Public Sector Leaders | January 2024

Page 60

FINANCIAL FITNESS BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

Tips to help you achieve financial success in 2024 A month-to-month

planning guide

W

ith rising costs for essentials like food, fuel, and electricity, the new year presents an ideal opportunity to add financial fitness to our resolutions.

In simple terms, financial fitness means possessing the skills, knowledge, and tools to make wise money decisions. Basics like saving, debt management and contemplating retirement form the core of a financially fit lifestyle.And achieving financial fitness is very similar to developing a fitness routine - it demands planning, discipline, and perseverance. It involves an understanding of proven principles for a healthy life.

Much like adopting a fitness regimen brings benefits and confidence, being financially fit means skillfully managing money for present and future needs. Having, and sticking, to a financial plan helps save for emergencies, avoid debt, and build good credit, all crucial for financial security. To kickstart your journey to managing your money, here’s a monthly breakdown of practical tips to help you achieve financial fitness. TOP TIPS FOR FINANCIAL FITNESS 1. The 50-30-20 rule Allocate 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings, which includes money needed for future goals.

60 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2023/ January 2024

20% Savings 20% Wants

2.

20% Needs

Automate your bank accounts Automate your bank accounts – a key practice of financially wise individuals. Set up automated transfers from your checking account to savings, bill payments, and contributions to retirement funds. This ensures a clear understanding of your spending, eliminates late fees, and designates leftover money


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.