I subscribe to an email newsletter published by Alexis Martin-Neely, CEO of  Family Wealth Planning Institute, an online/offline firm dedicated to providing sound legal, investment, and personal advice to a variety of individuals. I just received my email update regarding this article Ms. Neely posted on her blog.

I think generally, Ms. Neely has a good grasp on the various troubles facing each of us. I especially like her philosophies regarding the legal profession and financial investments. This newest blog post reiterates Ms. Neely’s commitment to providing competent, affordable, and high-quality legal services.

The post is innovative because you’re going to hear many people tell you that you need to get yourself out of debt, and if possible, never pay on a single card again. While I think this is always a sound tactic, Ms. Neely’s suggestion to "expand" your debt makes sound advice also, especially in light of the tightening credit markets. Ms. Neely recognizes and stresses, the difference between having a good investment strategy (i.e. putting your money in your bank account or other investment) versus blowing the money on a needless consumer good.

Ms. Neely suggests that you use your excess credit to make sound financial use of the cash, and in some sense add some to a financial reserve in your bank account for a latter time. Or more importantly, she suggests that you invest in yourself. The important thing she notes is that you "start a business that will leverage your time and your resources in the best way possible."

Of course, if you’re already struggling to make the monthly payments or you’re jeopardizing yourself by over-extending your credit limits, this is never a good idea.

While the smartest play is always to remain debt free, there are some other ways to make your finances work for you.