How to Install Good Financial Habits

If you’re just now following our “financial freedom” series, then start here at the Nine Core Truths About Taking Control of Your Finances. Before we move on, let’s talk about how you can “install” good habits. Old habits can be hard to break and hard to change. Here are some tips for changing yours:

· Make good habits easy to remember and do. If you find a way to automate a task or chore, do it! The easiest habits to keep are the ones that are on auto-pilot.

· Reward yourself (in a non-monetary way).

Create a “To” Reward Goal. When you do something that moves you closer to your goal, reward yourself. Connect with friends, take an hour to yourself, etc.

Create an “Away From” Reward Goal . When you do something that takes you farther away from your goal, your “punishment” is doing something you don’t like: cleaning out a closet, washing windows, etc. In short, find ways to positively and negatively motivate yourself.

· Keep going. If you slip, don’t beat yourself up. Just get right back on the horse — and re-double your effort to stick to your commitment. Review your Commitment Certificate and look at your Personal “WHY?” form.

· Get help and support. Enlist friends and family in your project, even if it’s just in the form of peer pressure. If you need…