Sitting with a lot of debt is both expensive, exhausting, and creates a lot of stress. Especially if the debt is based on a consumption that exceeds your income.
Although consumer debt can be a complicated thing to get rid of, it is important that you take the root problem and get the debt under control. Therefore, in this article, we are going to give you some specific facts and tips on how to get your debt under control and get out of the debt crisis.
Debt problems are not simple issues, so avoid spending more money than you make. Once the debt is there, it can be more difficult to get rid of it than you think. Start saving and get more money for your money.
Table of Contents
Recognize the problem
The debt is there, but do you recognize the problem? Look at your financial problems in the eye and recognize that consumer debt is a problem if you spend more money than you make.
We are not talking about mortgage debt here, etc. Recognizing that consumer debt is a problem is perhaps the most difficult part, but also the most important. Recognizing the debt problem is the beginning of the solution to the problem.
Get an overview of your finances
Who do you have to pay – how much money, when, and how often? You need to be in control of every part of your economy so that you are sure that what you spend is in tune with what you earn. Set up an overview (for example, in Excel, or just write it down on paper) of your expenses and income.
Keep your receipts
Debt comes from overuse. Review all receipts, bills, and bank statements for the last couple of weeks.
Look at what you spend the most money on. Here you can find savings options more easily – e.g. by getting an overview of how much money your daily café latte costs you on a monthly basis.
Set up a budget
Expenses are incalculable because they vary in frequency, due date, and sometimes because the amounts vary. Therefore, it is very important that you not only set a budget, but also a budget that is realistic. Make sure you have set aside money so that you can pay the fixed expenses every month without it all going to go completely over.
Start saving money
Debt makes it difficult to keep track of unforeseen expenses such as, for example, a punctured bicycle or a broken refrigerator. Such Expenses Must Not Be Overthrown Your Economy!
Therefore, it is important that you save money for unforeseen expenses like this so that you do not have to pay off a debt to get it settled. Then you are sure that you have money for both unforeseen expenses and for your monthly consumption – without putting you into debt.
Make a plan
Debt makes consumption less exciting, but fortunately, you can plan it. The graduation next year, the summer holidays and Christmas presents for each year. You yourself are an expert on what is certain that will happen in your life when it comes to spending – and how much money you need for e.g. a great family party.
Therefore, it is important that you plan on a long-term basis and put money aside so that the confirmation does not come with a bitter taste in your mouth because it is bought for borrowed money with high-interest rates.
Avoid borrowing money for consumption
We all know how quickly and easily it is to get into debt on a Saturday morning at Ikea or Expert, right? Despite the intention to pay next month’s salary, consumer debt is a very bad idea.
The bottom line is that you don’t have to spend more than you have. Not even just within a month. Think about this the next time you stand in line where the expensive consumer loan is issued. Is that iPod really worth the debt?
Collect your debt
Debt is expensive, so look for the best interest rate on your loan. You may want to check if you can get your loan cheaper at another bank. If you do not know what interest rate you pay on your loan, call and ask your bank.
In addition, immediately contact 3 competing banks and compare what offers you get from them. You may also need to consider changing your bank – ask what interest rate you can get on your consumer debt.
Change your habits
Debt is a major problem among the Norwegian people, and Norway is one of the most borrowed countries in the world. But it’s time to start changing your habits – and you need to learn how to save money before buying something new.
This, in the long run, will undoubtedly give you more money, so that in the long run you will be able to afford more consumption.
This allows you to enjoy the wonderful feeling of looking forward to buying things that you wanted – cash. Let it be said once and for all: Debt is not something you want.
