It's said that success happens when preparation meets opportunity. Those who don't understand money spend it on things that consume wealth, and thus the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Training - Becoming aware and involved in smart ways to invest your money is the big payoff for those who learn to track, target and trim. Once you're free of debt, start buying things that appreciate in value. You begin to spend differently and more wisely.
Preparation is the key.
Start by reading Money magazine and The Wall Street Journal . You can probably find them free at your local library. These and other publications will help you change your money attitude and behavior. You will train yourself to act smarter with money, to set financial goals based on eliminating debt and saving more money. Lack of money pushes people into all sorts of crime.