6 tips to remember when spring cleaning your finances

Spring has sprung, and most people have a bounce in their step as they are glad that they have survived the year so far.

Spring season is also a time where most people have forgotten their New Year’s resolutions and a much needed break just seems too far away.

During this time, people often need a little nudge to keep going for the last quarter of the year. Many people might be using this time to spring clean their cupboards, as they wonder which pair of their jeans they’ll fit into, after overindulging during the winter season.

Some might try a crash diet, while others might opt for a more balanced, long term approach to achieve their weight goals.

This is a good time to also consider spring cleaning your finances. This will involve going through the same process of identifying what is eating away at your finances and bloating your expenses. You will need to identify what your financial goals are and what adjustments you need to make, to achieve financial freedom.

Just like spring cleaning your cupboard takes discipline and is often easier if you have someone to do it with you, spring cleaning your finances can be simpler with the help of a financial adviser. A trusted financial adviser can provide that little voice of reason inside your head and help you to review your money and spending habits.

It is important to remember that as pleasant as spring usually is, there will still be some unexpected cold and rainy days too that you need to plan for.

The same is true when it comes to personal finances; while enjoying a good financial period, you need to plan for those unforeseen events that may drain your finances. However, you can enjoy the benefits of the spring season when your money works for you.

With spring cleaning, the rule of thumb is to toss out anything that has not been worn in the last year. With finances, you need to spring clean more regularly, for example, in the form of a monthly budget. Draw up a budget and revisit it on a monthly basis to check if you have achieved your goals.

In the budget, you should be able to account for all money coming in and going out. Money going out must include long and short-term insurance products, as well as savings and investments vehicles.

By going through this exercise, you will be surprised at how much money is available, but is being used incorrectly. With a plan, money can be channeled correctly, to help you achieve your financial goals.

Six tips to remember when spring cleaning your finances:

1. Think twice before spending

2. Save first, spend what is left

3. Make provision for rainy days