When it comes to videogames, the PC still has a lot to offer over its console cousins. The only big downside is the cost of building a good gaming rig, and the technical know- how that comes with it. Fortunately, learning more about setting up a gaming PC will also lead to smaller expenses down the road.

Nowadays, a pre- built machine can cost around $1, 500, but a good starter set should only cost $800. The key is to look for the most inexpensive deals when it comes to the most important components like the processor and RAM. Take note that a newer version of a piece of hardware doesn’t necessarily mean that it will improve the whole machine’s performance substantially. All of the pieces must work together, so check out the core processors first.

For those coming in from scratch but would like to start building their own PC, a good way to learn is to experiment on old machines, take them apart, and rebuild them again. A few tries at this should help even the most hopeless novice find his way around the ins and outs of any computer.

When it’s time to buy the parts themselves, patience is always the key. It’s best to look around three or four websites that specialize in PC hardware. Oftentimes, there are discounts given to package deals, but these might include components that might not be so useful in the long run. Again, research and patience are need to building a good gaming rig.

You’ve finally faced your fears by sitting down and totaling up everything you owe to everyone. While it can be scary seeing that number sitting in front of you, you’ll feel much better once you have a plan in place.

Let’s find a way to get you started at shrinking and eventually eliminating that number. Here are some things you can do to chip away at your debt load.

Do a Balance Transfer

Balance transfers can do a lot of cut down on your debt. If you have a zero percent APR offer available to you and you currently have credit card debt, you should jump on it. When you aren’t struggling to make minimum payments that just barely cover your interest, you can start chipping away at that balance much sooner.

Part with Some Belongings

Everyone owns items they no longer use or get any pleasure out of having – those things that are just taking up valuable real estate space in your closet.

By parting with them, you can painlessly reduce your debt and get some extra storage space at your apartment or house. It’s a double win.

If you have a bunch of inexpensive items to unload, your best bet might be having a yard sale. If you have more expensive items, such as a fancy riding lawnmower when your yard is only the size of a postage stamp, you’d be better off unloading it through the internet where you’ll fetch a better price. Consider using Craigslist or Facebook to hook up with a buyer.

Look at Your Values

If you find you keep adding to your debt load with purchases you don’t need, you’ll have a hard time ever paying it off. Make a list of what values are most important to you in your life – chances are, you won’t list things like looking cool or being the envy of your neighbors. If you’re like most people, what you’re really looking for is security and freedom.

The next time you’re tempted to buy something, take a look at that list and decide if that purchase meets your core values. If it doesn’t, pass on it, and keep knocking down that debt.

Consider Debt Consolidation

If you have so much debt it feels overwhelming and there’s no end in sight, you may need to look at getting a personal loan for debt consolidation purposes. This only makes sense if you don’t see a way to pay off your debts or if your current interest rate is higher than what you could get with a personal loan.

If you do get a personal loan however, it’s crucial you stop racking up new debt on your credit cards. You want to make your debts go away, not add to them.

Get a Side Hustle

If you have a secret talent, try to make it work for you financially by creating a side job out of it. Whether you’re a talented writer or you’re a great handyman, you can earn money doing it. And since your regular paycheck will cover your other expenses, 100 percent of the side money you’ve earned can go toward your debt.

Don’t Give Up

The key to becoming debt free is to never throw in the towel. Keep looking every day for a way to reduce your debt load, even if it’s just a dollar or two at a time. Before you know it, you’ll reach your goals.