We’re over 2 weeks into the New Year and if you’re anything like me, your New Year’s Resolutions are struggling,
I did a Facebook live in the Thrive in the Chaos Facebook Group and talked about 3 tips to help you stick to your New Year’s Resolutions. Jump down to the bottom if you’d rather watch the video!
Tip #1: Habit stacking
The best way to stick to a new goal is to make it a habit and a great way to remember to do your new habit is through habit stacking.
Stick your new habit onto something you’re already in the habit of doing. I mean things like getting out of bed, taking a shower, making a cup of coffee- things you do every day without thinking about them.
Here are some examples:
- After I pay for food out, I’ll transfer the same amount to my savings or debt
- Before swiping my card, I’ll check my account balance
- While waiting for my coffee to brew, I’ll check my budget balances
- Before hitting the “buy” button I’ll look for coupon codes
What’s a money goal you’re aiming for, and how can you use habit stacking to get there?
Tip #2: Make it easier or harder to do
If you want to start a new habit, reduce the number of steps it takes to accomplish it.
Let be honest, we can be kind of lazy and starting new habits can feel daunting and uncomfortable. So we need to make it as easy as possible to do. I like to think of it as setting yourself up for success.
For example:
- Downloading your banking app so you can check your balance easier
- Packing lunch the night before so you’re not tempted to buy lunch out
If you want to break a bad habit, increase the number of steps it takes to accomplish it.
The idea is to create some distance between your desire and the action. That little bit of resistance gives you a moment to pause and realize what you’re doing and be more intentional with your choices. We’re also trying to use our laziness for good :)
For example:
- Don’t keep your credit card/ debit card number saved anywhere online, so when you want to buy something online, you have to go get your card and punch the numbers in
- Leave your card in the car when you go shopping in the store
Tip #3: Take yourself out of the equation
Let’s be honest, I’m the weakest link when it comes to managing my money. My budget isn’t going to get into trouble on its own. I’m the one doing the impulse shopping and paying bills late.
When I’m manually putting money into savings or paying the bills, I’m going to mess things up eventually. I’m human!
The more I can automate my money and not handle it personally, the better off my money is. When I take myself out of the equation, my bills are paid on time, my credit cards are paid off every month and my savings grows without using an ounce of willpower.
I can be lazy AND manage my money better. Yes please!
Managing your money doesn’t have to be hard
There are things you can do to set yourself up for success. Start money habits that will get your money headed in the right direction. Stick new habits onto something you’re already doing every day, like brushing your teeth or making coffee.
To start a new habit, make it as easy as possible to do, decreasing the number of steps it takes to accomplish it. To break a bad habit, make it harder to do, by increasing the number of steps it takes to accomplish it. Let’s be honest, we’re lazy by nature, so use that to your advantage!
Take yourself out of the equation altogether! Put as much of your money on autopilot as you can- auto-pay bills, set your credit cards to be paid in full every month, and auto-transfer money to your savings every pay period. Your money will be working for yhttps://youtu.be/_k7IN6l9CJEou without any effort or willpower on your end!
What money habit can you start today?