I haven’t shared any tips with all of you in quite a while. I like tips. They’re short and sweet and easy to remember. And in this case, they’re great things you can share with your members through web graphics, tweets, your ATM screens or posters in your lobby.

Ask your members which of the following things they’ve been doing to improve their financial lives. And then tell them to give themselves a big pat on the back for each one:

1. Shopping the sales. 62% of consumers say they rarely pay full price for clothing. That’s good news.
2. Cutting costs creatively. Whether it’s DIYing, cutting coupons or buying in bulk, you’re always looking for a way to save.
3. Staying strong. According to studies, the stronger you are, the wealthier you probably are. Fight those feelings of being overwhelmed when faced with tough times and stand up and face adversity squarely in the face.
4. Caring about your finances. You really do need to care about your financial future. The less you care, the worse you are at managing your money.
5. Living with a budget. Just knowing what you have, what your expenses are,  and how much you can spend each month puts you way ahead of the game.
6. Focusing on the future. The bleak times of the past couple of years have forced people to think about their futures, thus they’ve been saving and investing more for their retirement. Having a backup plan is just plain smart.
7. Working out. No, really. The more physically fit you are, the better you are at managing your money. It has to do with the ability to focus.
8. Exuding confidence.  The better you are at standing on your own two feet with your head held high, the less likely you are to be swayed by the suggestions of others (“That purse is  so cute! You need it!”).
9. Saving your change. You know, “a penny saved is a penny earned.” Well it’s true and lots of little things can quickly add up to one big thing.
10. Paying your bills on time. Burying your head in the sand doesn’t get the bills paid. Neither does not opening them. Ignoring them means increased interest rates, late-payment fees, and a lower credit score. Stay on top of them for peace of mind and better money management.

So how many did you check off? I got 5 or 6. Depends on the day. But I feel pretty good. Poll your members – see if anyone can score a 10!