What better way to kick off the year than with setting some new finance goals to get you motivated!

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of making changes, but make sure your goals are achievable and realistic for you. It might be helpful to start with a big goal like buying a house or saving up for a new car, and then from there you can break things down into categories that will help you get there. A key tip for sticking to your goals is to keep track of your progress. That way you can see how far you’ve come to give you some motivation! Not sure where to start? Try taking these 5 finance goals into the new year.
1. Track your spending 
With Apple/Google Pay so readily available at our fingertips, it’s easy to lose track of where your money is going. It might sound simple, but the best way to track your spending is to set up a budget. Make your budget clear, by laying out all your expenses and create a set amount for savings and spending so you know exactly where all your money is going. Doing this will allow you to identify areas where you can potentially reduce spending, but be mindful to keep your budget achievable.
2. Audit of subscriptions
Are you subscribed to every streaming service available but only use Netflix?
Start fresh this year by managing all your monthly subscriptions. Streamer services, gyms, whatever it might be, we are all guilty of being subscribed to things we never use. And while it may only be a couple of dollars here and there, it all adds up and those little savings can go a long way.
3. Budget SMART
Budgeting can be a challenge, but if done correctly, this just might be the best way to improve your saving and spending habits. If you’re not familiar with SMART budgeting, let us help you. Think Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. For example, you are wanting to save for a holiday. Instead of just saying “savings for holiday”, say “save $5000 for European summer holiday by May 31st’. It’s important to stay flexible with your SMART goals as our lives are constantly changing, therefore our finance goals have to change accordingly.
4. Become debt free
There is no better feeling than being debt free. Not to mention, this is a vital goal that will allow you to take control of your finances. Keeping this goal at the forefront of your mind and focusing on reducing the amount of debt you owe, will in turn reduce the amount of interest paid. A great way to kickstart this goal is to set up a debt payment plan and make a commitment to yourself to stick to it.
5. Shop around
Are the neighbours down the street paying far less in electricity than you? Could your phone bill be less per month? Make sure to do your research and ask for quotes to ensure you are getting the best bang for your buck through your providers. Think electricity, gas, water, internet and phone providers. By being able to minimise costs within these big-ticket necessity items, you’ll be surprised on how much you’ll be saving.
Make this year your (financially) best one yet! Keep yourself accountable and you’ll be ticking off those goals in no time.