Every day, I get at least one letter or message from someone who needs encouragement. It might be a never-changing credit-card balance that has the writer down in the dumps. Or it could be from someone who's made tremendous progress paying down their debt, but then falls off the wagon and starts down that terrible path again.

One letter I got recently came from a young woman who believes that she simply cannot stop spending money. She feels completely powerless under the strain of her circumstances and obsessive behavior.

I cannot know your exact circumstances, but perhaps you can identify in some way. Do you feel like this burden you carry is far too heavy to bear? Do you feel defeated? Hopeless? Like a complete loser because while everyone else is making tremendous progress towards saving, investing and spending less than they earn, you're in worse shape than ever — and ashamed to admit it.

Well, take heart, my friend! It's a rare person who doesn't get discouraged from time to time. Whether it happens to us or to a friend or colleague were trying to cheer up, the answer centers around one word: perseverance. Stick with it. Never give up!

Sounds so easy, I know. But living that way — resolutely, intentionally heading into each day determined to keep going no matter what — that requires a tough mind and strong commitment.

Remember: As long as you are pointed in the right direction, even the tiniest baby step brings you closer to success. Don't underestimate your ability to put one foot in front of the other and just keep going.

I know of no better way to illustrate the value of courage, persistence and perseverance than by giving you a quick overview of one man`s life:

Age 22 — Failed in business

Age 23 — Ran for legislature — defeated

Age 24 — Again failed in business

Age 25 — Elected to legislature

Age 26 — Sweetheart died

Age 27 — Had a nervous breakdown

Age 29 — Defeated for Speaker of the House

Age 31 — Defeated for Elector

Age 34 — Defeated for Congress

Age 37 — Elected to Congress

Age 39 — Defeated for Congress

Age 46 — Defeated for Senate

Age 47 — Defeated for Vice President

Age 49 — Defeated for Senate

Age 51 — Elected President of the United States

That, My Dear Reader, is the record of Abraham Lincoln. Amazing, isn't it?

No matter your situation today, persevere. Hold on and never, ever give up!

Would you like more information? Log on to EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions, comments and tips at mary@everydaycheapskate.com, or c/o Everyday Cheapskate, 12340 Seal Beach Blvd., Suite B-416, Seal Beach, CA 90740. This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com, a personal finance member website and the author of "Debt-Proof Living," released in 2014. To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Garry Knight