Here are ten ways to escape from the current debt trap:
Track your spendings
Start by tracking your monthly income and expenses in detail to understand your spending habits. Identify non-essential spending and start avoiding it to save a higher amount to pay off debt quickly.
Prioritise debt payments
Choose a debt payment strategy, such as the avalanche method or snowball method. The avalanche method suggests paying off high-interest debt first, while the snowball method suggests paying off low-interest debt first.
Negotiate with creditors
Reach out to creditors to negotiate a lower interest rate by extending the loan tenure. Many creditors are willing to work with you to set up manageable payment plans, especially if you explain your financial situation.
Debt consolidation loan
Consider a debt consolidation loan to pay off all current debt with a single lower-interest loan. Options include personal loans, balance transfer credit cards, or home equity loans. This can help simplify repayment.
Increase your income
Consider ways to increase your income through a side business or by taking on a part-time job. You can set aside this income and spend only on debt repayment. Additionally, you can consider selling unused items for quick cash.
Avoid unnecessary expenses
Review your budget to identify and cut unnecessary expenses. Look for subscriptions you rarely use, dining out less frequently, or finding cheaper alternatives for regular purchases. Use the extra savings towards debt repayment.
Avoid new debt
Avoid taking on any new debt unless it is a debt consolidation loan. If you have repaid your credit card, try not to use it until you have paid off all the current debt and you can afford timely bill payments.
Save on rental income
If you like in a rented house, see if you can share your place with others to save on rent. Look for areas where the rent requirement is low and if you can shift to an affordable place. If the burden is high, you can move back with your family until you pay off the debt.
Seek professional help
If you feel that you are deep into debt, seek help from a financial advisor or consider joining debt relief programs. Financial professionals or relief programs can help you develop a disciplined approach toward managing your finances and paying off your current debt.
Stay positive
Understand that escaping the debt trap is possible, but it is a continuous and gradual process. Try to save as much as you can and repay your debt steadily without panicking. Maintaining a positive mindset and celebrating small victories along the way can motivate you to continue your efforts until you achieve financial freedom.