1. Track your spending
It's important to have a visual representation of your spending habits and finances so that you can hold yourself accountable. It might sound like a tedious task, but it doesn't have to be. For a more traditional approach, you can buy a notebook and put pen to paper. However, if the thought of writing down every purchase you make overwhelms you, you may consider using a personal finance tool, such as Money Manager, to track your spending and get complete insight into your bank account (or numerous bank accounts). By tracking your spending, you can prioritize and adjust your spending patterns for a better overall budget.
2. Start saving a little at a time
The idea of saving may seem overwhelming; however, this is a critical step to making sure your future is financially secure. Start little by little. Instead of putting $500 of your next paycheck away in preparation for Christmas, try setting a goal in January to save $50 a month for your Christmas fund. You and your wallet will feel a lot better that way. With the help of RoundUp and a SaveUp Savings Account, you can automate your savings to either round up debit card transactions to the nearest dollar, or set $1, $2, or $5 to transfer into savings per transaction.
3. Have an investor's mind
Investing is key to securing a stable financial future. The earlier you start investing, the better! That just means more money in your pocket in the end. If you're not quite sure how to start investing, it can be highly beneficial to start with a 401k account as this can also get your savings established for your retirement. Keep in mind that investing is most successful when you have excess cash to do so. If you feel like you're a little strapped for cash at the moment, make investing a goal for the near future.
4. Shop sales and resale
If you're not already a bargain shopper, you may consider hitting those sale racks. Sticking within your budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. If you hit the right stores and end-of-season sale, you can set your closet up for upcoming seasons. Focus on staples and avoid the trendier items that may fade from season to season.
5. Establish and improve your credit
It's essential to understand what impacts your credit score and establish your credit score so that you're able to make those important purchases in the future. Credit is one of the main factors considered when calculating your mortgage rate, car payments, and more. Start building credit now and take the necessary steps to improve your score, so that you can confidently apply for a loan in the future.
For more tips and tricks to make smarter decisions with your money, visit Central Bank's Learning Center today.
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