Happy (almost) New Year! The start of a new year is the perfect time to set goals and resolutions, but achieving them doesn’t have to add financial strain. Whether you’re looking to get fit, focus on self-care, learn new skills, or spend more time with loved ones, there are plenty of ways to save money while leveling up. With a bit of creativity and motivation, you can align your goals with your budget! Here are our tips on how to make the most of your 2025 resolutions without overspending.
Reaching Your Health Goals
Fitness is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions, but it can also be expensive. The good news is that there are many practical ways to stay fit without breaking the bank. By carefully considering your options and looking for deals, you can build a fitness routine that works for your health and wallet.
– Look for discounts: Many gyms offer New Year’s specials or discounts for signing up with a friend. Check for deals at your local fitness center and online.
– Use apps to stay on track: Apps like Caliber and Nike Training Club offer free workouts for all levels, and there are free apps such as Jefit to track your progress and help you stay motivated.
– Buy second-hand equipment: You can find affordable fitness gear for your home gym at thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or apps like OfferUp.
– Try pay-as-you-go classes: Instead of committing to a pricey membership, try drop-in classes or punch cards to find what works best.
– Take advantage of free fitness videos: YouTube has endless follow-along videos available for viewers of all fitness levels and interests. Fitness trainers, like BodyFit by Amy, Tracy Steen, and Sydney Cummings, regularly produce new and engaging content to guide my morning workouts.
– Walking is free! I regularly go on brisk 4-5 mile walks and use that time to catch up on the phone with friends and family, walk with a friend in person, or listen to music and podcasts.
Learning New Hobbies and Skills
Starting a new hobby or skill is a fun goal for the new year, and it’s possible to dive into new interests without overspending. Whether crafting, cooking, or coding, there are many cost-effective ways to learn and grow. Websites like Skillshare offer free class trials, and local libraries frequently host free workshops. Alison is an online platform offering thousands of free accredited courses where you can get a certification. Plus, YouTube offers an array of free tutorials for skills like baking, photography, painting, and more.
Before investing in expensive tools or supplies for your new hobbies, see if a friend can lend you what you need. You can also turn to secondhand stores for gently used equipment like craft supplies, musical instruments, and sports gear. Note: You should always purchase new safety gear, rather than used.
Prioritizing Wellness and Self-Care
Taking good care of yourself is essential, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to feel your best. Simple changes to your routine and savvy shopping choices can help you prioritize physical and mental wellness without overspending. From discounted treatments to free local resources, investing in self-care that fits your needs and your budget is easy.
– DIY spa treatments: Create your own face masks, scrubs, and bath soaks at home using inexpensive ingredients like oats, honey, and Epsom salts. You can find tutorials on YouTube and TikTok.
– Take advantage of free community offerings: Many cities offer free yoga in the park, wellness workshops, or group runs.
– Look for discounts: Use apps like Groupon or Honey for discounts on spa treatments, massages, or acupuncture sessions.
– Join a book or gardening club: Find a fun, free social outlet to make new friends. Meetup.com is a great place to find local groups with shared interests.
Financial and Savings Goals
Getting your finances in order is a goal that can benefit every area of your life. Building good financial habits doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Starting with just a few simple steps can make meaningful progress toward a more secure financial future.
– Create a detailed budget: Develop a spending plan to manage your finances. Use free apps like Credit Karma or YNAB to track your expenses and plan your savings.
– Cut unnecessary subscriptions: Review your monthly recurring payments and cancel subscriptions or services you no longer use.
– Take advantage of rewards programs: If you can pay off your monthly balance, use credit cards with cashback or points to save more on everyday purchases.
– Automate savings: Set up automatic transfers to a high-yield savings account to build your emergency fund effortlessly. One of my favorites is from Bread Financial, which has a 4.6 percent Annual Percentage Yield.
Quality Time with Family and Friends
Building stronger relationships doesn’t require extravagant outings or expensive events. Creativity and thoughtfulness can go a long way in creating meaningful memories without the price tag. Focus on activities that bring people together and celebrate the simple things. Here are some free and low-cost suggestions:
– Plan potlucks or game nights: Host gatherings at home where everyone contributes food and/or entertainment.
– Free local events: Check out free concerts, farmers’ markets, or festivals in your area.
– Go outdoors: Hiking, picnicking, or strolling through local parks are fun ways to stay active and spend time with those you love.
– Create more time to spend together: For those with busy schedules, it can be hard to find extra hours in the day for quality time, so try transforming everyday tasks like cooking and even cleaning into fun, collaborative activities for the family.
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