by Annie H. Liko

Created on: January 16, 2009   Last Updated: June 18, 2009

At the time when economic slumps are shaking even the toughest giants, some of us might have already crumbled underneath life darkest moment while others continue to struggle on to survive. It could prove to be traumatic especially when you are a single parent, with children who are totally dependent on you for everything. Of course, the following steps are easier said than done but if we do follow them deligently, the least that will happen is a clearer mind to handle the situation better.

Break the problem down

Breaking it down will help you to identify which area needs the utmost attention. Go for the most urgent bills; get the amount as well as the deadlines. If you cannot afford to settle the whole amount due, discuss with your creditors and request for minimum repayment with maximum grace period; this normally applies to credit card bills. It's not the smartest move but it's better than being served with legal papers. It will also help you to buy time while you try to work your way through.

Cut down on unnecessary expenditures

Do not hold on to your car if you cannot afford the monthly installment and forgo the luxury of cell phones; pay phones are everywhere on every street corner. Whatever things that you can postpone until later, brush them aside. The most important stuff is your shelter and daily rations. No matter how simple your meals are, you will need all the energy to get going.

Love your children (if you have any)

More thoughts should be given to the children during this trying time. Never vent out your frustrations on them; they are not to be blamed for what you are going through. Look at them as your inspiration to continue to strive even harder as well as the strength you desperately need in order to stay focus during life most chaotic and challenging moments.

Don't wait for mercy from relatives or friends

Most of the time, it will be useless to seek help from them as the normal response would be: "Our situation is no better than yours" but still you can see with your own eyes that it wouldn't hurt them a bit to at least render a tiny fraction of assistance. But of course, not all relatives or friends are like that. Maybe the more considerate ones have either gone far away or you have simply lost touch with them so most of the time, you are on your own.

Dig up and grab up

Whatever can bring you cash, sell them if they are not needed any longer. If there is any opportunity to do home-based work after your day job, take it. It may be tough but no matter how tiring, grab on to every opening; it's worth the sacrifice.

Evaluate your situation constantly

Even though you have made only one tiny step forward, record it down, at least you know you are "moving" along; that will help to boost your morale further. With gritting patience, perseverance and determination, before you knew it, there will be a tiny opening in the dark clouds and a welcoming ray of hope will shine on your life again. Embrace it and soon you will be free from life economic entanglement. Hurray to yourself. You've survived life toughest moment.

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