A debt consolidation loan is heavy artillery--a serious solution for a serious problem. So you don't want to waste it by getting silly with the money you save each month. Debt consolidation is like a diet--you can make it part of a healthy lifestyle change and go on to a better life, or you can use it as a quick fix. And as with dieting, a quick fix debt consolidation can make you look and feel good--for about a week. Then you go back to being broke. So here's how to make your debt consolidation stick:

1. Fess up to your friends. You can't keep being the generous, big-spending life of the party. Explain that you can't afford expensive outings for awhile but continue to keep in touch. Join in on less expensive fun; opt for pot luck dinners and rented movies over Chez Expensif. Who knows? Some of your friends may be very happy to spend less--you're probably not the only one under financial pressures.

2. Get your family on the same page. Kids need to learn financial responsibility too. While they don't need to know the gory details, kids should understand the short-term need and the importance of pitching in. Enlist their help for money-saving ideas and fun things to do that won't cost too much. And if they whine you'll just have to be tough--that's why you're the grownup.

3. Track your progress. Your debt will go away if you make your debt consolidation loan payments as agreed and refrain from adding to your debt load. Putting some money into emergency savings can help you make sure that an unexpected repair bill or medical problem doesn't derail your program. But if something knocks you temporarily off track, don't give up. Adjust your expectations and then get back to your budget.

4. Look for improvements. As your credit gets better, you may find opportunities to improve on your debt consolidation program. If you can get a lower rate, you can make the same payment go further and pay your debt off faster. Like dieting, debt consolidation isn't easy to stick to. But when it seems especially hard, imagine yourself out of debt. You are saving for a fabulous vacation. And you and your family will enjoy every minute.