As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us feel the pull of fresh starts and renewed motivation. It’s easy to procrastinate on important financial and housekeeping tasks, but the new year is the perfect opportunity to channel the season’s momentum and tackle them head-on. These resolutions aren’t just about getting organized—they’re about safeguarding your future, easing burdens for your loved ones, and simplifying your life. Here are five resolutions to consider for the year ahead.
- Update or Create Your Estate Plan
If you haven’t updated your estate plan in a while—or if you don’t have one—it’s time to prioritize this critical task. Life changes quickly, and having a plan in place is critical if you become ill or pass away unexpectedly. Whether it’s updating beneficiaries, creating a will, or setting up a trust, meeting with an estate planning attorney and working with them to create an appropriate estate plan ensures your wishes will be carried out and your loved ones protected. Don’t let uncertainty linger. Schedule a meeting with a trusted estate planning attorney to make sure your estate is in order.
- Consult a Financial Advisor
If you’re feeling uncertain about your financial future or want guidance on growing your wealth, now is the time to reach out to a financial advisor. These professionals can help you navigate retirement planning, investment strategies, and even budgeting. A quick consultation can give you a clear picture of where you stand financially and provide actionable steps to achieve your goals. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, planning for college tuition, or preparing for retirement, a financial advisor can help you stay on track.
- Create a Centralized System for Accounts and Passwords
No one likes to think about emergencies, but having a centralized list of accounts, passwords, and key contacts is a practical way to prepare for the unexpected. This system can include login credentials for online accounts, contact information for financial advisors and attorneys, and instructions for accessing important documents. Digital tools like password managers or a secure, physical notebook can help you organize this information. This resolution isn’t just about convenience—it’s about making things easier for your family if something happens to you.
- Reassess Your Budget and Financial Goals
A new year is a great time to take a fresh look at your budget. Are you spending in line with your values and goals? Do you have any automatic monthly subscriptions like streaming services or gym memberships that you no longer use? Reassess your monthly expenses, and look for areas where you can cut back or reallocate funds. It’s also a good idea to evaluate your financial goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re aiming to pay off debt, save for a vacation, or contribute more to your retirement account, setting specific targets can make a big difference.
- Declutter Your Home Strategically
Housekeeping resolutions can be just as impactful as financial ones. Decluttering your home doesn’t just create a more pleasant living environment; it can also reduce stress and make it easier to manage your household. Focus on one area at a time—perhaps starting with paperwork or items you no longer use. Donate, recycle, or dispose of unnecessary items to create a cleaner and more organized space.
The temptation to procrastinate on these tasks is strong, but the new year is the perfect moment to take action. By addressing these legal, financial and housekeeping resolutions now, you can make meaningful strides toward securing your future and your family’s future and simplifying your life. Take advantage of the fresh energy this season brings and set yourself up for success in the year ahead—you’ll thank yourself later.
Attorney Leah A. Kofos is an associate attorney with the Dedham firm of Samuel, Sayward & Baler LLC, which focuses on advising its clients in the areas of trust and estate planning, estate settlement, and elder law matters. This article is not intended to provide legal advice or create or imply an attorney-client relationship. No information contained herein is a substitute for a personal consultation with an attorney. For more information visit ssbllc.com or call 781-461-1020.
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