Saving & Investments Resolutions for the New Year

As the calendar flips to a new year, many people take the opportunity to reflect on their lives and set resolutions for personal growth. Whether you want to bolster your savings, grow your investments, or simply gain better control over your finances, setting achievable resolutions can help you pave the way for a more secure financial future. Here are some smart savings and investment resolutions to consider for 2025: 

1. Establish a Monthly Savings Goal. One of the simplest yet most effective resolutions is to establish a monthly savings goal. Start by analyzing your current financial situation:
    
   • Set a Specific Target: Determine how much money you want to save each month. This could be a fixed amount or a percentage of your income. Aim for at least 20%, if possible.
   • Create a Dedicated Savings Account: Open a high-yield savings account to encourage you to save. This separation makes it less tempting to dip into your savings for everyday expenses.
      
2. Build an Emergency Fund. An emergency fund is a financial safety net that can help you navigate unexpected expenses without derailing your financial plan. Aim to save three to six months' worth of living expenses by following these steps:
    
   • Start Small: If saving three to six months feels overwhelming, start with a smaller goal—perhaps $1,000. Once you reach that milestone, gradually work toward the larger target.
   • Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account every payday to make saving effortless.
      
3. Increase Your Investment Contributions. Investing is not just for the wealthy; it’s a vital component of financial health for everyone. Commit to increasing your investment contributions this year:
    
   • Maximize Employer Matches: If your employer offers a retirement savings plan like a 401(k) with a match, make it a priority to contribute enough to receive the full match. This is essentially “free money.”
   • Open an IRA: If you haven’t already, consider opening a traditional or Roth IRA. Regular contributions can significantly enhance your retirement savings.
      
4. Educate Yourself on Investment Options. Understanding where and how to invest your money is critical for building wealth. Set aside time for financial education this year:
    
   • Read Books and Articles: Explore books on personal finance and investment strategies, and subscribe to reputable financial news outlets.
   • Attend Workshops or Webinars: Many organizations offer free or low-cost workshops on investing basics. Look for local community programs or online courses.
      
5. Diversify Your Investment Portfolio. Diversification is a key principle of investing that can help reduce risk. Review your current investment portfolio and consider the following:
    
   • Explore Different Asset Classes: Look into stocks, bonds, real estate, and mutual funds. Each asset class has its own risk and return profile, so adding variety can help balance your portfolio.
   • Consider Index Funds or ETFs: If you’re unsure where to start, low-cost index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) offer an easy way to diversify your investments without having to pick individual stocks.
      
6. Review and Adjust Your Budget. A budget is a foundational tool for achieving financial goals. Make it a resolution to review and adjust your budget regularly:
    
   • Identify Spending Triggers: Analyze your spending habits to find areas where you can cut back. Redirect those funds toward your savings or investments.
   • Use Budgeting Apps: Consider using budgeting apps that can help you track your spending and keep tabs on your financial goals in real time.
      
7. Seek Professional Advice. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to manage your savings and investments, seeking professional advice can be invaluable:
    
   • Consult a Financial Advisor: A qualified financial advisor can help you create a personalized financial plan. Look for someone who is fiduciary, meaning they are legally obligated to act in your best interest.
   • Take Advantage of Free Resources: Websites like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) offer free financial counseling and educational resources.

Remember, every small step counts; the important thing is to start and stay committed to your financial well-being. Here’s to a prosperous year ahead!