Delulu but Debt-Free: 3 Real Strategies to Pay Off Debt (Without Losing Your Mind)
Let’s be real for a sec—debt sucks.
It’s stressful, it’s heavy, and it can seriously hold you back from the things you really want in life:
…travel, freedom, a cozy apartment with plants and light wood floors… you get it. 😩
But here’s the good news: getting out of debt doesn’t have to be chaotic or complicated.
You don’t need a finance degree.
You don’t need to sacrifice joy.
You just need a game plan—and maybe a cute spreadsheet to keep things cute and under control. (Got you covered.)
Today, I’m breaking down 3 tried-and-true debt payoff methods that actually work, so you can start shedding that financial weight and step into your ✨debt-free era✨.
1. Debt Snowball Method
“I need motivation, and I need it fast.”
This method is perfect if you love seeing quick wins and crossing things off your list (Both for our type A and type B baddies;)
How it works:
You start by paying off your smallest debt first—regardless of interest rate—while making minimum payments on everything else.
Once that one’s gone?
Roll that payment into the next smallest, and so on. Like a snowball, your momentum builds as you go.
Why It’s a Vibe:
You’ll see results fast, and that can keep you motivated to keep going—especially when it feels like you’re not making progress.
Example:
Let’s say you’ve got:
$500 store card
$1,200 credit card
$4,000 car loan
You’d focus on paying off that $500 first. Once that’s crushed, add that payment to the next one. Instant momentum. 💥
Best for:
Visual learners, quick-gratification queens, and anyone who thrives on tiny wins.
2. Debt Avalanche Method
“I'm a spreadsheet girly, and interest rates give me high anxiety.”
If you’re the type to whip out a calculator mid-purchase or feel personally attacked by your APR, this method is for you.
How it works:
You focus on paying off the highest interest rate debt first (usually credit cards), while making minimum payments on the rest.
Once that’s gone, you move on to the next highest.
It’s the most mathematically efficient method #womeninSTEM
Why It’s a Vibe:
It saves you the most money in the long run, especially if your debt has scary-high interest.
Example:
Let’s say you owe:
$2,000 on a credit card (18% APR)
$3,000 car loan (6% APR)
$5,000 student loan (4% APR)
You’d tackle the credit card first to stop hemorrhaging interest. 🩹
Best for:
Math-minded gworls who want to save as much as possible and don’t need quick wins to stay motivated.
3.The 50/30/20 Budget Rule
“I want balance. I want brunch. But I also want debt-free peace.”
This one’s more of a lifestyle structure than a hardcore payoff method, but it works so well if you’re trying to manage debt and still have a life.
How it works:
You divide your income like this:
50% to needs (rent, groceries, bills)
30% to wants (yes, that includes your matcha lattes and takeout nights)
20% to savings + debt
Why It’s a Vibe:
It gives you structure without feeling restrictive. You’re still living your life and tackling your goals. Iconic. 👑
Example:
If you make
$3,000/month
20% = $600.
That’s $600 toward debt and/or savings.
Stay consistent, and that number adds up fast.
Best for:
Anyone who wants to budget with vibes, not stress. Perfect for beginners or anyone craving balance.
💅 So, Which Strategy Should You Choose?
Honestly, whichever one you’ll stick with.
Each one has its strengths, and none of them require perfection—just consistency and commitment to your financial glow-up.
Whether you need the quick wins of the Snowball, the savings-maxing logic of the Avalanche, or the chill structure of 50/30/20, the key is to: pick one, start now, and keep going.
Bonus: Want to Plug Into a Budget That Actually Works?
I made my Ultimate Budget Spreadsheet to make all this easier. It’s cute, clean, beginner-friendly, and yes—designed to work with all of these payoff methods.
✨ Grab the Ultimate Budget Spreadsheet and start tracking your income, expenses, and debt payoff—all in one place.
✨ Or download the Free Budget Worksheet to dip your toes in and start slow. Your money era starts now 💅
🧼 Final Thoughts: Spring Clean That Debt, Babe
Debt doesn’t define you—it’s just a part of your financial journey.
And you can overcome it with the right tools, a little support, and a whole lot of main character energy.
Every dollar paid down is a win.
Every budget tweak is a step forward.
Stay consistent, celebrate the small victories, and know that your debt-free era is absolutely coming. ✨
