When you make those New Year's resolutions, you're thinking about
fresh starts and the year ahead.
What you might not realize is that some resolutions also could save money. Here are some popular resolutions that could help get you and your finances in shape in 2017.
Quit smoking: You can save money by stopping a pack-a-day habit, which can cost between $1,825 and $3,650 per year, depending on the cost of cigarettes in your area. Nationally, a pack-a-day smoker is going to spend an average of $2,000 annually on cigarette costs.
Set up and stick to a realistic budget: If you want to resolve to stick to a budget in 2017, you must start with a realistic plan. People tend to make financial resolutions the same way they do a weight loss plan. If you start with lofty goals they will be unachievable within a month. List your priorities for spending rather than restricting your spending. Focus on necessary expenses then include a certain amount for retirement savings. Then with the remaining money you have each month, set aside a little for enjoyment. It's critical you have rewards in your budget.
Exercise regularly: You'll save money in several ways with regular exercise. On average, Americans are spending $7,800 annually on health care, according to the National Association of Health Underwriters. But exercise brings real savings. "If people are eating right and exercising three times a week for 20 minutes a day, they see prescription costs decrease by 70 percent and medical costs decrease by 30 percent," says Ric Edelman of Edelman Financial Services.
Stop spending money recklessly: One of the best ways to stop spending your money recklessly is to track where it is going each month. Check with your credit union and download their free mobile budgeting app that shows expenditures by category so you can monitor your spending. A great way to get your spending under control is quit trying to "keep up with the Joneses". If you want to fix your bad spending habits in 2017 start hanging out with other spendthrifts because you will likely become one yourself.
Eat healthier: A healthy eating plan can be as -- or more -- economical than fast food. It's a total myth that eating healthy is expensive. Buy smaller but leaner cuts of meat, eat protein-rich beans and buy produce in season when it's freshest and least expensive. A smaller amount of a leaner cut can slice your food bill and your bad cholesterol.
Build an emergency fund: Nothing takes the stress out of financial situation like spare cash. If you are among the millions of Americans that don't have enough money set aside to cover unexpected expenses or emergencies, then you should resolve to build one in 2017. Experts recommend putting enough money in a savings account to cover six months' worth of expenses in case of unexpected emergencies like job loss, maternity leave or medical issues. You can always apply a small amount of your paycheck towards this account, so you make sure it is hidden from you.
Pay off high-interest debt: Paying down credit card debt is one of the most popular short-term goals in 2017. Try focusing on paying off your high-interest credit card debt before other debts because it is more expensive. And, it you are motivated by seeing those results first hand, start by paying off your card with the lowest balance first so you can feel that sense of accomplishment.
Create your estate plan: An important 2017 resolution would be to tie up any financial loose ends for your loved ones so they aren't left trying to pick up the pieces. Make sure you have a will or trust that designates who's in control of your assets. You certainly don't want the state court system to make that decision for you. Don't forget to designate a guardian for your children, and someone who will make financial and healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to do so.
Develop common financial goals with your partner: Many times finances are the biggest source of conflict between couples. It's important that couples sit down and create a financial plan. It doesn't usually work to try and manage their finances separately.
Any of these resolutions can help improve your financial security in 2017. I suggest tackling one financial tip each month so you don't get overwhelmed. Then as you get accustomed to the new approach to spending and saving, add another. By the time 2017 starts dwindling toward 2018, you will find you've made progress on achieving your financial goals.
What you might not realize is that some resolutions also could save money. Here are some popular resolutions that could help get you and your finances in shape in 2017.
Quit smoking: You can save money by stopping a pack-a-day habit, which can cost between $1,825 and $3,650 per year, depending on the cost of cigarettes in your area. Nationally, a pack-a-day smoker is going to spend an average of $2,000 annually on cigarette costs.
Set up and stick to a realistic budget: If you want to resolve to stick to a budget in 2017, you must start with a realistic plan. People tend to make financial resolutions the same way they do a weight loss plan. If you start with lofty goals they will be unachievable within a month. List your priorities for spending rather than restricting your spending. Focus on necessary expenses then include a certain amount for retirement savings. Then with the remaining money you have each month, set aside a little for enjoyment. It's critical you have rewards in your budget.
Exercise regularly: You'll save money in several ways with regular exercise. On average, Americans are spending $7,800 annually on health care, according to the National Association of Health Underwriters. But exercise brings real savings. "If people are eating right and exercising three times a week for 20 minutes a day, they see prescription costs decrease by 70 percent and medical costs decrease by 30 percent," says Ric Edelman of Edelman Financial Services.
Stop spending money recklessly: One of the best ways to stop spending your money recklessly is to track where it is going each month. Check with your credit union and download their free mobile budgeting app that shows expenditures by category so you can monitor your spending. A great way to get your spending under control is quit trying to "keep up with the Joneses". If you want to fix your bad spending habits in 2017 start hanging out with other spendthrifts because you will likely become one yourself.
Eat healthier: A healthy eating plan can be as -- or more -- economical than fast food. It's a total myth that eating healthy is expensive. Buy smaller but leaner cuts of meat, eat protein-rich beans and buy produce in season when it's freshest and least expensive. A smaller amount of a leaner cut can slice your food bill and your bad cholesterol.
Build an emergency fund: Nothing takes the stress out of financial situation like spare cash. If you are among the millions of Americans that don't have enough money set aside to cover unexpected expenses or emergencies, then you should resolve to build one in 2017. Experts recommend putting enough money in a savings account to cover six months' worth of expenses in case of unexpected emergencies like job loss, maternity leave or medical issues. You can always apply a small amount of your paycheck towards this account, so you make sure it is hidden from you.
Pay off high-interest debt: Paying down credit card debt is one of the most popular short-term goals in 2017. Try focusing on paying off your high-interest credit card debt before other debts because it is more expensive. And, it you are motivated by seeing those results first hand, start by paying off your card with the lowest balance first so you can feel that sense of accomplishment.
Create your estate plan: An important 2017 resolution would be to tie up any financial loose ends for your loved ones so they aren't left trying to pick up the pieces. Make sure you have a will or trust that designates who's in control of your assets. You certainly don't want the state court system to make that decision for you. Don't forget to designate a guardian for your children, and someone who will make financial and healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to do so.
Develop common financial goals with your partner: Many times finances are the biggest source of conflict between couples. It's important that couples sit down and create a financial plan. It doesn't usually work to try and manage their finances separately.
Any of these resolutions can help improve your financial security in 2017. I suggest tackling one financial tip each month so you don't get overwhelmed. Then as you get accustomed to the new approach to spending and saving, add another. By the time 2017 starts dwindling toward 2018, you will find you've made progress on achieving your financial goals.
What are your financial goals for the New Year? AllU.S. Credit Union ( https://alluscu.com ) would love to be your partner as you achieve your financial resolutions in 2017.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Patrick_Redo/2064245
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