Paying Down Debt

There are lots of plans out there for paying down debt. Actually, I don't have the best advice because I've never been in big debt. My view is in order to never worry about paying down debt, the best thing is not to get into debt in the first place. Having said that there are some smart things you should do when paying off debt. If you have five credit cards with debt on them. First thing make out a budget and start shopping only with cash. Put the credit cards out of reach. Some people freeze them in a block of ice. The point to using only cash is to stop creating more debt. Then start paying off the smallest card. Pay that off and then move on to the next smallest card. By paying off one card you get a feeling of accomplishment that can help you move forward. Try to negotiate a lower interest rate or see about an unsecured consumer loan to pay off all your cards. You could also try a balance transfer, but I wouldn't because I don't trust the credit card companies. Miss a payment and they jack up your rate. The important thing is to stop using the cards until you're all paid off. Food diets don't work. Neither do credit diets. This has to be a lifestyle change. Don't buy anything you can't pay off at the end of the month. Save up for stuff instead. Believe me, it feels good to buy something you've saved up for.