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Getting back on track with your New Year goals 

June 1st marks New Year’s Resolution Recommitment Day, the perfect time to check in on the financial goals you set at the beginning of the year. If you’ve drifted off course, don’t worry! It’s completely normal to lose momentum, but the good news is that it’s never too late to realign with your resolutions and make meaningful progress. 

Earlier this year, we shared a Learn article, Simple Steps for Setting Financial Goals in the New Year, to help you create a strong financial foundation. Now, let’s revisit those principles and explore ways to refocus on your resolutions. 

1. Reflect on your progress 

Take a moment to review your original financial resolutions. Ask yourself: 

  • What goals did I set? (Saving more, paying down debt, improving spending habits, etc.) 
  • Where have I succeeded? (Even small wins count!) 
  • Where have I struggled? (Identify roadblocks and challenges.) 

By acknowledging both your wins and setbacks, you can develop a plan that works better for you moving forward. 

    2. Adjust your goals if needed 

    Life happens, and sometimes our original resolutions no longer fit our current situation. That’s okay! 

    • If a goal feels overwhelming, break it into smaller, more manageable steps. 
    • If your financial situation has changed, reassess your priorities and adjust your savings or debt repayment plans. 
    • If you’ve lost motivation, set a new deadline or find a fresh reason to stay committed. 

    Flexibility is key—your resolutions should work for you, not stress you out! 

        3. Create an action plan for the next 6 months 

        Now that you’ve checked in on your progress, set new mini goals to carry you through the rest of the year. Here’s how:

        • Write down your updated goals. Studies show that people who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them. 
        • Set monthly check-ins. A regular review (on payday, for example) keeps you accountable. 
        • Use tracking tools. Whether it’s a budgeting app, a savings tracker, or even a simple spreadsheet, tracking progress helps keep you motivated.

          4. Build better habits 

          If sticking to financial resolutions has been tough, focus on building habits instead of chasing perfection. 

          • Automate your savings and bill payments to stay consistent. 
          • Use the 24-hour rule before making impulse purchases—wait a day before buying non-essential items. 
          • Find an accountability partner (a friend, family member, or even an online community) to keep you on track. 

          Progress happens in small steps, so focus on consistency over perfection. 

          5. Celebrate small wins 

          Don’t wait until December to recognize your achievements! Celebrate small victories along the way:

          • Paid off a credit card? Treat yourself to a movie night at home. 
          • Stuck to your budget for a month? Take a guilt-free break from tracking for a day. 
          • Saved your first $500? Reward yourself with something small but meaningful. 

          Recognizing progress—no matter how small—keeps you motivated to keep going. 

              It’s never too late to get back on track 

              New Year’s Resolution Recommitment Day is your mid-year reset button—a chance to refocus and finish the year strong. No matter how far off track you feel, the most important step is the next one you take. 

              Start fresh, adjust where needed, and keep moving forward. Your financial goals are still within reach, let’s recommit and make the rest of the year count! 

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