In an inspiring story of financial recovery, Ms.Bre shares her transformation from careless spending to becoming completely debt-free.
Once trapped in a cycle of credit card dependency, she accumulated £5,000 in debt due to an impulsive “see money, spend money” attitude.At just 18, tempted by the appeal of easy credit, she splurged on lavish gifts and non essentials, eventually finding herself buried in bills.
Determined to change, the 29 year old began researching personal finance and adopted a zero-based budgeting system that completely changed her life.
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Reflecting on her early habits, she admitted, “Budgeting wasn’t something I ever thought about.
My financial mindset was simply to spend whatever I had.” Now, she proudly avoids buy now, pay later schemes and credit cards altogether, maintaining complete control over her finances.
Living paycheck to paycheck, Ms. Bre went on a spending spree after landing her first well paid job including an expensive dream holiday to Florida during her people pleasing phase. What began as innocent spending quickly spiraled out of control.
Her plan to pay off the balance fast fell apart, and soon she was using her credit card for everyday purchases, digging herself into a deeper financial hole.
When furlough and maternity leave hit, her reduced income forced a harsh reality check. The financial pressure began taking a toll on her mental health, leading to sleepless nights and anxiety.
Determined to regain control, she started researching budgeting techniques, reading financial books, and watching YouTube videos from others who had escaped debt.
“It all happened so fast,” she recalled.“Each month, making the payments became harder. When furlough started, I realized how unprepared I was. It made me question how I got here despite knowing better.”
This turning point motivated her to rebuild her relationship with money and finally take responsibility for her financial future.
To tackle her debt, she used a debt calculator, created structured repayment plans, and made major sacrifices skipping salon appointments, cutting down on shopping, and focusing on needs rather than wants.
After two years of dedication and self-discipline, she finally reached her goal of being completely debt-free.
Her biggest advice is to embrace zero-based budgeting assigning every pound a purpose and ensuring nothing goes unaccounted for. “It’s the best method to keep track of your money,” she said. “If I can’t buy something outright without using buy now, pay later, then I simply can’t afford it.”
Now, Ms. Bre uses her experience to help others facing similar struggles. With Christmas approaching, she urges people to think carefully about what they can truly afford before spending.
She warns against falling into the trap of consumer pressure fueled by social media and payment schemes that encourage overspending.
She encourages people to set realistic budgets for specific goals like festive shopping and to stick to them strictly. “Financial education is key,” she explained. “We need to help people understand how to manage their money properly instead of giving in to social pressure.”
Today, Ms. Bre proudly celebrates her debt-free life. The restless nights and constant stress are behind her, replaced by peace of mind and a strong sense of control over her finances. Her journey stands as proof that with awareness, discipline, and planning, financial freedom is within reach for anyone willing to make the change.
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