Let’s face it — most of us kick off
the year feeling pumped about our finances. You might jot down ambitious money
goals in January, only to forget about them by midyear. But if you’re serious
about building real wealth and achieving financial freedom, it’s not just about
dreaming big. It’s about setting clear, meaningful goals — and taking action
consistently, even when life throws curveballs.
In this guide, Andrew Baxter shares
a proven approach to setting financial goals that stick. You’ll discover how to
stay focused, build momentum, manage risk, and keep moving forward — no matter
what.
Discover
What Money Really Means to You
Before diving into budgets or
savings plans, take a step back. Ask yourself: what does money truly represent
in your life?
- Is it security?
Like a paid-off home, a healthy emergency fund, or peace of mind?
- Is it freedom?
More time with family, the chance to travel, or launch your own venture?
When your goals are tied to personal
meaning, staying motivated becomes easier — especially when progress feels
slow. Challenge old beliefs too. If you’ve been telling yourself, “I’m just
bad with money”, flip that narrative. You can be the person who sets — and
achieves — financial goals with confidence.
Start
Small, Win Big
Setting huge goals is
inspiring — but if you’ve faced financial setbacks, starting small helps
rebuild momentum. Micro-commitments are powerful.
Try things like:
- Saving $20 each week automatically
- Paying down one specific credit card
- Setting up your first recurring investment
These small wins add up. Each one
gives you confidence and builds the habit of following through, setting the
stage for bigger milestones ahead.
Make
Your Financial Goals Specific and Measurable
Vague goals like “save more” or
“invest smarter” won’t get you very far. Instead, define your goals clearly.
Here’s how to do it:
- Be specific:
“Save $50,000 for a home deposit in 5 years”
- Break it down:
That’s $10,000 per year, around $833/month
- Create a system:
“Auto-transfer $208 every week to savings”
Clear, measurable targets help you
stay on track — and turn goals into action.
Track
Your Progress and Forecast the Future
Seeing your path mapped out can be
incredibly motivating. Use simple tools or calculators to project where you’ll
be in 5, 10, or 20 years based on current savings and investments.
Ask yourself:
- How much will my portfolio grow with consistent
contributions?
- Am I on track for retirement or major purchases?
- What adjustments can I make now to improve outcomes?
Whether the numbers excite or
concern you, forecasting gives you clarity — and a chance to course-correct
early.
Review
and Refine Regularly
Even the best-laid plans can drift
without check-ins. Set regular financial review points to stay on course:
- Weekly:
Track spending and income
- Monthly:
Review savings and investment growth
- Quarterly:
Assess goal progress
- Annually:
Reflect, reset, and plan ahead
Frequent reviews help you fix issues
fast — whether it’s underperforming accounts or shifting interest rates.
Understand
Your Personal Risk Tolerance
Your comfort with risk plays a huge
role in shaping your financial strategy. It varies depending on age, life
stage, and mindset.
In your 20s or 30s, you may lean
into higher-growth strategies. As responsibilities grow — mortgages, kids,
retirement — your appetite for risk might change.
Be honest about your risk profile.
If you’re managing money with a partner, align on a strategy that suits both
your comfort levels.
Celebrate
Milestones Along the Way
Reaching money milestones doesn’t
have to be boring. Celebrate wins to stay motivated! Whether it’s a fancy
dinner, a weekend escape, or buying something special — you’ve earned it.
Sharing the moment with friends or
family makes it even more rewarding.
Don’t
Wait — Start Today
Time is either working for you or
against you. Delaying financial planning doesn’t just cost you money — it costs
you opportunities. The best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time
is now.
And if you’re unsure where to begin,
don’t go it alone. A licensed financial adviser can help you create a custom
strategy, set achievable goals, and stay accountable.
Ready to take control of your
financial future?
Visit www.wealthplaybook.com.au for free tools,
expert guides, and Andrew Baxter’s best-selling book packed with practical
strategies you can start using today.
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