As the title of this post states, paying off debt is actually helping me to change my life for the better – and in different ways too.
When you’re on a mission to pay off debt, there are certain financial sacrifices that you might need to make and a definite lifestyle change of sorts as you squeeze your budget and cut out unnecessary costs.
If my experience is anything to go by, you might have to decline social engagements and start eating at home more rather than eating out and start calling all your service providers to check you’re on the best deal possible. You’ll start looking carefully at prices when you’re out doing your grocery shopping and buy more own brand products rather than branded items. You might even start wearing more layers in the Winter instead of turning your heating on more often!
But if you’re committed to paying off debt with a passion, then you might just find yourself making some other changes too. The kind of changes which reflect on how you think about money, how you spend your free time and what you want to do with your life in the future.
Change is always good
I started this journey to pay back my debt with one goal in mind – to get rid of the dreaded debt once and for all so I could live my life like everyone else. Like normal people do, you know? Without all the worry and stress that comes with living in the shadow of debt. Without having to think carefully about every single purchase that I’m making and without feeling guilty about simple pleasures like going out for dinner once in a while.
I didn’t expect my goal to change all that much. But you know what? It has! Yes, I still want to be debt free more than anything. I perhaps won’t feel quite as guilty for having the odd meal out. But over the last 18 months, the process of paying off debt has changed my views about money totally.
Before I started paying off my debt, I thought that having a comfortable amount of money was reserved for those people who are uber succcesful, having worked their way up the corporate ladder to a high managerial position, working all the hours God sends. Basically workaholics. I also thought that another batch of people who have money are those born with it, through having rich parents; the kind of people who never have to work and go out to lunch everyday in their designer gear. And lastly, good looking celebrities seem to have a fair amount of cash too.
I never thought that it would be possible for someone like me (a parent in debt trying to run a business from home) to think that financial success would be within my reach. Now I don’t want to sound like I’m putting myself down, because I’m not. Don’t get me wrong, I definitely don’t earn a fortune now. I’m still on a low wage because of the fact that I’m trying to work doing my own business around my daughter. But before I started tackling my debt, I was bad with money and I didn’t appreciate the money I did have. I wasted so much money in the years before I had my wake up call. I was a slave to my debt and trapped in a job I didn’t like all that much because of that very reason. I wanted my life to be different but I couldn’t seem to change things.
If you want to change your life you have to get off your butt
Anyway, I started paying off my debt by cutting back and trying to save. I dipped my toe into making extra money the usual ways through selling stuff on eBay and doing car boot sales. I had done all this kind of stuff to make extra money before so it was easy to knuckle down to make some sales to kick start the debt payoff process. I made some money doing this kind of thing which went towards the debts and then I pretty much ran out of things to sell.
I began to think outside the box a little. I learned (and am still learning everyday) about personal finance matters. Little by little, I’m learning more about multiple income streams and passive income and I want in on it. I like the idea of earning money in my sleep – who doesn’t?!
I’m realising that there is a hell of a lot of money to be made out there by doing stuff that you enjoy. You don’t have to be a workaholic on the rungs of the corporate ladder or a famous person to get a piece of the pie. If you’re unhappy with your lot, what you have to do is put an enormous amount of effort into learning new things and actually get off your butt and do something positive to change your life.
How I’m changing my life for the better
Since starting to pay off my debt, I’m using my free time much more effectively to work towards my other goals. I used to spend my evenings watching TV with a glass of wine because I was so shattered from working all day and looking after my daughter. Now I put my daughter to bed, cut out the wine (unless Game of Thrones is on) and work on my projects.
So I work on my blog, do a lot of writing and a lot of learning because these are all things I enjoy and want to continue to do after my debt is paid off. My blog and freelance writing are both making me a little money right now in addition to my day job. I figure if you can find a way to make a little money, you might be able to scale it up so that you can make more.
I also work on my hobbies. At the moment, one of my hobbies is also making me money. I love crafts and I’m currently making lots of bunting for the Tour De France celebrations (with the hubby’s help).
Why do I work on my projects when the working day is done? Because I want to make other changes in my life when the debt is gone. Starting to pay off my debt has opened many doors for me. It’s given me an opportunity to learn, develop new skills, be better with money and it’s given me other dreams.
Working the 9-5 isn’t a bad thing by any means but I know it’s just not for me. I want to be able to earn a living (more than a living actually) doing something I love whilst being a mum and helping to secure our family’s financial future. I just need to keep getting off my butt and continue working towards my goals!
Has paying off your debt helped you to change your life for the better?
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42 Comments
I like what you said about being able to make money out of hobbies. I love doing crafts too and I know I have a gift in that. I just don’t know how to begin especially because I know it would entail a bit of expenses which I cannot afford at the moment.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Jen @Sprout Wealth recently posted…My Tricks to Making Money With Affiliate Marketing
Ooh, what’s your craft Jen? I think money can be made out of online tutorials, I don’t think that would cost too much to set up? That’s something I’m considering at the moment.
Such a great way to turn things around, I know that it’s very easy to sit on the couch after a long day, but it’s so much more rewarding to make a few dollars on ebay or write great material that you can share with others. I love the changes that you are making and I am getting to know them each day as well. Cheers to paying off debt!![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Even Steven recently posted…Why my Father is Amazing
It is easy and tempting just to chill out in the evening. But if I do that, I feel conscious that I need to carry on with my goals. By working really hard now, hopefully I will have a very relaxing retirement! Good luck with the changes you’re making too. 🙂
There are always lessons to be learned in every challenge, like debt, and it sounds like you have learned quite a bit! That’s only going to make you a much stronger person!![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Tonya@Budget and the Beach recently posted…Summer Shape Up!/ASICS Shoe Giveaway!
Thanks Tonya! I definitely feel much stronger than I was 18 months ago!
I love how you talk about how your mindset has changed since you started your journey to becoming debt free! That’s awesome Hayley! I feel stuck in my current job, going no where fast and so NOT enjoying being stuck at a desk 40 hours/week. This is not my idea of what the next 30+ years look like until my “retirement” date. I can’t wait to start seeing some real progress so I can work on 5 year plan of downsizing my life and paying off my debts by moving into a tiny house. I’d love to find a job I’m passionate about and have lots more free time to garden and spend with friends and family without worrying about payments, due dates, debt and the rat race of acquiring the latest and greatest of everything. It sounds so much more peaceful than the “norm”.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Kayla @ Shoeaholicnomore recently posted…Being More Open
It is possible Kayla – it has to be, because there are people out there doing just what you describe. If you know that you don’t want to be at that job, start planning now for what you do want to do. That way, you can focus on what you need to achieve once your debts are gone. 🙂
Paying off my debt taught me to pay attention to my money. Before I got serious about paying off my debt, I just spent and spent until my bank account was empty and my credit card limits were reached. Now, I track my spending and budget (even though the debt is gone) and I know I will never go back to ignoring my money again. Very good post!![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Morgaine recently posted…Weekly Spending: June 9-15
Me too Morgaine, this is just how I was too! I was totally unaware of the damage I was causing. Now if I even get close to my balance being zero, I panic. How things change!
Good for you Hayley! I love these types of posts =). I’ve always been a frugal person, and I never thought I would make crazy amounts of money, either. Having student loans, and seeing how others have started side hustles, has been inspiring. There are so many people out there doing things they enjoy doing, and making great money from it. I have no doubt you’ll be one of those people!![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
E.M. recently posted…When Was the Last Time You Adjusted Your Budget?
Thanks E.M. for saying that! I really hope I’ll be one of those people! 🙂 Blogging has been a real journey hasn’t it? It’s certainly opened my eyes to what’s possible out there.
Love this! I am so happy that my student loans are gone. They were a major stressor in my life when I had them. Now, anything seems doable now that my student loans are gone.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Michelle recently posted…How To Use Credit Cards To Earn Cheap/Free Vacations
Thanks Michelle! You did great getting rid of your debt and anyone only has to look at your income reports to see how successful you are. Your blog is one of my inspirations for wanting to do ‘more’ – so thank you!
Hey Hayley and thanks for writing a truly inspiring post!! You’ve come a long way and as they say “your future is so bright you gotta wear shades” – or something like that 🙂
“…to get rid of the dreaded debt once and for all so I could live my life like everyone else. Like normal people do, you know?” Unfortunately, I think normal people are in just as much debt as the next guy or gal. I think once you are debt free, you’ll be a lot different from the norm, and that my friend, is a very good thing!
Thanks again Hayley and take care. The best of luck in all that you do.
Lyle![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
lyle @ the Joy of Simple recently posted…How Much Is Your Job Costing You And What Can You Do About It?
Hi Lyle thank you for your kinds words and encouragement, you really do put a smile on my face! Hope you’re ok and life is good! 🙂
Paying off my debt has definitely improved my life for the better. Like you, I don’t want that much TV anymore. I am also eating healthier by cutting out all the junk food and eating more vegetables instead.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
I’m also working harder to improve myself and to find ways to make more money.
Aldo @ MDN recently posted…Spent: Looking For Change (Documentary)
I remember feeling constantly down and fed up about the debts, I genuinely thought things couldn’t change. I didn’t have the right mindset to think about earning extra money or trying to change. I’m so glad I had that wake up call. Sounds like things are going really well for you Aldo.
Oh absolutely! I mean, I’m still not debt free but I’m loving the way I’ve started to view money. I’ve started contributing to retirement, I bring my own lunch to work, and I’ve paid off a credit card. I feel much more savvy now a days.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Debt Busting Chick recently posted…Weekly Spend Recap (W/E 13th June 14) & Blog Lovin’
That’s great Nikki! Sounds like you are doing brilliantly. I wish I’d started saving for retirement earlier but I can’t get too down about that – I just have to make up for it now. 🙂
While I haven’t had to contend with debt, I’ve found my life changing dramatically in the last year thanks to my blogging and increased commitment to a better financial future. I use my time so much more effectively and I’m charting my own path rather than being at the mercy of someone elses’![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Stefanie @ The Broke and Beautiful Life recently posted…How Much Do You Need to Live In New York City?
Blogging about finances really does help with keeping motivated and active in that respect!
Love this, Hayley. This change you’re experiencing is one of the few good by-products of debt. I love seeing people “get it” and realize that they can have financial freedom. They can be in control of their money and create the lives they want if they chose to use their money wisely. The sad thing is not everyone gets this, Hayley. I’ve worked with people who have worked incredibly hard to get out of debt to only turnaround and immediately go back into debt because they didn’t “get it”. We all make choices every day and you’re learning to make choices that honor the life you want for you and your family. You’re going to be just fine, Hayley!![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Shannon @ The Heavy Purse recently posted…The Surprising Consequences of Keeping Your Kids in the Dark about Your Finances
Really appreciate your support Shannon, thank you! I have no desire to make the same mistakes again and neither does the hubby. The end in is sight (for this particular journey anyway) and we just can’t wait for that day where we don’t have to worry about creditors anymore.
This is great. I’ve had a similar change in mindset as I’ve been paying out of debt. I still have some ways to go, but instead of thinking about the nicer house or nicer car I can afford when I become debt free, I dream about all of the different opportunities that will be available. I’ve finally realized that things don’t make me happy. Free time does. And maybe wine.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
The Bee recently posted…Buying a House was a No-good, Terrible Mistake
Thank you The Bee! I’m glad that your mindset has changed too. I’d love to a place to call home (nothing over the top) when we’re debt free as we’re renting right now. But this will take a long time for us because of damaged credit ratings. However it will give us time to save up a big deposit and we intend to get a place well within our means so that we get on with our other goals in life!
I agree when you say if you’re committed to paying off your debt with a passion, you will probably make other changes too. I’m happy to say that the changes I’ve made are staying with me. I’m not going to change back to how I was before, once my debt is paid off. You are inspiring, Hayley! I feel we have some similarities in our journey, because we both had a few false starts and then re-corrections, but I’m confident the changes made are permanent for both of us. Good for you, also, doing things on your terms and finding ways to increase your income without sacrificing your time with your daughter.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Debs @ debtdebs.com recently posted…The New Multitasking – Fragmentasking
Thank you Debs for your kind words and I too think we have some similarities in our debt situations! Actually changing our mindsets about money is one of the most important things the hubby and I have done and it sounds like you and the Irishman have done that too. 🙂
Well said, Hayley!!! It’s amazing how much life changes once you realize that you are largely in control of reaching your own goals. Even though we have a long way to go on our debt, we have one thing: peace. Peace, because we know that we are working toward and committed to our goal, no matter now long it takes.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Laurie @thefrugalfarmer recently posted…When is it Okay to Break the Rules?
Thanks Laurie! You and Rick are doing great, the best thing is that you know you will get there now because you’ve come so far already. Peace is one of those things that we can truly be thankful for when paying off debt!
Very inspiring post just what I needed to read. It really does seem to come down to time management. Some people like to spend their free time watching shows or just vegging out. That’s fine, but they probably won’t see much improvement financially. Paying off debt really does provide that motivation to get up and find a way to give yourself a better life.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Syed recently posted…Diamonds in the Rough Roundup 6/13/14
Hi Syed, thanks for stopping by and commenting. I’m really glad this post resonated with you. I think you’re right in this observation – how a person spends their time probably does have an impact on whether or not they can improve things financially.
I am relatively new to this whole paying off debt thing. But I am really trying to watch all of my dollar and cents. I have minimized as much as I can, and right now my husband and I are focusing on paying off our debts and building up an emergency fund.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Michelle recently posted…Getting Through: Money Sisters
That’s great Michelle sounds like things are going well so far! An emergency fund is great to have, it certainly gives me peace of mind having one despite it not quite being at the level that I’d like.
I love this article. So much of the time people focus on the ‘bad’ aspects of a more frugal lifestyle without realising what can change for the better. For me, I’ve found that in my quest to pay off my debt I’m taking better care of my possessions, spending more time cooking (and usually singing/dancing in the kitchen at the same time!) and generally enjoying and valuing the little things more. I’d love to start more side hustles so it’s great to hear about your experiences with not having a corporate job.![My Profile](https://diseasecalleddebt.com/wp-content/plugins/commentluv/images/littleheartplus.png)
Nats recently posted…Beginnings of small spending
Hi Nats, thank you for stopping by and commenting! Good luck with your own journey to pay off debt, I’m looking forward to reading your progress!