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So you have bad credit? Well, be proud of yourself that you have completed your first task, recognizing the problem. Debt is so prominent because people want to sweep their problem under the rug. Rather than tackle the issue head on, they dig themselves deeper and deeper into financial ruin.

Debt can be one of the most overwhelming and stressful strains placed on ourselves and our relationships. Paying off debt seems overwhelming and impossible. To begin, start small. Making minor changes in your life and spending habits, and prioritizing what to pay when can relieve anxiety and pay off debt sooner. Here are some suggestions for paying off debt.

1. Take a moment to access your debt and spending patterns. Be honest with yourself. Are you living within your means? What is a "must" and what is a "want." Categorize your needs and budget accordingly. Stop trying to "keep up with the Jones's" and live for yourself.

2. Pay off high interest credit cards, auto loans and personal loans. If you have a high interest credit card and a low interest credit card, it will be advantageous to transfer your balance from the high interest card to the lower card.

3. Pay more than the minimum. As tempting as it is to just pay what you must to escape creditors calling, pay as much as you absolutely can. Not only does it pay the bill off faster, but the more you pay, the less interest you are adding up each month.

4. Negotiate terms with your creditors. Usually, if creditors are aware of a certain financial problem they will try to accommodate a payment schedule. Ask them to lower your interest rate or change your due date so it doesn't coincide with another payment. Remember, creditors want their money, so most will bend a little to receive it.

5. Look at your monthly income and spending. Keep a notebook and write down all your expenditures from your meter money to large purchases. At the end of a month sit down and factor where all of your money goes. If you go out to eat three nights a week cut it down to two. If you stop for coffee every morning limit yourself to a special treat on Friday or instead of getting a latte, get a regular coffee and add cream and sugar to taste. Make small goals for yourself. Instead of buying a bottle of water, use the faucet. Saving $1 each day on bottled water will get you $30 closer to paying off your credit card each month.

6. Consider getting professional help. If you are in over your head, it is advantageous to pay the extra money to sit down with a

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