Credit cards a fact of modern life. It's really hard to live with them, but not impossible. The problem is, if you carry a balance every month, you're at the mercy of the credit card companies. They can raise your rates or your payments at any time. Use these tips to break free from your credit card debt.

Prepare for Emergencies
Most of us aren't out flashing our American Express Black cards at Nobu and on Rodeo Drive every day of the week--many of us pull out our credit cards when the car needs new tires, when our spouse needs a root canal, or when the washing machine breaks down. That's why you need a little "prepare for the worst and expect the best" fund. Put aside $1000 or so and when that little crisis hits, you'll be covered.

Live Within Your Means
Are you spending more than you make every month? Before you answer that, think about all the times you pull out the credit card for life's necessities: groceries, gas for the car, clothing, medical care, etc. If you're not paying off your credit cards every month, you're probably living above your means. Keep a monthly tally of your expenditures--credit card expenditures included--and compare against your take-home pay. If the two don't balance, it's time to start cutting.

Take Them Out of Your Wallet
Cut up all but one card that offers a low interest rate and credit limit. Cancel the rest. You might need one card for car rentals and other things that require a credit card, but don't keep it in your wallet.

Use Cash
Take the credit cards out of your wallet and deal on a strictly cash basis. You'll be surprised at how much more you consider making purchases when you know you'll have to part with your precious, hard earned cash.

Your credit cards feel like your lifeline, but they can end up strangling you if you're not careful. If you implement one of these tips a month, soon you will have broken your credit card habit.