Let’s face it, you didn’t get into debt in one day, and you’re not going to get out of debt in one day. It’s just that simple. If you want out of this situation, you’re going to have to take some serious steps to accomplish it.

Make A Plan

You’re going to need a detailed plan to get a handle on this situation. You’re going to need to know what you owe, what your budget is and create a way to make it all work. As part of your plan list all of your debts. Once they are listed re do the list and put the debts in order of smallest to largest. Now take a moment and see what those debts are. Pay a bit on each debt but try to pay off some of the smaller ones first. This will get the momentum going and help you get out of your debt faster.

Before you get all gung ho on paying down your debt, you need to start by paying yourself. Yes, that’s right, pay yourself first. It doesn’t have to be a lot but you need to be saving some money from each and every paycheck in order to help get yourself going. A good rule of thumb is to save 10 percent of every paycheck back.

Be Creative

If you’re consumed in debt it can be overwhelming. Be creative in finding ways to pay it down. Have a yard sale and apply the income to the debt. Sell stuff online. Take a second job until the debt is paid off. There are many great ways to go about this and it’s not as difficult as many think. Even working 2 extra hours per week may make a huge difference.

Don’t lay around depressed all day, get out and have fun. It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Go for hikes, picnics, camping and the like. Having fun isn’t about spending money, it’s about finding new ways to enjoy time together as a family without spending money. It can be done. Have dinner and a movie at home. To save borrow movies from friends or the library.

Avoid Pitfalls

There are a myriad of pitfalls along the way. Ads that promise all your debts will be paid. Ads that claim to get you out of the situation. Avoid these, they are crazy and the debt is still there. Your best bet is to individually call companies and tell them your situation. Be honest and most companies will work with you. The sooner you call the better the situation is going to be. If you can’t pay a dime, use some creative thinking and find a way to start paying the debt down.

Once you get going it’s going to be fun to watch those numbers going down. Getting out of debt is easier once you get started. It’s a heavy weight to bear and you will feel overwhelmed but once you get it taken care of you’re going to feel great.