It's easy not realize how much you've spent on vacation. It's difficult to hold back your credit card spending during the holidays and birthdays. If you've bought a house you probably have a hefty mortgage payment. And of course your car payment is a big chunk of your budget. Perhaps you've faced a few unexpected emergencies or had major medical or dental treatment.

If your debt is more than you can handle you might consider a debt consolidation service. It's nothing to be embarrassed about if you decide to seek counseling. Taking that first step might be a challenge. You have to admit to yourself that you are over budget and tighten your belt. Some of the little luxuries that you think you deserve and probably very well do, are going to have to go.

The sacrifices you make now to trim down your debt will pay off in the long term with a better credit rating. And in the short term you'll have a more positive attitude because you know you're doing something about your situation.

Worrying about money and how you're going to make even the minimum payment on your outstanding balances can sap your energy. Don't wait until it's too late. No matter what you decide to do start with one small step.