Debt is a frustrating thing. It can get out of control so easily at times, yet other times it’s so utterly vital. How else would most people buy a home or a car?

But most people don’t have debt spiral out of control just due to one or another of those. They can indeed buy more house than they can afford, and agree to a risky mortgage scheme, then lose the gamble, or perhaps get into money trouble from a job loss, but many people get into uncontrollable debt just due to their credit cards.

Credit card debt is painful. It’s expensive. It can feel like a trap. And it can be very hard to get out of.

But you can get out of debt, and in many cases you won’t need to file bankruptcy or consolidate your debts. Sometimes those can’t be avoided, but often you can do it on your own with sheer determination.

Start by calling your credit card companies and seeing who will lower your interest rates. The lower you can get your interest rates, the better.

Next, take all but one out of your wallet and put them away. Most people find it too inconvenient to give up the convenience of credit cards, and so I won’t expect that of you.

But you do need to get your spending habits under control. As much as possible, pay cash. A lot of people find it helpful to budget using envelopes of cash, and taking that when they go shopping. You can’t go over budget if that’s all you have available.

Now pick a credit card to pay off. Some people pick the highest balance, others the highest interest rate. What’s important, however, is that you focus your energies on paying off that one card.

Pay just the minimum on all your other credit cards. But on the one you’re trying to pay off, pay as much as you can reasonably manage.

What? You can’t manage more than the minimum on any of your credit cards? You’re in deep.

But it’s still not impossible. What this means is that you are living beyond your means. You need to cut back.

Way back.

Let’s get real here. Cable television is a nice convenience. It is not a necessity of living. If you’re having trouble paying your bills, cut it out.

Ditto internet. You’ll have to rely on the computers in the library or go with the cheapest dialup connection you can get. Not fun, but doable.

Cell phone. Regular phone. Do you really need two?

What’s your favorite place to stop and get something to eat or drink? Are you doing that too much?

Are you eating out too much period? You can bring lunch to work, you know.

Keep looking for cuts like that to make to your budget. If you can simplify your way of life you stand a better chance of getting your debts back under control. You’ll feel much better for it.

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