Dave Ramsey's 7 steps seem to work.  They also seem to piss off people, that how I know they are legit

1. save a $1000 E-fund

2. get debt free except for the house (use debt snow ball)

3. save 3-6 months expenses (personally think this can be saved in an index fund-- don't need 20K of cash just sitting around)

4. save 15% for retirementi (in 401ks and ROTH IRA)

5. save for junior's college in 529 (or some other tax advantagedaccount)

6. pay off home early (this step after 15% for retirement because you can't eat your house)

7.build wealth like crazy!