So we are officially 100 days into the year already. How have your New Year's resolutions been? Have you managed to save all that money you were hoping to? Did you start the 52 week challenge but not find it a bit of a struggle? Perhaps you need a bit of a pep talk...
Fear not, as a survey found that 63% of people who started New Year's resolutions (with every intention of completing them), admitted to breaking them. And 43% of people that broke them, did so within their first month. So don't worry, you're not alone. But that's not to say you shouldn't try again. If couldn't reach as far as March, well why not try again in April? After all, you certainly set off with the right intentions and probably got off to a flying start.
When trying to achieve a goal, perseverance is everything. Focus on what you want, have a picture of it as your phone screensaver or computer background, but whatever you do, try to keep it front of mind. Trying to lose weight? Stick an unflattering picture of you on your fridge or inside your cupboard where you store snacks. By doing this, you remind yourself of what you don't want.
So that's the healthy lifestyle and slim body sorted, how about your financial situation though? Whether you're in debt and this is the year you want to escape it, or maybe you've paid off your loans and are now saving for a deposit or wedding or dream holiday, if you've been trying to save, keep pushing on. Sometimes it can be hard when you have to say no to meeting friends, or just having the one drink instead of the usual 4 or 5. Start again in April and keep persevering. In May you'll be proud of what you've achieved, even if it's only an exta few pounds, at least it's something.
The sooner you start again, the closer you will get to your financial goals. And if your smallest debt is only £100 on a credit card, by making a few changes, saying no where you might find you'll spend too much, or working a few extra shifts, that feeling of being able to pay off another debt will give you a huge sense of relief. Paying off the smallest debts also help you psychologically as it makes you feel empowered, confident and happier about your financial circumstances. Once you've paid off your smallest bills, you'll be in a much better frame of mind to get to work at paying off the others. No matter how big and scary they may feel.
So no matter how your situation has been over the last couple of months, whether you've bailed on your money saving, or spent a little too much than had planned, try again. You'll thank yourself later.