Dealing with debt, need some advice

techbloke

You guys, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed lately with my financial situation. You know how it goes, one day you feel alright and then, bam! Some unexpected expenses drop on you like a rock and before you know it, the credit card debt starts piling up.

So, I’ll give you a bit of a backstory here. A few years ago, I went back to school for a second degree and, as you can imagine, it put a major dent in my financial cushion. Not regretting the degree though, it was something I always wanted to do and it did bring some new opportunities my way, but the student loans! Man, they’re something else!

Then 2020 happened and what a roller-coaster that was. My job went out the window and I found myself struggling to make ends meet. Thankfully, I’ve been able to get back on my feet somewhat, got a new job and all, but the credit card debt keeps adding to my worries.

So, I guess what I’m looking for is, I dunno, some tips and advice on how to manage this debt in a better way? How to consolidate it maybe? Or how to pay it off quicker? Any good ideas on budgeting or resources I could check out? I saw that there were a couple of apps out there that help you budget better, any recommendations?

I know it’s a long journey ahead, but I feel like it’s time 🤔

arkane

Totally feel you on the debt man, it’s a killer. I was in your shoes few years ago. My first advice would be to pay off whatever you can; those debts pile up interest like crazy. As for consolidating, there are firms who do this, but I haven’t dealt with them. However, I did use an app to help me budget and cut back on unnecessary spending - Mint is a pretty decent one. But remember, it’s a discipline game - gotta learn to save before you spend. It’s gonna be a long road but keep your eye on the prize! Debt free is a great feeling, trust me.

kara

Hey, amazing advice there! Remembered my days struggling with debt - it’s like wearing cement boots, isn’t it? Your suggestions are spot on, especially using apps like Mint. Just to add, you may want to look into snowball or avalanche debt payment strategies. They helped me out a lot in prioritizing my debts. And couldn’t agree more - discipline is the superpower here! Takes time and commitment, but baby steps, you’ll get there. On the brighter side, that feeling when you finally boot out that last debt - nothing like it - freedom with a capital F! Stay strong and keep going.

kath77

Totally feel you on the cement boots analogy, it’s like you’re being pulled under, right? I was in a similar place a few years back. Those apps definitely help a lot, making sure you know where every penny’s going. I’m hearing lots of good things about the snowball method, seems to work for a lot of people so surely worth a shot. The discipline part is tough as hell, but so rewarding in the end. You’re right, nothing compares to that last payment - a huge sigh of relief and finally stepping out of those cement boots! Keep it up, you’ve got this!

jwizz

Yeah, getting yourself out of debt feels like an uphill battle. Those apps do make it a bit more bearable though - it’s like having a little financial advisor in your pocket. And you’re totally right about the discipline part! It’s like going on a diet - but a money diet. Not gonna lie, it’s hard at first, but once you get into it and start seeing progress, it’s so rewarding.

The snowball method is great! I used that myself a while back. Just make sure you’re really committed to it. Also, remember to celebrate your small victories, every time you manage to clear a debt, no matter how small, it’s a step towards freedom. You got this, mate! Keep pushing. Can’t wait to hear about your progress on here!

mopsy

The snowball method is a total lifeline, isn’t it? I found it super helpful as well. And oh boy, does it test your discipline! But hey, once you get the ball rolling, it’s like a breath of fresh air. My personal fav was when I managed to pay off a really pesky credit card debt. Even though it wasn’t a huge amount, it felt like such a win. Stay strong, my friend. It might seem tough now, but you’ll be chuckling about it someday when you’re debt-free. Remember, it’s just a matter of time. Can’t wait to read your future posts celebrating each milestone!

Jane

Totally get you on the snowball method – it’s a game changer. But boy, talk about discipline, right? That first step is usually the hardest, but when that first debt is cleared… man, what a feeling! And it’s not about the size, it’s about the journey. My mum always said, “small steps lead to big places,” and man, was she right. Stick with it, you’ll get there! Looking forward to hearing about your next “paid off” celebration. Cheers, mate!

flipper

Haha, mate you’ve hit the nail on the head! Discipline is the biggest part of it, yet sometimes the hardest to muster up. That sweet feeling when you see that “zero balance” makes it worth it though. And your mum’s advice is spot on. Reminds me of my old maths teacher, he’d always say, ’in the land of numbers, the tortoise tends to beat the hare.’ Translation: slow and steady wins the race, especially when dealing with debt. Keep plugging away at it and before you know it, you’ll be celebrating another victory! Can’t wait for that update, buddy.

Jane

Totally get you, mate! Discipline is a right pain sometimes, but it’s that sweet, sweet “zero balance” at the end of the rainbow that makes it worth it. Love your old maths teacher’s saying, gonna stash that away for myself. Just keep on trucking and you’ll get there. Can almost taste that victory brew you’ll be having! Keen as a bean for your next update, mate. And remember, we’re all in this together! Hang in there, buddy.

lsmith

Ah, the path to zero balance, it’s like climbing a mountain isn’t it? But the view from the summit is always worth it! What’s worked for me is treating debt repayment like a monthly bill. Set aside whatever you can each month for it and remember, progress is progress, mate! Little drops make an ocean. And yeah, that maths saying is a gem, gonna keep that one in my back pocket. Keep at it and don’t lose sight of that victory brew. It tastes like freedom! Can’t wait for your next update. Keep fighting the good fight, we got your back!