Every January, we promise ourselves this will be the year we get our finances in order. We vow to save more, spend less, and finally feel confident about our financial situation. But by the time February rolls around, many financial resolutions quietly fade away. According to Vanguard, nearly 75% of Americans fell short of their saving and spending resolutions in 2025; nonetheless, 84% of Americans have a financial resolution for 2026.

The good news? If you set a financial goal for this year, you don’t need extreme budgeting or perfect discipline to make real progress. With a few smart strategies — and realistic expectations — you can turn good intentions into lasting habits.

Here are five tips to help you set financial resolutions you can actually keep this year.

1. Start Small (Yes, Smaller Than You Think)

Big goals are inspiring, but they can also be overwhelming. Instead of resolving to “save $5,000 this year,” start with something achievable—like saving $25 or $50 per paycheck.

Small wins build momentum. Once saving or paying down debt becomes part of your routine, it’s easier to increase your goals over time without feeling stressed or discouraged.

Tip: Progress beats perfection. Consistency matters more than the dollar amount.

2. Be Specific About Your “Why”

A resolution like “spend less money” is hard to stick with because it’s vague. Connecting your goal to a clear purpose makes it more motivating.

Ask yourself:

  • Are you saving for an emergency fund?
  • Paying for college or student loan payments?
  • Planning a vacation, home purchase, or buying a new car?

Tip: When you know why you’re making a change, it’s easier to stay committed — especially when temptation strikes.

Once you identify your motivation, take clearly actionable steps:

  • Cut back to one coffee shop treat per week.
  • Set a budget for online shopping each month – or even commit to a “no spend” month.
  • Evaluate your online and streaming subscriptions to see if you can eliminate or downgrade any of them.

Tip: Know your spending pitfalls and try to minimize or eliminate them.

3. Automate When Possible

Willpower is unreliable, but automation is not. Setting up automatic transfers to savings or automatic payments toward debt removes the need to make daily decisions. You might discover you don’t even miss the money if you never see it as spendable!

Automation helps you:

  • Save before you spend
  • Avoid missed payments
  • Reduce stress and mental load

Tip: Even small, automated contributions add up faster than you think.

4. Build Flexibility into Your Plan

Life happens. Unexpected expenses, changing priorities, or seasonal costs (hello, back-to-school and holidays) can throw even the best plans off track.

Instead of giving up when things don’t go perfectly, build flexibility into your budget. Leave room for adjustments — and give yourself permission to reset rather than quit.

A sustainable financial plan works with your life, not against it.

Tip: If you can’t meet your goal one week/month, catch up as soon as possible.

5. Use Support and Resources Available to You

You don’t have to do this alone! From budgeting tools and financial education to credit union guidance and loan options, support can make your goals more achievable.

If you’re navigating big expenses — like paying for college, managing student loans, or planning long-term savings — a trusted financial partner can help you explore options and stay on track.

Tip: Asking questions is a smart financial move, not a sign you’re behind.

Make This the Year Your Resolutions Stick

Financial resolutions aren’t about restriction — they’re about building confidence and peace of mind. By keeping your goals realistic, flexible and supported, you can make steady progress all year long.

Tip: This year, focus less on doing everything perfectly and more on doing something consistently. Your future self will thank you!

 

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