It’s finally 2023! Now is the perfect time to set resolutions (or goals) to help make this the best year yet. Of course, we know setting goals can be easier said than done, which is why we’ve complied some tips to make it easier to make and follow through with your resolutions.
Look back on the previous year
The first step in planning goals and resolutions for the new year is to look back on 2022. Consider your proudest accomplishments.
- Why was the year great for you?
- What fun things and joyous occasions happened that you love to think about?
Focusing on positive events from the past year will help you set positive goals this year. It’s also beneficial to consider the less positive things that occurred, such as challenges you faced and overcame, to help you determine what you would like to change moving forward.
Another important consideration each new year is your home. Are you running out of space due to a growing family? Alternatively, is your space now too large as you shift into retirement? Whatever your needs may be, an excellent goal for any upcoming year is saving for a new home.
Categories
When considering your goals for the upcoming year, it might help to categorize! Where do you want to travel? What events do you want to attend? What activities do you want to participate in? Who do you want to spend time with? What do you want to purchase that may improve your life? Each of these things can help you narrow down your goals and resolutions for the upcoming year!
Tips to choose and stay consistent
After you narrow down what your goal is for the upcoming year, maintaining consistency can be challenging! When setting a goal, it’s important to choose something that is attainable for YOU. For example, if you want to begin saving for a down payment on a new home, it may help you to utilize a budget sheet or a budget app. Our guide to down payment requirements can be a great place to begin!
You may also consider setting tiered goals – set a budgetary goal for January, then another goal for February, etc., until you have saved enough for a down payment on your desired home by the end of the year. Doing this helps make goals more attainable. The key to any resolution, though, is making sure it works for YOU.
While you don’t have to create a New Year’s resolution, it is a common practice! Use these tips to help you create an attainable one for this year. If purchasing a new home is on your list of resolutions, be sure to reach out to your local lender and learn about your options!