In life you have to make things happen. Waiting is not always an option and might make it harder to recover. I interviewed this young woman a year ago. I saw her in a group about financial literacy and was impressed by her story. I feel she is the perfect interview to kick off my relaunch. 

Without further ado…please met Andrel Harris…Congratulations on your feature in Forbes! Tell us about your journey to financial freedom and what lead to you being selected in Forbes. 

In 2008 the Market crashed . I had just built my home that January. I furnished my home using store credit and had all intentions on paying this off. I was making a great salary compared to my peers. Because of the downturn of the economy, the company I worked for shut their doors. I landed another job but my income was nearly cut in half. The banks did not help me with reducing my mortgage because of the type of loan I had. I was then forced to drain my savings and 401k. I was living off of credit cards and digging a deep hole for myself. In 2013, after feeling like a hamster on a wheel, I knew I had to change my life around. I wanted to build my account up , get out of debt and put my money to work for me. I made a decision to get this done by any means. in August 2013, I decided to do a NO-SPEND 365 day challenge. No eating out, No traveling, No shopping. I only purchased the necessities. I was able to become debt free and build an emergency fund in 7months. Forbes saw a post about my no spend challenge and sent me questions for an interview. By doing different and sticking to the plan, I was able to get results and be an inspiration to others at the same time.

Having a strong why will keep you going when you feel like you want to give up. 

Why do you think most people are afraid to share their struggles, particularly related to money? What gave you the courage to share your story?

 I think people are afraid of what others may think. Once you get over that part, it’s easy to share.  That’s what actually gave me the coverage. OH, and no one can tell your story better than you.

 What has becoming financially savvy and debt free allowed you to do with your life?  

Becoming debt free and financially savvy has allowed me to invest more money and do more of what I really want to do like travel. It also adds a peace of mind. No more stressing about paying debtors.

No one can tell your story better than you

 You are a business and a brand. What inspires you to keep going on long days? What do you want your legacy to be? 

Knowing the life that I really want to live, gives me that extra drive. I believe that we are born to grow. We have to make the best out of the life that we are given.

Tell us a little about some of the services that you offer.

 I offer one-on-one coaching and an on line course to help individuals break the debt cycle and get in a position to have their money working for them. Available at www.andrelharris.com

What are some of the books you have written and how could someone purchase your books? 

I have an eBook called ” Eliminate Financial stress” This can be downloaded on my site, www.andrelharris.com

Any advice for someone looking to make a lasting life change? 

Yes, make sure you have a STRONG WHY! This was a major key in my success. Having a strong why will keep you going when you feel like you want to give up. 

What are some accomplishments that you are most proud of? What are some of your new goals? 

Making it on  a Forbes feature was my highlight other than beating debt. I’m currently working to help more individuals on a larger scale through social media.

Thank you for the interview.

Getting your life in order starts with you.  To make lasting change, one must do something that may seem extreme to others. I am so glad that she didn’t allow fear nor opinions stop her!

What are you going to do silence the fears and let your dreams be heard?