Debt. It’s the business partner nobody wants but somehow many of us end up with. If you feel like you’re working harder than ever but not making the progress you want, debt might be the reason why.

Why Debt Feels Like a Struggle for Chiropractors

When you start your practice, debt often feels necessary. Maybe you took out loans for equipment, a lease, or even a business credit card to cover expenses. But over time, those payments start to eat away at your cash flow—and suddenly, instead of growing, you’re just maintaining.

I get it. My husband and I have been there—we fought our way out of over $100K in debt. And I can tell you this: Debt is sneaky, but you can take back control.

3 Ways Debt is Holding You Back

1️⃣ It Robs You of Your Cash Flow

Every dollar you send toward debt is a dollar not going toward growth. Whether it’s hiring an assistant, investing in marketing, or paying yourself more, debt payments limit your ability to build a thriving practice.

💡 Ask yourself: Are debt payments keeping me from reinvesting in my business?

2️⃣ It Increases Stress & Decision Fatigue

Debt isn’t just about numbers—it’s a mental burden. Chiropractors often feel pressure to work longer hours, see more patients, or make rushed business decisions just to stay afloat.

💡 Signs to watch for:
❌ Feeling stuck in a cycle of overwork
❌ Losing sleep over money worries
❌ Passing up personal or professional growth opportunities because of financial stress

3️⃣ It Keeps You Stuck in Survival Mode

Instead of focusing on your future, you’re working to pay for your past. The more debt you take on, the longer you stay stuck in a cycle of just getting by instead of thriving.

💡 Reality check: If you’re constantly stressed about debt, it’s time to shift into an action plan.

How to Start Paying Off Debt (Without Overwhelm)

1️⃣ Know Your Numbers
Get clear on what you owe, who you owe it to, and your interest rates. Awareness is the first step to taking control.

2️⃣ Create a Payoff Plan
Use either the snowball method (smallest debts first) or the avalanche method (highest interest first) to pay off debt strategically.

3️⃣ Cut Unnecessary Expenses
For now, focus only on the must-have expenses. Freeing up cash flow will help you pay down debt faster.

The Bottom Line: You CAN Break Free From Debt

Debt doesn’t have to control your business—or your life. The sooner you take action, the sooner you’ll move from just getting by to true financial freedom.

🎧 Want more details? Listen to the full episode here: