Debt detox

FIRSTLY, stop avoiding your finances and start facing them head-on. It can feel daunting, especially if you're unsure where you stand, but honesty is the only way forward.

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Rewire your money mindset. Our beliefs around money shape our choices. If you grew up thinking, “I'm just bad with money," challenge that and create a more positive, empowered view of your financial future.

Face the facts

Tot up all debt and bills for a full, honest picture

Make a simple money map - a visual guide showing where income comes from and where it goes, so you can spot opportunities to save. There is a free budget planner at moneyhelper.org.uk

Set small achievable goals

Pay off a credit card, save for a holiday or build an emergency fund - goals give you focus and boost motivation. Hitting a milestone feels good and puts more money in your pocket. A small step today can lead to a giant leap tomorrow.

Debt action plan

Write down every debt, and attack the worst offenders first. If you can, bundle them together with a consolidation loan to slash those crazy interest rates. Dumping debt means more cash in your pocket and less stress - giving you a clear runway to start building real wealth.

The avalanche method focuses on tackling the debt with the highest interest rate first and saves you the most money over time by reducing costly interest payments.

The snowball method has you pay off your smallest debts first, giving quick wins that boost motivation and momentum.

Avalanche saves money, snowball saves morale - pick the one that keeps you motivated to stick with your plan and crush your debt for good.

TOP TIP: Automate bills, set up direct debits so you never miss a deadline and direct any spare cash to your target debt.

Benefits check

Ensure you get all the benefits and support you are due from tax breaks to energy grants.