2015 New Year Resolutions

The Christmas season has come and gone and everyone seems to be in the mode of making New Years resolutions. Some of the most common resolutions include losing weight, exercising, eating correctly and doing a better job with finances. However, and most of these resolutions won’t last any longer than two weeks. The reason they are so short-lived is because they are bad resolutions to begin with—they sound good but are not actionable.
If your resolutions relate to finances, instead of making the typical “I want to handle my finances better” promises, define it in a way that defines a specific goal, time frame and action.  The more specific you are, the more likely you will stick with your resolutions. Below are some helpful hints about making and keeping those pesky resolutions:

• Figure out why you want to make this change. Whether it is related to your finances or your health, be specific about why you are doing this. Is it because you think you should? Are you feeling pressure to make the change? Do you genuinely want to change? What is in your heart? How will it change your life?
• Define your resolution in a way that is meaningful to you. Use words that you like. For example, if the word “budget” scares you, use another term such as spending plan or money mojo.  If the resolution has meaning to you, then you will own it and be much more likely to actually do it.
• Be specific and include measurable goals. For example. Don’t write down “I want to handle my finances better.” Be specific. “I want to save $50 per paycheck in order to build a $1,000 emergency fund by June 1st.” This is measurable, actionable and has a specific time frame.
• Find an accountability partner. If you are married, discuss your goals with your spouse and work together the achieve them. If you are single, find a friend or relative and share your goals with them, and find a way to share your progress throughout the year.

And the best way to keep those resolutions is to include God in your resolutions and keep them wrapped in prayer. When you become a good steward of your finances and take responsibility for spending your money wisely, God will reward you through a sense of peace, joy and increased faith. God plans such an important role in all aspects of our life and will help guide you to get your financial house in order. If you need assistance, browse our Compass Catholic website for resources & links for spending plans and helpful hints.

“That you should put away the old self of your former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new self, created in God’s way in righteousness and holiness of truth.” – Ephesians 4:22-24

“Be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new self..” – Such powerful words to ponder as we enter into a new year.