We started this year with NINE credit cards that we haven't used in a VERY long time.
As of January 1st 2011 our credit card debt was $23,999.21.
I don't know how that happened.
The overdraft which is totally a credit card but I don't group it with them was $282.
I'm not even going to mention the car loan, the mortgage or the equity line. Nope. Not mentioning those.
That's the run down $24,281.21 of unsecured debt.
I'm totally ashamed now.
Thanks for reading.
If I didn't think that I would be putting a HUGE dent in the above mentioned debt I would have never admitted to it. My hope is that as this year progresses mine will be a success story. A story of freedom, growth and accomplishment. I'd like to be an encouragement to others who feel doomed, trapped, and overwhelmed by the bad decisions they foolishly and blindly made like me.
I am NOT declaring bankruptcy.
I am NOT going to walk away from my debt.
I WILL be responsible. I WILL pay it back.
I will eat less, avoid starbucks with every ounce of energy I have, and wait for things that I want right now but cannot afford.
I will spend $12 a day and get out of debt.
Good for you! Taking responsibility is the first step. I really enjoy reading your blog. I've also been through the ups and downs of debt and know it's a battle. Good luck in reducing your debt! Best wishes, Clarissa (A reader from California)
ReplyDeleteBelieve me, your numbers are 'easy' compared to mine and my sister Sarah's, if that makes you feel any better!!! I haven't tallied my totals lately to post but plan to do that ASAP. I'm still trying to get signed up for repayment plans for a few cards.
ReplyDeleteThe debt Sarah and I have hanging around our respective necks, regardless of why, is truly mind-boggling.
We are both determined to rise to the top, though, just like you. We're eager to learn from others and to share our own stories... horror and otherwise :)
Jenny
I like this post. I feel the same way. I made the decisions that got us into the situation we are in and I will be the person to get us out of it. I'm not looking for the easy way out. I have a co-worker who is going through bankruptcy and she said "Oh, you should really do it too. The credit cards already made enough money off of you." My jaw dropped that she just nonchalantly threw that out as an option. I wanted to say, "What about actually working hard and paying your debt off? Have you thought of that?" Okay, I'll get off my soapbox. Thanks!
ReplyDelete