The U.S. economy is in the worst shape in 40 years and financial experts expect it to worsen in the coming months. Do you have a plan to help you financially navigate 2023? A few helpful tips:
1. Record your goals. People often have hopes and dreams, but don’t write those down and commit them to action. As the saying goes, “If you aim at nothing, you’ll probably hit it.” It’s true — if we are proactive and make a written plan for the year, studies have proven we will be much more likely to achieve those goals and enjoy the financial freedom that will come with it.
2. Be specific. A goal to “save more money” is a good start, but far too general to end there. Save how much money? Perhaps to save $25 per paycheck, or to save a total of $2,000 before 2022 ends, for example.
3. Less is more. Most people will find elaborate notebooks and charts far too much work and overwhelming, causing them to either not start or to quit along the way. That’s why less can be more in this case. You don’t need anything complex or overly comprehensive. Even a large sticky note or index card will typically do just fine. It’s not intimidating or too time-consuming to do, and it can provide enough detail for what you need. Be sure to post your goals somewhere where you can see them on a regular basis, as a continual reminder.
4. Minimize. With the high inflation and expected worsening of the economy, now would be a good time to look for ways to minimize and scale back a bit on your spending. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst.
For more strategies and a free, confidential, non-judgmental budgeting/financial counseling appointment with a caring financial professional, contact CCOA at 479-521-8877 or schedule an appointment online. Appointments are available in person, by phone or online.
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