2026 is here! Are your finances ready? Whether your goal is to save more, spend less, invest smarter, or simply get organized, now is a great time to review your financial habits. Here are some ways you may prepare for a strong start to the new year!
Reflect, refresh, and reset
Before you think about the future, it’s smart to review the money moves you made last year. Reflect on what went well in 2025 and what didn’t. Review your spending plan and adjust your budget to better align with your current financial situation. Revise and replenish your emergency fund, and review your estate plan, powers of attorney, and insurance coverage. You’ll also want to check in on any debts so you know what’s owed and feel comfortable with your repayment plans. Debt remains universal concern across generations, with 1 in 4 (25%) American adults citing paying off debt as their top financial resolution heading into 2026. Basically, review where you currently stand, and then set goals that you can stick with.
Define, align, and prepare
Only 27% of adults successfully stuck to their financial resolutions this year. The best way to set yourself up for success in the year ahead is to get organized and plan intentionally. Once you know where you stand, it’s time to set clear goals for the year ahead. Identify what you want to achieve, align your goals with your finances and priorities, and prepare by breaking them into manageable steps.
Top financial resolutions for 2026
Besides paying off debt, here are other common financial goals people are setting for the new year:
- Saving for a major life milestone (home, wedding, car)
- Increasing income
- Saving for retirement
- Reducing spending
- Investing more
- Saving for a large purchase (vacation, electronics, furniture)
- Improving credit score
- Creating a budget
- Spending on more life experiences
- Kicking a costly habit
- Starting a small business or side hustle
- Increasing charitable contributions
In addition, here’s a checklist of financial goals to consider for 2026:
- Increase retirement contributions: Even small increases can add up over time.
- Pay down high-interest debt: Beyond paying off debt, prioritize credit cards or personal loans.
- Build or diversify investments: Focus on long-term growth or passive income.
- Strengthen your safety net: Like previously stated, replenish your emergency fund and review insurance coverage.
- Create a spending plan: Adjust your habits to reflect your priorities.
- Schedule regular financial check-ins: Set up regular reviews of your financial goals and progress throughout the year. Meeting with a financial professional will help you tailor your plan, take steps to stay on track throughout the year, and make necessary adjustments as needed.
Staying on track
Achieving your goals isn’t just about planning, it’s about consistency and action. Staying focused on your goals can be challenging, but here are some tips to help you maintain momentum throughout the year:
- Break each goal down into smaller, actionable steps
- Track your progress regularly
- Adjust goals if your circumstances change
- Celebrate milestones to stay motivated
- Set reminders or use apps to keep habits consistent
- Review your budget and spending plan periodically
- Revisit professional guidance
- Focus on progress, not perfection
Start smart, stay smart, and make 2026 count!
With the new year, many of us look for a fresh start, especially when it comes to money. However, since nearly all financial goals tend to be long-term, they usually don’t happen overnight. They take months or years and require consistent time, effort, money, and discipline. If you stumble on a goal or start late, it’s okay. Whether it’s the middle or end of the year, you can start anytime! The key is to keep moving forward and not abandon your plan. From tackling debt to saving for a milestone, or investing in your future, a thoughtful plan, regular check-in, and small, consistent actions can help you turn your financial resolutions into lasting habits
Contact us today to discuss your financial goals and create a plan tailored to your unique situation. Bulwark Capital Management can help you stay on track, adjust as needed, and support you in making steady progress toward your financial future.
Sources:
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/12/04/money-moves-end-of-the-year/87585194007/
- https://www.northwesternmutual.com/life-and-money/new-year-financial-checklist/
- https://privatebank.jpmorgan.com/nam/en/insights/markets-and-investing/ideas-and-insights/get-ready-for-2026-make-these-10-planning-moves-now
- https://www.aol.com/articles/top-financial-years-resolutions-2026-173506569.html
- https://safemoney.com/blog/financial-education/your-year-end-checklist-2026/
This article is for general information purposes only and is not to be relied upon for financial advice. In every case, you should seek the advice of qualified tax, financial and legal professionals to ensure that a life policy is advisable based on your unique circumstances.
Investment Advisory Services offered through Trek Financial LLC, an investment adviser registered with the Securities Exchange Commission. Information presented is for educational purposes only. It should not be considered specific investment advice, does not take into consideration your specific situation, and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. For specific tax advice on any strategy, consult with a qualified tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information; no warranty, expressed or implied, is made regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability, or usefulness of any information. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision. Trek 26-03













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