Pay Yourself First

Debt can feel like a trap, tempting us with the promise of fulfillment while ensnaring us in a destructive cycle. But fear not, dear reader, for there is a way out.

First, Identify the Cause

Let’s begin by identifying the types of debt we’re dealing with. It could be:
• Student loans
• Credit card debt
• Mortgage, and other loans

Waiting to repay creates a series of problems that can affect all areas of life. While it can feel like you can buy almost anything, we find ourselves broke and wanting more. But the worst part is that debt leads to anxiety and feelings of disassociation.

Be Truthful

To gain back our agency and independence, we must first take stock of our situation with honesty.

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Stay calm and write down exactly where your money is going.
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When you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s best to shut down emotions. Pretend you’re an actor living out a script. Additionally, guilt and regret waste energy. And besides, being kind to yourself is the why behind changing the situation. First, approach yourself with love for the positive decision you’re making now.

Big Things Start Small

Next, identify the easiest, smallest thing you can change. This could be:
• Paying off a small debt on a store credit card
• Canceling unused memberships, or
• Consolidating high-interest accounts into a loan.

Celebrate each success, no matter how small. Furthermore, take the time to feel each part of the trap loosen and fall away – with the right moves, you’ll find the trap has no power over you.

And then, once you’ve tackled the small stuff, it’s time to focus on the larger debts. Student loans weighing you down?

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Even small steps, like putting an extra $100 a month towards your loans, can make a huge difference with interest.
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Huge credit card debt leaves you wondering what to do? Check out some consolidation loans (so a way to get rid of the huuuuge interest on credit cards, and put all your debt into a single place) with a Forbes article here.

Emerge

Remember, dear reader, you have the power to repossess yourself out of debt and pave the way to a brighter future. Moreover, with a little bit of reflection, planning, and perseverance, you can take control of your finances and create the life you’ve always dreamed of, and drive the machinations that are attempting to ruin you mad with anger with just a bit of planning and cleverness on your part.

Keep fly and soar to financial freedom with The Budget Pigeon!
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