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From Overwhelmed to Empowered: My Journey to Financial Freedom

For years, I dreaded going to the mailbox. It had become a daily reminder of my financial struggles—stacks of bills, overdue notices, and constant demands for money. The weight of my debt was suffocating, and I felt trapped in a cycle I didn’t know how to escape. I avoided checking my bank account, lived paycheck to paycheck, and convinced myself that things would somehow work out. But deep down, I knew I was only digging a deeper hole. The stress was unbearable—I felt stuck, ashamed, and exhausted.

The worst part? I had an MBA and multiple degrees. On paper, I should have known how to manage money. But like so many others, I was never taught the fundamentals of personal finance, budgeting, saving, or debt management. My financial education had focused on business concepts, but when it came to managing my own money, I was lost. One day, I decided to stop running from my reality. I gathered every bill—the ones collecting dust in the corner—and started adding them up. When I saw the final number, I nearly fell out of my chair:

$136,864.

It hit me like a ton of bricks. How had I accumulated this much debt? I didn’t even own a home—I was renting! Credit cards, student loans, and poor financial habits had brought me to this moment. I knew something had to change, and it had to change now.

Taking Control: My Financial Transformation

I didn’t have the answers, but I was determined to find them. I started by doing what I do best—learning. I checked out every personal finance book I could find at the library, tuned into financial radio shows, and sought out advice from experts. I stumbled across Financial Peace University and took the course, believing it would give me the tools I needed. And it did—but knowing what to do and actually doing it are two very different things. It wasn’t until I attended the course a second time that I realized what had been missing: behavior change.

It wasn’t just about financial knowledge—it was about discipline, accountability, and having a plan. I started applying what I learned, creating my first real budget and sticking to it. As a sales professional with a fluctuating income, this was a challenge. Some months were great, others were tight, but I figured out a system to manage variable income, plan ahead, and stay on track.

And slowly, things started to change.

I cut unnecessary expenses, stopped using credit cards, and started aggressively paying off debt. At first, it felt impossible. But then, momentum kicked in. The pink overdue notices in my mailbox disappeared. I felt a sense of relief knowing my bills were paid on time. The weight of financial stress began to lift.

Becoming 100% Debt-Free

After 26 months of commitment and sacrifice, I had paid off over $70,000 in consumer and credit card debt. My credit card balances were gone, my student loans were shrinking, and for the first time in years, I felt in control of my money. But I wasn’t done yet.

I kept going, tackling the remainder of my debt with laser focus. Another 1.5 years later, I made my final payment—becoming 100% debt-free. The moment was surreal. No more creditors. No more sleepless nights worrying about money. No more living paycheck to paycheck. I had achieved financial freedom. I didn't owe even one single cent to anyone! 

The relief, empowerment, and confidence I felt were life-changing. I could finally make decisions based on what I wanted for my future, rather than being controlled by financial obligations. I started saving, investing, and building wealth. I had choices, security, and most importantly—peace of mind.

Why I Started OC Financial Coaching

Looking back, I realized that all I had needed was guidance, accountability, and a plan. The tools to achieve financial stability are out there, but too many people don’t know where to start. That’s why I founded OC Financial Coaching—to help others break free from financial stress, just like I did.

I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed by debt, to feel like there’s no way out. But I also know what’s possible when you take control of your finances. You don’t have to live paycheck to paycheck. You don’t have to be buried in debt. You don’t have to feel hopeless. 

 

As I paid off my debt and built a stronger financial foundation, I realized that true financial freedom isn’t just about eliminating debt—it’s about creating opportunities for the future. Homeownership and real estate investments can be powerful tools for long-term stability, but only when they align with a solid financial plan. That’s why, in addition to financial coaching, I help individuals and families explore real estate options that support their long-term goals. When your finances are in order, possibilities that once felt out of reach—like owning a home or investing for the future—start to feel within grasp.

You can change your financial future—you just have to take the first step.

I’m here to guide you, support you, and help you build a solid financial foundation. Whether you need help with budgeting, saving, paying off debt, or planning for your financial future, I can give you the tools and strategies you need to succeed.

Are you ready to take control of your finances? Let’s do it together.

 

Book a free discovery call today and start your journey to financial freedom.

 

​With prosperity and gratitude,

 

​Kristi Razo, MBA | Financial Coach

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