It's Up To US

Well, there's some good news on "the credit card front." Congress and The White House have stepped in and will reel in some of the unethical practices of the banks and credit card companies. The Obama administration does apparently have the best interest (no pun intended) of the American people in mind with regards to the staggering debt totals we are presently seeing.

While it is crucial that "the powers that be" do what it can to stop what can rightfully be called the "legalized rape" of the American consumer by the banks and card companies, we
MUST NOT simply rely on or expect the government to change our financial situation for the better. It can stop the abuse, but WE must be proactive if we are to get out of debt and ultimately prosper.

In other words, it's not up to the U.S. - it's up to us. Note the difference.

We must take responsibility for the credit card debt that we've incurred.

So, my first piece of advice is to add up all of your current credit card debt. If you already know exactly how much you owe (and I mean to the penny), that's terrific. But my experience is that most people do not know their exact debt load. Knowledge is power - so become of what you owe to MasterCard, Visa, AmEx, and all other cards and make a list of those individual totals.
Then add them up.............Take a deep breath and relax.

Remember, in order to turn your situation around, you have to admit that there is a problem, know what that problem is, and be willing to do what it takes to gain control over it.
That's your responsibility and together, in these upcoming posts, we will take the steps necessary to become empowered.

No one can do this for us..........It's up to us.

Welcome!

A Happy Memorial Day Weekend to Everyone!

My name is Joe Paretta and I welcome you to the first of what I hope to be many blog posts about avoiding, getting out of, and staying out of credit card debt.

This is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. Years ago, I was several thousands of dollars in debt to many different cards. But with determination and persistence, I got out and have stayed out for the last eight years.

For a long time, I "dragged my feet" about starting a blog (mostly due to fear of technology),
but the time has come...and I can't believe how easy this is!

But this blog is not about technology; it's about a topic that has become epidemic in this country...credit card debt. Recent surveys have shown that the average American household credit card debt is now between $8,000 and $10,000. And with people losing their jobs and in many cases, at best, finding just part-time employment, those totals are likely to rise in the very near future.

No, my goal is not to get your holiday weekend off to a depressing start. But since this is my "pilot" post, we need to face this difficult reality.

Now, are you ready for the good news? We can and we will get out of this credit card debt! It will take time, it will take perseverence, but we will get there. I write "we" because I will help you. That's what this blog is all about. We'll take my experiences and put them to work for you.

Check back for my next posting. As we go along, I invite your questions and comments.
I pray that this is the start of a long and prosperous relationship!!