2016 will be here before you know it – and if you want next year to be your year, you have to start planning your financial future now, which is where we come in! We’re offering 11 ways you can have a profitable 2016.
- Have a Rainy Day Fund
If you want to be worry free in 2016, you have to set aside a rainy day fund. If our monthly bills weren’t enough, the added expense of a broken down washing machine, faulty freezer or broken down car can really squeeze our budget. That’s why it’s essential you have a pot of cash you can dip into should something unexpected crop up.
- Swap or Cancel Your Gym Membership
Have you got an unused gym membership? Paying out too much for one each month. It’s time to either cancel the membership altogether or browse other gyms to find a cheaper alternative. You’ll still be able to lose pounds in the gym, but you can trust you’ll gain pounds in your bank account.
- See if You Can Claim PPI
It’s amazing how many people have been mis-sold payment protection insurance for a loan or credit card. If you think you have been mis-sold PPI or pressured into taking out the insurance, you could be entitled to compensation. PPI claims company, Have I Got PPI specialise in seeking payment protection insurance their customers deserve.
- Quit Smoking
Did you know that a 20-a-day smoker can save approximately £3,091 per year by simply giving up the fags. Not only will you make great savings from all the cigarettes you’re not buying, but you will also pay less for a life insurance cover policy. So, boost your health and bank balance and learn how to stop smoking.
- Pay Off Your Debts
If you want to have a financially fruitful 2016, you have to find ways to pay off your debts. Find easy ways to manage your debts, such as cutting down on nights out, switching brands or giving up the morning coffee. Use all that money you would have spent to pay off your debts over time. You never know, you might just be debt-free by the end of 2017 – meaning you can enjoy an even better 2017.
- Regularly Delete Your Cookies
Did you know that those sneaky little cookies on your PC could be determining how much money you have in your bank account? That’s because websites can store information on your browsing history, spending habits and location to alter the prices of their services. So, if you’re shopping online or looking for a summer holiday, delete your browsing history and cookies after you’ve visited each website.
- Ditch the Takeaway
We’re sorry, but it’s time to give up the weekly takeaway. Not only is it bad for your waistline, but it’s bad for your bank balance too. Everyone is entitled to a treat, which is why you should create a fakeaway – which is basically a home-cooked version of your favourite dishes. Not only will this help save some cash, but you’ll know exactly what you’re putting into each meal.
8.Walk or Cycle to Work
Are you paying out too much on transportation, such as a car, bus or train? If possible, why not swap transport methods and start walking or cycling to work. This will result in a bigger bank balance at the end of each month, and you’ll feel fitter and healthier, too.
- Grow Your Own Fruit and Vegetables
Did you know you could save up to £500 by simply growing your own fruit and vegetables. Start growing a tomato plant or plant an apple tree. Some of the easiest fruit and vegetables to grow at home include salad, beetroot, onions, pumpkins, strawberries, courgettes and dwarf French beans. You’ll have a regular supply of fresh fruit and vegetables and a healthy bank balance to match!
- Pack a Lunch
It’s time you gave up the expensive meal deals and dinners out on your lunch break, and start packing a lunch. The average worker spends a £3.69 on their lunch in work, which adds up to an incredible £860 per year! So, make some time every morning or night to make a packed lunch for work. You’re belly will be fuller and you’ll have more money to spend on activities outside of work. You know it makes sense.
- Start Saving
Let’s face it, if you want to feel financially stable next year, you have to have some savings in the bank – which excludes a rainy day fund. Your savings should be used as a nest egg for your future or towards fulfilling a lifelong dream, such as owning your own home, embarking on the ultimate holiday abroad or for your retirement. Set aside money each month and add it to your savings account. If you treat your savings as a bill, you won’t be tempted to spend the money.