Everyone faces financial crisis. It’s pretty much inevitable. Financial crisis does not, however, have to be the end of your world. It will require you to modify your life and your habits, but there are many successful people who had to start from scratch after a financial meltdown.
1. Make a plan and write it down. Plans are always easier to follow if they are specific and visible. Include short-term and long-term goals for making it through the financial crisis.
2. Take care of essentials. You should make it a priority to pay for housing and food if you are in crisis. Pay whatever other bills you can, but keep your family sheltered and fed.
3. Cut out all excess spending. Do your research. Find out what meals you can make cheaply and eat them regularly. Avoid restaurants and new clothes. Find a thrift store nearby and learn to love gently used clothing, but only buy it if you really need it.
4. Track your spending. You only think you know where your money is going. Write down each and every expenditure and then take a look. You will probably be shocked to find out what you actually spend.
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5. Sell. If necessary, sell something. Sell lots of somethings. Not only do people love deals and yard sales, but they are willing to pay for your junk. Don’t look at it as losing items, look at it as decluttering. Stuff is made and sold every day. For now, though, make money where you can.
6. Hang in there. It seems like it will never end, but it will. You might have to reinvent yourself and your lifestyle, but you will come out stronger and wiser in the end. Learn from this lesson and make an effort to become smarter with your money.