[sak9645]

Save money. Most people should have at least six months' worth of living expenses in long term savings, even before they think about buying a house or adopting a child. Crises arise -- unemployment, medical problems, etc. And try to avoid using the long term savings for non-essentials. It's not for new clothes, a trip to Hawaii, or even a new car, as long as yours is still running.

Reduce your consumer debt. Pay off high-interest credit cards and store charge cards, and think twice before using them again.

If necessary, work with a reputable financial counselor to develop a budget and a plan for paying off debt. Look at your expenses carefully, and see where you tend to go astray -- lots of gift purchases at Christmas, impulse purchases in the shoe department, too much dining out; you may find lots of ways to increase the amount you can save.

Get the best education you can afford. A good education will help you get a good job. There are scholarships, in many cases, that can help you. And some schools offer a lot of flexibility, so that you can develop a schedule that lets you work, while earning a new degree.

And make a career plan. While early career jobs often pay rather poorly, some are better bets than others in terms of longer term potential. Look for jobs with companies that offer growth opportunities or, at least, that are highly respected in your field of interest and will give you good experience that will serve you well in landing your NEXT job. Avoid lots of job-hopping, which will make employers think that you aren't serious.

I'm sure you don't want to hear this bit of non-financial advice, but choose your friends wisely and stay out of trouble. It's amazing how even youthful "incidents" can hurt you when you want to adopt. A couple of DUIs on your record can raise red flags for many agencies and countries, for example.

And when you get involved in a relationship, if it gets somewhat serious, think about THAT person's fitness to adopt. Does the guy have any criminal history? Has he ever had a drug or alcohol problem? Have there been any allegations of domestic violence? If he has had children, does he pay his child support obligations? Is he financially responsible? If you marry and adopt as a couple, or if you cohabit and adopt as a single, your partner's track record will be scrutinized as much as your own.

Sharon