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LendingTree is compensated by companies on this site and this compensation may impact how and where offers appear on this site (such as the order). LendingTree does not include all lenders, savings products, or loan options available in the marketplace.

Americans More Focused On Losing Debt Than Losing Weight In 2019

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Americans would rather knock down their debt than shed pounds in 2019, according to a new survey from LendingTree.

LendingTree asked Americans whether either of these two popular New Year’s resolutions – losing weight or losing debt – was a top priority for them entering 2019. Given that both debt and obesity are significant problems facing millions of Americans today, it’s encouraging that 75% of respondents said one of these issues would be a top priority for them.

Losing Debt A Bigger Priority For 2019 Than Losing Weight

Millennials, Gen X Most Focused On Bringing Down Debt

Women More Likely To Prioritize Both Debt And Weight Loss

Wealthy Americans More Likely To Prioritize Weight Loss

We're Not Willing To Spend Much Money To Be Healthier

Given that Americans’ credit card balances are at record levels, it shouldn’t be surprising that debt will be such a big focus this year.

If you are carrying a lot of debt, it’s especially important to make 2019 the year you commit to finally knocking it down for good. With interest rates rising, that debt is only going to get more expensive and take longer to pay off, so don’t wait.

Whether you’re trying to lose weight or debt, the worst thing you can do is nothing. Take some action today — even if it’s small — to get the ball rolling. Consider an intro 0% balance transfer credit card to help reduce any high-interest card debt you’re carrying. Add an extra few dollars to those monthly credit card payments. Sell something of value to raise some extra income. It may not seem like much, but if you keep taking those small steps, they’ll eventually lead to real change, and that’s what it’s all about.

LendingTree commissioned Qualtrics to conduct an online survey of 1,111 Americans, with the sample base proportioned to represent the general population. The survey was fielded Nov. 28 through Dec. 5, 2018, and the margin for error for all respondents is +/- 2.9%.

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