The first step to get out of debt is motivating yourself to take action. It’s easy to let yourself feel overwhelmed with guilt while bills continue to arrive in the mail. At CESI, we find the following steps helpful in building your motivation to get out of debt:
Know That You are Not Alone
Whether you’re struggling with consumer debt, medical debt or student loans you can’t pay, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your situation. According to CBS News, the average American household now has about $7,200 in credit card debt alone, while the average overall amount of unsecured debt is over $21,000 per person nationwide. In the wake of the Great Recession and the resulting global financial crisis, many responsible people encountered job loss or medical debt that has made it impossible for them to keep up with their bills. Having debt doesn’t make you a bad person -- and there is no reason to feel embarrassed or ashamed! When you realize that you are not alone, it can be easier to take concrete steps to address the issue.
Focus on Sources of Inspiration
Writing in Forbes Woman, motivational coach Caroline Jarango points out that it’s crucial to notice where your attention is focused. She suggests writing down the names of three people whose words fill you with confidence and whose company makes you feel especially alive. Contact each of those people this week and let them know how much you appreciate them. Likewise, think about the environments and activities in which you feel most purely yourself. If you can spend at least two hours each week in a setting that makes you feel newly enthusiastic about life, it will help your overall level of motivation.
Reach Out for Help
A typical characteristic of unmanageable debt is a feeling of profound isolation. Being in debt can cause serious emotional pain, and when you are hurting, you need to reach out to someone. Furthermore, you need to feel that your confidence will be respected, so it’s often helpful to find someone outside of your own family or circle of friends. CESI is a nonprofit service that can provide you with a sympathetic ear as well as expert practical help to get out of debt. We can explain how debt management works and give you impartial advice about your best options for moving forward. If you have debt that you can’t manage on your own, contact CESI for personalized counseling today.