5 Mental Tweaks for Credit Card Relief

You’ve heard the expression ‘It’s all in your head,’ before, but when it comes to credit cards, it really can be. A new mentality about credit cards can get you out of debt quicker than sticking with the same tired and ineffective methods. Changing your behavior means changing your psychology.  You have to realize that getting in and out of debt is up to you, but it takes training—mind training. Lucky for you, you don’t need to worry about high doctor’s fees and lying in a chaise lounge chair. You can be your own shrink with these five mental tweaks to get you on the path to credit card relief.

Mental Tweak #1: Credit Cards Are Not Endless Money Fountains
If you ask a child what a credit card is, they will most likely say that it’s a magical everlasting money card. Unfortunately, some adults seem to think so, too. Use this mental tweak as your new mantra: credit cards are not free money. Train your mind. Realize that when you charge something to your credit card you’re really taking out a loan—and that loan is expensive. In fact, the average credit card interest rate is 16%, and for many individuals it’s much higher. Teach yourself to see credit cards for that they are. When tempted to use a credit card for something you can’t pay for, mentally tell yourself ‘This isn’t my money, it’s an expensive loan.’ Nothing gets past you. 

Mental Tweak #2: Credit is Not Cash
Many people are under the impression that credit cards are cash, they even think it’s their own cash and they’re greatly mistaken on both counts. It’s important that you free yourself from this dangerous thinking. Here’s the tweak: realize that credit cards are just plastic place holders for money you don’t have, and that money becomes your debt. Secondly, tell yourself that it’s impossible to get into debt when you pay with your own cash.  As soon as you internalize these two principles, the healthy habits will begin to form. Not enough? Here’s another tip: don’t carry credit cards with you, only cash. You could even have a friend or family member hide the credit card from you somewhere in the house.

Mental Tweak #3: No More Impulse Buying
Mentally memorize this phrase: impulse buying leads to unnecessary purchases, which also leads to debt. This realization is a very important mental tweak and can be difficult since most of us suffer from impulse buying. Let’s face it: you don’t need a cotton candy machine unless you start your own carnival. Start the change by making a physical list of the things you actually need, casting aside wants, and then taking that list with you when you shop. Go into stores prepared and in control. Remember tweaks #1 and #3? If you still want to buy something on impulse, hopefully those mantras are there to keep you from overspending. But all of these methods aside, you should never even start a list without having a budget first.

Mental Tweak #4: Budget, Budget, Budget
Many people think that ‘budget’ is a dirty word. They feel like it will limit them. The truth is, budgeting will actually provide more peace of mind and more freedom in the long run. Most importantly, budgeting needs to be in place for effective debt relief. Here’s the trick: mentally go over the things you need to pay for and then the things you want to pay for should follow that. This helps make your awareness and responsibility increase. Free budgeting software is available online. Create your own, print it out, or have calendar reminders on your computer, but make sure it’s always visible. A budget should serve as a constant reminder of your pledge to be responsible with money.  With a budget, you’re the boss, and that should empower you to stick with it.

Mental Tweak #5: Realize You’ve Got A Problem
If all else fails and debt has become a real issue, you need to recognize it and seek the necessary help. Friends and family can be great sources for debt relief, but so can professionals. Debt counseling, debt consolidation, and debt settlement companies are just a few of the professional services in place to help you get the credit card relief you need.
Credit cards can be a tempting and even wildly appealing, but remember that you have the power to take matters into your own hands. They may seem like magical everlasting money cards, but you know better, and with the help of these tweaks, you should be able to conquer them mentally. Yes, your mind is that powerful.

Learn more about how to find credit card relief today!