If you used your credit card today did you ask yourself if you could really afford what you bought? If the answer is no then you need to start thinking about a life without plastic.

For many years people have been 'putting it off by putting it on the card'. They have been living for today, hoping to pay for it tomorrow. Well now, in this new post-credit crunch world, it is tomorrow and it's time to begin paying back your unsecured debts.

Because there are no more chances for those who spend beyond their means. The world almost came to a standstill thanks in part to people spending more and more on their credit cards, on loans and on store cards. They remortgaged, took out secured debts and carried on. But house prices have bottomed out and lenders are now saying no to refinance. The party has ended and people have to begin to look at ways to pay off their debts, safely and with the long-term in mind.

This starts by getting some professional help. Promises of quick-fix credit and adverts promising that you do not have to pay off your debts are stupid at best, criminal at worst – the only way that debt can be reduced and cleared is careful saving and sensible use of secured equity.

So talk to a Financial Services Authority regulated adviser who, by law, will only give you the correct answers. If you cannot get more credit, then they will tell you so, but they will then help you explore the alternatives.

Because there are always alternatives – there are always ways in which you can begin to wean yourself off the plastic and begin moving into the black. It might take a long time and it might not be easy, but with some professional advice it is possible.

To keep up with the latest news and comments on current financial affairs please visit the Secured Loan Blog.