2torial #0692:
Learn2 Get Out of Debt

Lend yourself a helping hand

Do you toss and turn at night, thinking of the huge amount you owe your creditors--or even your mother? When bills come, do you throw them into a corner unopened, and eventually send them off with a check for the minimum balance? If so, you need to take control of your finances--before they take control of you.

The bad news is, no matter how hard you wish, your debts won't magically go away. The good news is, you can get out of the hole. And no matter how bad your credit is now, eventually it will be redeemable. So square your shoulders, pull out all of your bills, and read on. You're already on your way to financial freedom.

It's time to face all of the dark corners of your financial life. Drag that shoebox of receipts, bills, and loan agreements out of the closet and organize your records. Pull out your old checks, receipts, bank and credit card statements, and file them chronologically in separate files.

Perhaps most important, don't get discouraged by what seems like an enormous task. Remember that you're consolidating now so your financial life will be simpler in the future.