In the aftermath of the Great Recession, a deep-rooted belief emerged: debt is bad. It became synonymous with financial instability, leading many to avoid it at all costs. But over time, the narrative is shifting. Today, the U.S. consumer is taking a more measured, rational approach—embracing debt not as a burden, but as a tool for growth. Whether it’s maximizing rewards, building credit, or managing cash flow, debt is no longer a villain in the story of personal finance. Instead, the focus is on how it’s managed. Smart debt, backed by discipline and opportunity, is proving to be an asset—not an enemy.