Anyone have any advice when you feel like you're down and out? Or stuck in a hole you just can't seem to climb out of?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:50:18 -0400

sometimes life just gets the best of you and its hard to get back on track. in my case being in debt and just being generally stuck

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 9:36 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 21:36:31 -0400

Being in debt is unfortunately part of life as we know it today. Most people carry some amount of debt on their shoulders. I know there are those happily paid up and flush, but that is likely fewer than more. I am blessed to have only one credit card balance and a mortgage. But, I am surely a bit longer in the tooth (older) than you are. I have had time to get my ducks in a row. I was there and I was worried, but changes were made and things were scaled back.

You are 19. Bravo for committing to service! I know it is small consolation to say the following, but this is a time in your life when going at it independently, you are expected to be somewhat broke. We ALL recall being an E-3 and living paycheck to paycheck. It is not easy, but it is doable.

Is it just car issues weighing you down? Or is it technology (phones, tablets, entertainment)? I do not want to make any assumptions about priorities, that is why I ask. SSG James J. Palmer IV will steer you in the right direction. If you want to also message me, maybe I can add to what I know will be stellar guidance from him.

It is good that you are concerned. It shows that you are responsible. Just do not let it overwhelm you. That can entangle one very fast and very powerfully. We can help. Some one on your base can help. Someone in your community can help. Give us a shot. :)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 9:52 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 21:52:54 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member I'm glad that you feel comfortable enough on Rally Point to reach out for advice. I have 2 recommendations for you:
1. If you haven't done so already, inform your 1st line supervisor and his supervisor if they do not help you.
2. Visit the Army Community Service (ACS) on post. They should have some type of money management classes that you can take. This should provide you with some help to get you back on track financially.

Good luck and keep your head up!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 10:08 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:08:07 -0400

SGT Private RallyPoint Member A long time ago I was in your position. During that time I came to the conclusion I am the only one that can fix it. That was my motivation and focus. I worked my ass off and within 5 yrs had everything paid off shot my credit score to over 800, and haven't looked back since. It will get better brother. Stay focused, set a goal and strive to achieve it. Just remember 1 thing IT WILL GET BETTER!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 10:12 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:12:54 -0400

Each one of you just poating something, helps i guess for.me personally ots getting.to a certain point in april were everything stresses me out.. Between money problems and a anniversary of a death ot gets really tough. Nothing.comes without effort and being new to rally point im am extremely happy that i have brothers and sosrers who car so deeply to.go out of.there way to answer questions and provide support when needed. You all in one way or another have helped me.through another rough day and i mean it with all i have in me

Response by MSgt Jamie Lyons made Apr 15 at 2015 10:38 PM

MSgt Jamie Lyons — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:38:35 -0400

First of all you are not alone. At one point in my career I was an E-3 and $32,000 in debt not including the car payment. Been there done that. The good news, you will get through it. The not so good news, it takes time. But I know of a few resources that can really help you out without detroying your credit. Message me if you would like to know more. Cudos to you for reaching out here for help. I am sure there are a ton of people here who have sailed in that boat including myself. I am more than willing to help where I can.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2015 10:56 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Apr 2015 22:56:30 -0400

Make sure you apply the wisdom you are receiving here. Talking about it is easy...now you gotta put in the work.
Thanks for bringing it to RP, we might tell you some hard truths but you need those sometimes...Lean forward in that foxhole.