One of the hardest things you’ll have to do when you’re getting serious with your finances is to face the facts. The way you’ve been living isn’t sustainable and has to be changed.How do you pay off debt and still have a life?
You can make debt payoff the goal and still go out to eat, enjoy a vacation, and find joy by being intentional with your money and designating funds for those areas that hold value for you.
Create a budget
Really. This is the big one. I know it sounds cliche and cheesy but if you fail to plan then plan to fail. Having a budget allows you to spend on the things you find most important.
Instead of focusing on all of the things you CAN’T have or do while paying off debt, it is time to turn your thoughts to all of the positive things that will happen when you are debt-free.One good way to keep your mindset positive is to make a list of the reasons why you are paying off your debt.
Write your financial goals down. Think about them. Visualise yourself accomplishing those
goals. When the mundane day-to-day of paying off debt has you down, allow yourself to dream
about your financial goals. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
Try breaking your debt repayment into smaller bite-sized goals and add a fun incentive for when you reach each of these mini-goals. Just make sure to add any money you need for your rewards into your budget!
Sometimes we are nervous or embarrassed to tell people our debt situation…but it is a good idea to tell your close friends and family what you are working towards without getting super-specific.