Lynda Moore says financial freedom isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Start with small, intentional steps, and watch your confidence grow. This year, make your money work for you, not against you

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2026!

I love January (not just because it’s my birthday), it’s summertime, and the start of a New Year. It’s that magical time when we all get to hit refresh, dream big, and think about the year ahead. And let’s be honest, getting our finances in shape (getting fit and losing weight) usually sneaks somewhere onto that resolution list. But here’s the thing: this year, let’s skip vague promises like “save more” or “spend less,” and focus on habits that actually make a difference. Think of it as giving your money a little glow-up.

Here’s how to kick off your journey toward financial freedom without feeling overwhelmed.

Know your “Why”

Before diving into numbers, let’s get clear on your motivation. Why do you want to get your finances in order? Maybe it’s saving for a dream holiday, buying your first home, or finally clearing that lingering debt. Picture your dream life, what does financial freedom look like for you?

Write it down, make a vision board, or even scribble it on a sticky note above your desk. The clearer your why, the easier it is to stay focused when life inevitably throws curveballs.

Budgeting: your money’s GPS

Forget the old-school “no fun” budgets. Think of budgeting as a GPS for your money—it shows you where it’s going and keeps you on track to reach your goals.

A simple way to start is the 50/30/20 rule:

• 50% for the basic needs (bills, groceries, the essential stuff).
• 30% for the more personal needs which align with your values (dinners out, hobbies, little treats).
• 20% for savings or paying down debt.

Remember: budgets aren’t set in stone. Adjust as your priorities shift. It’s your plan—flexible, realistic, and built for you.

Build habits that stick

Here’s the deal: resolutions are fun, but habits are where the real magic happens. Start small, keep it simple, and you’ll see real change.

Some habits to try:

• Automate Your Savings: Set up a monthly transfer so it happens without you thinking. Out of sight, out of mind. but working for you.
• Monthly Money Dates: Grab a coffee (or wine!) and review your finances. Celebrate wins, tweak plans, and make sure your money is working the way you want.
• Keep Learning: Listen to finance podcasts, read blogs, or attend workshops. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel in your choices.

Little steps like this build momentum over time and turn your money goals into achievable milestones.

Spend smarter, not less

Mindful spending is the secret sauce, it’s not about giving up your morning latte or saying no to every treat. It’s about spending on what genuinely brings you joy.

Try these strategies:

The 24-Hour Rule: Wait a day before buying non-essential items. Often, that urge will pass.  If you can’t manage a day to start with, try just 10 minutes and divert yourself to give your rational mind time to kick in.

• Prioritize Experiences: Memories last longer than things. A weekend trip or concert ticket might deliver more happiness than a new gadget.
• Check Your Goals: Ask, “Does this purchase bring me closer to the life I want?”
• If I have this, what am I delaying or missing out on?  Which is more important to me right now.
• When you focus on what really matters, your money becomes a tool, not a source of stress.

Tackle debt head-on

Debt can feel endless, but there are ways to take control:

• Avalanche Method: Pay off the highest-interest debt first, saves money on interest in the long run.
• Snowball Method: Start with the smallest debt for quick wins and motivation boosts.
• Ask for Help: Consider consolidation loans or negotiate terms with creditors if you need support.

Consistency is key. Even small, steady payments can make a huge difference over time.

Build an emergency fund

Life is unpredictable, and an emergency fund is your financial safety net. Start small, even $10 a week see if you can aim for 3–6 months of living expenses. I know this sounds crazy to just have it sitting in a savings account, Maybe you can create some flexibility in your mortgage that enables you to draw down your emergency fund should something happen.  For some of you, having the money invested, gives you a sense the sense of security you need, and that’s OK too. Automate your savings so it happens behind the scenes, and you’ll thank yourself when unexpected bills pop up.

Redefine “enough”

We live in a world that constantly screams, “buy more!” But what if you paused and defined what “enough” actually looks like for you?

Ask yourself:

• Do I really need this?
• Am I spending because it adds value, or just to keep up with others?

When you focus on what truly matters, you’ll feel more content—and your wallet will thank you.

Celebrate every win

Paid off a card? Saved your first $500? Stuck to your budget for a month? That’s a win, and it deserves recognition! Treat yourself in ways that align with your goals: a nice meal, a small outing, or simply a moment to appreciate your progress. Every step forward counts.

Your fresh start

Here’s the truth: financial freedom isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Start with small, intentional steps, and watch your confidence grow. This year, make your money work for you, not against you.

Because at the end of the day, the best gift you can give yourself isn’t a new gadget or fancy dinner. it’s peace of mind, clarity, and control over your finances.

Here’s to a year of smart choices, meaningful milestones, and maybe a little fun along the way!

*Lynda Moore is a Money Mentalist coach and New Zealand’s only certified New Money Story® mentor. Lynda helps you understand why you do the things you do with your money, when we all know we should spend less than we earn. You can contact her here.