I’ve accepted that debt might always be part of my life

General
1

So I’ve had a big realization—I might always be in debt, and I think I’m finally starting to accept that.

I made some choices earlier in life that didn’t set me up well, like picking a career that didn’t pay much for most of my 20s and into my 30s. I didn’t realize how much that would hurt me down the line.

Then I came across this book, Overcoming Underearning, and it hit me hard—I just don’t make enough money to live the life I want. Now I’m earning more, but it feels like I’ve hit a ceiling. I work at a nonprofit, and the most I can realistically make is around $60,000 a year. I already have a master’s degree, and I’m also carrying six figures in student loan debt. Add credit card debt on top of that, and it’s just a lot.

Before 2025, I really believed I could finally pay off my credit cards within a year. I’ve dealt with credit card debt before and managed to pay it off, but every time it’s because I didn’t make enough money to cover emergencies. This time, I thought I had it under control.

Then, on New Year’s Day, I got into a minor car accident. At first, I thought it wasn’t too bad, but as I looked closer, I realized my car had more issues than I thought. It’s old, and fixing it might not even be worth it. But without a car, I can’t do my job, which involves driving to different sites. Public transportation isn’t an option because I have to carry materials, and some locations are an hour away by car.

I have a small emergency fund, but it’s not enough to cover a car. So now I’m staring at the possibility of having a car payment right after I finally get rid of my credit card debt. It’s just exhausting.

People always say you can create extra income streams, but when? I work six days a week, and the rest of my time is spent just keeping myself and my dog fed and alive. I can’t imagine how I’d have kids one day—money and time feel impossible.

Honestly, I don’t get how people live on less than six figures in the U.S. I can’t wrap my head around how stay-at-home parents even exist. For me, debt feels like this constant presence, and I’ve realized it’s probably never going away. But as long as I can keep making payments and not let it consume me, maybe that’s just how it has to be.

2

You might want to look into jobs outside of nonprofits. Try hospitals, clinics, or private schools where pay might be higher. You could also consider roles like program analyst or HR. Trainers in corporate settings can make six figures. Don’t settle—there are options out there.

3

@Olin
This is solid advice. Thanks for sharing!

4

I relate to this so much. I work in a nonprofit with no raises or bonuses, have six-figure student loans, and credit card debt. I can’t work more hours because I’m already stretched thin. Medical bills just eat up what little I have left. It’s hard not to feel hopeless sometimes.

5

@Reilly
Same here. No benefits, no health insurance, and no end in sight.

6

You can make more money if you switch careers. Once you’re financially stable, you can go back to nonprofit work if that’s your passion.

7

This feels like my life story, word for word. The only difference is I’m 40 and have fully accepted that kids and vacations aren’t in the cards for me.

8

Case said:
This feels like my life story, word for word. The only difference is I’m 40 and have fully accepted that kids and vacations aren’t in the cards for me.

Why have pets if you’re in debt?

9

@Ren
Because pets are family, and they bring joy.

10

Stop working for free. If your job requires you to transport items, they should cover those costs or provide a vehicle. And don’t overwork yourself; it’s not worth it if you’re not being paid fairly.

11

You’ve got to stop seeing yourself as a victim. Make a budget, cut unnecessary spending, and focus on paying off the debt. I was in a similar situation and managed to turn things around. It’s tough, but it’s possible.

12

@True
This is the kind of mindset that really makes a difference. Thanks for sharing your story!