Tomorrow is the last day of 2015, and we'll be ringing in the new year at midnight. As the minute hand draws ever-nearer to midnight, let's do a quick check-up. Ask yourself how you're feeling. Are you feeling sluggish? Weighed down? A bit guilty? Apathetic? Looking forward to a fresh start? Excited to face the year ahead?
I'm not talking about how much you've eaten over the past week, or two, or three. I'm talking about how much you've spent. How many things have you bought that you usually wouldn't have bought "because it's Christmas"? How many meals out have you had "because it's Christmas"? How many unnecessary decorations, or Christmas jumpers, or "festive" coffees have you bought "because it's Christmas"? How do you feel now? Was it worth it?
So often we make resolutions to lose weight or get in shape or get more sleep or become more organized. But what about creating financial security by creating and sticking to a budget? Getting out of debt? Saving £1000, or better yet, an "emergency fund"? Contributing to retirement funds? Starting to save for your children's college education? Saving for a deposit on a house? Or, paying off your mortgage? What? Do people actually do these things?!?! YES! And you can, too.
In 2016 I hope to inspire you to "find the pennies" in your life. I want to help you to understand where your money is going and find creative ways to make the most out of your hard-earned cash. I believe by making small changes to your spending habits, you can accomplish big financial goals. You will learn to take charge of such a vital aspect of your life.
