True to form, every year January brings a deluge of self-promises and new resolutions. There’s something about the start of a new calendar year which makes us feel a renewed sense of purpose, and gives us a refreshed drive and energy to make things happen.

 

And whether or not you buy into the idea of new year’s resolutions, anything that encourages people to make positive changes in their lives is a winner in our eyes.

 

So in the spirit of new beginnings and new habits, here are three easy but impactful things you can do to start 2021 on a high financially.

 
 

Revise your goals

 

It’s a well-established truth that taking the time to work out what you want your money to achieve will give you a greater sense of clarity. You can measure your progress against a defined plan and improve your emotional and financial wellbeing for the future.

 

But are your goals still relevant? It’s important to make sure you’re not dedicating valuable time and money to goals and savings pots which aren’t relevant any more. Maybe you were saving for a new car, which you’ve now bought. Out of habit you may be still putting aside that amount each month without even thinking about it. Imagine what you could do with it instead now that you’ve ticked that goal off your list. A new year is a perfect time to sit down and reassess.

 
 

Check your banking terms

 
Could you be getting a better deal elsewhere? Switching bank providers often comes with cash benefits, as well potentially offering better interest rates and lower fees.

 

Many people stick with the same bank for years out of habit, loyalty, or familiarity – or a combination of all three. But shopping around, just as you would if you were buying a new piece of tech or renewing your insurance, could give you a small but significant boost.

 
 

Do some estate planning

 
As well as discarding some of the past, spring cleaning is also about preparing for the future. In the home, it alerts you to things that may cause a problem in months to come; a leak in the garage, a cracked tile in the utility room.

 

Financial spring cleaning is just the same. It allows you to take stock and plan for the future, for yourself and your loved ones. So if you haven’t looked at your estate plan for a few years, take the time now to consider if everything is in place.

 

 

None of these are particularly groundbreaking, but that’s not the point – it’s the simple things which often have the most impact. And let’s face it, if it’s easy yet has good payoff, you’re more likely to do it in the first place. It’s the doing that counts.