We’re well into 2021, and those annual resolutions are definitely in full swing. But, let’s be honest, most of the resolutions we make are around getting in shape, losing weight, and becoming fitter. How many of us view our 2021 goals from a financial standpoint? As 2020 took a toll on most of our plans, and for a lot of people, had a significant impact on their finances, we think prioritising your financial health is a great resolution to make this time around.
Now, depending on your goals, we bring you a few financial resolutions that are worth making this New Year:
Set A Budget
It may not be the start of the new financial year, but as we all know, this is the time to take stock, submit those investment proofs and wait the rest of this financial year out. But, instead of sitting pretty, why not analyse to bank and credit card statements and see where it is you spend unnecessarily. This is not only sound advice and a healthy practice, it’s a great way to budget those expenses, particularly if you now belong to a one-income household. What’s more, it’ll help to involve your (teenage) kids when discussing finances, so that the can learn responsibility, understand the value of money, and take this good habit into their adult years.
Take Consistent Steps To Boost Your Savings
As the adage goes, ‘A little goes a long way’, and when it comes to saving money, no amount is insignificant. A great first step is to make consistent efforts to save, whether the sum is small or large. Take for example an extra ₹500 a week that you deposit into a savings account. This will add up to ₹2,000 a month, and ₹24,000 a year. If you don’t touch this amount for a period of five years, with interest, you’ll have a significant amount for a rainy day. After all, when you look at the math, the amount can only add up.
Pay Those Premiums Before Their Due Dates
Most of us take for granted those auto-debit facilities, but it so happens that through various technical glitches, those insurance premiums may not necessarily get deducted. This makes it crucial to pay your premiums on time because if the premium is not paid by the date its due, the policy is considered as lapsed, and the policyholder will lose out on the benefits—a rather counterproductive outcome of taking out the policy to begin with. And while there is a grace period that comes with each insurance policy, it’s better to get in the habit of healthy financial practices and timely payments.
Plan For Those Golden Years
It’s never too early to plan for your retirement. In fact, the earlier you start, the more benefits you can reap. Besides, you’re not going to be able to work for forever, but the real question is, would you want to? Look at various retirement plans offered by your bank, and make sure to budget insurance premiums and various policies you may like to take out, in that set budget.
Pay Attention To Your Money
This is a simple way to look at it: keep track of the money you invest. This means, being in constant touch with your financial advisor, or, if you have a fair grasp on the markets, understand how your investment plans are performing. This way, if you’re looking at taking out any fresh investment plans, you’ll know whether you want a high-risk plan or a slow-yield one. Asking the right questions goes a long way to making you money wise.