I kept a balance on my credit card for years and it weighed on me. Waves of financial anxiety. Even the relatively small amount I had on it felt like a ball and chain.
Set yourself free. Pay off your debts and build a savings account, if you are able. It doesn’t need to be $10,000. Work toward $1,000 even. Save enough for that next big emergency or expense. That way you’re not reliant on credit when life happens.