Financial problems are immensely stressful. This stress can sometimes dangerously spill into other aspects of life, such as marriage, friendships and, you know, happiness. While you should never brush off debt to feel good, here’s how to get over money problems without shattering good relationships and peace of mind. Read ahead to find out.
1. Talk About It
Most people find debt embarrassing and keep it private. I think this is a mistake. If you are in a serious debt situation, it’s important to discuss it with the loved ones in your life. They can offer valuable advice and provide moral support. I’m not saying you should tell the whole neighborhood that you are in debt. But you should not keep the information from your spouse, partner, parents or other people whom you trust. Disclosing your situation will make them understand you, and your moods, better. There will be less yelling matches, trust me.
2. Distract Yourself
Don’t let money problems overwhelm all your thoughts. It certainly helps to not think about bills for at least five minutes a day. Give yourself a much-needed reprieve by distracting yourself. Go jogging, play a game with your kids, watch TV or go to the library. Try something that relaxes you for at least an hour a day. Whatever you choose to do, teach yourself not to think about your financial problems.
3. Make a Checklist to Get Over Money Problems
Make a checklist for your budget plan for paying off debt. For example, you can include things like ‘pay the electricity bill,’ or ‘deposit $40 for Freddie Mac loan’ for each month. Once you complete a task, tick a box. It will make you feel secure that you are accomplishing something towards finally paying off your debt. You will also be better at adhering to your monthly financial goals.
4. Confide in Others Like You
You will feel worse if you believe that you are the only person going through this situation. Of course, you are hardly the only person in the world to be crushed by debt. If you browse online, or ask around in your community, you will find other people who are in the same situation as you. Reach out to them. They can help you overcome feeling helpless and alone. After all, there’s strength in numbers.
5. Be Inspired
Stop reading only the grim news about debt. Stop thinking about that cousin of yours who went bankrupt. Instead, fill your thoughts with positive energy. Read about people who overcame debt and hardship, and be inspired by their stories on how to get over money problems like they did. Believe in yourself that you can, too, one day be debt-free like them.
6. Stay Positive
I know it sounds like a cliché but you should see the glass as half full. Try to see the good things in life. Be optimistic and visualize that goal of being without debt. You should never, ever let depressive thoughts overwhelm you. If you believe that everything’s going to go wrong, you are more likely to make mistakes and everything will go wrong. So, stay positive.
Above all, believe in yourself and your abilities. You have made it so far, so you will eventually see to it that your money problems are history.
