You will feel a great sense of accomplishment by getting in control of your credit card debt and your overall spending

1. Prioritize saving vs. repaying your credit card debt

       -- Most of the time, it is beneficial for you to pay your credit card debt before putting money in the bank. While it is often said that you should "pay yourself first" as a method to save, the math says otherwise. Savings accounts offer a rather low rate of interest, and that interest is taxable. On the other hand, credit card interest rates are often 10%, and sometimes 25% or more. To summarize, a dollar used to repay credit card debt is a more valuable dollar than a dollar saved.

       -- However, there is an exception - and that is saving for retirement. If you are able to save into a tax-deferred account (like and IRA/Roth IRA), this should also be a high priority, along with paying of your credit card debt and any household necessities.

2. You might want to consider scaling down your lifestyle

Change the type of car you drive, or your apartment. Speak to your landlord and start searching for a vehicle you can truly afford. By taking control of your financial destiny, you'll be able to make your dreams come true without the stress.

3. The more you can pay towards your credit card debts each month, the sooner you will be debt free.

       -- Get a notepad and write down your monthly incomes (after taxes). From this amount, subtract your rent or mortgage payment and other monthly expenses such as alimony or childcare, student loans, insurance, utilities, and groceries. Once you have subtracted all of your expenses, the amount left can be applied to pay off your credit card debt. Try and find ways to reduce your spending if this amount is too small. Consider turning off your cable subscription or carpooling as ways to cut back temporarily.

       -- Continue this cycle each month until the credit card debt is paid off. Even though this may seem like an odd process, it is the fastest way to reduce your debt. During this time, you should not be accumulating any new debt. Also, try to increase the amount you pay toward your debt each month

4. Do your best to meet your payment goals each month.

It's okay if the amount you put toward your debt each month varies. Just try to consistently put as much as possible. Signing up for an automated payment system and keeping a chart of your progress on the refrigerator can help you stay on track. When you reach major milestones, be sure to celebrate your success. Before you know it, you'll be debt free!