A Guide to Achieving and Sustaining Financial Success in 2024

Cheers to a new year full of the promise of personal growth and financial success! It’s that time again to eagerly jot down new goals and resolutions — and for many, achieving financial well-being takes center stage. Actualize those aspirations by crafting robust financial strategies, whether it be to create a meticulous financial plan or adopt savvy shopping habits.  

Begin by understanding that there is a big difference between making resolutions and actually putting them into action. So if you’re trying to figure out what to do next, we can help! This detailed guide is here to assist you in turbocharging your financial journey and empowering you to make this year a prosperous one for yourself and your family.  

The Importance of Financial Planning  

Financial planning isn’t just a helpful tool; it’s the cornerstone of a smart, successful, prosperous financial journey. It serves as a compass, guiding you not only to set clear financial goals but also to meticulously devise strategies to achieve those goals. Without a well-thought-out financial plan, you risk making impulsive decisions that could potentially undermine your efforts as well as your financial security.   

So, let’s kick off the year with a few basic rules to get you started!  

Setting and Achieving Financial Goals  

The first step in effective financial planning is not just setting clear but also achievable goals — both short- and long-term. Whether your aspirations involve retiring comfortably, upgrading your living space or fortifying your emergency fund, the importance of well-defined goals cannot be overstated. These goals provide not just direction but a profound sense of purpose for your financial decisions.  

So it’s important not to rush through this step. No goal can be truly reached if you don’t define what that goal is and then figure out — your true “why” for going down this path of self-improvement. So take the time to figure out what those goals are, then translate them into tangible financial objectives. These goals will not only shape your financial decisions but will serve as the driving force propelling you forward throughout the year, acting as a constant motivator and reminder of what you’re trying to achieve.  

Budgeting and Expense Management  

You simply can’t achieve financial success without creating and sticking to a budget. By meticulously tracking your income and expenses, you gain invaluable insights into your spending patterns. Monitoring your habits in various ways (e.g., daily, weekly or monthly) not only helps identify areas for improvement but ensures you’re not overextending yourself financially, providing a financial roadmap for the future.  

While the process of creating a budget may demand initial effort, don’t be discouraged. The time and effort you put into a budgeting system now can save you significant resources in the long run, providing you with a solid financial foundation for the years ahead. To help you embark on this journey, we’ve compiled a comprehensive set of tips to guide you through the process of setting and sticking to a budget.   

Put Money Aside  

Life unfolds with its fair share of expenses — and that’s entirely normal. However, delaying savings until all your financial responsibilities are covered might backfire in the long run; the longer you put off saving money, the less you’re likely to do it. Cultivate a routine where you prioritize yourself by setting aside not just a token, but a substantial portion of your paycheck before addressing other expenses. Then, leave it alone and let it build until you need it for its intended purpose.  

Committing to regular savings rewards you in two main ways:  

• Life is full of unforeseen circumstances — accidents, unexpected repair bills, etc. A savings account ensures you’ll have the necessary funds available without having to sacrifice your daily budget.  

• If you are saving for something specific (like a new car or vacation), a little savings at a time can quickly add up to a lot. With effort and patience, you’ll be able to reach your goals in no time. 

Once again, finding motivation to save — your “why” — becomes much easier when you have specific life goals in mind. Focusing on the bigger picture transforms the mundane practice of saving into an exhilarating journey, making it a genuine priority in your financial strategy.  

Customize Your Financial Strategy  

One crucial lesson to carry into the new year is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to financial success. In fact, your financial strategy should be as unique as your individual circumstances. Approach the new year with not just willingness but enthusiasm to assess, adapt and apply methods that work best for you.  

Flexibility and adaptability are key components of a successful financial strategy, allowing you to navigate the ever-changing landscape of personal finance effectively. So be open to trying new approaches and making adjustments as needed on the way to reaching your goals. Tailoring your strategy to your specific needs, goals and risk tolerance ensures a personalized approach to your financial success. 

Acima Leasing: Shop Smarter  

At Acima Leasing, our commitment to smart shopping goes beyond mere rhetoric; it’s a philosophy embedded in our lease-to-own solutions. We firmly believe that financial success should not entail sacrificing the things you desire. So why not explore how Acima Leasing can make smarter shopping a tangible reality on the way to achieving your financial goals?  

If you’re unfamiliar with (or skeptical about) lease-to-own solutions, check this out: Millions of satisfied customers trust Acima Leasing to access the brands they desire all without credit*. Our fast applications and flexible payment options provide you with not just shopping convenience but what we call “shopping power”. Additionally, if you no longer need your items for any reason, our hassle-free return process allows you to return them in good condition at any time with no further obligation.  

Ready for Financial Success? 

As you embark on your financial journey in 2024, remember that getting to the finish line comprises a culmination of thoughtful planning, disciplined budgeting and strategic decision-making. Set clear goals and milestones, manage your expenses wisely, prioritize savings, and customize your financial strategy to align with your unique circumstances. With the assistance of Acima Leasing, you can incorporate smart shopping into your toolbox. Here’s to a financially successful and fulfilling year ahead!