Making space for financial progress in 2020

I don’t know about you, but I love New Year’s. To me, it feels like a built in “reset button” that lets you reevaluate your life and your progress, as well as get excited for the future. Add to that the fact that 2020 starts a whole new DECADE, and you’ve got a great opportunity to make some changes.

I have noticed, however, that so many resolutions or new years goals have to do with taking on new habits. For instance, many people see the new year as a trigger to eat better, start that new workout regimen, learn a new skill, or generally do/achieve something they haven’t before.

But what about letting go of things that you DON’T want to take into the new year? To me, this is an equally valuable exercise.

Here’s what I mean by that: chances are, you’ve got some things that you need to change, alter, or get rid of, that are not representative of what you want this next decade to look like. Here are three things that you might consider leaving behind this year.

Tip #1: Drop the literal clutter.

As you’re setting your goals for 2020, consider this: if you’ve got things that you want to buy next year, how are you setting up your space to clear room for those fun new acquisitions? Even if you don’t have any big purchases on your list, you might find that your home could use a bit of organizational love. 

By purging items from your living space, you can rid yourself of the things you don’t really care about--and you might even be able to sell some to get a little extra cash. As a bonus, you could even find some old gems that got buried under clutter and now get a second life. Either way, purging your space can be a great way to kick off 2020 with a fresh feeling and a clean home.

On the financial side, I personally love using the new year to clean out my old paperwork and files. Knowing that my file cabinet is organized and up to date makes it so much easier for me to approach other areas of my finances.

Tip #2: Drop the emotional clutter.

In addition to purging physical items, I recommend you get your brain organized so that you have room for financial progress. Get reflective: what mindsets or beliefs are holding you back from being successful in 2020? What thoughts do you want to get rid of so that you’re not carrying emotional baggage into the next decade?

Be sure to shake off any shame or disappointment if things didn’t happen the way you wanted. This next year can be yours--but only if you’re willing to do the hard work to get your brain right and take big action for your goals.

Tip #3: Drop the habits that don’t serve you.

It’s not enough to take on new habits in the new year; sometimes progress involves dropping the old, self-destructive habits that got you into trouble in the first place. Here are some habits that I love for clients to drop:

• STOP burying your head in the sand and avoiding your finances.

• STOP overspending on items that don’t bring you joy.

• STOP comparing yourself to your friends and neighbors.

• STOP blaming others for your perceived lack of progress.

Are there any other habits you can think of that might not be coming along for the ride in the new year? Make your list, then let them go.

As we move closer to 2020, I’ll be thinking about what items, mindsets, and habits I’m ready to leave in the rearview mirror. My hope is that you’ll do the same!

To your success!

Ericka