I know so many people that are struggling to keep their head above water when it comes to their student loan and credit card obligations. I am far from perfect, but I have a plan to totally get out of debt, and at least I have appreciating assets. Some of these people make more than twice the amount of money then I do; yet they have three times the amount of debt than me. How and why does this happen? I mean we go to the same places, see the same people and party the same amount, but I am not drowning in the kind of debt they’re in. How do these events come into place? Well after long discussions with these individuals, because they finally asked for my help, I found a few links that tie them together. Here are a few things you should avoid so you don’t fall into the same situation.

Avoid overspending when you go out to eat or at bars. This will get you into trouble all the time. Stop acting like your some kind of celebrity when you are at the bar. No one cares how much you are able to drink and the amount of drinks you buy at the bar. *Another thing for the guys* If you run into a hot bartender that acts as if she is interested in you. Unfortunately, your drunken state actually thinks you have a chance and you decide to over tip her by a large amount to make it seem like you’re made of money. Trust me she’s more interested in what’s in your pants, and NO it’s now what you think. She wants to see that a $40 tip on a $60 tab. Don’t fall victim to the fake number gag, guys.

Stop buying crap you don’t need. eFIPO’s definition of crap: Anything you really cannot afford, but still decide to buy because it’s the new “it” item. Examples include, but not limited to: purses, jewelry, jeans, shirts, TVs, cars, huge stupid sun glasses, stereo system, liquor, and anything else that makes you look like a celeb wannabe.

Yeah, I’m pretty sure you don’t need that Louis Vuitton purse when you can’t even afford to pay your utilities. And being the nicest looking bum on the street doesn’t give you a lot of street cred, so stop buying stuff you can’t afford just to look like a celebrity that has an eating disorder.

Are you too good for the grocery store? Hey buddy, I’m pretty sure your credit card will be gladly accepted at your nearby Kroger. You don’t always have to eat out and spend your hard earned money on fast food and steak. Reality called, they told me to tell you that credit cards aren’t free money cards. People will spend an absurd amount of money because they are too lazy to go out and by food and actually prepare a meal. I understand how hard it is to make a turkey sandwich, but give your credit cards a break for once! I know that fueling the American economy by spending all your money must be on the top of your priority list when you’re broke, but saving some money every now and then won’t affect it that much. If you didn’t see the sarcasm in the past few lines, please re-read them.

These are just a few things I’ve piled together. If you like them, I will try to think of some more. Thanks and have a great day!