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The Joneses

I decided to share this journey on my Facebook page for a few reasons.

  1. I wanted to hold myself more accountable.
  2. I realized I wasn't alone in this financial situation, and wanted others to realize they're not alone either.
  3. I want to help connect people through the idea that it's alright to share your bruises with others. Social isolation seems to be an increasing epidemic alongside a social media movement that makes it seem like we're more connected than ever...
...We seem to be willing to share our vacation pics, our new car/home purchases, our nights out on the town, etc. But, how many of us share the hangover? How many are willing to share, even with the people closest to them, the things that they're struggling with?

I'm not suggesting everyone needs share their dirty laundry with everyone within an ear shot. Find someone that you trust, ask them if they're willing to sit down and hear your story, and figure out a plan to reverse the situation you may be in and hold yourself accountable.

I went years ignoring this situation. I've recently had people contact me to share their story, and I must admit, it was as therapeutic for me as it probably was for them. It's extremely important to have people close to you, individual that your comfortable sharing a few drinks with while also nursing a hangover beside.

While the journey is long, it feels good to be taking steps each day.

If you're in a similar situation, which the stats that I'm about to share suggest there's many of us, don't hesitate to begin your journey ASAP.

CareerBuilder published an online article in August 2017 about a survey they conducted earlier that year. Some standout stats include:
  • Nearly 3 in 4 workers say they are in debt today, and more than half think they always will be.
  • 78% of U.S. workers live paycheck to paycheck to make ends meet (including 10% who make more than $100k)
  • 38% don't set money aside for retirement, and 26% don't set aside monthly savings.
In addition, according to the Federal Reserve earlier this year, U.S. credit card debt continues to climb and hit a total of $1.2 trillion recently. Non revolving debt, including student and car loans, rose to $2.8 trillion.

It appears there is a solid chance that the Joneses are in debt.



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