Welcome to the Friday Five! Each week we’ll provide five quick tips about a different topic of interest. Interested in seeing a particular subject discussed? Send an email with your FAQ to [email protected]
This does not constitute advice and advice should be sought in all instances before acting on it.
As 2018 draws to a close, many are looking ahead to a new year. A fresh start to pursue new pursuits and objectives that you weren’t able to reach this year. When choosing your resolutions, be sure to cover all aspects of your life – personal, professional, emotional, physical, and of course, financial.
Here are five financial goals everyone should have – for 2019 and beyond.
1. Become debt free
There’s no greater feeling in the world than being debt free. And it’s a completely achievable goal – with organisation and the right attitude. Make short-term plans to pay down credit cards and/or small loans as soon as you can, and long-term ones to pay off larger debts like mortgages. Getting out of debt means you have more authority over your financial affairs and can start saving in earnest.
2. Plan for the future
Even if you love your job, everyone in the workforce dreams of retirement. And the earlier you start saving, the more you’ll have – not just because you’ll have valuable extra years of saving cash under your belt, but compound interest will help increase those savings. Be sure your savings and investment portfolio is diverse to make the most of your retirement funds.
3. Save for a rainy day
People often think of an emergency fund as a short-term solution to a short-term problem. But it helps provide peace of mind and helps prevent you from dipping into other long-term investments. Should anything happen and you need to take from your stash, be sure to replenish what you took out.
4. Live within your means
If you’re hoping to build your savings in the new year, you’ll need to learn how to curb unnecessary spending habits and buckle down. Make a budget and stick to it – prioritise bills, debt, and savings, then whatever is left over is your spending money. Set up automatic payments so you won’t be tempted to splurge on things you don’t need.
5. Leave a legacy
Ensuring your family is taken care of after your passing might seem like a lofty goal, but it’s an important one. You don’t want your loved ones to pay out of their own pocket for any expenses related to your death. But even more so, it’s a wonderful gift to leave behind enough of an inheritance to really make an impact in their lives, however small.
Start planning today
With foresight, diligence, and a little professional help in the form of a trusted advisor, reaching your financial goals won’t be difficult. Get started on your list of resolutions and contact us for assistance to being your 2019 with a good solid plan.