The beginning of a new year is like a breath of fresh air. There is something about it being a new year that makes you feel like you can leave the past in the past and start over again – similar to Mondays I suppose but on a grander scheme. I’m not necessarily a fan of New Year’s Resolutions but it IS beneficial to set goals so that you have something to shoot for. In 2016 I want to travel with my husband, pay off all of our debt (with the exception of our mortgage) and possibly start a family. There is one thing that will drive all of these other goals into motion: financial fitness.
I liken getting on the path to financial fitness to joining a gym and taking your “before” pictures or recording your starting weight. It isn’t fun to do and it might leave you feeling disappointed or overwhelmed. It is important to take a look at your current funds, your budget, where your money is going, and what debt you have if you want to be able to accomplish your financial goals.
If you have a goal to be in better financial health this year, Capital One has several tools to help you on your journey:
360 Savings – This savings program offers no fees no minimums, and a great interest rate to help you achieve your savings goals fast.
Automatic Savings Plan – This is a tool that is available to all Capital One 360 Savings that transfers money from your checking account to your savings account automatically. All you have to do is pick an amount and a date!
“My Savings Goals” – This tool lets you create custom goals, such as “vacation” or “car loan” and track the savings you’ve put toward all of them. I’m a visual person so tools like this really help me achieve my goals!
In addition to these great tools offered by Capital One, there are a few small things I’m doing to try to achieve my goals of saving for travel, paying off all of our debts and saving for a family. Here are just a few:
- Using coupons at the grocery store
- Keeping a visual chart in the back of my dayplanner of all of our debts. Everytime we pay off a certain increment I make a checkmark so that I can see our progress
- Cleaning out closets and selling unwanted or unused items to the local consignment shop
Have you tried any of the tips that I just shared? What are YOUR goals for 2016? Let us know in the comments!
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
Liz Mays says
I like the idea of assessing you’re starting point. I’d definitely like to be able to save and live within our means from now on.
Robin Rue (@massholemommy) says
I agree with everything you have here. Lucky for me, I am married to an accountant and he;s ALL OVER our budget!
Cathi Crismon says
So many good ideas and it all begins as you stated. I’m going to list things that I can sell on eBay! I usually put everything on the curb with a free sign but eBay will be beneficial and just as easy. Thanks!!
Jennifer says
I use coupons at all times. In fact, if I don’t have a coupon, I usually won’t buy it.
Brenda Kight says
I use coupons and it is amazing the money that can be saved. I also have yard sales occasionally every little bit helps.
Marcie W. says
These are great tips and so very true. I feel we are in great place financially but would like to learn more about 401k plans to focus more on saving for retirement.
Meagan says
I too am trying to be better with saving! Love the idea of cleaning your closet and selling unused items!
Chantal says
I am very focused on saving for our future now instead of later. These are great tips on how to save and reach your financial goals.
Kayla @ TheEclecticElement says
I totally agree with you, I think the big starting point in any venture or goal comes down to the financial. Since I can’t work I do whatever I can to make and/or save a little money; I use coupons when applicable, I sell things that I don’t need or want anymore, I use my computer skills to make some money, I make and sell jewelry, etc. It all helps in one way or another!
SHELLEY R ZUREK says
Do you make much money off consignment. I am always struggling what to do with clothes. My favorite thing is to give them to those I know but never sure who can wear what and hate to insult people.
Sarah says
Great post. I love that you say you have to start off by accessing your starting point. Great tip and so important!
Florentina says
I’m a coupon collector ! I pay less for organic stuff than my friends do for generic. I stock up when stuff goes on sale, my pantry is always full with bulk items, and that saves a lot !
Sabrina @ Dinner, then Dessert says
People need to be educated on how to take care of their finances! So many people could use tips on how to be more responsible!
OurFamilyWorld says
These are great tips on how to save money. I use coupons whenever applicable. My goal is to save more money this year.
Janis @MommyblogExpert says
Could not agree more. Financial fitness is so important and definitely should be part of everyone’s New Year’s resolutions.
Amy Desrosiers says
I agree with this a million percent. If you are not financially sound then there is just so much to stress over. Take care of that an everything with fall into place eventually.