I am actually enjoying becoming debt free!!!

mogwai

I have to chime in here - the process of becoming DF has been been a real eye opener for me, not only have I sorted out my spending, become savvier with budgeting, but I've come to realise the value of things as well.

I am afraid of overdoing it sometimes, I don't want to become a tight !!!!!, but in general I think the whole process has been really enriching for me

Smiley_Black_Cat

I read a quote from Epicurus that broadly says

'A man who cannot be satisfied with simple things will never be satisfied'.

I look at my comfortable home furnished cheaply from IKEA and my bookshelves hold my books upright - they were in boxes on the floor - my table opens to sit 4 for entertaining and then folds away to make space - more comfortable than knees, and my bed is comfortable - better than the sofa I slept on for 2 years. I am very fortunate to have been schooled when cookery was part of the curriculum so I am able to make my meals from scratch = eat well = save money! As for my laptop - well it was expensive but I reckon I've had my moneys worth - no TV - watch iPlayer, keep in touch via email, big savings online, cracking recipes etc. I am very satisfied and this brings me contentment. I reckon if you feel content you must be happy whatever your mood that day. No wonder I am a Smiley Black Cat!

Too smug - sorry - try it, have a look round your home and see the things you value!!:hello:

scm12000

I just became totally debt free. Paid the mortgage off 2 years ago and made the final payment on my car today. Still yet to hit 40. The problem is I can't be smug as everyone around me seems to be struggling with debt and I may get punched. I hope you lot understand my smugness

Sueb_2

I had to own up in Jan 2006 to the fact that I couldn't service my debts £24,000 or so - and my partner didn't know. We got through it, I contacted National Debtline and I am paying it off. I now actually budget my way through the month, this Christmas I actually paid for everything in cash: only spent limited amounts on presents - how good was that! It is so liberating knowing that if I can't afford it I just can't have it...I appreciate how lucky I am. I still have about 3 years to go with the debts but am getting there..

I'd say - don't swap your cards - get help instead, own up - be honest

Good on you for enjoying it!

pebbles88

flying_fresian wrote: »

and the most important thing? The people on this site are the most supportive, caring and friendly people you could wish to meet :T:T:T

couldnt agree more! :T

Sarah147

It is wonderfully addictive, I just wish I had known what I know now ten years ago, I have wasted so much money and have nothing to show for it!

longforthesun

I agree. I am really enjoying being in charge of my budget. I loved the home made Xmas presents the kids and I made for family (would never have thought of this before). The best thing for us is that I beleive we have learnt from our mistakes and best of all we can make sure our kids never make the same mistakes as us and they will hopefully have a debt free adult life.

I am actually looking forward to going back to work as I know our debt free date will come even closer and although I havent got a job yet I ma already planning on which creditor I plan to pay of first.

madmalteaser

Hear hear! I thoroughly agree with the OP. It is so satisfying to see that debt get smaller and smaller and while I thought I would struggle not to buy what I wanted whenever I wanted it, I actually get more satisfaction taking the time to save up enough to get desired items now and appreciate them a whole lot more than I ever did!

I agree with what an earlier person said as well about the changing attitude towards money. Learning how to budget, learning how to shop sensibly, spend only when you have to and seeking out cheap or freebie days out is incredibly satisfying and I am very grateful for the day I first found MSE!

jenjade

I loved becoming debt free and now i am loving saving. The best thing for me is i used to just buy stuff now i save and treat myself to stuff now and then it is much nicer!

Herbyme

OK, I hear all the good things you're saying, and some I understand, but I can't quite see what's fun or exciting about a NSD - please tell! All the endless media gloom is getting me down and I need to feel more in control, I've got out of the MSE habit and want to get back to it.

Thanks all!