2022 Financial Resolutions (Pick One or Make Your Own!)

Author: Patrick Blair

Motivation: If a pretty poster and a cute saying are all it takes to motivate you, you probably have a very easy job. The kind robots will be doing soon. -Motivation quote from Demotivators (Despair, Inc.)

I get a kick out of these “Demotivators.” Here’s my own Demotivator: New Year’s Resolutions: Why make an arbitrary goal that you won’t keep? Save yourself the trouble and don’t bother! In all seriousness, to have lasting motivation from a goal, you need a deep connection to the meaning behind the goal. If you can find a goal that inspires you, use it. Here are some ideas for goals in 2022 (or anytime):

CONCRETE GOALS

  • Pay off all your high-interest debt (or some portion of it).

  • Save an emergency fund based on your level of expenses and risk (usually 3-18 months).

  • Give regularly to the poor and needy (or increase the level and/or add a new charity).

  • Start an education fund for your children or grandchildren.

CONCEPT GOALS

  • Truly diversify your wealth in these uncertain times. That might involve buying physical precious metals, cryptocurrency, real estate, commodities, or increasing your cash position.

  • Cut your personal consumption in response to high inflation. Be humble and flexible. Begin to adapt now in case high inflation continues.

  • If you believe the economy is in a precarious place, change your investments to prioritize capital preservation over capital growth. Better to be safe than sorry.

  • Enjoy the wealth God has given you by purchasing something or doing something enjoyable, but not necessarily expensive. Be creative.

SPIRITUAL/FINANCIAL GOALS

  • Decide to get help with your finances (from a group, trusted person, or professional). There’s no shame in getting advice, accountability and/or motivation wherever you need it. God designed us to need others!

  • Decide to “speak the truth in love” to someone in your life that you know needs help financially. Don’t just talk to them, help them out in some way.

  • If you are in good position financially, decide to do something special for others. Inspire with your thoughtfulness and generosity.

The simple believe anything,
    but the prudent give thought to their steps.

The simple inherit folly,
    but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. -Proverbs 14:15, 18


To learn more, read my book Faith and Finances. Also, check out this promotional video for my church course: Building Faith and Finances.

Patrick Blair