I had the honor of being a Guest Blogger on my friend’s site: The Brilliant Mom. It was a lot of fun writing about how our financial planning has brought many debt-free adventures. You can read the article here.
What are some tips you hold dear when it comes to living debt-free?
First of all, Kiersten, your hair looks amazing in that Pumpkin photo! Secondly, you make it sound so easy to live debt free; however, I know first-hand, being a natural spender and gift-giver, how incredibly difficult it is to sustain this lifestyle in the long-term. Generally, though, when something is difficult, it means the reward is so much more fulfilling. My main words of advice to anyone striving to stay on a budget, live debt-free, and instill in their children a financial knowledge and know-how is plan ahead. Having a plan, either in the short-term or long-term, enables a family to have a great present while not forgoing an incredible future. Good, smart, frugal planning can make, what may have seen out-of-reach, an easy feet. With wise planning we have been able to live debt-free, buy a home with a significant down payment, plan for college, and endure less stressful entanglements about spending. I was not a stranger to the income level excuse, but I realized early on when we made $35,000 I had to make hard choices, when we made $55,000 a year I had to make hard choices, and now still when our income is very close to what I always hoped, I still have to make hard choices. My mindset truly did change when I decided not to think of these choices of what I was giving up but all the remarkable experiences that my family has without the stress of debt. Thanks so much for this topic, Kiersten. I know my response is long, but my passion is pretty fierce for this subject because I have seen how good financial planning changes lives and relationships for generations.
Thank you for your response! Awesome tips and I adore your passion (as always)!