How to Build a Realistic Debt Repayment Plan.

Take Control with a Plan You Can Actually Follow

Paying off debt can feel overwhelming — especially when balances are high or you’re managing several payments at once. The key to making progress is building a debt repayment plan that fits your real life, not a perfect version of it.

A realistic debt plan gives you direction, flexibility, and the confidence to move forward, step by step.

1. Know Exactly What You Owe

Start by writing down all your debts in one place:

  • Who you owe (credit card, loan, medical, etc.)

  • Total balance

  • Minimum monthly payment

  • Interest rate

Seeing the full picture helps you prioritize and plan effectively.

2. Set a Monthly Debt Payment Goal

Decide how much you can realistically put toward your debts each month, beyond the minimum payments. This amount should fit comfortably within your budget so you can stick with it long-term.

Even small extra payments add up over time and help you make steady progress.

3. Choose a Debt Repayment Strategy

Two of the most common approaches are:

  • Debt Snowball: Pay off the smallest balance first while making minimum payments on everything else. Once the smallest debt is paid off, roll that payment into the next smallest debt. This method provides quick wins and momentum.

  • Debt Avalanche: Focus on paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first. This method saves the most money on interest over time.

Both strategies work — what matters most is choosing the one you’re more likely to stick with.

4. Automate Payments When Possible

Automating your payments helps ensure they’re made on time and can protect your credit score. Some lenders may even offer interest rate discounts for setting up auto-pay.

5. Build Flexibility into Your Plan

Life happens. Some months may go exactly as planned, and others may bring unexpected costs. Having a flexible plan helps you stay committed even when things get off track.

If needed, you can:

  • Adjust extra payment amounts

  • Pause to cover emergencies

  • Shift your focus without losing momentum

Helpful Tips:

  • Celebrate each debt you pay off — progress is worth acknowledging.

  • Review your debt plan monthly to track results and make adjustments.

  • Consider using visual tools like debt trackers to stay motivated.

Final Thoughts

A realistic debt repayment plan is not about doing everything perfectly — it’s about making steady, manageable progress that works for you. With the right plan and mindset, you can move forward with confidence and regain control of your financial life.

If you’d like more resources or personal support as you build your plan, the Women of Wisdom (WOW) community at Apriem Advisors is here to walk alongside you. Feel free to reach out at bri@apriem.com — we’d love to support you.