As the year counts down, and the bustle spins up, many of us are focused on setting goals for the New Year. Whether in 2025 you want to get ready to buy a new home, save money on the home you have, or put yourself in a different financial position, we are all ready for some quick and efficient tips and tricks that can be done to achieve success as the calendar turns the page. And since most everyone’s attention is most likely on a sugar rush, let’s focus on a few simple things you might also be able to use as fodder for awkward holiday parties no matter where you are in your financial journey.
- The best way to determine if you can really afford that new payment is to pretend like you have to pay it now. Considering buying a home, or maybe even a car? Go ahead and set up an automatic savings plan that transfers that exact payment difference to a new, earmarked savings account on pay day. This will get you used to the cadence and level of payments, and figure out what may need to be adjusted for success.
- Schedule out a 30-minute, recurring block to “touch” your finances. Maybe it’s Wednesday morning before the coffee brews, or Sunday as the weekend winds down; either way, put a recurring time on your calendar and be sure to list in the notes what you want to accomplish. Things such as, “Check credit card balances,” “Plan meals for the week,” or, “Move $$ to savings,” can all prompt you to stay on track. You can use this time to educate yourself on products and services as well.