10 Tough Ways to Boost Your Bottom Line

Faced with record high personal debt levels and ultra-low savings rates, it may be worthwhile for Americans to consider taking the hard way out of debt.

When people talk about getting their personal finances in order, they usually try to find the easy way to reduce debt and increase savings.

There are a number of steps that you can take that are relatively pain-free and low-cost that will help get you on your way to a better financial position, but this is taking the long term approach. (Don't miss "10 Free Ways to Boost Your Financial Power") Little steps over a long period of time will add up to big amounts, but it's not the only way to achieve financial freedom.

Another option is to take the hard route. ...