Debt sucks. It is inevitable though from time to time as you stated. I've used it occasionally for trades, but generally try to stay away from it. Currently trying to pay off bills, and I think debt is a huge demotivator. Then the interest rates tend to keep us trapped in debt slavery. Pay off the debt and keep it off. That's my attitude.

On making credit work for you, I often use credit cards to pay for everything. As long as you're paying off the card each month, you're receiving free rewards. So that can work out to your advantage. It can also get you in trouble when you overspend or fall behind.