We have set a new record when it comes to our use of credit cards. Currently, we have the largest delinquency rates in the history of the credit card business, and the largest amount of personal debt. If you can’t make your credit card payments, it goes without saying that you need to get back on top of it. If you’re not in trouble, but the danger signals are there, Clark has some tips for you. First of all, running balances is okay but it’s not financially healthy. Many of these balances are all about your lifestyle. So, if you’re just able to make the minimum payment, you need to stop using the card. Clark has learned that asking people to cut up their cards doesn’t work. But putting them away – preferably in a freezer bag with water – will stop you from using them. It’s the ease of pulling out the plastic that kills us. And, the key to making bigger and bigger payments is to put yourself on a schedule. Come up with an amount of cash that you will hold onto until the next payday. It’s not enough to talk about the problem. You’ve got to come up with a solution. Take a brown bag to work. Avoid that expensive cup of coffee every day. People can get by on so much less; they just haven’t tried it yet. And, it’s important to start good money management early. According to Newsday, only one in four percent of parents ever discuss money with their children. There is a real disconnect here. Parents lead by example, so your kids will pick up on what you do not what you say.