New Year’s resolution for 2020: save more money

Everyone makes resolutions at the start of the new year. By the first of January at the latest, we figure out what we want to achieve. Slimming down, drinking less or having more time for family. Honestly, though, how many of these goals have you already lost the motivation to achieve just a few days into the new year? And you’re certainly not alone in that.

Sticking with New Year’s resolutions is difficult for most people. Old habits must be overcome, and we need to have discipline. Once we get into our daily routine, our New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside – and our frustration grows.

The solution: choose a resolution you can stick to with just a few tips. What if you could finally actually start saving more money in 2020? Everyone could use a small financial cushion.

We have a few tips that will help you reach your savings goals. Don’t worry, you won’t have to give up your self-determined lifestyle. We promise.

The eight most important tips if saving is your New Year’s resolution

• Tip 1: Don’t wait
  You’ve read this article and determined what your savings goals are for 2020? Perfect. Don’t waste any time – get your New Year’s resolution rolling with our second tip.
  
• Tip 2: Take stock
  The more precisely you define your savings goal, the easier it will be to follow through with your New Year’s resolution. First take stock to determine how much you can save. Balance your income against your expenses. What’s left over at the end of the month? How much of your money is going down the drain, so to speak?
• Tip 3: Live below your means
  Spend less than you earn. Just because you receive a salary increase doesn’t mean you need to move into a larger flat. Instead, enjoy having a little more in your account at the end of the month.
• Tip 4: Compare providers
  Whether it’s health insurance, a mobile phone or electricity provider, check regularly to see if you can save on your fixed contracts. 
• Tip 5: Bike rather than drive
  For short trips, it’s better to leave your car in the garage. That way, you’ll save on petrol, parking and avoid the stress of traffic. At the same time, you’ll stay fit and energetic and do your part for the environment.
  
  Thinking about buying a new car? If you absolutely need a car because of where you live or where you work, you should give careful consideration to the model you buy – does it have to be a new one, or should you consider a used car or car sharing? 
• Tip 6: Think long-term
  As the saying goes, every little bit counts. Think of ways you can save over the long term. For example, you could start having a coffee at home in the morning instead of buying an expensive one on the way to work. Set small goals for yourself at first – they can really grow over time.
• Tip 7: Set up a standing order
  Afraid you’re not disciplined enough to stick to your savings goals? No problem. Set up a standing order at your bank for a savings account. For example, you could have 10 percent of your salary transferred to this account every month. The advantage of this method is that you won’t even be tempted to spend the money.
• Tip 8: Note your savings successes
  January is over and you’ve stuck with your savings objectives? Keep a record of your success. Having it in black and white will help keep you focused on success. And this will give you even more motivation. 

These eight tips are the basis for your 2020 savings goals. Now it’s up to you: try to stay the course and reconsider your spending. You don’t need to drastically limit your self-determination to enjoy greater financial successes.

Photo credit: iStock, baona