With rising living costs, many households are feeling the squeeze, making it harder to tackle financial goals or even figure out where to start. If you’re looking for motivation, these money challenges, broken into actionable steps, can help you take control of your finances. Choose the goal that aligns with your priorities and get started today! 

Money goal #1: Master your spending 

Action 1: Understand your current spending. 

Take a close look at where your money is going each month. Use a budgeting tool or track your expenses manually. Then, ask yourself: Does your spending align with your income, priorities, and financial goals? Log into your FinFit account and explore MoneyView insights to get started!  

Action 2: Build a smart spending plan. 

Decide where your money will go before payday. This proactive approach helps you identify unnecessary expenses and areas where you can save. 

Action 3: Create better spending habits. 

Identify past challenges, like emotional or impulsive spending, and develop strategies to overcome them. For example, implement a 24-hour rule before making non-essential purchases or unsubscribe from emails that tempt you to overspend. 

Money goal #2: Pay off debt 

Action 1: Know what you owe. 

List all your debts, including balances, interest rates, and minimum payments. Calculate how long it will take to pay them off at your current repayment rate and determine how much you can afford to allocate toward reducing your debt. 

Action 2: Explore repayment strategies. 

Consider options like the snowball method (paying off the smallest debt first for quick wins), the avalanche method (tackling high-interest debt first), or consolidating debt to a lower-interest loan. Each approach can save you time and money, so choose the one that fits your situation. 

Action 3: Seek support. 

Many employers offer financial wellness benefits, like FinFit, who provide access to free financial coaching. Learn more by clicking here.  

Money goal #3: Grow your savings 

Action 1: Set a goal and personalize it. 

Give your savings goal a name, like “Vacation Fund” or “Dream Home Savings.” A clear purpose makes it more tangible and keeps you motivated. 

Action 2: Decide how much to save each month. 

Evaluate your budget and determine how much you can contribute toward your goal(s). If possible, identify areas to cut back and redirect those funds into savings. 

Action 3: Automate your savings. 

The easiest way to save is to set it and forget it. Open a savings account if you don’t already have one, and schedule automatic transfers from your checking account. 

Money goal #4: Improve your relationship with money 

Action 1: Reflect on how you feel about money. 

Your financial habits are often tied to emotions. Take a moment to understand your money mindset by exploring how you feel about spending, saving, and debt. Start by taking a money personality quiz or journaling about your financial experiences. 

Action 2: Assess your financial situation. 

Write down your income, expenses, debts, and savings. Use a financial fitness tool to get a clear picture of your habits and pinpoint areas for improvement. 

Action 3: Make financial wellness fun. 

Curate your social media feed with positive, inspiring content about financial wellbeing. Join online communities or follow hashtags like #DebtFreeJourney or #FinancialFreedom to connect with others working toward similar goals and stay motivated. 

Take the first step 

Starting your financial journey can feel overwhelming, but small, consistent actions make a big difference. Choose a goal, follow the steps, and watch your confidence—and finances—grow. Let today be the day you take control of your financial future!