As I mentioned awhile back in my last status-update, I had a possibility for eliminating the debt that’s been plaguing me for the last eon and a half. I didn’t go into details because, well, I’m superstitious like that. And I also didn’t know the details, so it seemed a bit premature to shout it from the virtual rooftops.
But now, I can safely and excited explain!
When I started at the Cool Company in 2004, I was given Restricted Stock Units, or RSU’s. Never having really had stock before, I didn’t think too much about it. I knew they had to mature and vest over time.
In 2005 & 2006, I got more grants at review time. Still, out of sight, out of mind. I had more important things going on and well, I am just kind number-phobic. Not a good thing, but what the hell- at least I’m honest.
In the meantime, my past debts from my twenties were catching up with me. I was getting harassed by one in particular. I plunged into a pretty bad depression for several months. Finally, this past Spring I began to work on this stuff, with Bayou’s support. We made some changes and started gaining ground. Our savings began to accumulate. Our respective credit scores increased.
But there was still all that crap out there unresolved. Until one day I decided to log into my stock account. What I found there amazed me.
A portion of what I’d had sitting there had vested long ago, and could be sold. It was enough to pay off my debt and still have some left for savings. When I realized this, I cried. And thanked myself for setting it aside all this time. The stock market was in a good place when I realized I had enough to eliminate my debt. I sold what I had, taxes were paid, and today the transfer came through.
I stand at the brink of financial freedom for the first time. I can hardly believe it. The relief is so palpable. FINALLY- all the blood, sweat, and tears are about to be made worth it. I’ve got all my bills ready to be paid off; all I need to do is make a few calls, send the checks, and close that chapter.
The best part? All of this is motivating me to work harder and devote my time to developing myself in my job. Because if I do, the rewards will come. I now have the proof sitting in my bank account.
Woohoo!! I’ve been there myself. In May, I was able to pay off a big chunk of credit card debt, and we were able to buy a house with the rest (and set ourselves up nicely with new furniture, new lawnmower, fire pit, etc.). In November, I’ll be able to pay off all of my remaining credit card debt *and* my car. Also, we’ll be able to take our first Big Vacation–either to Hawaii or New Orleans, we haven’t decided yet.
It’s an amazing feeling to be on the brink of debt-free. It took a lot of life changes to stop accumulating that debt, and I think this is the universe saying “good job, way to be.”
GO US!! And thank you, Cool Company!
*hugs Liz* Go us, indeed. I’m also looking fwd to getting some more in Nov/May to send money to my folks or invest. When were you thinking of HI/NO? We’re planning to go to Maui in Feb. We should chat.
You’re so right about the life changes and attitude adjustments. It was a 180, and a tough one. But worth it.
Congratulations! Didn’t we have this conversation like months ago about logging into your account? Haha.
I can’t wait for mine to vest!
Yes, cnote, we did.
But I was neither ready nor able to deal back then. It took me awhile but hey, I made it to the readiness point. So I’m a little slow at times, what can I say? Better late than never!
nicely done.
now … save save save
oh it’s fantastic when you finally get debt sorted out.
go you.
WHEEEEE! I’m so happy for you, Lach — what a wonderful feeling! And just another reason to absolutely LOVE the “cool company!”
Yay for public companies! I have tears welling up for you — god, the burden that’s coming off your heart. Hallelujah!
congrats!!!! that must be an awesome feeling…i’m waiting for next year for mine to vest, then i can have that glorious feeling.
That’s wonderful! Congrats!
Yay! That’s so awesome for you.
Fraulein!!! Hello.
Thank you, it does feel really nice to be out from under the stress and shame.