DECATUR - Is it possible for people to regain control of their lives by spending less money and buying fewer things?

Financial experts say so. They also believe getting organized in the home, at work and in your personal life also relieves the stress of living from paycheck to paycheck.

"Part of being organized is staying out of debt," said Anthony Cherry. "Because being in debt affects you emotionally in the home, at work, at school and takes over your whole lifestyle."

Planning financially for the future is very important, according to Anthony and Cynthia Cherry of Decatur, who are independent representatives of Citigroup and help people get organized financially.

The couple's business, Primerica Financial Services, offers a variety of Citigroup products such as banking needs, loans and mortgages, assets and investments.

The Cherrys provide a free financial needs analysis of a person's finances and show them how to pay off credit cards early, save for retirement or invest their money.

More than one-third of adults have no money saved in any kind of retirement account, Anthony Cherry said.

He said the first step is going over a client's financial portfolio. Then the next step is to show them how to invest any extra money into a retirement plan, stocks and bonds, and even make sure they have the right life insurance policy.

Cynthia Cherry said the main goal is "to help families and individuals get out of debt and become financially independent."

There are many professional financial planners who offer help on getting a handle on spending those bucks.

How to organize your finances and live on less are among the many tips author and professional organizer Donna Smallin offers in her book, "Organizing Plain & Simple."

Smallin, of Phoenix, Ariz., suggests people consult with certified financial planners to evaluate their financial fitness.

Many people think managing money means making ends meet, she writes, but it's also about making the best of assets to achieve your financial goals.

"The more we earn, the more we spend, and the more we dig ourselves deeper in debt. There's only one way to get out of debt - spend less than you earn, and make debt reduction your No. 1 financial priority," Smallin said.

Some simple suggestions include: put a minimum of 5 percent to 10 percent of your paycheck into a savings account or retirement plan; invest any extra income; shop smart; and involve the whole family in saving and helping to pay off debts.

Sheila Smith can be reached at sheilas@;herald-review.com or 421-7963.