Even if the mountain ahead of you seems insurmountable, take courage, and take the first step. Action is the great procrastinator’s obliterator. And discipline will keep that pesky, I-want-to-give-up thinking at bay.
In today’s episode of The His & Her Money Show, Murphy and Melissa have been married for 9 years and together they paid off $229,000 debt in 5 years. The debt comprised $125,000 student debt and $104,000 in consumer debt.
Taking Action
There was a bit of turmoil in their marriage. Murphy and Melissa went for counseling. He was at a point where he felt he had to man-up and have a vision for the future of their marriage.
This gave Murphy that spark of hope that he needed. He communicated with his wife. It took Melissa a year to truly understand their ‘why’ to make the necessary changes.
The Approach
Murphy was kind to Melissa. Together they listened to podcasts. Melissa loves to give. Murphy showed her that by being debt-free they would be able to give even more. Slowly, but surely, Melissa realized what debt freedom could mean for them.
How They Began
Murphy and Melissa worked out how much they owed. When they saw the figure, it shocked them. But they realized that they had to make a change for future generations.
An Improved Marriage
They communicated consistently and had a monthly budget meeting. Also, they made their needs known to their spouse. This helped every other area of their marriage as well. Their faith helped them a lot in their journey.
Health Improvement
Murphy and Melissa started eating more healthy, drinking water and exercising. They did staycations instead of going on vacations and found a cheaper gym that fits their budget.
Cooking at home was great for their budget and their waistline. They did amazing cooking parties at home which saved money and kept their social life buzzing.
Obstacles To Overcome
Melissa had to fight regret, shame, and denial on her part. But she owned her mistakes and kept her eye on the ball and kept at it.
Accountability is very important. Have an accountability partner to help you through it.
How They Went About Doing It
They kept at it by sticking to a budget together and talking about their needs. Creating an emergency fund gave them a feeling of security.
Their faith kept them going, for example, Hebrews 12:11 “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”
When they had paid off the last cent of their debt, they shared their moment with others and it felt so great.
The Next Steps
They have started on an emergency fund and tweaked their budget even more. Also, they are going to have a debt-free celebration. The giving fund is going to put in place as well.
You Can Do This
Murphy has some very good advice. Stop thinking negatively. Believe in yourself. Make sure you reach out to a person in a safe environment that can become your accountability partner. You have a vision over your life. It’s not impossible. Don’t give up on yourself. Research. Use YouTube.
Melissa says even though it feels long, it actually goes by very quickly. Who you surround yourself with is very important. Fill your mind with YOUR vision and go in that direction by using the resources.
Get in touch with Murphy and Melissa on their website – Fit n Funds
What You Will Learn
- Why you need to do your research
- How to get your spouse on board
- Marriage communication is important
- How to save money and still have fun
- Why a vision is important
Resources Mentioned
- Teach Me How To Budget Online Course
Thanks For Listening!
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Today’s show was sponsored by Teach Me How To Budget. If you are ready to gain freedom in your finances once and for all then enroll in our brand new personal finance course Teach Me How To Budget.
