Money Moves To Make Now

Does your bank balance feel permanently out of control? It is time to switch things up. Make these smart financial tweaks, and in future, you will be grateful.

- Kalpana Fitzpatrick

Do you only log on to your online banking if you really have to?

Hand over your debit card with your fingers crossed? We know, turning a blind eye to your finances feels much easier than getting to grips with them. But if the last 12 months have taught us anything, it’s that having a plan (and some wiggle room) when it comes to your money is No. Bad. Thing. Especially as money worries can snake into all corners of our lives—according to a study, 61% of adults aged 18 to 34 stress about their financial situation, which in turn impacts their overall well-being and even their abilities at work.

Being permanently skint, not having savings to fall back on, or being unable to afford big-ticket items has a tangible impact. And while you may think you are not in a position to future-proof your finances, there is always something you can do. From budgeting to saving and (whisper it) investing, here are the money shifts to make now to ensure you are set up for whatever comes your way.

START BUDGETING

Wait, it is not as snoozy as it sounds. A budget is simply an understanding of what you earn and spend, and creating one is the most important thing you can do to get your finances under control. To start, list all your expenses (rent, bills, food, entertainment, gym, etc) and your income. A budgeting tool like Goodbudget can help, too. “Be honest about your spending,” says Lisa Conway-Hughes, Financial Advisor and Co-Founder, Ladies Finance Club UK.