As we move into yet another new year, it’s important to take some time to take stock of the year that was and what you want out of the year ahead. The start of the year marks an ideal time to review your personal finances, and with many of us fortunate enough to have some time off, summer can provide the perfect occasion to nut out some resolutions and a roadmap for success.
Plan for success
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” No true success comes without some solid planning and goal setting. Take some time this summer to think about your financial goals – both long and short term. A great way to stick to any resolutions is to keep them front of mind. Set a monthly reminder to review and track your progress or create a ‘vision board’, using a piece of cardboard and some creative licence. Keep it somewhere you will see every day, to help you stay focused.
Financial health
No financial commitments should be set-and-forget. As you head into the new year, it’s a great chance to review your home loan arrangements and any other financial commitments. Ask yourself, how are you managing your loan repayments? Do you think you could be paying more off your mortgage? Or perhaps you’re finding your current set-up difficult to maintain? A different loan or repayment set-up could be a simple but effective way to improve your financial circumstances in 2015.
Anticipate change
Some things in life are impossible to plan for, but others not so much. Major life changes and milestones can impact our finances significantly, but by being prepared, we can minimise the risks and disruption. Take some time to consider whether any major events could interrupt your financial arrangements in 2015. A new addition the family? A change in employment? Even if it’ something a couple of years away, by planning now, you’ll be much better placed to handle any bumps in the road.
Eye for opportunity
The beginning of the new year represents a great opportunity to assess the prospects for new ventures. Would you like to buy an investment property this year? Are you dying to renovate or head overseas? Think about your aspirations and how you might be able to achieve them. If you have an existing home loan, chances are you may have already acquired some equity that can be used to fund a new home or an investment property – or renovations and holidays. But you’ll never know if you never take the time to find out.
Why not give us a call today to discuss your financial goals for 2015 and how we can help you get there.