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New member - here is my story....

Hi there,

Been lurking for months and I thought it was now time to sign up!

My debt situation isn't as bad as it used to be and i believe i have firmly got it under control. My 'lightbulb' moment came about 18 months ago. I had circa £18k of debt on a loan and about 4 credit cards. I was just about keeping my head above water but was resorting to withdrawing cash out on my credit card if i wanted to go on a night out. It got to the stage where it was giving me sleepness nights.....and as i'm laid back kind of guy that is when i realised i had to sort my mess out!

I just knuckled down, went out less and kept a tight contol of my wallet. I was always a fan of getting the latest gadget (phones, ipod, laptops, sat-nav etc..) and while i still treat myself every now and again, I am more sensible now.

I now owe about £8k overall. My original debt free date was summer 2010 but now i'm going all out for Christmas 2007. I've got the money saving bug now and i'm determined to do it! :j

I owe it all to the inspiring stories I have read on here. Keep it up people :beer:
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Comments

  • Annie_Fanny
    Annie_Fanny Posts: 1,167 Forumite
    Well done you!

    Anymore words of wisdom for those tackling their debts?

    Do you need any help with your budget at all as we could have a look at your Statement of Affairs and see if we can suggest anymore reasonable cut backs?
    "Debt makes plans for you" - A quote from my friend Catherine. How true!
  • Just wanted to say well done for being so controlled and getting your debts sorted!
    Total 'Failed Business' Debt £29,043
    Que sera, sera. <3
  • yung
    yung Posts: 700 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 500 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    good on you to realise and take control of your finance. so well done and good luck.
    Yung
    Early Retiree debt & stress free. and Joined the SKI club:j

  • moozie_2
    moozie_2 Posts: 3,063 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Combo Breaker
    What a lovely post! Keep it up and I am sure you will be DF even earlier than you think.

    Great uplifting story :T
    Leason learnt :beer:
  • Phoenix79_2
    Phoenix79_2 Posts: 1,434 Forumite
    Thanks folks :beer:

    I won't post my SOA up as i've gone though it myself a few times and and i'm currently happy with the way things are looking. There are a few luxuries on there (mobile phone bill is high as i use about 1000 mins and 1000 texts per month, Sky World package with the Sky+ box and a lease on a new car - You have to treat yourself every now and again don't you?!)

    I still chuck about £400-£500 at my debts and my bonus in March (about £2k) will be used towards it as well.

    I'll try to help others if I feel I can contribute to a thread. It sounds kind of wrong to be saying this but its a relief to know you are not alone with your debts and that there are numerous other people out there in a similar boat to you - hope that makes sense!
  • msmicawber
    msmicawber Posts: 1,962 Forumite
    Debt-free and Proud!
    Well done, Phoenix, that's a huge difference in debt free dates. I'm very pleased for you.
    Debt at highest: £6,290.72 (14.2.1999)
    Debt free success date: 14.8.2006 :j
  • moozie_2
    moozie_2 Posts: 3,063 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Combo Breaker
    Phoenix79 wrote:
    I'll try to help others if I feel I can contribute to a thread. It sounds kind of wrong to be saying this but its a relief to know you are not alone with your debts and that there are numerous other people out there in a similar boat to you - hope that makes sense!

    I think being in debt is one of the loneliest places to be :o This is why we love this forum and keep returning - we don't feel alone anymore!

    Good luck with everything and do contribute when you can, it feels nice to help others, I am sure you agree :)
    Leason learnt :beer:
  • newmum1
    newmum1 Posts: 1,341 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Photogenic Combo Breaker
    thought id say hi and youre on the road to becomming df you can and will do it.
    p.s u live near me im in erdington
  • Phoenix79_2
    Phoenix79_2 Posts: 1,434 Forumite
    newmum1 wrote:
    thought id say hi and youre on the road to becomming df you can and will do it.
    p.s u live near me im in erdington

    Hi
    I used to live in Erdington (Holly Lane to be precise!)

    I've got the bit between my teeth now with my debts and i'm spending my saturday evening counting up my 1p and 2p jars! Rock and roll hey? :o
  • Keep on going and it will be clear before you know it
    Targets for 2014 :

    OP mortgage £18000

    Pay £4260 into ISA
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