Blogging for Change

An open break-up letter to debt

by Jessica Horton on
1/24/2013
in Repaying Debt

Dear Debt,

How did we get here?

It seems like just yesterday we were so carefree – going out to eat, shopping at my favorite boutiques, relaxing on weekend getaways – living it up! And while I was warned you could be bad for me, I ignored the naysayers – after all, we were having so much fun! Plus, there was enough give-and-take to sustain our whirlwind romance.

But things have changed. You have changed.

You began taking more than you gave, and that was really hard for me. And eventually I found myself questioning if the fun we had was really worth the stress and pain you were putting me through.

Don’t get me wrong, I know that relationships aren't one-sided. And there’s definitely more I could have done to keep us on the right track. But when I did try to salvage what we had left, you were unforgiving. You refused to budge no matter how hard I tried. In fact, it seems like the harder I tried, the more steadfast you became.

Well, I’m tired of it.

I’m tired of focusing on you. It’s time to focus on me.

I want my efforts to be valued — and I want to see progress. I don’t want to work hard at something, only to find myself stuck in the same miserable, unhappy place. After all, I have a lot to give! I am a kind, generous, hard-working person. But all you make me feel is worthless, pathetic and stressed. And I don’t deserve that.

I want my life back.

I’m tired of sitting here hoping things will change. I’ve realized that change doesn’t happen unless I make it happen. So I’m making a decision that I know will change my life for the better.

I’m breaking up with you.

For good.

Love,

Me

P.S. And we are never, ever, ever getting back together!

___________________________________________

What would you say in your break-up letter to debt? Share your thoughts by commenting on this post!

If you're ready to take your life back and finally kick debt to the curb, we're here to help! Nonprofit credit counseling through MMI can help you ditch debt and begin building a healthy relationship with your finances!

Jessica Horton is a former copywriter and community manager at MMI.

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