At a Glance
- Many people set financial resolutions for 2026.
- Experts advise realistic, actionable plans over vague goals.
- Stories range from debt payoff to building savings accounts.
- Why it matters: These strategies help readers manage money and achieve long-term goals.
As the new year rolls in, a wave of financial resolutions emerges, from paying off debt to building emergency funds. Experts and real-life examples show how to turn ambitions into attainable plans.
Making Achievable Plans
To avoid setting unrealistic expectations, MarieYolaine Toms follows a “no resolutions” mindset and focuses on actionable plans.
MarieYolaine Toms said:
> “I am not making resolutions, I’m making plans that can be tracked forward, traced back, and tweaked until completion.”
- Check credit reports from the three bureaus.
- Set a weekly savings target, such as $25 per week.
- Create a budget using a style that works for you, like the 50/30/20 rule.
Paying Off Debt
After losing her job in September, Rachel Pelovitz, 33, explored options to pay off debt and chose to sell her house and consolidate.
Rachel Pelovitz said:
> “Rather than rely on getting more debt, we are currently selling our house.”
- Sell the house to generate funds.
- Work with a debt consolidation organization.
- Aim to pay off half of her credit card debt by 2026 and start moderate investing.
Building a Savings Account
For Jenni Lee, 27, the goal is to build a savings account to eventually buy a house.
Jenni Lee said:
> “I’m now in my late 20s, I’m starting to really think about where I pinch now so it won’t hurt later when I finally decide to purchase and own a place.”
- Cut unnecessary spending on clothing and eating out.
- Save for a future home and a possible trip to South Korea.
- Keep a strict savings plan in place.
Building an Emergency Fund
Melanie Duarte, 23, plans to pay off student loans, credit card debt, and build an emergency fund.
Melanie Duarte said:
> “I made sure to include it in my budget, even if it’s something as small as like $50. I just want to make sure I still put something in (my emergency fund) so that it eventually multiplies.”
- Include the emergency fund in the monthly budget.
- Start with small contributions, such as $50.
- Let the fund grow over time.
Finding Balance
Tiana Stewart, 26, wants to enjoy life while paying off debt and saving for the future.
Tiana Stewart said:
> “I do understand saving for retirement is important, but I also want to enjoy my life and the money that I work for at this time, especially being in my 20s.”
- Travel and enjoy the present.
- Balance debt payoff, saving, and investing.
- Aim for a healthy financial lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Set realistic, actionable financial plans rather than vague resolutions.
- Use credit reports, budgeting, and small weekly savings to build momentum.
- Balance enjoyment now with long-term goals for a sustainable financial future.
As 2026 approaches, these stories and expert tips offer a roadmap for turning financial resolutions into real achievements.
