Finance is what we rely on every day. We all have certain financial goals that we want to achieve. But it’s always a confusing thing, to begin with. There are many different ways to manage money by which we can achieve financial independence. No matter which state you have been going through in your life. But progress can be made in tiny, manageable steps.
Here’s are 7 small things you can do right now to improve your overall financial health.
1. Create a budget on household
The biggest step toward effective money management is making a household budget. You first need to figure out exactly how much money comes in each month. Once you have that number, organize your budget in order of financial priorities like essential living expenses, contributions to retirement savings, repaying debt, and any entertainment or lifestyle costs. Having a clear picture of exactly how much is coming in and going out every month is key to reaching your financial goals.
2. Calculate your net worth
Simply put, your net worth. Net worth is the total of your assets minus your debts and liabilities. You’re left with a positive or negative number. If the number is positive, you’re on the up. If the number is negative which is especially common for many young people just starting out. You’ll need to keep clearing away your debt.
Remember that certain assets, like your home, count on both sides of the ledger. While you may have mortgage debt, it is secured by the resale value of your home.
3. Review your credit reports
Your credit history determines your creditworthiness, including the interest rates you pay on loans and credit cards. It can also affect your employment opportunities and living options. Every 12 months, you can check your credit report from credit bureaus. It may also be a good idea to request one report from one bureau every four months, so you can keep an eye on your credit throughout the year without paying for it.
Regularly checking your credit report will help you stay on top of every account in your name and can alert you to fraudulent activity.
4. Check your credit score
Your credit score can range from 300-850. The higher the score, the better is your status financially. Keep in mind that two most important things that improve your credit score are your payment history, specifically negative information, and how much debt you’re carrying like the type of debts, and how much available credit you have at any given time.
5. Set a monthly savings amount
Transferring a set amount of money to a savings account. At the same time you pay your other monthly bills helps ensure that you’re regularly and intentionally saving money for the future. Waiting to see if you have any money left over after paying for all your lifestyle expenses can lead to uneven amounts or no savings at all.
6. Make minimum payments on all debts
The first step to maintain a good credit standing is to avoid making late payments. Build your minimum debt reduction payments into your budget. Then, look for any extra money you can put toward paying down debt principal.
7. Increase your retirement saving rate by 1 percent
Your retirement savings and saving rate are the most important things of your overall financial success. Strive to save 15 percent of your income for most of your career for retirement, and that includes any employer match you may receive. If you’re not saving that amount yet, plan ahead for ways you can reach that goal. For example, increase your saving rate every time you get a bonus or raise.
“Most people don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan.”― John
Taking small steps related to finance wisely can help foster your productivity and helps to achieve financial independence and early retirement.