We know that money can be overwhelming to think about, particularly if you don’t know where to start. That’s why we’ve outlined four simple and actionable ways for you to start taking control of your money.

STEP 1: Be a goal getter

STEP 2: Review your money

STEP 3: Money messages

STEP 4: Money moments

Step 1: Be a goal getter

Setting money goals gives you something to aim for in the long term but puts in place short-term ways that’ll help you get there. Whether your goal is to start building an emergency fund, pay off some debt or put more away for retirement, the most important thing you need to do to make it a reality is starting somewhere!

Step 2: Review your money

You can’t know what to tackle until you know where you stand. First look at how each area of your finances is performing. Take a look at your bank account balances, your savings and emergency fund, and any debt you need to pay off. That way, you’ll have a much better understanding of which areas need some focus. For example, if you have debts, have you explored the different options available to help you potentially pay them off faster and cheaper?

Step 3: Money messages

“I’m no good with money”

“I’ll never pay off this debt”

“I can’t really afford this, but I’ll put it on my credit card”

Sound familiar? We all talk to ourselves about money, but many of us like to bend the truth or can be negative in the beliefs we hold over it. These internal stories we tell ourselves can affect the way we think and act about money. Why not rethink your money beliefs and start with a new outlook?

Step 4: Money moments

Holidays, birthdays, Christmas, back-to-school, the list of events or special moments that we need to account for throughout the year can be seemingly endless. But it doesn’t have to be stressful. Plan ahead by trying to map out all upcoming expenses, that way you know what’s coming, how to save for it, and can skip the financial stress of a last-minute expense!