As we enter the new year, many of us make resolutions to improve our lives and reach our goals. But why not do the same for our finances while we’re at it?
If you’re looking for some financial resolutions you can stick to, we’ve got you covered. Let’s start the year off right with a few decisions that both you and your bank account will appreciate.
Get Serious About Your Budget
Unfortunately, most people are better at making budgets than following them. If that sounds like you, it might be time to consider using an app to help you stick to your plan.
Popular options like Mint and YNAB can sync with your accounts, track income and spending, and help you visualize where your money is going. By eliminating the need to enter all that information by hand, you’re much more likely to get the most out of your budget.
Review Your Credit Report
Getting a copy of your credit report before the new year starts is a good way to get a clear picture of your financial situation. It will also allow you to start repairing any problems that might have cropped up over the previous year.
Don’t forget that you’re legally entitled to three free reports each year, so feel free to make this an annual habit.
Rebalance Your Portfolio
Rebalancing your portfolio can help limit the impact of market volatility. It can also protect your investments and increase the potential for long-term growth by taking and reinvesting profits.
Furthermore, it’s a chance to readjust your portfolio to fit your target asset allocation if it got off track during the past year.
Treat Yourself
Remember to enjoy the fruits of your labor once in a while. Putting aside a small amount of money each month is a nice way to surprise yourself at the end of the year. It’s also an effective way to ease yourself into better saving habits if that’s something you struggle with.
Build Your Financial Knowledge
Take the opportunity to learn more about personal finance in the new year. This could mean something as simple as reading books or blogs. It could also mean something more involved, like taking a course or scheduling a meeting with a financial advisor.
The more you know about managing your money, the better prepared you’ll be to make smart financial decisions in the future.
Pay Down Credit Cards
If you racked up more credit card debt than planned this year, you’re not alone.
The good news is that being strategic about paying down debt is one of the simplest but most effective financial resolutions you can make. Not only does it mean more money in your pocket, but it also means less stress you’ll have to deal with. That’s something you can’t put a price on.
Financial resolutions can be a great way to start the year off on the right foot. By setting achievable goals and sticking to your plan, you can make progress toward your objectives and create a brighter financial future for yourself. Happy New Year!
This article is for information, illustrative and entertainment purposes only and does not purport to show actual results. It is not, and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular investment action.
