Along the road to financial stability, certain financial difficulties may be encountered. You might get tired of always watching every cent and saying no to your kids. Maybe one of your creditors is refusing to make an agreement? Bad credit and accrued debt can have a depressing impact. The following steps can improve your spirits:
- Celebrate each success: Celebrate your financial successes no matter how small, as every success is another step towards financial freedom. Maybe you've managed to get one of your creditors to agree to less interest, or you've got a part time job to bring in extra money, make sure you acknowledge these financial successes and praise yourself for them to increase motivation to stay debt free.
- Stay active: Exercise is a fantastic way to relieve stress and clear your mind, especially with regards to debt problems. If you’re feeling great, go for a walk to avoid negative feelings from taking over.
- Laugh: Laughing is therapeutic and will take your mind off your debt related troubles for a few moments.
- Do something fun: There are many ways to enjoy yourself without having to spend money such as, taking your kids to the park, walking your dogs, playing board games or hosting a bring and braai.
- Count your blessings: Appreciate and draw strength from the good things in your life. Volunteering at a shelter or visiting the townships is a great way to get rid of a negative attitude.
- Accept what you can't change: If your financial circumstances are the result of the past, rather move forward and don’t look back. Focus 100% on a debt free future.
- Find a quiet place: Whether it's a church, synagogue, mosque, your house, the beach etc., find a quiet place where you can be peaceful and rest your thoughts. Visualise your life progressing and becoming easier, and it will! If you are experiencing more than just the occasional blues, you could be suffering from depression. Depression is a disease and can be effectively treated.
Look at the following signs of depression:
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Find out more- Feeling sad all the time
- Feeling worthless, hopeless and/or guilty for no rational reason
- Constant anxiety and/or irritability
- Lethargy
- Loss of interest in the activities you used to enjoy
- A change in sleep patterns
- Concentrations problems
- Excessive headaches/stomach-aches
- Loss of appetite or over eating
- Using alcohol or narcotics to avoid reality
- Constantly thinking about death or even suicide. If you have these thoughts get help immediately. Call Lifeline on 0861 150 1500 and a trained counsellor will provide you with the help you need.
