Here's how to find out: If...

* you have absolutely no outstanding debts of any kind

* your investments are such that you can easily live off the earnings without ever touching the principal,

* you have complete control over your time, giving you the freedom to enjoy your income with your family and friends,

* where your stress levels relating to financial concerns are virtually eliminated.

...then you are financially independent.

(above list -modified - courtesy of www.acrisp.com)

If you're not, the first step to wealth is to believe that you can achieve it. Believe that you deserve to be wealthy. Desire it and then state your desire to be free of financial worries. Write it down - declare your intention to yourself and the universe. Get clear on your goal: is it just to become debt-free, just to get by financially or is it to be financially independent and free. In other words, is your goal to become wealthy?

Next step is to find out the things that are keeping you from being financially free. Do you spend unneccessarily? Are you in debt? Are you ignorant of what to do? Financial illiteracy keeps many people stuck in a rut when it comes to managing their money. Bad money habits and mindsets do the same too. You must sort these issues out in advance otherwise you might sabotage your efforts and lose whatever wealth you acquire (think of those unfortunate lottery winners you've read about).

Then you need to plan action steps to take you from where you are to where you want to be financially. Think of investments, building your assets, creating multiple income streams etc. Learn about these different wealth-building strategies, pick one that suits you and get to work on it.

Replace harmful attitudes and habits relating to money with helpful ones. Educate yourself on financial matters. Find out how to make your money work for you instead of spending your whole life working for your money. Seek professional advice from a financial advisor if you need to, but do something today to move you towards your financial goal.

The whole time be determined and disciplined about your decision.

Take things one step at a time. With a clearly stated goal, the right information and a well-thought-out plan of action, you will eventually become financially fr*ee.

Dr Kem Thompson is a Wealth & Success Coach, Speaker, Author. She teaches individuals how to create wealth with integrity, and achieve true financial freedom. Financial freedom starts with financial intelligence, so begin your education by signing up for the FREE newsletter, 'Reset Your Wealth' here: http://www.resetyourwealth.com