> There are so many benefits, and as long as you have a little self-control, pretty much no downside.
I would change that to "a lot of self-control".
As someone who is filing for bankruptcy (due to investment property loss related to the sub-prime debacle, not credit cards) and has had all his credit cards canceled (even the ones paid on time), I can tell you how much more difficult it is to live off cash alone. There have been so many times when the flexibility of a credit card would have saved me from several $35 overdraft fees. Such repeated experiences quickly teaches you to change your habits and be more frugal.
If you don't feel disciplined enough with your credit cards now, try not using them at all for a few months. Take them out of your wallet and stick them in a box at home so you can't use them when you're out.
I would change that to "a lot of self-control".
As someone who is filing for bankruptcy (due to investment property loss related to the sub-prime debacle, not credit cards) and has had all his credit cards canceled (even the ones paid on time), I can tell you how much more difficult it is to live off cash alone. There have been so many times when the flexibility of a credit card would have saved me from several $35 overdraft fees. Such repeated experiences quickly teaches you to change your habits and be more frugal.
If you don't feel disciplined enough with your credit cards now, try not using them at all for a few months. Take them out of your wallet and stick them in a box at home so you can't use them when you're out.