How to reset your financial goals this year

With high inflation and market uncertainty, there’s no better time to revisit your financial plan and ensure it prepares you for current or future challenges.

“Many Canadian families faced great economic uncertainty in 2022, but they don’t have to in 2023. With support from a financial advisor, you can develop a personalized, holistic plan to stay on top of your finances and help protect against future economic instability,” said Christine Van Cauwenberghe, head of financial planning at IG Wealth Management.

Here’s what to consider when resetting your financial goals for the year ahead.

Stick to your plan and focus on consistency
Much like staying in shape and eating healthy, consistency is the key to success when it comes to managing your finances. It’s okay if you hit some bumps along the way and you need to course correct occasionally. Over time, your persistence will pay off and meeting your financial goals will be worth the effort involved in sticking with a financial plan.

Tackle that debt
Pay down debts with the highest interest rate first, set up pre-authorized payments from your bank account and avoid accumulating more debt by paying off your credit card every month or shopping with cash.

Build an emergency fund
Prepare for the unexpected by developing an emergency fund that covers at least three months’ worth of expenses, in cash, if unforeseen costs arise.

Plan for the future
It’s never too early to begin planning for the retirement you want. A real retirement plan starts with a clear picture of your goals, lifestyle, expenses and all sources of income – such as a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), Old Age Security (OAS) and pensions.

Meet with a financial advisor
Financial advisors can help you understand your current financial situation and work with you on an ongoing basis to develop flexible plans to meet your current and future financial needs.

Speak with an advisor for more information on financial planning or visit ig.ca.

Related Content

3 affordable ways to shop more sustainably this year

3 affordable ways to shop more sustainably this year

Adopting more mindful and sustainable shopping habits can be a small yet significant step towards a greener and more eco-friendly future. Here are three simple ways to shop more sustainably – without draining your bank account: Go second-hand or go home It’s no secret...

read more
5 ways to save money during the school year

5 ways to save money during the school year

Whether you’ve just started university or have been in college for a couple of years, being a student can be financially straining. Of course, saving money as a student is more than just pinching pennies – it’s about mastering the art of budgeting, making savvy...

read more
3 simple ways to save money

3 simple ways to save money

Whether you’re recovering from a season of spending or looking to get ahead financially in 2024, the colder months offer a perfect time to streamline your budget and re-calibrate your goals before the start of the new year. When it comes to saving money, here are a...

read more
Know your rights when facing financial difficulties

Know your rights when facing financial difficulties

Under Canadian laws and regulations, financial consumers benefit from many protections. They help ensure you have access to basic banking services, such as a bank account, and that you’re treated fairly by financial institutions. Banks are also expected to help their...

read more
Practical advice to help relieve your financial stress

Practical advice to help relieve your financial stress

From inflation and shrinkflation to rising interest rates and fuel costs, we’re all feeling a pinch in our wallets. And worrying about finances is one of the biggest stressors in many people’s lives. Here are four ways you can take control of your finances. Get...

read more
3 ways your newly built home is protected before you close

3 ways your newly built home is protected before you close

Many buyers of new-build homes are aware that they have a builder’s warranty on construction defects that starts when they move in. What many don’t know is that their warranty includes consumer protections that are in effect much sooner. If you’ve just signed a...

read more