Get clear on your short-and long-term financial goals
Fifty-nine percent of Americans say having clear goals is an important aspect of financial health. No matter your goals, try making each of them SMART, meaning they are:
* Specific: Know precisely what you want to do with your money.
* Measurable: Know the exact dollar amount you need to achieve your goals.
* Attainable: Know how you can reach your goals based on your current budget.
* Realistic: If a goal is out of reach, find ways to make it more attainable.
Your SMART goals don't have to stay the same. If you're working on long-term goals, you can review and adjust them annually as life changes.
Create a budget and know where you stand
A budget can give you a holistic view of your money habits. With a budget, it's easier to manage, track and allocate your spending based on your needs.