As we edge towards the final stretch of the year, it’s easy to lose focus.
Between wrapping up work projects, planning holidays, and the excitement of Christmas, personal finances often take a back seat.
But with around 10 weeks left in 2025, there’s still plenty of time to finish the year strong and set yourself up for a more confident start to 2026.
REVIEW WHERE YOUR MONEY’S GOING
Start with a simple financial health check. Open your online banking app and scroll through your last month of spending.
You don’t need to track every coffee or receipt, just look for recurring costs or unnecessary expenses that have crept in.
Small leaks in your budget add up quickly and identifying them now can free up extra cash for what really matters over the next few months.
PLAN CHRISTMAS AND SUMMER
Christmas might feel far away, but retailers have already started promoting it for good reason.
If you spread your spending out over several pay cycles instead of doing it all in December, you’ll protect your cash flow and avoid relying on credit.
Make a quick list of gifts, travel, food, and other festive costs. Even better, add a few dollars each week into a separate “Christmas and Summer” account.
You’ll thank yourself later when January arrives and you can start the year without a financial hangover.
TOP UP YOUR SAFETY NET
If 2025 has been full of financial surprises such as higher living costs, car repairs, or unexpected bills, you’re not alone. That’s exactly why an emergency fund is so valuable.
If you had to access your rainy-day fund, aim to rebuild at least a small buffer before the year ends.
Even $20 a week between now and Christmas can restore a sense of control and reduce stress.
CLEAR A SMALL DEBT
Perhaps a credit card balance or a buy-now-pay-later account are still hanging around, focus on clearing one small debt completely.
Knocking over even a single balance can boost your motivation and improve your cash flow going into the new year.
You’ll find that this momentum builds confidence, which flows on to better money habits.
RESET YOUR GOALS FOR 2026
Before the New Year rush begins, take a few quiet minutes to think about what you want your money to achieve next year.
Is it saving for a home deposit, building up your emergency fund, or finally taking that holiday you’ve been putting off?
Clarity creates direction. When you know where your money’s going, you make better choices and the stress of uncertainty fades.
A strong finish starts with small steps. Take one step this week, then another next week.
