It is hard to know where to start when creating a plan for your finances. I hope these resources help you take that first step!
1. Read Make it Happen by Lara Casey: This book helps you uncover what you really want and is a great way to start creating financial (or other) goals. Lara walks you through goal setting. She motivates you to face your fears and start creating obtainable goals with action plans. Even if you are not creating financial goals I highly recommend this book! For a full review of this book check out my post. I also use her PowerSheets (which you can find here) to help me plan my yearly and monthly goals.
2. Review Your Spending Habits with Mint: It is important to review the areas you spent money last year so you can make the necessary changes.I recommend reviewing your budget each month to see if you need to change any categories. If you need help categorizing your spending or seeing what areas you spent you should download the mint app. If you need help adjusting areas of your budget (or figuring out what areas to adjust) make sure to read this post.
3. Read Financial Planning Books: There are a ton of books on financial planning! There are some general personal finance books and you can also find books on investing, loans, debt, etc. If you need any recommendations let me know! One of my favorite personal finance books for a general overview is Get a Financial Life by Beth Kobliner. You can buy that here.
4. Sign up for Credit Sesame: Credit Sesame is free to sign up for and it allows you to check your credit score whenever you want. They show you your TransUnion and Equifax credit score and give you tips on how to increase your credit score. They also show you the breakdown of your credit score so you can see which areas you need to improve. You should be checking your credit score at least once a month to make sure nothing major has changed. I personally believe your credit score is important. You do not need to be in debt to have a high credit score. To learn more about why your credit score is important, make sure to read this post.
5. Find an Accountability Partner: Find someone who you can talk to about your goals and what you are trying to accomplish with your finances. This could be your spouse, friend, coworker, or even me (I am always here to help). Update your accountability partner through the week, month, and/or year and let them know how you are doing (if you are doing well or struggling with something). If you don’t have anyone contact me!
