 

Debt reduction is a long, slow, painful process, but from all accounts of members who've made it work, it's literally the best thing they ever did. Worth it!

To cut unnecessary spending, my husband and I budget certain things (like clothes, groceries, etc) to be paid for in cash.  We make a budget and decide how much money we can spend in a month on those areas and we pull that amount of cash out.  When you run out of money, you can't keep spending!  Good luck!