❓ Q1: “I’m buried in credit‑card debt and keep spending more than I earn. How do I stop the spiral?”
Answer (Jim’s perspective) ➡️
Inertia is your biggest enemy—you can’t just hope this goes away. Actively turn the tide by tackling two fronts at once:
| Step | Action | Emoji |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raise income—look for overtime, side gigs, freelance work, or weekend projects. | 💼 |
| 2 | Slash expenses—stick to essentials, cancel non‑critical subscriptions, and sell things you rarely use. | ✂️ |
| 3 | Freeze the plastic—put every credit card out of reach (literally). Use cash or a debit card only. | 🧊 |
| 4 | Snowball payments—throw every extra peso at the smallest balance first, then roll that payment onto the next card. | ❄️ |
| 5 | Downsize if needed—a cheaper apartment or selling a second car can fast‑forward your comeback. | 🚗➡️🪙 |
Mindset matters 🌱: Celebrate each small win, even if it’s “only” ₱500 off the balance. Consistently spending less than you earn puts you back in charge—one billing cycle at a time.
Need extra guidance? Visit FocusOnTheFamily.com or chat with a caring counselor at 855‑771‑HELP (4357). 📞
❓ Q2: “My 11‑year‑old says she needs social media because all her friends have it. What should I do?”
Answer (Dr. Danny Huerta) ➡️
Before opening any accounts, walk through these talking points together:
- Reality check 🔍
Is she really being left out, or is it FOMO hype? - Potential fallout ⚖️
• Distraction from homework and hobbies
• Exposure to comparison culture & cyber‑drama - Brain in progress 🧠
Social platforms are designed to be addictive; preteens are extra susceptible. - Privacy puzzle 🔐
Even “private” posts can spread. Is she ready for a permanent digital footprint? - Family values first ❤️
Ask yourself: Are you afraid to disappoint her? If so, why?
Tip: Delay is not denial. Offer healthier ways to connect—clubs, in‑person hangouts, video calls with trusted friends—while you monitor maturity and tech habits.
Dive deeper into parenting strategies at FocusOnParenting.com. 🧩
About the Author ✍️
Jim Daly—husband, dad, president of Focus on the Family, and host of its daily broadcast—writes about real‑life challenges with hope and humor. Follow his reflections at jimdalyblog.focusonthefamily.com or on Facebook @JimDalyFocus. 👍
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