(InvestigateTV) — According to a new NerdWallet survey, 69% of Americans had a financial regret for 2024.
Kim Palmer, a personal finance expert with NerdWallet, said the most common regrets are not saving enough for emergencies, not saving enough for financial goals, and overspending on entertainment.
Palmer said those with regrets can start over in 2025.
“Sometimes just starting small can be the way to go. So, committing to putting aside a set amount every week and slowly raising it as the year goes on,” she said. “Some people find it really helpful to set up auto transfers between their checking account and their savings account. So that money is growing in a high yield savings account, it can just feel more motivating.”
Those who overspent on entertainment like movies and concerts could change that next year.
“The first thing to do is go back and see how much you did spend on all of those items just to get a sense of your starting point,” Palmer explained. “And then to make a plan to say, ‘ok I’ll just eat out twice a month or twice a week’, whatever makes the most sense for your budget to give yourself limits to try out, with a goal of just reducing that overall spending.”
Palmer said this is nothing to feel ashamed about, it’s helpful to reflect on regrets to find motivation to make changes.
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