Re:Steps to Financial Freedom EfemII: Thanks Newman, it's very hard to look at my weaknesses and address them. When I met my ex 12 years ago, I was living w/ my roommate at age 20. I had no money... a terrible job and I couldn't even afford rent. She helped me out and I leaned on her in that regard until we broke it off last summer.
I know that I want to be financially independent before I get serious with anyone. I want to be able to stand on my own 2 feet and know that I can accomplish this.
As far as the cc debt. I've already looked into paying one of them off totally and using the rest of my savings for the other card. I plan to rip up one of them to have the other in case of emergency. I'm going to read that book you recommended and let you know how it goes down the line.
How long did it take you to get your money situation straightened out after your divorce? Did you find yourself going out a lot to fill the void left from your ex? I did and still do... I go out at least 4-5 times a week. Lately I've toned it down, but with both Chicago teams in the penant race and the Bears starting this weekend I know that I'll tend to still go out.
thanks for you help,
Dave
Re:Steps to Financial Freedom TiredandScared: I will always be in debt to my ex, before we were together, I spent and spent and spent. Now after many years of living on a good budget, and learning, I know how to budget my money and keep the frivolous spending down, but I still get plenty of "me" money and I am still growing that savings account.
Re:Steps to Financial Freedom down2basics: Hey Tired! Good For You! Yeah! That's wonderful!!! ;D
I wish I could say the same - I'm still digging out of what seems to be a never ending ditch of debt...Still plugging away at it - hoping to make some head-way somewhere!
Keep it up!
d2b
Re:Steps to Financial Freedom LicoriceWhip: 1) Get rid of the credit cards/high-interest loans, they will drag you down.
2) Shop for the best deals on things you need.
3) Shop for the best deals on the things you want, and then, only give yourself half of the things you want (or less).
4) Set up a budget (use software such as MS Money or Quicken, etc to make it easier).
5) Use your imagination on finding ways to maximize your money.
6) Reward yourself when you achieve some or all goals. I paid of my car loan a year ahead of time... just in time too, because my employer neglected to pay a half month of Child Support, so now the state is taking more from me for the next few pay periods. My reward was that I didn't go into the red because of that. If you don't have my problem, reward yourself with something nice. The psychology of doing something to benefit yourself is amazing.
LicoriceWhip
Re:Steps to Financial Freedom gogecko: www.daveramsey.com
Cleaned up over 20k in debt for me by buying his $20 total money makeover book. buy it on audio book if you want a real kick in the seat.
so so so so worth it... simple, but takes comittment... he prompted me to give up my chai lattes and to buy generic shampoo- this man is motivating :)
Debt services are similar to bakruptcy on your credit. A budget and debt snowball are the first 2 steps... they saved my financial life!
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