Two Years ago

In late June, 2007, I read Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover. Before reading this book, I really thought that I was in pretty good shape financially because I was able to make my monthly payments. I had 2 zero interest credit cards that I had used for big purchases, one CC with a $1000 balance that I was unsuccessfully trying to pay down, and one card that I paid in full each month. I also had a $3000 car loan.


What I didn't realize was that I was getting farther and farther in debt each month. I was spending more than I brought in. I was pretty upset and ashamed that I hadn't seen what was happening.When I calmed down, I started on Dave's Babysteps. For the first few months, I got even further in debt because I wasn't used to living on that month's income.

My journey has been pretty long, but I can see light at the end. I think that in 4 months, I will be finished with Babystep 2. Lessons I'm learning along the way--tracking my spending is important for me because I tend to be unrealistic in my estimates, saving for unexpected expenses and irregular expenses decreases stress, and accountability really helps me stay on track.

I am enjoying this journey and I have made progress in reducing my debt. Hmm...maybe the journey is more important than the final outcome. Interesting....