Why My Debt Doesn't Stress Me Out

Leaving behind my current temporary position for a permanent job, I'm wondering, how much room do I have to be picky about the job I take?

I have two degrees (and some loans to go with them), a car payment, no health insurance, no savings, and my 6-month job is about to be over.

At first, I was panicking a bit about my impending joblessness. Even if I go stay with my parents, how will I ever make all my monthly payments?

After recovering my wits, I realized it will be easy.

Before I went back for my MA, I was really good about taking my extra income and dividing it between retirement, savings, and paying off loans. My next loan payment for my undergrad loans isn't due until 2014. I'm that far ahead. Even with my current tight budget, I've been making monthly payments as if I am not that far ahead.

My next car payment isn't actually due until April, though I'd like to keep paying it off if possible simply because I'm between 5 and 6 months away from having paid off half of my debt on it.

I've got less of a handle on my graduate school loans. They have the highest interest rate, the highest balance, and my next payment is due in January, though that still gives me some flexibility in finding a job.

At first glance, I look like I'm in pretty bad shape, and really, I kind of am, but it could be worse. I have a buffer here, and I'm looking at a future with benefits and enough extra income that I can go back to actually paying into retirement and savings. I might even be able to afford a vacation.