If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that we need to be prepared for anything. Is one of your New Year’s resolutions is to be more in control of your money? If so, you are in the right place! With any resolution, you can use a few strategies to keep it, such as:

• Spend time planning. You spend time planning an event, a trip or even making dinner. It takes time to make sure you have everything you need and you can do it in the time you have. A New Year’s resolution is no different. Get your favorite planner out and get your plan down in writing.
• Break it down into manageable steps. A resolution can quickly feel overwhelming when you get started. But if you break it down to small steps, you’ll see that you can manage it over time.
• Learn from the pros. Read a book or follow a podcast on personal finance. Or, get a supporter and accountability partner by signing up to meet with a Financial Coach (see details below).
• Remember that keeping a resolution is a process, sometimes a long one. Don’t get discouraged if you have a setback or don’t make progress as quickly as you’d like. Just re-assess, make adjustments to your plan, and start back up.

Ready to get started? If your New Year’s resolution includes things like making a budget, getting out of debt, putting money in savings, or improving your credit, Financial Coaches are here for you.

Financial Coaching is a free service provided by trained volunteers, who love crunching numbers and helping people. Any individual with an annual income of $50,000 or less or a family of 2-4 with an annual income of $75,000 or less is eligible for Financial Coaching.

Schedule your phone or Zoom appointment with a Financial Coach by calling 737-717-4000 or by visiting our web site at www.foundcom.org/financial-wellness.