Pulling out that small piece of plastic to charge anything from rent to new shoes or a dinner out with friends is a tempting option for many, even those with current debt problems. It’s all too easy to say “I can pay this off later” to satisfy an immediate need. But it is just this mentality that got many of us into trouble in the first place.

The first step in learning to keep your credit cards at arm’s length is to simply leave them at home. Physically take them out of your purse or wallet and put them in a safe location. This will force you to use cash or checks for any expenses, and makes it less likely for you to make non-essential or “impulse” purchases.

The next step is a bit more drastic. Cut up your credit cards. This will make it impossible to use them for everyday purchases. In addition to not having the option of actually using the cards, this process has a psychological affect as well. You are committing to not accruing any additional credit card debt, and the chopped up chunks of plastic mean you aren’t kidding around.

A final step in keeping credit cards at bay is to put a freeze on your credit reports. For around $10 each, most major credit bureaus will “lock” your credit rating. This will make it impossible for creditors to issue you any additional lines of credit because they will not be able to look at your credit report, instantly disqualifying you.

Drastic measures? Yes. But difficult times call for difficult choices. Make a conscious effort today to stop using your credit cards and you will be one step closer to a financially secure tomorrow.

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