How do I disable programs from opening on start up?

I'm new here and haven't posted before. Recently switched to a MBP with retina display after being a lifelong PC guy.

Each time I log in, my computer opens iMessage, email, MS Word and MS Excel. I have looked in system preferences and see the login pref's for my account on the computer which shows what will open automatically on star up. None of these programs are checked or even appear.

How do I disable these programs from opening on start up? Am I looking in the wrong place?

Thanks.

Are they open when you shutdown? If so, this would explain it. When you go to shutdown, uncheck the box about reopening apps when you login.

Thanks!

That did it. I thought it would be something that simple.

Thanks.