D-E-B-T is a leading source of anxiety, and has been documented as a leading culprit in marital conflicts. Perhaps you can't imagine being completely debt free. Not a single installment or minimum balance to owe. Sounds like a dream?

Not for everyone. For many, it has become a reality. However, not without a commitment to following this sound advise.

Practical Steps To Walking Out Of Debt

• Stop Digging

The hardest thing to do is to 'STOP old habits and old ways of thinking. Start doing things differently. Stop any more debt. Yes, it sounds simple, but the truth is, you can only get out of a hole that you are not continuing to dig deeper!'

• Become Accountable

Many have found implementing these changes easier when they have shared their desire with a friend, and asked that friend to quiz them on occasion. The friend serves as a second conscience helping them to remain focused on the objective.

• Sleep On It

Avoid impulse purchases. Take a day or more to consider it.. Ask yourself a couple of questions. Buy only if you answer "Yes" to both:

1. Do I really need it?
2. Is it something I need to buy now?
• Pay Cash

Pay cash for your everyday expenses. Using credit cards for gas, food and utilities is an easy way to pump up your debt. Be prepared for these items and use cash instead. Even if you need to buy a high-ticket item like a TV, stereo, or computer, save for it and pay cash.

• Leave Home Without It

Take your plastic out of your wallet and put it away. Going around with your card with you only increases the temptation to use it. You may even give it to that friend to hide--if you are that given to impulse.

• Don't Sell Your Soul

Don't fall for the No-Interest/No-Payment Offers. These are those irresistible deals you see advertised in which you pay nothing down and make no payments for "X" amount of months. The catch is, if you miss a payment when due, all the finance charges you have accrued since the purchase date will be due. Most of the time, these finance charges have high interest rates of up to 24%. If you can't pay cash now, then wait.

• Reward Yourself

Pre-select some economical activities you enjoy and celebrate those mile stones, such as paying off the first major debt. It is also important to routinely visualize the freedom and exhilaration you connect with owing no man anything.

For more expert advice on getting out of debt, read "Cash Now: The Uncommon Sense Guide To Rapid Debt Reduction".

Ted Wooley founded Horizons Unlimited Group in 1987. He has used his 20-year business experience to help equip thousands of individuals to achieve their personal dreams as an author, lecturer and a respected Internet and business consultant.
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