Financial wellness in 2026 does not have to mean strict spreadsheets or complicated systems. A recent WalletHub survey found that nearly 3 in 4 people say their financial situation impacts their mental well‑being, and 69% of Americans feel insecure about their finances. It’s no surprise that many of us are looking for something more helpful and more realistic than the traditional “new year, new budget” approach.
At Self Reliance Financial Federal Credit Union, we believe financial wellness is about building strong, sustainable habits. Here are simple “do this, not that” steps to help you feel more confident and in control this year:
Do This: Review Your Spending Patterns
Not That: Start With a Strict Budget
Before creating a financial plan, spend one week observing how you actually spend. Look through your checking account, credit card statements, and digital wallet history to understand where your money goes.
Ask yourself:
- Do unused subscriptions quietly drain your account?
- Are grocery or delivery costs higher than you realized?
Once your true spending patterns are clear, it’s easier to make small, realistic adjustments like choosing generic brands, reducing impulse buys, or rotating streaming services seasonally. Progress built on awareness lasts longer than any rigid budgeting plan.
Do This: Automate What You Can
Not That: Rely on Willpower to Save
If you’ve ever meant to transfer money to savings but forgot, automation can be a game changer. It removes decision fatigue and helps your savings grow effortlessly.
Try automating:
- Transfers to savings every payday
- Bill payments to avoid late fees
Even small automated contributions can build momentum and strengthen your long-term financial health.
Do This: Build an Emergency Cushion
Not That: Wait Until You Can Save “Enough”
A full emergency fund (3–6 months of expenses) can feel overwhelming. Start small even $20 a week makes a difference over time.
Keep your emergency savings separate from your everyday spending, ideally in a dedicated savings account where it’s easy to access when life surprises you. A small cushion can soften the impact of car repairs, medical bills, or even a sudden change in income.
Financial wellness isn’t just about responsibility; it’s about balance. Planning for joy helps prevent burnout and guilt spending.
Do This: Plan for Joy, Not Just Bills
Not That: Treat Fun as “Extra” or “Unnecessary”
Financial wellness isn’t just about responsibility it’s about balance. Planning for joy helps prevent burnout and guilt spending.
Whether your joy comes from weekend getaways, hobbies, entertainment, or family activities, building it into your plan makes your overall budget more sustainable.
Do This: Check Your Credit and Debt Picture
Not That: Avoid It Because It Feels Stressful
Facing your debt can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most empowering steps toward financial control.
Start by pulling your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and reviewing:
- Balances
- Interest rates
- Minimum payments
- Due dates
Then choose a repayment method that fits your style:
- Debt Snowball: Pay off the smallest balance first to build momentum
- Debt Avalanche: Pay off the highest interest rate first to save money
Both strategies work choose the one that keeps you consistent.
Do This: Seek Trusted Support
Not That: Navigate Your Finances Alone
You don’t have to handle your financial decisions entirely on your own. Working with a certified personal accountant can provide clarity, confidence, and personalized guidance tailored to your unique financial situation.
A qualified accountant can help you:
- Understand your current financial picture
- Create a realistic budget or spending plan
- Review your tax situation and identify potential savings
- Build strategies for managing debt and improving cash flow
- Set long-term financial goals you can actually stick to
If you’re facing challenges with debt or feeling overwhelmed, many accountants can also refer you to reputable financial counseling services that specialize in debt management and credit support.
Getting expert help is not a sign of weakness. It is one of the smartest steps toward long‑term financial wellness
Start Fresh: Clean Up Your Subscriptions
Reduce financial clutter before the new year begins. There are many useful apps and sites that can help you track and cancel subscriptions effortlessly so you stay in control of your spending.