Back in 2007 I experienced real financial difficulties first-hand, unable to pay bills, the debts were mounting, and there seemed to be no way out. I understand how it feels, and it’s not good. I put on weight, started drinking too much and it took a physical toll. Ironically at the time I had a small business giving people debt advice, which did seem a little hypocritical, but it helped me gain some great insights on the effect financial problems have on people, but also how practical knowledge can really help peoples situations, and sometimes immediately! I also started to learn the important role of the mind, that is tends to imagine the worst, when the more likely scenarios are often be much better. I was lucky and has some good advice; there was no magic bullet, but involved me tackling my finances from all angles, from cutting down on spending, leaning all about my credit score and borrowing, and much more. This blog really comes from that first-hand experience of tackling my own financial difficulties, and hope to impart some ideas and thoughts which can hopefully help? I am married, with two beautiful daughters, live near the countryside, enjoy cycling, walks with my family, going out for meals (including nice hot curry’s), and every now and again a nice loud music gig.