I Paid Off $43,000 In Debt In 8 Months | August Budget | Aja Dang

I'm Aja Dang and I finally paid off my AES Success student loan and have paid off $43,000 of debt since December! Following the Dave Ramsey plan, I've saved up for my emergency fund, paid off my credit card, paid off my car AND paid off my AES Success student loan. Now it's time to tackle that huge $150,000 Mohela (formerly known at Nelnet)! This is my budget and plan for tackling that debt in 2 years (AH!)
MY NEW BUDGET: bit.ly/2O8utcu
my old budget: bit.ly/2w2wfrt
•THE WOMAN'S WORTH COLLECTION•
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[@lisakimspinsandknits]

I know you have 150K left but you should give yourself more credit for getting rid of 43K in such a short amount of time!!! You're doing amazing! What if you hadn't started your journey 8 months ago. You would still have 43K + interest +150k!!! You're doing sooooooo amazing. You'll be debt free in no time.

[@allen8575]

[@Ana-sj4et]

Lisa Kim I didn’t even make 43K last year lmao you’re a badass Aja

[@genicharles]

Lpp

[@alilu1936]

You are a fucking hero. The first person to ever show me what paying off loans looks like, how long that timeline can be, and what kind of an impact it can have on your daily life. I am so immensely grateful to have you to look up to. A woman who is taking massive and immediate control of not just her finances, but her future--without giving up, and while thousands of people are watching--is so unspeakably inspiring. Again, absolute hero!!! Thank you so much for being so honest with all of us, and congratulations on taking this huge next step. You deserve to feel incredibly proud.

[@wineandaflatiron]

When you asked if we thought you could pay off your debt in two years I immediately said “yes.” We believe in you!

[@AjaDang]

thank you!!!

[@tennishill5079]

You are building up your character as you pay this stuff off. Keep in mind you can still do fun things day in and day out.

[@indiaxlovee]

Tennis Hill excellent advice ❤️

[@SR98889]

No, you ARE making a dent in your loans. You got this!

[@jasminejackson809]

I have to be honest I was a VERY off and on viewer before you started this series. However, over the last couple months of following you on this very relatable journey of yours I am confident in saying you’re one of my top 5 favorite KZbinrs to watch. Your content is original, creative, professional, and most importantly AUTHENTIC. Keep striving, keep hustling, and keep chipping away at your goals. I can tell you’re going to do extraordinary things.

[@ki6eki]

Can't wait to see your debt free scream in 2020.

[@AjaDang]

ahhhh, that seems so far away!!!

[@whoisthearenee]

Aja Dang One more year! 🤗🙌🏾☺️🌻✨🎊🤗

[@luckyducky224]

@@AjaDang Seeing this comment now is awesome 😂

[@m0here239]

Just watched it, she did it, woohoo! I cried lol

[@AverageRockstar37]

this is my favorite glow up

[@AjaDang]

yes sis!

[@Daisytv13]

This is some real shit!!!! Thank you so much for sharing this!! No one really talks about debt! And we all have it. It’s a lot of anxiety of trying to pay off something and it’s so hard to deal with. ❤️❤️❤️❤️love this! Thank you!

[@NhuTran]

Congrats!!! I have some student loans and I don’t need to start paying it until 5 or 6 years later because I’m still in school. But after watching you stressing about student loans I have decided to start paying my student loan & set a goal for myself that I need to pay as much as I could in a month. Keep working hard and you will reach your goal one day!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@AjaDang]

yes, start planning now!

[@ladybanks9766]

1:17 Oh Aja! My heart goes out to you. I know the journey to financial freedom is a tedious process but those small successes you've accomplished is something to be very proud of and that to me is very admirable! I hope in 2 years time, I will witness you on Dave Ramsey's "Debt Free Scream" segment. I watch that over and over again for motivation and I cry every single time because those people from different walks of life, have gone through major struggles too but came out on top because like you have tackled their goals aggressively and are now "Living like no one else!" - Dave Ramsey. Best of wishes and abundance of blessings to you. You got this Aja! YOU GOT THIS!!!!

[@BK-dr3px]

It totally breaks my heart to see you cry. Mainly because I get what youre going through. I paid off my little debts also and now im working on one large $63000 chunk on top of trying to save for a house and its depressing. Dont quit though! Keep being aggressive. If it pays off then you’ll be debt free even sooner. If you get too conservative then you’ll have to live with this shit even longer. PS... cute cake!!!

[@adot9259]

Breck Kane dang. Good luck 🍀

[@pbj0815]

Good luck!

[@nikasade]

Congrats on the next milestone!!! I’m so happy you are an influencer that is very raw and very transparent in this washed up social media fantasy. Honestly it is refreshing to see how frustrated even you are with student loan as I am myself. I feel like it has robbed me of my twenties and just have to remind myself baby steps so I can get the hell on with my life!

[@AjaDang]

you're struggling to pay it off in your 20s to live like no one else in your 30s and beyond

[@danelson1134]

With so many influencers out there, you're talking about real life challenges and successes. This is an AMAZINGGGGG accomplishment, and you're an inspiration to many people who have had to take on debt to subsidize their education. You invested in yourself, and it seems like a lot of money, but it's really not in the grand scheme of life. Congratulations on this milestone!!! Don't let the overwhelming nature of debt crush your spirit.

[@AlyssaAllDayVlogs]

I know how you feel. I got emotional watching this. I’m about to graduate with my bachelors in nursing and have almost $70k in student loan debt alone. I plan on going to grad school also. Good for you for getting a cake. I’m totally going to do this when I pay off my debt. We are just starting Dave Ramsey budgeting too.

[@sierrastewart5725]

AlyssaAllDay I graduate in December with my BSN and I’ll have about $110k 🙁 that does include a previous degree though. I want to be aggressive with it and have atleast half paid off in two years. I’m really hoping to get into a loan repayment program though.

[@AlyssaAllDayVlogs]

Sierra Stewart it’s so expensive! I want to go to grad school but not until I pay this off. My husband wants to go back to school too. At least we’ll be nurses? Haha

[@sierrastewart5725]

AlyssaAllDay ha yes we’ll be nurses. Those night and weekend shift differentials are looking impeccable! good thing is, some employers will help pay for grad school so that’s a plus !

[@AlyssaAllDayVlogs]

Sierra Stewart yess I’ll be picking up ALL of the shifts. I’ve heard that if your hospital keeps calling to pick up shifts to wait a few times and they increase the pay for the pick up shift each call. Hopefully it’s true 😂😂 I’m glad they’ll help pay for it because having all of this debt with two kiddos is overwhelming!! Congrats to us for working our butts of though. Let’s be real, nursing school is hell!

[@lidlLe1]

oh goodness! $70000 for a nursing degree!? I'm from New Zealand in my final year of nursing, and our total fee is $18000. Then when we go grad school, the District Heath Board (of the big public hospital you're with) will fund for your study. I'm so curious how why there is such a huge difference between American education and New Zealand, what is the course like, in terms of placements and theory? that's so sad :( I really had no idea!

[@Earthy247]

Congratulations!!!! It makes me nauseous when I think about how much I’ve paid in student loan debt this year - $30k so far. You’ve got this!!! Thanks for being an inspiration!

[@somegirl101]

congrats

[@isteezy]

Damn I am crying right with you in the beginning bc this is too relatable!!!! *Ahh also please do not be sad bc you paid off $43k in 8 months $150k sounds like a lot but with your plan that is NOTHING!

[@keairabanks]

I just can’t wait until you make your very last payment. I’m so excited to see your journey!! I just graduated college and about to tackle my own loans. You’ve given me so much inspiration to just go for it!! You go girl ❤️❤️❤️

[@brittanybelo1361]

I've honestly never seen something so authentic from someone in your field of work (The KZbin/Blogging/Instagram Hustle Community) ... I find that so often people leave out the realness of debt and struggle, especially on these platforms in hopes of projecting such a specific image of themselves an the life that they live and it obviously leaves us viewers aspiring to that form of being but in a way that's not productive at all! This video is so great because I've just graduated from undergrad just a few months ago and have to start paying my debt soon... but i've honestly been so nervous and want to pay it as quickly as possible so I CAN MOVE ONNNNN. And even though you went through a series of emotions I hope to go through the same thing soon so that I know, I've knocked out a major obstacle in life...so I can live and move freely. SO KEEP HUSTLING. You've got this and you're helping to show other that they've got this too! Thank you !!!

[@heartlicia]

what you said about not being able to move on until your debts are paid is exactly how i feel. i've been super stressed about the amount we have to pay off because i 100% don't want this debt when it comes time to have kids (and i want kids between 2-3 years from now!). you're doing amazing, you'll totally get this loan paid off soon! good luck!!

[@andreakae4211]

Man I’m terrified to push “send” on buying a $300 plane ticket can’t imagine dropping $43,000 on something. But it’s a GREAT accomplishment.

[@George-dk5mw]

Unless for work, a plane ticket doesn't contribute to assets but instead depletes them tremendously...(vacation-travel expenses minus work lost adds up very quickly- so you pay far more than a simple plan ticket). Paying off debt that early will save her a heap in interests over the years, thus she'll have more assets. Not another bar story of someone trying to discover them self in europe or something

[@andreakae4211]

George well obviously. I was just saying spending large sums of money is scary. I’d be shaking sending $40,000 out of my bank account.

[@George-dk5mw]

i agree that it would be scary. but its something you can go in with confidence (id still have a little extra money to the side before thinking of something like that).

[@gourmetthursday]

I’m crying for you even though I know you got through this. I too went through my debt journey after my divorce and hustled my A off. I am currently in the process of fully funding my emergency fund, saving for retirement and saving for a down payment. But girl… I know the pain. So glad you got through it but happy to watch the struggle to remind me of where I too once was. Many blessings to you. Thanks for sharing!

[@JT-de2yr]

Awesome, congrats! It is such a great feeling! I remember I paid off $22,000 from school/credit card debt in 10 months and it was the best thing I ever did, and in 2013 I moved to Boston and did a 180 on a new career. Went to culinary school paid off my $14,000 loan in 6 months in 2014 and was super free. Now, I live in Las Vegas and all to thanks for putting in the hard work and being debt free for years now and doing whatever I want. You got it girl!!!

[@AboveRubiesTV]

J T That’s awesome!! Hopefully I can get there one day!

[@xjhayce]

When do you start paying student loans? Do you pay after graduating? What happens to the loan if you drop out of school ?

[@JT-de2yr]

Usually a grace period of 6 months to a year depending on how far the loan is deferred for after graduation. If you drop out, yes you still have to start paying for the loan right away because interest builds on it everyday. Never pay the minimum otherwise you will be stuck paying interest forever!

[@JayPalfrey]

GIRL! YOU F****** DID IT! I know you still have the larger amount but $10,000 is a heck of a lot to pay off! proud of you!!!

[@cutiepiemania45]

UPDATE: I was super inspired and v. mad about my debt after watching this video. So I paid off one loan that was down to about 6,250. Thanks for the inspiration. Happy to have made progress even if I have no savings now. I'm v. scared, but cautiously optimistic Original Post: I wanted to give you a virtual hug. I honestly feel this way so often and need to pick myself up and keep running. You're doing fantastic and not being satisfied with just a little bit paid off can just be extra fuel to take down Loanzilla !! Have you tried looking at it in total percent paid off. Maybe seeing number rise up will be motivating. Thanks for this post, my first reaction when seeing it was oh I'm so happy for her. And Yes" we" all definitely all in on kicking the debt out of our lives!

[@AjaDang]

yay! CONGRATS!

[@sandracorbin1530]

I just saw this. PROUD OF YOU. HUGS. now I am taking this journey. I KNOW I CAN DO THIS. Because you paved the road for me. Thank you. Thank you. From Ohio.

[@dt5261]

Aja, I just wanted to let you know that you are not on this journey alone. I started following Dave Ramsey’s steps into being debt free 2 years ago and I am still on this journey. It seems like a hell of a long time and to be quite honest.. I feel like giving up some days but I just think about the day when it’s all over and I am focused again. We will get thru this journey together! Maybe you can even call in to Dave Ramsey once this is all over and make that debt free scream on the radio! It will be a day you will definitely remember for the rest of your life!

[@AjaDang]

we will get through this journey together!

[@AynBernos]

Watching in 2021, knowing that you made it! Your tenacity and perseverence are sooo inspiring. “Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards.” Go Aja!!!

[@athenaashleybates4363]

Congratulations Aja!!! Honestly, I am so proud of you. That is such a HUGE accomplishment.. Thank you for being so transparent about your whole journey. You are giving hope to all the other people struggling with debt too.

[@Jsbdhuwbxbks3]

You can definitely do it in 2 years. You’ve already paid off $43k in less than a year, so you already have the drive and dedication to get it done. You’ve inspired me to knock out my student loans as quickly as possible. I’m already well on my way to paying one of them off by the end of the year (at the latest).

[@AjaDang]

yes! Pay off that debt

[@ashandblake]

It actually makes me sick when I think about the amount of taxes that are deducted. You get a raise? Cool, now you might be bumped into another bracket so Uncle Sam can have his share.

[@kgal1298]

True. I went from 45K to 65K in a short amount of time and it really doesn't feel like the bi-weekly checks are that much more, plus I'm in Cali so it's a bit higher.

[@marymarj]

Ashley Lenora j

[@zimmerman630]

Ashley Lenora vote republican and you’ll get to keep more

[@f1ashcards]

Ashley Lenora so much truth, we work hard just so the govt can take more of our money

[@emilyreeves7854]

I know it hurts, but it's important to remember your taxes pay for many of the luxuries of living in a developed country. Moreover, taxes in America are very, very low in comparison to other developed, Western countries. I'm happy to pay my taxes because they pay for things I use all the time--roads, libraries, government services, etc! Of course, do make sure you are getting your deductions--even I don't want to make a donation to the IRS:)

[@LibbyAudrey]

So, I used to follow Aja about two or so years ago and I stopped because I thought she was oversharing too much of her personal life online. Now that I'm coming back to her channel after a hiatus, I've realized that she's honest and raw and that's what we need more of in influencers and role models. Talking about finances is not simple, nor is it pleasant. Thank you, Aja,​ for sharing your financial journey with us. I am rooting for you 1000 percent and believe you will be debt-free with two years!

[@gracegarner]

Congratulations! I am aggressively paying off my student loans too. Proportionately, I am left with about the same amount you are and you can definitely do it! It’s hard but I just think about how good it will feel to be done. Right now I’m slated to be finished paying off $230k in five years and it can’t come soon enough!!! Hopefully sooner if my pay increases. Good luck on your journey! I love following along!

[@g9nnar]

Are you also in the US? And is that amount both fees, tuition and interest. Hope you can answer my qs as that is alot of money :)

[@gracegarner]

I'm in the US and it is the cost of law school which includes tuition, room, board, and yes, interest. I also have about $15k in undergrad debt that is included in that number.

[@g9nnar]

@@gracegarner oh ok. Still hopefully with a good pay you can pay it off quicker 👍

[@celestenicole8175]

Aja, I know how frustrated you must be but GIRL you’ve done sooo well. Like I can’t even describe how proud I am of you! Don’t feel discouraged, instead of looking at how far you have left to go, focus on how far you’ve come! It’s gonna take time, but with the dedication and commitment I see radiate through you, I know 100% you’ll be debt free in no time! Please keep your head up, don’t let the dumbass system get you down!!!!

[@bakesabundant2028]

Dang, the transparency here is admirable. Keep up the progress! Celebrate your small wins, and focus on the "progress." It's a journey. Good work !

[@KateyMaple]

So amazed and proud of you and this is literally the first video I've ever seen of you! I follow the Dave Ramsay program too and I've paid off $4K in credit card debt so far, and I'm having to save to move from my current home to Chicago for my clinicals portion of medical school. Now I'm working on undergrad and medical school loans which is about $200K total, YIKES! Thank you for being you, you inspire me!

[@gMalingo]

What do you do for a living? And what was the big loan for, did you go to medical or law school? Good job paying off over $40k in only 8 months!

[@elainarichardson9599]

Being debt free is the best thing in the world!! My husband and I have been debt free including our home for two years now! Keep on it!! You can do it girl!!

[@blairwalnuts]

YOU CAN DO IT!!!!! SO PROUD OF YOU!!!

[@victoriashaduro2374]

OMG Aja you are a hero! You just paid out a quarter of your overall dept and while there is still a lot to do, you still did a great job! I am so proud of you!

[@rayage777]

That is a very aggressive goal to pay it off in 2 years, but I understand why you want to do that. You can do this as long as you stick to your budget and make your budget realistic. Just don't get down if you miss a month or two. Question on your budget. Why is your car insurance so high? I know that's for 6 months, but it still seems high. Have you shopped around to find cheaper insurance? If you can get USAA, that would always be the insurance to get. I have my car, house, and life insurance through them. Another question is: Is that the actual tax amount or are you just estimating? I'm asking because it seems low, unless you are going to be contributing a lot to charities or if school loans are a tax write off (I don't remember them being a tax write off for me, but it could be different now). That is just 20% of the net income and if you make that much money a year, you might be in 32% tax bracket (filing individually).

[@AjaDang]

I'll ask my tax guy if I need to put more money aside of taxes, bc you're right. My insurance is so high bc I got a ticket so they increased my pay. I also have reallllllllly good coverage, which is important bc LA drivers suck.

[@rayage777]

Aja Dang LA drivers do suck, but if you don't drive that often (I'm assuming because of Lyft budget) you don't need the best insurance. Get a higher deductible insurance to save money. Don't forget to do the online school to get rid of your tickets. Just don't get your tickets too close together or you can get rid of them through the online school. I got two speeding tickets in 4 months, then had to face the insurance increase with the second one.

[@AjaDang]

$100 in lyft is only about 3 rides to Hollywood

[@margaretgannon9458]

USAA is amazing, but to be eligible one must be active military, a veteran, their spouse or their child.

[@luvistragedy]

I love this. I’m in the middle of my debt free journey as well. It is literally sickening that high schools do not educate kids on student loans or even debt before they graduate high school and go to college and begin their life. I’m so happy for you. Every little step counts when it comes to getting rid of debt. You should be so proud of yourself... and enjoy your cake

[@natalibaby466]

Congratulations! I can definitely relate with you when you said you’re not really satisfied after paying off a debt. Thank you for sharing this. I feel like I’m so alone sometimes with my paying off my student loan journey. You give me high hopes that I too can reach my goal of being debt free

[@afaith6619]

Ugh girl, I totally hear you and understand. Brene Brown talks about the feeling you're talking about, she calls it "Foreboding Joy". It's rough and all of us do it. Be so proud of yourself, you're awesome!

[@vickisigh2674]

you can do it aja!! you've already come so far, you can do this!

[@alysonf87]

I enjoy watching these so much! My husband and I have been teaching FPU for years and we too went through our debt free journey. Don’t be discouraged by that feeling in the pit of your stomach, that’s the “sick and tired” part. You don’t want to loose that until the battle is won! But celebrate your victories. Don’t wear yourself too thin. You’ll find the balance and know what you need to fill up your tank for the rest of the journey. You’ve got a HUGE shovel to dig yourself out of this big ditch! That’s such a blessing. When you’re feeling down, pull up a few debt free screams. That used to help us.

[@AjaDang]

I love listening to debt free screams, cannot wait to do one myself!

[@tennischc105]

i love these videos you are making! I went to medical school and just finished my residency :) now time to tackle my debt too!!! what a great example from an influencer

[@Elyyy310]

I just graduated with $14,000 in student loans and I was freaking out cause I want to pay my loan in 6 months so that I don't get charged interest. Watching this video has inspired me and motivated me to take it seriously and get it done. I support what you're doing and hope you can meet your goal. Just subscribed and I'll definitely be watching more videos! You can do it!

[@lisaanderson2900]

Eating cake with you (in spirit)!! Congratulations and I am SO proud of you.

[@krh948]

I am so proud of you! Thank you for sharing your story! I just paid off 24,000 dollars and it was bitter sweet for me as well. Still more to go. Thank you so much for the motivation!

[@suzyspeaksgerman]

Really love how open and real you are about your money and debt. Thank you thank you for sharing this! I'm also struggling to pay student loans. >:(

[@youtiquebridal]

So glad I came across your channel! We became debt free 2015 (started 2013) and it was the greatest feeling. Then, my husband got into the school of his dreams and we are working our buns off to cash flow his dental school. So glad to see you celebrating little milestones. You got this! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@Raetalkss]

WELL DONE!!!!! KEEP GOING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Could you do a detailed video on how you make money? I know you have one could you do a detailed one

[@that415female]

lolol, im over here wathing her financial vids and wondering how she kickz a** in this

[@AjaDang]

what kind of detail do you want?

[@Raetalkss]

Thank you for your response. How to make money online via social media outlets the pros the cons, the most effective methods.Thanks in advance. I too would like to one day make 40k in a month hahah :D I cannot wait for you to be total debt free with that amount monthly you will be ballin! All the best!!!

[@ssanantonio518]

Awwww....i love how real and how honest u are with the debt that most college graduate owes after years of graduating. Thats the reality we live in cause life happens. Be happy that you did it within 8 months. Continue to do it. I am having the same struggle in paying off my debts (student loans and credit cards) so i could buy a house for my family that is now growing with a newborn. And my struggle is being a shopaholic. But hopefully i get it all paid off in less than 3 years. Girl u got this! I know u will have it paid off in 2 years. Praying that more work deals go your way.

[@zoe-elizabethmccray4868]

Your videos have been so helpful Aja!

[@BlondieBrunette715]

This is AWESOME!! My husband and I just paid off both of our vehicles, saved an emergency fund, following FPU! Love it!!

[@Handbaglvoer]

Good job Aja!!! can't wait til I can get started on this...but my health issue is stopping me on anything. It really sucks when we feel we are behind and can't reach what we want in life. All I want is simple happy and healthy

[@Nancy-zi3gk]

AJA!! This is an insane amount of debt you have just CRUSHED in eight months !! If you can do that - you can do anything. You are a superhero in my eyes, and an absolute inspiration. I’m still in uni and watching your journey is the wake up call I needed to get my spending in check and to start living within my means. This is the first month of my LIFE that I am doing with a budget and it feels (scary, but) so good. Thank you. Really, of anyone I follow on social media or KZbin you have had the biggest, most tangible impact on my day-to-day by far.

[@angelamullis7343]

Woohoo! Congratulations on paying off that huge chunck! I am so proud of you! You set a goal and kicked it's ass! Thank you for being so open and raw about your finances/debt. No one ever talks about it yet we all have it in one form or another. You give me so much hope and inspiration that I can do the same. When you asked if we thought you could do this in 2 years, I shouted "YES"!!!!!! You got this!!! Like a BOSS!! 😘

[@gabygaby0129]

Since I watched your first video on your student loan debt, I paid off about $18,000 on my own student loans. You're doing great Aja! You're inspiring us! Keep up the great work, just let this motivate you even more. 💕

[@likejohnnyandjune2024]

That is crazy. You make 20K in a month? And you only get to keep 12K? so you're left with just over what I get a month to live on. This makes me VERY scared to go to grad school.

[@kaybanks8781]

Congratulations! I understand what you mean. I paid of a HUGE student loan but I still had more to go and I had the same reaction you did. I worked so hard and it still wasn't over! I had to just think month to month. If I thought about how long it was going to take me to get everything paid off, it was crushing. Be proud of yourself! We are proud of you.

[@Wildflorajewelry]

Wow that is so amazing Aja! Congrats and keep up the hard work!!

[@VS-fo9py]

Wow! What an inspiration you are! I cried right along with you. Tears of joy because i can imagine how free you will feel when you are debt free and have the fabulous income that you have. You are pissed at the debt, and you know how to hustle and make money, so you will definitely conquer that last debt in less than two years!!! Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us.

[@orangejmoothies]

Aw, you are doing so well. It isn’t never ending, you will get there. And I know it seems like it could have been $200K+ in savings but sometimes when you don’t have any debts/urgent matteres to pay you’re not as careful about saving so you’re building a really great habit and you have the rest of your life to earn/save money there aint’ no race to buy this or that ya know? :)

[@ghoulish_girl_]

I appreciate this video more than you know. I should be SO, SO proud that I graduated law school, passed the bar, found a career helping people that I love, bought a new car, but the debt of my school loans will always drag me down (atleast for year and years to come). I love your realness, truly.

[@lmt16]

Ok but most of us aren't KZbinrs. You took home 12,000 only? None of us come close to that. #cantrelate.

[@pets6939]

Laurathor , exactly what I thought

[@Aly_224]

Laurathor ikr I'm so happy for her and proud tho

[@briankeith7762]

Laurathor I can't even get to $2000 a month in take home pay. And I've been with this company since 1995. How does a person get to $12000 a month in take home pay?

[@jacquelinm2662]

Same! I graduated with $32,000 and I’m trying to figure out how I’m do that in like 4 or 5 years

[@sarahhodge8184]

Laurathor exactly my view it’s not relatable for every day people

[@shaelae24]

Girl you can frickin do it!! $43,000 is so much money, more than a lot of people make in a whole year. Know that there is a finish line and you are gonna smash it!

[@TheBeagle1975]

Congratulations. 🍾🎊 your a rock star 💫!!! It feels overwhelming, your doing so good. When you have a huge debt the best way I found to stay motivated it’s to set small goals. I made it a point to set quarterly goals and monthly to surpass my monthly budget goal so I could meet or surpass my quarterly goal. I also make an irregular income. 😉

[@eves5628]

You are so brave! You paid off 80% of the amount of what I still have ahead of me in less than a year! Bravo! Pat yourself on your shoulder. It might feel insurmountable and believe me I feel your pain as I have less but going at a much slower pace and some months having no money left for food or fuel on the 2nd of the month after having paid just my minimums eating up my entire paycheck. Don't beat yourself up thinking what other cool stuff you could do with that kind of money. Remember, it is only temporary and the pain you feel today is going to keep you from even larger mistakes in the future. You will never ever do this again. Keep going!

[@nicucoll]

Awwww you’re too cute! Congratulations!!!! That you can do that , we are almost in foreclosure so you can be worse off 😂

[@Twinklelea1]

i Just paid off my $3000 apartment debt . i honestly don't' know what to do with myself because i felt so trap for so long, now am finally free to get my own place again , your video truly helped me.

[@Kiarnii]

yes girl!! congratulations!!❤️

[@TheDonDIVA]

I didn't graduate college yet (this is my senior year) but let me watch this video NOW so I know what to do in the future! I don't want to deal with student loans forever. Mine is $30,000 in total without interest but still

[@Emmiiii267]

its hard to take your advice on debt when you make so much money off so easily off youtube and your social media in general :/ cant relate

[@ellax325]

emilyy em vazquez Goh She works multiple jobs. Adsense doesn't pay as much as you think and brand deals aren't constant especially for a channel like hers. She isn't a beauty guru or lifestyle guru which would make endorsements much easier. She's working her butt off which is how she makes that much money.

[@brandeeisbomb]

Ella X lots of people work hard and don’t make nearly as much. She’s just saying that she can’t relate. I agree. I work hard and I don’t even make $30k a year.

[@aliciav63]

Emily youre right... I totally understand this situation but as a grad student that also borrowed and borrowed and paid it entirely off also while living in poverty ...i cannot comprehend the bitching and moaning about having the debt and the blaming ...we borrowed we signed we knew...and if we didn’t know we should have been smart enough to not risk what we clearly didn’t understand... plain and simple ...some people in life cannot even get an education at all ...so im not really feeling sorry for her

[@Emmiiii267]

Thank you for understanding Brandee! nicely said!

[@Emmiiii267]

wow yeah I dont agree with your comment at all either LOL thats not where I was personally getting at.

[@Plum_s]

Love how honest you are about your finances. It’s not spoken enough and a lot of times were given this impression that influencers have so much money and no debt so this is a breath of fresh air

[@dominoplay3712]

Try getting a monthly paycheck and survive 😓

[@thetrampledrose21]

Oh my god!!! Congratulations!! I’m so happy for you!!! Reward yourself for paying off this one. This is a BIG DEAL! It’s a huge step! You’ve got this. Keep pushing because you deserve to be debt free! Go get that house! When you’re feeling like you can’t get any traction with the big loan, make some adjustments, and keep looking at gorgeous pictures of what you want your house to be someday. You will get there and your home will be even more special because you worked SO HARD for it. Again, thank you SO MUCH for sharing your budgets and debt payoff journey because it’s so inspiring. ❤️

[@misscopperqueen]

That is such a huge accomplishment Aja!!! I just finished my masters degree with ~180k in loans. This video give me hope that I can do it too and it also makes me feel better about my decision in going and getting my Masters. Thank you for posting and keep going! We believe in it.

[@KaylieMills96]

Damn girl! I know you said you're still overwhelmed about the rest of your debt but I am so freaking proud of you! I don't know you and I am proud of you! $43,000 is a HUGE deal and you paying it off in only 8 months is an even bigger deal!! You've given me so much hope for my debt journey and I cannot thank you enough so that! keep doing what you're doing girl! You're a star!!!

[@yesvember11]

I know the remaining amount of debt feels overwhelming but girl, you are doing so good! You paid off $43,000 in debt in UNDER a year - you’re kicking AS$, keep it up!!!

[@JoyMend]

You can do it in 2 years, dear! Even if not, you will have done your best. That's already enough. Another sista dealing with loan things here, and watching your video helped me feel that I'm not alone. Thank you for sharing your life!

[@erinwallace7952]

I can't even imagine this type of student loan debt. I thought my $5000 after university was alot. I know US colleges are great but I am surprised it's still at such a crazy high price. They tried to increase the tuition prices in Montreal (where I studied and am born) and there were crazy protests and riots. My tuition was $2000 each semester which I made in a few weeks working at Costco over the summers plus my parents helped. It's such a terrible way for our young people to be starting out their careers. This is why we can't afford cars and mortgages! Props to you for paying this astronomical amount off so quickly. You got this!

[@PbLigand]

Congratulations Aja!! I know it seems overwhelming, but you are making steps in the right direction. Baby step 2 took me almost 3 years. Stay strong!!!

[@hellokittylight]

This video is so real and relatable to me. I do not have nearly as much because I did not go to college, but between my car and accumulated credit card debt, I have about $32,000 left to pay. I used to pay each credit card individually, but I decided to see if I could consolidate the amount into a loan. My husband and I paid off about $5,000 of debt that wasn’t covered into the loan. I can’t wait to honestly have no more debt. Unfortunately, I still have about 4 years left for my car, and about 5 years for the loan. Debt is one of the biggest issues for me, and I was stressed out over it everyday of my life. Now I try to just remember that there is an end, it just takes time.

[@JulieDang1]

Girl you kick ass! Congrats!!! I don’t have to face all these financial problems just yet but even as a student, your videos have helped me become so much more aware about the impact of my spending, budgeting and saving my money productively from internships and part time jobs! DANG girl!!!!

[@kelhiamayoka4675]

Where I live, we don’t have to pay that much to go college or university but you paying off this big amount in only 8 months has inspired me to do better with my money.

[@a123sophie123a]

I feel the same way! I want to pay off all my student loans 20,000$ in 18-24 months. I think it's really plausible for me just because I will still be staying with my parents when I'm out of school next year, and all I will have to pay is my cell phone bill, car insurance, and gas. Thankfully I have amazing parents that understand what I am trying to do.

[@jas.daniel]

This video was so inspirational. I'm a junior in college right now and I go to a private college that is very expensive. I reduced the amount that I borrow and it's a struggle because I pay for one class and the other is covered by a loan. I just paid off my credit card a few weeks ago.The next goal is to tackle my student loans while I'm still in school under the deferment period and pay off my car! Don't let the aniexty overwhelm you. You can do it!

[@AjaDang]

that sounds like a great plan!

[@Asia84]

I know this video is old, but I’ve watched some of your other videos (on photography). So I was like, “Oh, let’s see what’s she’s talking about here!” Let me tell you, I’m crying for you. Tears of joy! But I totally understand how you’re feeling: it’s like you can never get rid of the burden! This video really inspired me to hustle hard so I can pay off my debts. Thank you for sharing! Xoxo

[@canadianchick135]

I totally understand what you mean when you say you feel like you're never doing enough when it comes to paying off debt. I've been paying off debt for the last five years and still have about $25,000 left to go. To me, that feeling of never doing enough (which started with debt) has really moved into other aspects of my life - I never feel like I'm doing enough just in general now, and lately have really felt like I'm going crazy trying to always "do more", but now don't really see the point. I need to remember that I have paid a significant amount of money off, and need to re-evaluate what my life goals are!! Great job on paying off such a huge amount in such a short period of time!!!!

[@ayshansam]

Congratulations! I’m currently getting loans to finish school and watching this makes me feel good! The way you treat yourself for your success and having the motivation to pay off these debts. It’s for sure a lot of money but you are a BOSS and you can pay off the rest! I’m already looking forward to the other one! We all need a role model like you!

[@marcellareyes892]

Yasss queen!!! Last week I saw a (nonprofit) financial advisor and literally saying out loud that I owe $66,000 in debt was so hard. I cried when I came home (and totally relate to you) because I try not to think about it and it just seems like such a HUGE amount of money (I make 40k a year). I'm on the 20 year repayment plan right now and it's terrifying thinking that I could be paying this off for that long (obviously I don't want that). But she had some good advice that basically I need to stop stressing out and take a break for a bit and stop being so hard on myself. You got it Aja!!!! You inspire me.

[@dreasbudgetlife1879]

Aja!!!! You are doing amazing so stop being upset! Small drops still fill up the bucket 😊 Be proud, girl! I made a goal to pay off a credit card by my birthday in August and paid it off early on the first of August. Felt great for a minute, treated myself sensibly and then reality set in that my next credit card goal is $2480 by December. Next Godzilla after that is $9000. Feels never ending But guess what??? I DID IT ONCE AND ILL EFFIN’ DO IT AGAIN! Didn’t get into debt overnight and unless I win the lotto, it won’t disappear over night either. Baby steps! We got this 💪🏾❤️

[@graceandglamor]

Thank you for sharing. You will make it, and you’ll help motivate other people along the way. You have motivated me. I owe about 45k in student loans, and my husband’s 10k car loan. When I paid off my car I felt a lot like you. Like it was just a drop in the bucket. It helps to remember that most of our peers who are living the lives we want to live are severely in debt. You are on the right track.

[@monicatellez4850]

My Husband and I paid off our consumer debt in 18 months. You can do it! Keep your head up be consistent and intentional! Don’t give up it’s so worth it!

[@LivinglikeLeila]

Yessss girl do it!!! I refreshed this video and clicked the ad by the way lol every bit counts!! I owe about $80K (student loans mostly, car, credit cards) making about $53K so my goal is to pay it all off under 4 years...hopefully 3! I love watching your budget/debt videos they keep me motivated. You're doing great!

[@goshenqueen]

Yes!!!!!! I’m so glad you went and got that cake!! You have paid off SO much and if you can pay off THIS much then you know it’s possible to pay off more! Count down what you’ve paid off so that you can see the change. I know some people make a chart and mark down their payments so they see the progress. I am on the Dave Ramsey plan as well and I always listen to other people’s journeys to remind myself that it’s possible. And to get ideas for how to stay motivated. Remind yourself of why you’re doing this and how you will feel when you ARE finally out of debt. And think back to 2 years ago and how quickly time has passed since then. Slow and steady. I’m so happy for you!!

[@Michelle-bl8sz]

I am so proud of you! I know this is going to sound really cheesy and maybe you'll never see this but I have struggled with depression and health issues for years. I felt like I would never achieve anything so I never took charge of my finances because my brain has drifted off into "Why bother?" territory for a lot of things. I use KZbin to escape. I watched your budget video in January and it motivated me to start caring about my finances and maybe my future. Your honesty and vulnerability has motivated a lot of people in a really positive way, myself especially. I hope I can find side-hustles that work with my life. You're an inspiration, Aja! Thank you for taking us on this journey!

[@BloopleNoople]

I made the silly mistake of purchasing a loan for a fancy Ducati. I was young/dumb and didn’t know the repercussions of the loan nor the interest and payments required. I have been able to budget accordingly and was able to make the monthly minimum but will likely not tread that path again. Based in Australia, I decided to read The Barefoot Investor which has changed the way I control my finances. I no longer live off of a credit card, and today I managed to pay off half my motorcycle loan which sucks but is a good feeling at the same time. I won’t delve into how Australia deals with students loans but I appreciate the time you’ve made to be honest and upfront about the not-so-great choices we make with money ☺️ There’s definitely great tips I’ve picked up from your videos. Thanks for uploading!