Just wanted to drop by and give some encouragement to anyone feeling stuck. I know that feeling well—like there’s no way out. But there is. If I could do it, so can you.
At the start of 2020, I was buried in $85k of debt. Credit cards, loans, medical bills, and a lot of reckless spending. I lost control for a few years, and alcohol and drugs didn’t help. My savings were gone, my credit was shot, and I was dodging non-stop calls from debt collectors.
Eventually, I hit my limit and decided to take my life back, little by little. I focused on making progress week by week, sticking to a plan no matter what. I don’t come from money, I work a blue-collar job, and I knew nothing about finances before this.
This forum helped me see that I wasn’t alone. Last Friday, I made my final payment. I’m officially debt-free, and next month, I’ll be closing on my first home.
If you’re in the middle of it, just know that it’s possible. One step at a time. I believe in you.
This is exactly what I needed to read today. I’m in that place right now, and it feels impossible. Seeing someone make it out gives me hope. Congrats on paying it off!
This really hits home. I’ve got medical debt and a few other bills, but one in particular is 12k, and it’s terrifying. I’m a single parent, and this all came from escaping an abusive relationship. I’ve never been in this situation before, and I don’t know what to do.
@Paz
That’s a lot to deal with, but you’ve already shown strength by getting out of that relationship. Keep setting small goals and checking them off. You’ll get through this.
I needed to see this today. I’ve been chipping away at my debt, but it feels like every paycheck still isn’t enough. I hope it pays off in the long run.
Noor said:
I needed to see this today. I’ve been chipping away at my debt, but it feels like every paycheck still isn’t enough. I hope it pays off in the long run.
I hear you. It never feels like enough, and life gets in the way. But look back—are you in a better spot than you were a few months ago? If yes, keep going. Those small wins add up.
Marlon said:
This is incredible. Was there anything specific that helped you turn things around?
Honestly, no single thing. I listened to some financial podcasts, but mostly it was just realizing I needed to simplify my life. I have ADHD, so things were always messy. The biggest help? Writing things down every day and checking them off. Small steps, but they made all the difference.
This is proof that taking action is the only way out. A lot of people freeze when the debt feels overwhelming, but ignoring it only makes it worse. You chipped away at it, stayed consistent, and now you’re debt-free and buying a home. That’s huge.
I need some hope… I’ve got 100k in EIDL debt and I’m unemployed at 54. And to top it off, I need hip surgery next week. Life is throwing me some serious curveballs.