How to Stick to Your Debt Reduction Plan

Written By Mary Beth Eastman
Last updated May 14, 2019

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Personal Finance
May 14, 2019

Simple. Thrifty. Living.

We all know that paying down your debt should be a priority if you want to have extra money for retirement, to help your kids and to stash away for emergencies. However, this is usually easier said than done. Unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, school supplies and events and home repairs can quickly derail your debt reduction efforts. Fortunately, there are some easy things you can do to help you stay on track.

1. Put your plan in writing.

It’s much easier to commit to a debt reduction plan that’s spelled out in black and white, rather than one you have to remember each month. In addition, the very act of writing down your plan send a message to your brain that this is important. Jot down the amount you plan on paying each month on each piece of debt and the due date.

2. Chart your progress.

You’ll be more satisfied putting out that extra money each month when you can see that it’s making a difference and lowering your overall debt. One of the best ways to do this is to chart your progress and be able to visualize your debt shrinking each month. Share this progress with your family members.

3. Consider debt consolidation.

Debt consolidation can often make your debt reduction plan easier. In many cases, the consolidator can reduce or even eliminate interest and penalties on your debt. Plus you’ll only have to make a single payment each month to pay down that debt, rather than checks or online payments to multiple companies. Check out our Freedom Debt Relief review to see how easy it is to get started.

4. Find a debt reduction partner.

Just like dieting, paying down your debt is easier when you have a friend cheering you on and holding you accountable for your success or setbacks. Having a friend take the debt reduction journey with you will dramatically increase your chances of achieving your goal.

While sticking with a debt reduction plan can be challenging, committing your plan to writing, finding a partner and charting your progress can help you achieve the financial freedom you and your family deserve.

About the Author

Mary Beth Eastman

Mary Beth Eastman serves as the content manager for Simple. Thrifty. Living, where she is dedicated to helping readers use money and credit wisely. Mary Beth believes that access to the right financial information paired with a growth mindset are essential tools for getting out of debt and building wealth. Mary Beth has a degree in Journalism from Bowling Green State University and has focused her 20-year journalism career on putting readers front and center, carefully considering their concerns and presenting information that will help them in their everyday lives. She has won numerous statewide journalism awards. Her writing on personal finance as been featured on numerous websites in addition to Simple. Thrifty. Living, including Huffington Post and Lexington Law blog. Mary Beth resides in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her family and two rescue dogs.

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