1. Credit cards are essentially a loan, which means at some time you will have to repay. Plan your purchases carefully. If you are in doubt about how you will repay your card, then don’t make that purchase.

2. If you have high balances on your credit cards, by taking a loan with a lower interest rate you will save money and protect your credit history.

3. Your bank wants to see you do well. Your bank representative should be the first person you talk to in times of trouble. Take the opportunity now to take advantage of his or her financial knowledge.

4. Start an emergency fund. You will worry less when you have a cushion. It may not start with much, but having something in the bank will make you feel more comfortable.

5. Never abandon your debt. No matter how bad things are, you can usually find a way to manage paying your minimum payment. When times improve, a bad debt will disqualify you from certain loan facilities and hurt your credit history. If you see trouble on the horizon, ask a bank representative for help.