When you’re so deep in credit card debt, you know that you need to do something to stop from being overwhelmed.  But even debt relief isn’t going to do everything for you.  You need to get some initiative and work to be debt free yourself.

Hide Those Cards Away – While many people suggest that you cut up your cards, I think it’s one of the worst decisions you can make.  Unless you have absolutely no self control and can’t keep from buying junk you don’t need, keep your good accounts open.  You could ruin your credit score by closing those accounts.

Leave Yourself a Note – If you’re the type of person that needs to carry your credit cards around with you, put a little post it note on each card.  Remind yourself what your goals are, and point out that whatever you’re looking to impulsively buy probably isn’t worth it.

Transfer High-Interest Balances – If your balances and interest rates are high enough, consider transferring your credit card balances to a card with a 0% promotional interest rate. Obviously watch out for transfer fees, which might negate any interest savings you experience.  And don’t use this new card as an opportunity to spend more.

Pay High Interest Balances First – The obvious benefit here is that you’ll end up saving some money over time since you’re removing the creditors that charge you the most from your list.  Go in order, moving to the next highest interest rate card.  This will help you pay less in interest over time.

Have a Garage Sale – It might not seem like much, but think about how much junk you have collecting dust in an attic, a basement, or God forbid a storage unit (that you’re paying for!)  In an attempt to pay off debts faster, bring in some extra cash by having a garage sale or selling your stuff on Craigslist or eBay.

Find a Second Job – If you don’t have anything lying around to sell, don’t fret, you still have your time & services to sell.  Consider taking on a second job to really help you pay off those debts quick.

Budget – Chances are you’re in this position because you weren’t able to track your spending.  Find online tools like Mint.com, or use a good old fashioned ledger.  But if you’re not tracking every penny you spend then you’re bound to fall into the same traps.

Get Help – If you’re not a do it yourself kind of person, enlist the services of a debt relief company to help you get rid of your credit card debt.

Remember though, even if you get help, you’re still going to have to put in a little time and effort of your own if you truly want to get out of debt.