Your guide to building better money habits
Did you know, (according to Finder’s latest research) 85% of Aussies (that’s 18.5 million people) have set financial goals for 2026?1
The top three:
- Saving money (53%)
- Spending less (32%)
- Reducing expenses (27%)
If saving more, spending less, or cutting back expenses is on your list, you’re in good company. Check out these 7 simple money habits, and let’s make this moment the start of you taking charge of your money and smash your savings goals!
1. Set clear savings goals
The clearer the goal, the easier it is to stay motivated. Instead of saying, ‘I want to save for a holiday’, try something like, ‘Winter 2027 solo trip to Canada’. Doesn’t that sound way more exciting and motivating?
Tip: Dream big but start small. Focus on one or two goals at a time - it’s easier to stay on track when you’re not juggling too much.
2. Make saving automatic
Want to save without even thinking about it? Automate it! Set up a recurring transfer on payday so your money grows in the background while you live your life.
Tip: Think of it as paying your future self first – before the bills, the brunches, or the impulse buys.
3. Reevaluate ongoing expenses
Those sneaky little subscriptions and recurring charges can add up quickly. Take a few minutes to scroll through your transaction history or use the MyState Banking app search function to spot anything you’re not using anymore.
Tip: Not sure where to start? Try our budget planner for a clear breakdown of your spending.
4. Keep goals visible
Out of sight, out of mind? Not with your savings goals! Make them impossible to miss - set your goal as your phone screensaver, stick a chart or some inspo on the fridge, or create a tracker you see every day.
Tip: Visual reminders help keep the reason you are saving top of mind and make it easier to stay motivated.
5. Pause before you buy
Before you hit ‘buy now,’ take a breath and ask yourself, ‘Do I really need this? Will I still love it in 6 months?’ In most cases, the answer is no.
Tip: Give yourself a 24-hour cooling-off period before a big purchase. You’ll be amazed at how often the urge to splurge fades away.
6. Build an emergency buffer
Life loves throwing curveballs – car repairs, vet bills, you name it. That’s why having an emergency fund is a lifesaver. It keeps you from dipping into your savings or reaching for the credit card.
Tip: Need help getting started? Check out our guide to building an emergency fund – it’s easier than you think!
7. Progress not perfection
Nobody’s perfect, and your savings journey doesn’t have to be either. It’s all about progress, not perfection. Every little win adds up!
Tip: Check in often and celebrate those milestones – whether it’s hitting your first $500 or sticking to your budget for a month. Progress beats perfection every time.
Ready to take charge of your money? Start small, stay consistent, and watch your savings grow. Here’s to making 2026 your best year yet!
1 www.finder.com.au/insights/new-years-resolutions-statistics
