The Great Lock In: Debt Edition

The great lock in isn’t just for fitness or wellness, it’s the perfect time to lock in on your money goals too. Think of paying off debt like training for a big event: it takes consistency, discipline, and a little sweat, but the results are life changing.

At first, debt feels like freedom…until you find out it isn’t. It’s easy to feel stuck, but you can break free! Becoming debt free isn’t about giving up everything fun in life, it’s about taking control so your money works for you, not the other way around.

And here’s the thing: we’re in the final stretch of the year. Imagine stepping into 2026 without the weight of debt hanging over you. Imagine starting January with freedom, not repayments. That’s the reality waiting for you if you commit to your debt-free journey now.

Last year, the Financielle community cleared over £4 million in debt in just 12 months. Why not make this the year you add your number to that win?

Here’s your step-by-step guide to smashing your debt before 2026 💸

1️⃣ Face up to the figures

The first step is to lay it all out.

✅ Add every debt into the debt tracker

✅ Check your interest rates (less than 40% of people actually know theirs!)

✅ Calculate the real cost – making just the minimum payment on a £1,000 credit card at 20% interest could take over 20 years to clear

2️⃣ Emergency fund

One of the biggest reasons people stay stuck in debt is because they have no choice but to rely on it when life happens.

✅ Start with a mini emergency fund of £500-£1,000 to cover unexpected expenses

✅ Reduce unnecessary spending and find ways to free up extra cash for debt payments

3️⃣ Choose your strategy

⛄️ Snowball Method – Pay off the smallest debts first for quick wins and motivation

🗻 Avalanche Method – Pay off the highest interest debts first to save the most money

4️⃣ Stop the cycle

It’s not just about paying off debt, it’s about making sure it doesn’t creep back in.

✅ Use debit or cash only – cut back on credit card reliance

✅ Stop unnecessary buy now, pay later use

✅ Stop financing things that don’t build wealth (phones, cars, furniture)

5️⃣ Track your progress

✅ Use your Financielle budget to track where your money is going

✅ Set a monthly debt repayment goal and adjust as needed

✅ Celebrate milestones – every debt cleared is a win!

6️⃣ Rely on your community 

Whether it’s talking to a partner, friend or family member, talking about your debt might make you feel a lot lighter than you think. Head to the community, you’re not alone🫶

7️⃣ Build debt free habits

Clearing your debt is one thing, staying debt free is another!

✅ Build up your sinking funds to enjoy debt free spending

✅ Stay focused on your money goals – like saving for a house, investing, bigger emergency fund💸

End the year strong. Step into 2026 lighter, freer, and closer to debt-free than ever. Your fresh start begins right now.

Head to the app now to start tracking your debt💸