Sometimes being in debt requires people to downsize their life. It can be a chilling experience to see your past lifestyle collapse into a less than what you used to have. Unfortunately, the change has to happen. Downgrading your life to pay off your debt is truly unimaginable, but it is actually a practical step towards financial freedom. In fact many credit relief experts believe that this is a sound move.

Here are some tips and suggestion to make the downgrade less painful especially if you’re already used to what you already have.

1.Less becomes more
One of the most significant changes in your life would be tightening your belt a little more. That means buying only the necessities and shopping more wisely. Moreover, consuming only what is needed makes sense when you want to squeeze every penny in your budget. But don’t fret; this step is only hard during the transition. Once you’re used to having only what you require you will appreciate every single cent that you save. Just to reiterate, splurging is now a word that you must remove from your vocabulary.

2.Just the right shelter
Home mortgages and other payments associated with your house comprise a huge chunk in anyone’s budget. If you’re used to a 4 bedroom house with only 2 people living in it, then it warrants a quick downgrade. Selling your home especially during a down economy can be nasty so it is important that you find a good realtor to help you out. Although you may have to settle for a lower price, it will do you good in the long run not to maintain a huge house that’s not appropriate for you.

Another alternative is for you to share dwelling and split the cost. This is ideal for students and single individuals who can get classmates and officemates to share in the expense with you. Of course there will be some privacy adjustments but this can be a better alternative than to be homeless due to your debt.

3.Car woes
Car maintenance, car payments and even fuel can set you back several hundred of dollars regularly. See if your car actually corresponds to your needs – not just your wants. It’s nice to drive a sports car with a huge engine you can rev to impress others. But the truth is, when you’re in a financial slump, revving won’t do you any good. So consider trading in your car for a more fuel efficient one. Look for a car that provides you with your needs but without the need for too much pampering and too much expense.

If you’re really into downgrading your life, you may even want to consider commuting instead of wasting fuel money of traffic jams. Car pooling is also an alternative that you can take. You’re going eco-friendly as well as giving your finances a better chance.

4.Techy talk
How many phones do you really need? How much techy stuff do you need to maintain? Remember that communication services, subscriptions and the like cost you money whether you use them or not. Downgrading your life means choosing one and finding the best plan too suit your needs. In this regard, make sure you compare service providers and plans that they can offer you. Take note of hidden charges that might pop up in your bill.

5.Credit cards?
Another important aspect of downgrading for debt payment is to get rid of your credit cards. With a credit card, you can easily fall off the wagon and find yourself in more trouble than help. Many argue that they use it only for emergencies but chances are you will find an emergency where there is none.

When you are in debt, the most important consideration is looking into your lifestyle. Many financial problems arise from a mismatch of spending and paying capability. As such, downgrading your life maybe required to first pay off your debt and then maintain a financially sound life.

Author's Bio: 

Jonny Andrews is an international speaker, business development expert, serial entrepreneur and eccentric founder of DebtFreeAndWealthy: the worlds leading online magazine dedicated to helping individuals achieving financial freedom through proper focus, education and action. To Get Your FREE REPORT: "How To Eliminate Up To 50% Of Your Debt In Under 30 Days" visit www.DebtFreeAndWealthy.com