Profitable Financial Habits
By Ginita Wall, CPA, CFP
Good financial habits will last a lifetime. Give these gifts to yourself! They are much more fun than vowing not to eat another piece of chocolate cake!
Monitor Your Spending
Pick three or four categories where trimming expenses can make a difference, and then cut 10% to 20% in these areas. For example, groceries, entertainment and clothing probably are a significant part of your budget. If trimming 20% from these expenses will save $150 a month, you`ll be $2,000 ahead by the end of the year.
Save Money
Have 5% to 10% of your paycheck deposited directly to your savings account, or do it yourself each payday. When you redeem coupons at the grocery store, bank your savings. Saving is a habit-make it yours.
Set Financial Goals
Whatever your dream-a new home, an education fund for the children, a secure retirement-setting goals can make it happen. Decide what is most important for your future, how much you need to accumulate to meet this goal, and then begin today to turn your dreams into reality.
Invest Wisely
Many people unwisely fund long-term goals with short-term investments. Stocks and growth mutual funds have consistently beat saving accounts, CDs, and short-term bonds for long-term growth. The best place to put retirement funds is in your IRA, SEP, TSA, 401(k) or other tax-deferred investment vehicle.
Learn About Finances
Get educated this year with financial books from the WIFE.org bookstore. Whether you are interested in learning how to invest, how to manage money with your sweetie, or how to get out of debt, these resources will help you to reach your goals
Excerpted from
- Ginita Wall, CPA, CFP
“Financial New Year`s Resolutions”
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