fbpx
:::: MENU ::::

The Emotional Side of Paying Off Debt (That Nobody Talks About)

by

—written from the eye of the storm, not the finish line

I’ve shared a lot of my journey on here Blogging Away Debt—the plans, the pivots, the big decisions. But right now? I’m not in one of those big, dramatic, payoff-celebration moments. I’m in the slump and have been for months.

You know the one. The part where the debt numbers aren’t really moving, the progress is invisible, and everything is riding on one giant domino falling: selling the house.

Right now, every bit of energy, time, and money is going toward getting the house sold. Every bit of extra and even some not extra has gone to electricians, painting, cleaning supplies, new light switch covers, new outlet covers, maintaining the yard, and so much more. The list just goes on and on. My bank account is definitely not celebrating. My debt tracker hasn’t budged. I’m working constantly, but financially, I’m just standing still.

That stillness is deafening. It’s filled with anxiety, doubt, and this exhausting pressure to keep believing that something better is coming—even though I can’t see it yet.

Financial Relief

But here’s what keeps me moving: I know what selling the house will do for me.

Once it’s sold, the pressure comes off—financially and emotionally. That single transaction will be the reset button I desperately need. It’s not just a house. It’s equity. It’s opportunity. It’s the start of a clean slate that doesn’t smell like contractor dust and mental fatigue.

It will give me the resources to finally knock out a massive chunk off my debt. It will give me room to breathe. Room to dream, even. I’ll have the space to actually chase work opportunities, not just cling to whatever gig will pay the fastest. I’ll be able to choose what’s next—not just what’s least expensive.

The Next Chapter

It’s also the first page of a new chapter-one where I’m not dragging behind the weight of a house that doesn’t serve me anymore. It’s freedom in a really tangible, grown-up way. Not the glossy “quit your job and travel” freedom. But the real kind: stability, mobility, and a shot at becoming someone new.

But for now? I’m still in it. Still hustling. Still waiting. And trying to remind myself—this slump doesn’t mean failure. It’s just the middle part. The hard part. The part no one glamorizes because it’s not cute. But it matters.

So if you’re in the slump too, I see you. And I promise: stillness doesn’t mean nothing’s happening. Sometimes it’s just the pressure building before the breakthrough.

Don’t let the silence convince you the story’s over.

Houseless, Not Homeless: Reframing the Narrative and Reclaiming My Financial Power

by

I’ve been reflecting on my journey toward financial freedom and realized it’s time to shift my mindset. (Thanks, counseling!) In the past, I’ve referred to my plan to sell my house and move as becoming “homeless.” However, the truth is, I have stable housing arrangements. I’ll be moving into my parents’ home to assist in caring for them so they can continue to age in place. Additionally, I have a well-thought-out plan for car camping and traveling when I need a break from caregiving and the weather permits.?

This realization has led me to understand the significant difference between being “homeless” and “houseless.” While “homeless” implies a lack of shelter and stability, “houseless” can represent a conscious choice to live without a traditional home structure, often for financial or personal reasons. (I get that this isn’t for everyone. And it’s certainly not forever. But for now, maybe the next couple of years, I’m super excited about the adventures.)

Embracing a Houseless Lifestyle

Even temporarily, this lifestyle can offer several financial benefits:?

  1. Substantial Reduction in Living Expenses
    Eliminating mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility bills can free up a significant portion of your income, allowing for accelerated debt repayment or increased savings.

  2. Increased Financial Flexibility
    Without the anchor of a permanent residence, you have the freedom to relocate for better job opportunities or lower living costs, optimizing your financial situation. And we all know that I’m on the job hunt. Always on the job hunt.

  3. Enhanced Resourcefulness and Minimalism
    Living with fewer possessions encourages mindful spending and a focus on necessities, reducing impulsive purchases and fostering a minimalist lifestyle. I started going minimalist almost a decade ago, and the last 6 months has pushed me forward in that journey tremendously,.

  4. Opportunity to Invest in Experiences Over Things
    With reduced living expenses, you can allocate funds toward experiences like travel or education, which can lead to personal growth and increased life satisfaction. I’ve dreamed of travel, and don’t more than my fair share of travel, but now, I will be free, rootless to really chase that desire as time and money permits.

  5. Rapid Debt Reduction and Wealth Building
    The money saved from not maintaining a traditional home can be directed toward paying off debts more quickly or investing, paving the way for long-term financial stability. Yes, yes, and yes! And selling my house will give me a jumpstart on that.

Embracing a houseless lifestyle isn’t without its challenges, but with careful planning and a shift in perspective, it can be a strategic move toward achieving financial freedom.

Others Doing It?

For those interested in learning from others who have adopted car living, here are three active blogs sharing their experiences:?

I also find a lot of information and other travelers on TikTok, YouTube, and am a member of several Facebook groups focused on car living/camping, solo women travelers, and more. These resources offer valuable perspectives and practical advice for anyone considering or currently navigating the houseless lifestyle.