Tip
#3. Never add to your debt. Swap
credit cards to better deals and live within your
means.
Work
out ways to cut down on your expenses so that you can
live within your means. Start to put some funds aside
for emergencies. You can cut down your expenses easily
if you just think creatively. Here are a few suggestions
to get you started.
a)
Anything you need (not just want) can usually be bought
at a sale. Commit to not buying at retail prices again.
Look in newspapers, wait for sales and be patient.
b)
Cook at home a lot more often. Freeze leftovers. Plan
you food needs for the week. Make your lunch for work
instead of buying it each day.
c)
Read magazines, get DVDs and Videos for free from your
local library.
d)
Take up a hobby. Get busy - shop less. Maybe your hobby
can create some income?
e)
Give up the coffee bought while shopping or at work.
f)
Maybe if you tried you could get away with only 1 car.
Travel by bus, train or bike if possible.
Tip
#4. Don't compare yourself with others.
If
you spend to keep up with others, think whether they may
be in a similar position to you. Work out and understand
how much you can spend and how much needs to be put aside
for saving or emergencies.
Tip
#5. Pay off one small debt completely.
This
will give you a boost and help you keep on track more
easily and you'll be more motivated to pay off all the
debts.
Tip
#6. Keep some fun money.
This
process needs to be fun, not a misery. If it becomes a
chore you will be tempted not to meet your goals. Keep
some money aside that allows you the freedom to spend
on things you want, occasionally. You'll feel so much
better about spending on items that you can afford.
To
truly solve your debt problems you need to keep yourself
under control. There's no one else who can do this for
you. Once the debt burden has been lifted and you can
finally become your own person again.
Honest Johnny -
The Consumers' Advocate.
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