This time of year, it is trendy either to make New Year’s Resolutions or to talk about how resolutions are stupid. I know, because that’s what I usually do…
I thought I’d try something a little different this time – something I was going to call the “instant” resolution, or “single serving” resolution. The idea is that this is not something huge that you’ll have to tackle over an entire year, but something significant that can be done today and then you’ll be done!
So I’m going to put up one per day this week, and challenge you to finish it in that day. They won’t be earth-shaking or surprising. The goal is gradual improvement and motivating action, not becoming some super-saver overnight. I hope it works!
2010 Instant Resolutions
- Save More for Retirement
- Start Spending Consciously
- Check Your Free Consumer & Credit Reports
- Automate Your Emergency Fund
- Check the Asset Allocation of your Investment Portfolio
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One of my favorite New Year’s cartoons of all-time. I like this idea of “instant resolutions” and I am looking forward to what you will be posting over the next few days.
If I had to vote for one, it would be to check your car insurance to see if it has unnecessary coverage. A few years ago I found out I had thrown away over a thousand dollars over the years in health coverage that I originally needed when my father had helped me first get the insurance but was unnecessary since my job had me covered for it anyway. When I found out about the money I could save it was a mixture of feeling thrilled I was going to save a bunch of money and being ticked off that I had been wasting it for so long.
Practical! Realistic! —Love it.
I’d agree mainly with Dave, except that I’d say to just get quotes every year or every other year from a few major insurance providers just to make sure that your rate is still competitive.
In my case, my insurance has slowly crept up for the last four years, and by calling around and checking online, I was able to save $200 every six months on auto insurance (For the same coverage!).
I was also able to switch home insurance to save about $150/year as well. So for a few hours work, I’ve saved $550 per year, well worth the effort.
It would be the great challenge to have a daily resolution to be finish. Hassle but i know you can make it. Do it step by step.:)
Another Calvin and Hobbes fan! Great comic!
I really need to rebalance my portfolio, thanks for reminding me 🙂
I like your automated emergency fund idea. I use an automated budget system myself. I also automated my kid’s 529 contributions!
Automated finances are the way to go!