DO IT. (Obviously, do your research and make sure it’s the right decision for your situation.)
I was one of those people who was convinced, largely because of the negative stigma surrounding bankruptcy, that it would be one of the worst things a person could do. I worried about what it would mean for my future, my credit, and my ability to recover financially.
But honestly? Filing bankruptcy was one of the most LIBERATING things I’ve ever done.
The first step was talking to a bankruptcy attorney. That conversation alone completely changed my perspective. He helped me realize something that I hadn’t considered before:
Damn. Bankruptcy is literally a reset button.
It gave me a chance to breathe, stop feeling like I was drowning financially, and start focusing on rebuilding instead of constantly worrying about the past.
There are only TWO things I wish I’d done differently:
Looked into filing for free or getting the filing fee waived. I paid $1,600, and I wish I’d explored whether I qualified for a fee waiver, free legal aid, or another affordable filing option before paying that much.
Filed SOONER. Seriously. I spent too much time worrying about the stigma and what other people might think instead of focusing on what I needed to do for myself.
I’m not saying bankruptcy is the right choice for everybody. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and it’s important to understand the consequences and explore your options. But I wish somebody had helped me understand sooner that bankruptcy isn’t a moral failure. Sometimes, it’s a legitimate legal tool that gives you the opportunity to start over.
If you’re sitting there drowning in debt, losing sleep, feeling ashamed, or convinced that filing bankruptcy means you’ve failed at life, please know that it doesn’t.
You are not your credit score. You are not your debt. And you are not a failure because you need a fresh start.
Do your research, speak with a qualified bankruptcy attorney, and explore your options. Don’t let stigma alone keep you from considering something that could genuinely change your life.
I only wish I’d done it sooner. ❤️
submitted by /u/brycensims
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