Every January, millions of Americans vow to keep new resolutions, only to abandon them by February. Statistics show that 80% of resolutions are given up by mid-February. Why? Because most resolutions are either too vague, restrictive, or overwhelming. The most successful strategy is to implement small, intentional changes that over time make big impacts. This strategy is useful for health, wellness, and finances.
Below are three practical financial resolutions that you can keep in 2026:
Strategy 1: Automate Savings and Investments
The easiest way to save more is to take the human decision-making element out of the equation. Automation takes no willpower past the initial step of setting up the automation.
- Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to a savings account every payday to help build an emergency fund. Better yet, see if your employer will allow you to split the direct deposit of your paycheck into your checking and savings account.
- Increase your 401(k) contribution by 1% – 2% this year.
Strategy 2: Create a Spending Plan
Traditional budgets often fail because they can feel restrictive. The key is to focus dollars on the right priorities, not obsess over every dollar.
- Identify your top three financial priorities. Common goals we see in practice may be to establish savings, pay off debt, or save up for a down payment on a large purchase.
- Allocate discretionary spending toward these priorities first.
- Apps like Quicken can help track progress in real-time.
Strategy 3: Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Businesses and corporations review financial performance regularly. Why shouldn’t you do the same?
- Block 30 minutes out of your calendar once every quarter to review your finances.
- Make any adjustments that may be needed such as planning for upcoming expenses, changing priorities as financial goals are met, or rebalancing your portfolio.
Bonus Tip for Business Owners
Make 2026 the year you align personal and business goals. Plan distributions or bonuses in a way that supports both your company’s growth as well as your own personal financial security.
Financial success does not typically come from any single large gesture or strategy. Most often, success comes from consistent and manageable actions, and the hardest part is getting started. Pick one resolution from the above listed strategies and use it to build momentum. Doing so will hopefully set you up for a financially confident 2026. Happy New Year!
Kyle W. Noack, CPA/CFP® is the Chief Executive Officer for Keller & Associates CPAs, PLLC and Keller Wealth Advisors.
Published in the Victoria Advocate.