You CAN be debt free

I had a refreshing conversation last night on the plane flight to Atlanta. I sat next to a young, 20-something guy and somehow got on the topic of money, foreclosures, and credit. It was perfect timing because all week this topic has kept surfacing with friends and co-workers. What was different with this guy was that he wasn’t falling into the “I need it…and I need it now” trap.

Every day credit card debt soars. Every day young families realize too late it costs more than they thought to raise kids. Every day a crisis happens and finances fall apart. I read this article of divorces caused by financial problems. The banks tell us that we can afford more, our friends convince us “everyone is in debt”, and we think we “deserve” what everyone else has. So we spend…and spend some more.

So what’s the big deal about being debt free? Everywhere you look, you can read that finances are the #1 cause of divorce. One spouse spends too much, one hates to spend. Parents want to give their kids everything so they work more hours to pay for it all. One spouse works long hours, the family is neglected, and problems start popping up everywhere. We fall victim to guilt from our kids when they say, “all my friends are going…” or we feel we have to “prove” we love them by giving them stuff. The cycle is endless, and the stresses increase.

How do we stop the cycle? Bottom line…discipline. Being intentional about spending and where our money goes. Saying no and finding patience to put off until we can pay for things we would impulsively buy today. Creatively saving money while giving our kids what they really need (our time, energy, love, attention). Yes, it can be done and you can live a happier, healthier, and more productive life because of it!

Check out these sites for some great, practical and “real” ways to start getting on the right track or move forward even more! Many have heard of Dave Ramsey, who has tons of books and resources. But check out these guys too…”regular guys” having huge impact teaching about finances for “regular people”: Joe Sangl and Casey Graham. It’s worth it!