Debt destroys peoples lives...(but only if you let it!)

kramark46

Hi all this is my first time that I have written on this site. I've found reading the comments from others to be very supportive whilst continuing to battle with my own debts.

In March 2011 I was in debt to the grand total of £28064.84. I have been on a DMP since that time and have now reduced it by 12%!

Can't believe I got myself into this mess- I guess many of us are blind to just how bad it is. I couldn't sleep, was very stressed at work and my relationship with my wife ended. My LBM was early this year when I realised I just couldn't go on. I contacted the CCCS and they were really understanding. I wrote to all the companies i owed money too, sent them token payments to start with and then went onto the CCCS DMP; I feel much more in control of my debt now. The letters have practically stopped and as I had to change bank accounts it's good to see I'm in the black each month (I don't have an O/D facility).

It's easy to get fed up though; all my friends and colleagues all seem to manage their finances so well. I have a good job, well paid, but have nothing to show for it. I live in a rented house and have no savings. BUT- I am determined that will change: My estimated DFD is Dec 2013- and am doing all I can to make this happen. I can't remember a time when I wasn't in debt as an adult- I'm 46 now- will be strange to not owe anything to anybody.....

anyway here are my debts:
Quikquid(loan): £1135
Halifax (mortgage arrears): £3188
Santander (old C/A): £3243
Capquest(loan): £5127
Roxburghe (loan): £730
PDL on line (loan): £361
Electric arrears (from previous house): £158
Gas arrears (from previous house):£871
rent arrears (from previous house): £7 (going this month!)
MBNA credit card: £2236
Ceder Holdings (secured loan arrears): £7860

thanks for reading- if anyone has done that is!!

Mike

Hovel_lady

Just wanted to say good luck with your debt busting.
December 2013 isn't that far away - you'll be debt free before you know it

madein1967

Good luck, Mike (and thanks for posting on my diary)

My DFD is a lot further away than most peoples, but I am also determined to get there.

Jules28

Hi Mike,

Good luck with your debt busting, you are doing so well already!

Jules

kramark46

thanks for the supportive comments- really cheered me up!

Mike x

bast

Well done Mike sorry to hear about your relationship breakup, I am a yr older than you and in around 9 thousand more debt than you. I understand what you are saying. When I look around and see how much more money people have than us, and huge cars holidays, then I stop and think how are they affording this.. honestly I think a lot goes on credit cards... Keep Strong...:)

kramark46

Thanks Bast, I think you're right- many people live in the credit world as opposed to the real one! The banking/finance institutions play a huge part in this. My 18 yo daughter continues to receive offers of credit every week even though she has no income yet!!

Does anyone get a huge amount of unsolicited telephone calls from debt agencies? They are trying to sell me finance to clear my debts although i rarely let them finish before I say 'no thanks' and put the phone down....My details must be on all sorts of lists since being on a DMP.....

Mike

kramark46

In February 2011 I was given an allotment (been on the waiting list for years). Although a rank amateur I and a few friends decided to give it a go. The site hadn't been used for about a year and was fully overgrown with rubbish all over it. Had a greenhouse and an old shed (which we took down as it was only just standing up) but lots of space (600 sq meters). Also had 3 apple trees and 1 pear tree I really enjoy going down there and chatting to the old gardeners (they do a lot of chatting I notice!). We planted loads of spuds/tomato's fruit, sweetcorn, peas, beans, salad etc.. and they are all now ready to be harvested. Being so fed up financially and with my breakup early in the year this opportunity really came at the right time. I love the fresh air and digging away. It is so much fun (and much cheaper) growing your own veg....

Mike

Firewalker

Hi Mike and keep writing. You are right - debt does destroy people's lives at so many levels. But...it can also be the crisis that helps us change and emerge so much more in control.

Firewalker

bast

Wow to the allotment have always wanted one... It will keep you fit as well.. Its a lovely morning here so just going for a walk and then breakfast.. Have a good day Mike ..

kramark46

This is because I've been thinking about my debt all night! (beats counting sheep although it did kinda keep me awake which defeats the object i suppose!)
I will be debt free in 2 years and 3 months =
119 weeks=
835 days=
20040 hours=
1,202,400 minutes=
72,144,000 seconds...(give or take)

so not too long to go then before I wake up and don't owe anyone any money :-)

Mike