{"id":281658,"date":"2025-11-06T17:23:13","date_gmt":"2025-11-06T11:53:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/?p=281658"},"modified":"2025-11-06T17:23:14","modified_gmt":"2025-11-06T11:53:14","slug":"debt-free-living-how-to-start-your-journey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/debt-free-living-how-to-start-your-journey\/","title":{"rendered":"Debt-Free Living: How to Start Your Journey"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#why-living-debt-free-is-about-freedom-not-restriction\">Why Living Debt-Free Is About Freedom, Not Restriction<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-1-understand-where-you-stand-financially\">Step 1 \u2014 Understand Where You Stand Financially<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-2-identify-the-root-causes-of-your-debt\">Step 2 \u2014 Identify the Root Causes of Your Debt<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-3-create-a-realistic-budget-you-can-stick-to\">Step 3 \u2014 Create a Realistic Budget You Can Stick To<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-4-choose-a-debt-repayment-strategy-that-works-for-you\">Step 4 \u2014 Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy That Works for You<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#the-snowball-method-motivation-first\">The Snowball Method (Motivation First)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#the-avalanche-method-interest-first\">The Avalanche Method (Interest First)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#hybrid-or-smart-automated-approaches\">Hybrid or Smart Automated Approaches<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-5-negotiate-consolidate-or-refinance-when-possible\">Step 5 \u2014 Negotiate, Consolidate, or Refinance When Possible<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-6-build-an-emergency-fund-to-stay-out-of-debt\">Step 6 \u2014 Build an Emergency Fund to Stay Out of Debt<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-7-replace-bad-money-habits-with-smart-financial-behaviors\">Step 7 \u2014 Replace Bad Money Habits With Smart Financial Behaviors<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-8-stay-motivated-and-measure-progress-regularly\">Step 8 \u2014 Stay Motivated and Measure Progress Regularly<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-9-protect-your-finances-from-future-debt\">Step 9 \u2014 Protect Your Finances From Future Debt<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#step-10-plan-for-the-future-invest-save-and-grow-wealth\">Step 10 \u2014 Plan for the Future: Invest, Save, and Grow Wealth<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#emotional-side-of-debt-free-living-the-mindset-shift\">Emotional Side of Debt-Free Living \u2014 The Mindset Shift<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#fa-qs-on-debt-free-living-how-to-start-your-journey\">FAQs on Debt-Free Living: How to Start Your Journey<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#faq-question-1762429707855\">How long does it take to become debt-free?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#faq-question-1762429714143\">Should I pay off debt or save money first?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#faq-question-1762429718145\">Can consolidation hurt my credit score?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#faq-question-1762429722281\">What\u2019s the best first step toward debt-free living?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#faq-question-1762429726127\">How do I stay debt-free once I get there?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#conclusion-freedom-begins-with-one-smart-decision\">Conclusion \u2014 Freedom Begins With One Smart Decision<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-living-debt-free-is-about-freedom-not-restriction\">Why Living Debt-Free Is About Freedom, Not Restriction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Debt-free living isn\u2019t about cutting back or giving up everything you enjoy. It\u2019s about creating freedom \u2014 the freedom to make choices without financial pressure or constant worry. Whether it\u2019s paying off a credit card, student loan, or personal loan, the goal of becoming debt-free is to reclaim control over your money and your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people believe that debt is simply a part of modern living. But that doesn\u2019t have to be true. With the right mindset, tools, and a clear plan, anyone can work toward a life where every paycheck belongs to them \u2014 not to creditors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Living debt-free doesn\u2019t happen overnight. It\u2019s a process of understanding, planning, and persistence. The good news is that every small action counts. The moment you decide to take control, you\u2019ve already begun your debt-free journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-1-understand-where-you-stand-financially\">Step 1 \u2014 Understand Where You Stand Financially<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you can move forward, you need a clear picture of your current situation. Debt-free living starts with awareness \u2014 understanding exactly how much you owe, to whom, and under what conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make a complete list of your debts: credit cards, <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/costly-mistakes-people-make-with-student-loans\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">student loans<\/a>, car payments, medical bills, and personal loans. Note the interest rates, minimum payments, and due dates for each. This simple exercise helps you visualize the total amount you\u2019re working to pay off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also essential to calculate your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio \u2014 a metric lenders use to evaluate financial health. Divide your total monthly debt payments by your gross monthly income. A DTI above 35\u201340% usually indicates high debt pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If tracking everything feels overwhelming, digital tools or AI-powered financial apps can help you organize it automatically. The key is to be honest with yourself about your numbers. Knowing the full picture is the first step toward change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read related blog: <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/how-smart-banking-helps-with-debt-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How Smart Banking Helps With Debt Management<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-2-identify-the-root-causes-of-your-debt\">Step 2 \u2014 Identify the Root Causes of Your Debt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Paying off debt without understanding how it accumulated can lead to repeating the same patterns. That\u2019s why identifying the root cause is critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For some, debt stems from overspending \u2014 small daily indulgences that gradually accumulate over time. For others, it might result from unexpected emergencies, job loss, or medical expenses. And sometimes, it\u2019s due to financial habits, such as relying too heavily on credit for convenience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of viewing debt with guilt, treat it as a valuable piece of information. Reflect on your past financial decisions. Were you trying to fill emotional needs through spending? Did you underestimate your budget? Self-awareness is empowering because it transforms frustration into a strategic approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you understand what caused your debt, you can prevent the same cycle from repeating \u2014 and start building habits that support long-term financial stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-3-create-a-realistic-budget-you-can-stick-to\">Step 3 \u2014 Create a Realistic Budget You Can Stick To<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A budget isn\u2019t a punishment; it\u2019s a plan for freedom. It helps you direct money toward your goals rather than wondering where it went each month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with the basics: list your income and expenses. Then categorize spending into needs, wants, and debt payments. The popular <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/50-30-20-rule-how-to-budget-your-money-efficiently\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">50\/30\/20 rule<\/a> \u2014 where 50% of income goes to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt \u2014 is a great starting point, but tailor it to your reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another approach is zero-based budgeting, which assigns a specific purpose to every dollar. Every time you get paid, you decide in advance where that money goes \u2014 bills, debt payments, savings, or discretionary spending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consistency matters more than perfection. Set up automatic payments and transfers to ensure you never miss a deadline. Many smart banking apps can dynamically adjust your budget based on income or expenses, providing real-time clarity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you can see your finances clearly, staying disciplined becomes easier \u2014 and progress feels measurable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read related blog: <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/using-credit-responsibly-after-becoming-debt-free\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Using Credit Responsibly After Becoming Debt-Free: Smart Strategies for Financial Success<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-4-choose-a-debt-repayment-strategy-that-works-for-you\">Step 4 \u2014 Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy That Works for You<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no single \u201cright\u201d way to pay off debt. The most effective method is the one you can commit to for the long term. Here are three popular strategies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-snowball-method-motivation-first\">The Snowball Method (Motivation First)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by paying off your smallest debt first while making minimum payments on the rest. Once the smallest is cleared, move to the next one. Each payoff creates momentum \u2014 like rolling a snowball downhill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This method focuses on psychological wins. The satisfaction of seeing quick progress keeps motivation high, especially when the journey feels long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-avalanche-method-interest-first\">The Avalanche Method (Interest First)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach prioritizes debts with the highest interest rates. It might take longer to see results, but you\u2019ll save more money over time by reducing the total interest paid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The avalanche method is more about efficiency \u2014 a smart choice for disciplined planners who are focused on long-term gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hybrid-or-smart-automated-approaches\">Hybrid or Smart Automated Approaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/apps-like-beem\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">financial tools<\/a> can combine both strategies. AI-based systems can analyze your debts and recommend the optimal payment order to reduce interest while maintaining motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter which approach you choose, the goal remains the same \u2014 steady progress. The consistency of your effort matters more than the speed of the journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-5-negotiate-consolidate-or-refinance-when-possible\">Step 5 \u2014 Negotiate, Consolidate, or Refinance When Possible<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t always have to face debt on the original terms. Many people don\u2019t realize that they can negotiate better rates or restructure their payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by contacting your creditors. Ask about lower interest rates, hardship programs, or fee waivers. Lenders often prefer working with customers directly rather than risking missed payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also explore debt consolidation, which combines multiple debts into a single payment \u2014 often with a lower interest rate. This simplifies management and reduces the risk of missing payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For larger debts, such as student or auto loans, consider refinancing to lower your interest rate. A new loan with a lower rate or longer term can make monthly payments more manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, always read the fine print. Avoid solutions that seem too good to be true or lenders that charge high fees. Responsible refinancing is about improving your financial health, not prolonging debt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read related blog: <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/investing-vs-paying-down-debt-in-your-50s\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Investing vs Paying Down Debt in Your 50s<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-6-build-an-emergency-fund-to-stay-out-of-debt\">Step 6 \u2014 Build an Emergency Fund to Stay Out of Debt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people fall back into debt because they\u2019re unprepared for emergencies. A single car repair or medical bill can wipe out progress. That\u2019s why creating an emergency fund is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start small. Saving even $500\u2013$1000 gives you a cushion for unexpected costs. Once you\u2019re comfortable, aim for three to six months of living expenses. This fund becomes your financial safety net \u2014 protecting you from borrowing during tough times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/how-to-automate-your-savings-and-bill-payments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Automate your savings<\/a> by having a small amount transferred from each paycheck. Think of it as another bill you pay to yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your budget is tight, start with micro-savings \u2014 even $10 or $20 a week. Over time, consistency beats size. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you\u2019re prepared is invaluable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-7-replace-bad-money-habits-with-smart-financial-behaviors\">Step 7 \u2014 Replace Bad Money Habits With Smart Financial Behaviors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Becoming debt-free isn\u2019t just about paying off balances; it\u2019s about changing behaviors that led to debt in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by identifying habits that drain your money, such as impulse spending, frequent dining out, or \u201cbuy now, pay later\u201d temptations. Replace them with smarter behaviors. For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Plan meals and cook at home instead of ordering out.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Set spending limits before going shopping.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use cashback and rewards tools responsibly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delay non-essential purchases by 48 hours to test if you truly need them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tracking expenses regularly builds awareness. The goal is not to eliminate every joy from your life, but to ensure that your money aligns with your priorities. Over time, smart habits form naturally, making debt-free living a sustainable approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read related blog: <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/how-your-money-mindset-impacts-your-savings-and-debt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How Your Money Mindset Impacts Your Savings and Debt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-8-stay-motivated-and-measure-progress-regularly\">Step 8 \u2014 Stay Motivated and Measure Progress Regularly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The road to debt freedom can be long, so motivation is your most valuable asset. Tracking progress helps you stay inspired and focused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by setting small milestones \u2014 such as paying off one credit card, reaching $ 1,000 in savings, or reducing your total balance by 10%. Celebrate these wins. They reinforce positive momentum and remind you how far you\u2019ve come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use visual trackers or budgeting apps that show progress in charts or graphs. Watching your debt decrease visually is satisfying and keeps you committed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, review your financial plan every month to ensure it remains accurate and up-to-date. Verify that your payments, expenses, and savings align with your <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/how-to-visualize-and-map-your-financial-goals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">financial goals<\/a>. Life changes, and your budget should adapt with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When motivation fades, revisit your \u201cwhy\u201d \u2014 the reason you started this journey. Whether it\u2019s peace of mind, family security, or independence, remembering your purpose keeps you going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-9-protect-your-finances-from-future-debt\">Step 9 \u2014 Protect Your Finances From Future Debt<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting out of debt is only half the battle \u2014 staying out of it requires protection and preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by maintaining a strong credit score. Paying bills on time, maintaining low credit utilization, and avoiding unnecessary loans all contribute to a good credit score. A good credit score gives you better access to financial opportunities and lower interest rates in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep building your emergency fund, even after becoming debt-free. Continue saving as if you still have payments \u2014 but this time, the money goes to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider setting smart alerts or using AI tools that monitor your spending habits. These can warn you before potential overdrafts or unusual expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most importantly, adopt a \u201csave first, spend later\u201d mentality. The goal isn\u2019t to avoid credit altogether but to use it wisely and strategically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read related blog: <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/how-to-teach-kids-about-debt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Teach Kids About Debt Before They Make Costly Mistakes<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"step-10-plan-for-the-future-invest-save-and-grow-wealth\">Step 10 \u2014 Plan for the Future: Invest, Save, and Grow Wealth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Becoming debt-free isn\u2019t the end of your financial journey \u2014 it\u2019s the beginning of a new one. Once your high-interest debts are cleared, you can shift focus to building wealth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by redirecting the money you once used for debt payments toward long-term goals \u2014 such as emergency savings, retirement accounts, or investments. Compound interest works in your favor when you invest early and consistently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider setting up automatic transfers to a high-yield savings account or retirement plan. If you\u2019re new to investing, start small and focus on learning the basics. The key is consistency and time \u2014 both are your greatest allies in wealth creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Being debt-free allows you to focus on building assets instead of managing liabilities. It\u2019s financial freedom with forward momentum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"emotional-side-of-debt-free-living-the-mindset-shift\">Emotional Side of Debt-Free Living \u2014 The Mindset Shift<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Money and emotions are deeply connected. Living under debt often brings anxiety, guilt, or even shame. But as you progress toward financial independence, those feelings start to lift \u2014 replaced by confidence and peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Becoming debt-free changes more than your bank balance. It changes how you think about money and what success means. You begin to value intentional choices over instant gratification and security over impulse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Debt-free living also fosters gratitude. When you manage your resources mindfully, even simple things feel more fulfilling. You realize that financial freedom isn\u2019t about having more \u2014 it\u2019s about needing less and enjoying what you already have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The true reward of this journey isn\u2019t just being debt-free \u2014 it\u2019s becoming stress-free about money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read related blog: <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/buy-now-pay-later-for-smart-spending-without-debt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Leveraging Buy Now Pay Later for Smart Spending Without Debt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fa-qs-on-debt-free-living-how-to-start-your-journey\">FAQs on Debt-Free Living: How to Start Your Journey<\/h3>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762429707855\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \">How long does it take to become debt-free?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It depends on your income, total debt, and repayment consistency. For many, it takes a few years. What matters most is steady progress \u2014 not speed. Everyone\u2019s journey is different, but commitment and consistent effort ensure you\u2019ll reach the goal faster than you think.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762429714143\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \">Should I pay off debt or save money first?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Try to balance both. Build a small emergency fund first to avoid taking on new debt, then focus on repaying high-interest debt. This approach keeps you financially protected while efficiently tackling the most costly loans.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762429718145\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can consolidation hurt my credit score?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Initially, it may cause a slight dip, but consistent payments afterward can improve your score over time. Over the long term, simplified management and reduced missed payments often strengthen your overall credit profile.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762429722281\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \">What\u2019s the best first step toward debt-free living?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Start by listing all debts and creating a clear repayment plan. Awareness leads to control. When you can see exactly where your money is going, it becomes easier to set priorities and take meaningful action.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1762429726127\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \">How do I stay debt-free once I get there?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Maintain good financial habits \u2014 budgeting, saving, and using credit wisely. Continue automating savings and monitoring spending. Treat your financial health like physical fitness \u2014 consistency keeps you strong and stable for the long run.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion-freedom-begins-with-one-smart-decision\">Conclusion \u2014 Freedom Begins With One Smart Decision<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Living debt-free isn\u2019t about perfection \u2014 it\u2019s about progress. It\u2019s about building a life where money supports your choices, rather than limiting them. The journey might take time, but every step brings you closer to peace, confidence, and control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best part? You don\u2019t have to do it alone. Modern financial tools and smart platforms, like <a href=\"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beem<\/a>, are helping people manage their spending and access instant cash when needed \u2014 making debt-free living more achievable than ever. <a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.useline.line\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download the app now<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Freedom begins when you make one simple decision: to take charge of your finances. Because when your money works for you, not against you, life opens up in every direction.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Why Living Debt-Free Is About Freedom, Not Restriction Debt-free living isn\u2019t about cutting back or giving up everything you enjoy. It\u2019s about creating freedom \u2014 the freedom to make choices without financial pressure or constant worry. Whether it\u2019s paying off a credit card, student loan, or personal loan, the goal of becoming debt-free is to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":72,"featured_media":281620,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2319],"tags":[4790,80,17867,107,168,191],"edited-by":[],"class_list":["post-281658","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-debt","tag-beem","tag-debt","tag-debt-free-living","tag-financial-planning","tag-money-matters","tag-personal-finance"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/281658","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/72"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=281658"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/281658\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":281666,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/281658\/revisions\/281666"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/281620"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=281658"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=281658"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=281658"},{"taxonomy":"edited-by","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trybeem.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/edited-by?post=281658"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}