Many of us have money problems at some point in our lives. It only takes a couple of unexpected expenses to knock even the most careful financial plans out of line.

Happily, it's not difficult to take back control of your money. The first step is to recognise the problem in the first place (see our article on the telltale signs that your finances are getting out of control).

After that, following a few simple steps can help you get your money firmly back on track, and let you get on with your life, free from the worry that debt can bring.

Get organised

The first step to financial control is to get organised. That means knowing what you've got coming in, what goes out, and what might be left over. When you have a good grasp of your financial situation, you'll be in a better position to know where economies can be made.

If you're in debt, it's tempting to bury your head in the sand and try not to think about finances. But the only way to get your money back on track is to have a long, hard look at your situation, and work out a plan that will let you live comfortably while also paying off your debts.

Don't be put off.  Getting organised means you're taking a giant step towards sound financial management, rather than doing nothing and letting things go from bad to worse. It's one of the most positive things you can do.

Start tracking what goes in and what goes out every month. You can use computer software, such as excel, to help you do it, but a pen and paper will do just as well.

Simplify your financial life. Close bank accounts and credit card accounts that you don't use.

Keep all your financial information in one place, where it's easy to get hold of.

Read your statements. It's tempting to throw them away unread, but a quick scan when they arrive will stop you being caught out by something unexpected.

Up your income

One way to take back control of your finances is to boost the money you have coming in. That could mean taking a part time job or renting a room in your house to a lodger. It could mean asking for a bit of overtime at work, or selling unwanted goods on eBay or via the local paper.

Reduce your outgoings

If you have major debts, a good rule of thumb is to try and live on 85% of your take-home pay. That leaves 15% that you can use to pay them off and even build up some savings.

To do it, you may need to change your attitude to spending. Before buying anything, ask yourself if you really need it, and if you can really afford it. Most importantly, bear in mind the difference between needing something and only wanting it.

But allow yourself the occasional treat. For example, reward yourself when you've reached a milestone on the road to financial independence, like reducing your debts to a certain level or paying off a credit card.