I had posted earlier on a couple of topics, and thought I should introduce myself. I have been reading this board for a year or so now and have learned so so much from you all, so thank you!
I am in my mid thirties, live in the northeast and just purchased my first home in August. I work full time, no children, my BF and I have been together for 13 years.
From age 18, when I got my first credit card, I have had credit card debt. As the years progressed, the debt got bigger & bigger. Everytime my income increased, somehow the debt followed. Instead of applying the additional income to debt, I continued to charge. I have no idea what it all was for, and have not too much to show for it.
My total eventually got up to over $50,000, including a car loan. I was sick with worry & couldn't sleep.
I was overwhelmed, working 3 jobs to pay for it all and felt like there was no way to better the situation. I looked into filing bankruptcy, but decided that it was not the right choice for me. I then made a promise to myself that I was not going to live that way any more. Like you all that have said this, I stopped using the cards, I started paying attention to where my money was going. That was in January of 2004. Two and a half years later I was able to start saving my money, as if that was the biggest bill I ever had.
I still find it way too easy to use the credit card, and have had to reel myself in many times. I am always willing to learn new techniques and listen to others experiences.
Thanks for reading, nice to "meet" you all! :)
