It is sad that most of us already know what it takes to be financially free. Until recently, this knowledge had been passed down for many generations from our parents and grandparents. Nowadays,  Society has become blinded by those gold and platinum cards!  Take a look around at the people that you know who are retired, own their homes, and have no debt. Ask them how they got to where they are. Most likely they will tell you that they did not use credit and they saved for their retirement.

New Year = New Debt

Unfortunately, I believe that the number of retirees who have no debt is shrinking! Now is the time to listen to the age old advice and use the knowledge that is available to us.
Right about this time of year, people are receiving their first bills from the debt that they incurred during the Christmas holidays. This is how people live nowadays. Get everything you want on credit now and pay for it later. It doesn’t matter that you will most likely pay interest and make payments for what could be years.

Now is the Time to Say No to Debt

Now is also the time of year that many are forgetting about their New Year’s resolutions. However, I believe that it is a perfect time to make new goals for your entire life rather than the obligatory resolution for the New Year.

My challenge to everyone reading this message is to “say no” to debt. Try it for a year and I guarantee that you will feel better about the purchases that you make this year with cash. Secondly, when the bills come in January of next year, you will be happier because they did not include new debt.

Credit is a Problem

Debt is a major problem in our society.  Making purchases on credit is convenient. Yes, you can buy stuff now for which it would take a long time to save. Yes, you have a burning desire to keep up with technology and the neighbors. Debt is like drinking alcohol or taking drugs. When used in excess, the long-term effects can be disastrous.

Think about it. What would you do if you lost your job today? Sure, you would look for another job. What if you did not find a job right away, or in a month, or a year? Can you pay your creditors on a fraction of your current income? Can you take care of your family if you have to pay that Visa or MasterCard payment?

In reality, most people who have excessive debt are not prepared for a financial emergency.  The best place to start getting your finances in order is to get out of debt as soon as you can. The first step is to say no to debt. Cut up your credit cards and make a commitment to avoid using debt. Remember that this should be will be the year that you move toward financial freedom.