How To Make January A Big Financial Boost: Personal Finance Tips

January has always been a time of reflection for many people. It’s often the first month of the year that you look back on and think about what you want to change or work on in 2022. And while it can be hard, especially during these cold winter months, not to fall into some bad habits like spending money frivolously, there are ways to keep your finances under control, so January doesn’t become an expensive month.

Sticking To The Budget 

Make a budget and stick to it. This is probably the most important thing you can do to keep your finances under control this month. Sit down and figure out how much money you have coming in and going out and what you can cut back on so you’re not spending more than you have.

Review And Cut 

Review your expenses from last year. Chances are, there are some things you can cut back on this year without too much of a hassle. For example, maybe cancel that gym membership you never use or downgrade your cable package to something less expensive.

Get Organized

Many of us waste money because we don’t know where it’s going or what we’re spending it on. Get organized and start tracking your expenses, so you have a better idea of where your money is going each month.

Motivation 

Make a list of things you want to save up for. This can be anything from a new car to a trip abroad. Having something to work towards will help motivate you to save money each month instead of just spending without thinking about the future.

Eat-In

Cut back on eating out. Ordering takeout for dinner once a week is an easy way to blow through your budget in no time flat, so start cooking more at home. It’ll not only save you money, but it’ll also be healthier for you in the long run.

Budget-friendly Recipes

Speaking of cooking at home, it can be fun to find new recipes you can cook at home on the cheap. This way, even if you’re cooking every night of the week, your grocery bill will stay low and won’t break the bank.

Alternative Exercise 

Go for a walk or do some other physical activity outside instead of going to the gym. If you like working out but don’t want to stop by that expensive fitness center each day this month, try doing something outdoors instead. It’ll give you an extra energy boost after spending several hours inside during winter months anyway. Try finding some exercise ideas on Youtube. They have anything from hardcore CrossFit to yoga.

Stay In 

Save money by staying in more often than not this January. So get cozy with Netflix, make yourself some hot chocolate (or coffee), light up some candles, and snuggle up on the couch with a blanket and your loved ones.

Date Night 

Put together an at-home date night for you and your significant other or friends. If going out is one of your biggest expenses each month, try to save money by doing something fun at home instead. For example, you can make a delicious meal together in the kitchen, watch a movie, or play games. Whatever it is, that works for both of you.

Major Purchases 

Try not to make any major purchases this January if possible. Jewelry, new furniture, even shoes. All of these things might seem like good ideas now, but if they break or get lost quickly, then that’s just more money down the drain than necessary. It can be hard when stores are putting out their January sales, but try to be patient and wait for something you really need or want. Although this does not apply to the necessary things, you need to purchase, like new glasses and hearing aids. However, try and make the financial burden a bit less by looking for hearing aid financing.  

Re-evaluate Your Cell Phone Plan

This is a great time to re-evaluate your cell phone plan and make sure you’re on the best one for you. Check out all these ways to save money by taking advantage of freebies offered by different carriers, like unlimited music streaming or video watching without data charges (fees). As a result, your monthly bill will be much lower than it would have been otherwise.

Cash Back Credit Card

Most of us have at least one credit card that we use for daily expenses and purchases, but you might want to consider using a different one that offers cashback on your purchases. That way, every time you make a purchase with it, you’ll get something in return.

Finally, remember that it’s only January! There’s plenty of time left in the year to save up for that big purchase or take a vacation. So don’t stress yourself out too much if you can’t do everything on this list. Just try to do what you can and know that you’re not alone in wanting to get your finances under control this month.