The expression of “getting into debt” typically refers to when you borrow more than you can afford to repay on time or even pay off. This will make it difficult to maintain minimum monthly payments and could cause you to juggle which debts you choose to pay each month. This can result in missed or late payments, which will be reported to the credit bureaus and reflected on your credit report.
It will be difficult to borrow more money to cover the current debts because lenders will see that you are struggling to pay your existing creditors and will be concerned for your ability to repay them. In these instances, you might need to negotiate with your existing creditors to see how you might be able to repay them given your circumstances. You might also try to seek out more sources of income (such as second job) until you can pay down your debt to a more manageable level.
The best way to stay “out of debt” is to not borrow more than you can easily repay. Only borrow money you truly need and nothing more. Prioritize paying off your debts before spending on non-essential items. Not only will this reduce the stress associated with being in debt; these healthy borrowing habits will reflect on your credit report, making it easier for to borrow money when the time comes that you really need to do so.