This might be a little controversial but I feel there are definitely some things you should once you stop living paycheck to paycheck, but before you start paying down debt and before you prioritize your emergency fund. Your exact configuration of how much to save and pay when with how much is super personal, but there are some things you should definitely keep in mind when figuring it out. There are also poverty habits you should break, for your financial as well as overall well being.

I can only think of a few things, but to get started:

• If you have a car, and have to have it, start filling the thank. Don't run it until your gas light comes on and then add $5 to get you to work. You're slowing destroying your car that way. Also, get it serviced and change the tires if necessary. A major repair or blow out could completely ruin all the work you've put in, plus it's potentially dangerous.

• Go to the dentist. An exam, cleaning, and possibly prescription mouthwash/toothpaste is a couple hundred dollars. You'll also find out what you need to get fixed in the future so you can save accordingly. Emergency dental care cost you thousands of dollars. A dentist can do a lot in one visit to help prevent that.

• Winterize/summerize your house or apartment. Affordable housing and cheap housing is infamous for being in bad shape, and it's going to cost you money. It's fairly cheap to shore up your doors and windows, if a bit time consuming, and the savings can be substantial. How extensive you go is up to you and your budget. Having a cool home in the sweltering heat and a warm one when its below zero is practically priceless, and very beneficial your health, but financially you're likely to get far more out than you put in.