Fed up

quantic

It can be quite tough when your either trying to get out of debt or trying to stay out of it. We became pretty socially invisible, its a problem that is compounded by having people around you who don't mind having debt. We try to spend our time doing things around the house/garden etc, spend our time doing little projects that we otherwise wouldn't have had the time/energy to do.

There is no doubt that its going to be a hard time but its better to spend the next few years paying it back then a lifetime of struggling.

fd1972uk

I presume there is no little bits of cash that can maybe go towards putting a smile on your face and not making a huge dent in your re-payment plans.

Tbh, we keep a little to the side and whilst we don't go partying every week, we like an odd meal or a little treat.

Just find that it helps rather than just been continually stressed about every single penny and where it goes.


FD

Little_Miss_Uni-Debt

Hello Fizzbitz.

I know that being self employed can be quite lonely at times and especially more so when you don't want to wreck your progress and go out spending.

I found it quite hard to adjust, I was so used to being surrounded by friends, going out most nights (not drinking) it also kept me very active. We used to go ice skating, rock climbing, gymnastics, martial arts, aerobics, yoga, cinema. We could do all that for less than £10 a week which is less than most people spend on 1 night drinking, but it got to the point where I could no longer afford that.

These are the things that helped me, working a part time job in a social environment (busy bar/restaurant, fun environment, other staff were my age) I also got paid for being there

There are usually local business events that aim to bring self employed people together for breakfast networking or seminars with interesting speakers.

I think exercise is very important. I know you have said you can't walk far Fizzbitz but even sitting exercise or slow tai chi, elevates your mood and it always helps me to sleep better.

Aim to get outdoors when it's nice. Even just sitting on a bench in the park reading a book. Meeting friends for a coffee as a treat or even getting them to come round for a chat.

I'd be interested to hear what helps others too!

Fizzbitz

Thank you all for the great ideas. I have been making an effort to at least get outside each day and that is helping. Am making enquiries re the other ideas.

Fizz