Don't you feel like yelling ..."Stop the Madness!" I did. So I decided to do something about it.

When I was younger I learned a valuable lesson about taking back control. I had a boss that would tell when things aren't going your way, get involved and give direct work orders. What he meant is specifically tell people what you wanted them to do.

What does this have to do with debt consolidation?

Simple, you have to get involved and take action so you can correct your situation. Easier said than done, I agree but very necessary. Ok, so how do you do that?

It's easy once you understand the concept, because in reality it is the same with any situation that you are faced with.

Here's is a plan to follow:

1. First and foremost you have to know what your current situation is. Sounds simple right? You'll be amazed at how much people don't know about their personal circumstances. Make sure you sit down and right down a how much you owe and to whom. Include the interest rate, the monthly payment as well as the total due.

2. Do some research and come up with a two-pronged attack. The tools available on the internet these days are very helpful. You'll find plans, articles, free tips and resources to help you formulate your plan and more importantly execute against that plan. Make sure you spend the time doing research. Do searches with your favorite search engine under the terms, debt consolidation, credit repair and debt reduction. Initiate a plan to not only determine a debt consolidation loan but also find the tools to work on your debt with out a loan. You need to do both.

3. Find help. Once you find a great resource with a lot of articles, tips and resources, add it to your favorites and spend time each day reviewing new information. The more informed you become the easier it will for you to initiate a debt reduction plan that works for you and your family.

Following these steps will put more control back into your life and the you'll be able to truly stop the madness.