Make and Keep Your Financial Goals

As a financial advisor you may be surprised to know that there is only one thing I like more than saving money, investing money and making money: that is spending money. Although I think I am frugal, my husband thinks that  I am the infomercial’s favorite victim, the shampoo industry’s biggest client and the tourism industry’s biggest vacationer. But I have to put it in perspective so I don’t spend more than I make.

It is always a good idea to have goals and I have many of them. But it is not just dreams that I encourage you to have. It is personal, financial, career goals….and fun. If you don’t have fun goals to look forward to (no matter how large or how small) life can get tedious.

Now I am asking you to make just four goals: a one-year plan, a three-year plan, a five-year plan and a ten-year plan. You can always change it later.

Close your eyes and take a deep breath….here we go…

One year

Best case scenario, where do you see yourself one year from now? Just start small. Think of improvement next year over this year such as paying cash for Christmas presents instead of putting it on a card. Take a trip in a state you have never been to that is close to your home. Start your 3-5 month savings in savings accounts.

Do you see yourself on a beach? Can you afford it without having to put it on a credit card? If not, put it on your three year plan.

Do you see yourself taking a large chunk out of your debt? Remind yourself that that big chunk will save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in interest charges.

Are you interested in a career move or a promotion? What steps will you need to get there?

Now, create a personal plan. This can be as vast as the stars depending on your tastes and interests. You can finish a few classic books you have always wanted to read, or try to be more spiritual in the religion of your choice.

Three year plan

The three-year is a little more fun because you will have more money to play with. You can buy that new car, go on that really fancy vacation, try for the next promotion, and learn to ice skate. The world is yours.

Five year plan

Ten year

This is an open slate. The world is what you make of it….

I think about my goals every day. Much like brushing my teeth and combing my hair (I may even do it more often!) Make every day an adventure. Make your life one that you are proud of. Start your future today: right here and right now. Happy planning!