Setting a financial goal is easy. Attaining that goal is the hard part. Here are some ways to make the road to your financial goal as smooth as possible.
Get SMART
The more detailed you get with your goal, the better. One way to go about getting there is to use the SMART method. The SMART method stands for specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic and timely. So if your goal is “save for retirement,” refine that with the SMART method. Set a specific number, then track how you can reach it each year until retirement.
Make it Matter
Saving for a financial goal that you don’t actually care about is setting yourself up for failure. Think about what you value and then make sure your savings goals align.
Check-in
Set regular reminders to check-in on your progress. As US News reports, seeing progress will motivate you. The check-in also doubles as a way to see what isn’t working. If you see you aren’t getting closer to your goal, you can make the necessary changes.
Streamline Things
Clear the way to your financial goals by streamlining things. That means eliminating temptation. Unsubscribe from retailer’s newsletters. Disconnect your credit cards from your phone and computers. Do whatever you have to do to cut out things that will hinder your financial goal progress.
This article was originally published by Chris O'Shea on Savvymoney.com
