A study shows the most popular New Year’s resolution in 2025 has to do with money, so we are On Your Side with strategies to help you get financially fit.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As many people continue to stick with their New Year’s resolutions, a survey shows the most popular resolution in 2025 isn’t to going to the gym or losing weight.
With the rising cost of living and the uncertainty in the job market, people are becoming more concerned about securing their financial future, realizing this is the year to manage their finances more carefully.
According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, who conducted the survey, 45% of respondents aim to save more money this year.
But, here’s the hard part: almost nine in 10 Americans face financial obstacles, with some 40% saying too many expenses may derail their goals.
Experts at First Florida Credit Union in Jacksonville explain that along with tracking spending, consumers should identify areas where they can cut back, such as on subscription services, dining out or impulse purchases.
Also, look for ways to reduce fixed costs, like refinancing loans or shopping around for better insurance rates.
“Anyone who’s looking to save money, No. 1, automate your savings; make sure you set up an automatic deposit from your paycheck or from your primary account into a designated savings account,” First Florida Credit Union Digital Marketing Manager Ashleigh Robinson told First Coast News. “You’re going to see some savings start right away.”
Robinson also recommends breaking down big goals into smaller, more achievable steps. For example, only allow yourself to grab coffee once or twice a week and opt to make it at home or work more often.
Even if you cheat on your budget, don’t avoid looking at your card statements.
“If you don’t look at that statement, there might be fraudulent purchases on there. You never know,” Robinson said. “So, keeping an eye on it makes sure that No. 1, you’re staying on track with your goals, you’re tracking your spending, you know where your money is going, but also that all of those transactions are authentic, legitimately yours, and that you don’t need to dispute anything.”
In the survey, specifically, 32% of people are focused on reducing debt. At First Florida Credit Union, many of their customers are prioritizing paying off credit card debt or building an emergency fund.
When paying off loans, Robinson says to start by understanding exactly how much debt you have and organizing it by interest rate. This way, you can prioritize paying off high-interest debt first.
Another method is to pay off the smallest balance first, then move on to the next to keep the momentum going.
Furthermore, avoid taking on new debt, and try to stick to a budget that allows for consistent debt payments.
“People have understood that if they’re going to achieve their financial goals, they’re going to buy a house, they’re going to pay for college, and they’re going to retire eventually,” Robinson said. “They need to take a closer look and manage their budget more closely, find areas where they can save and find ways to eliminate debt in order to achieve those goals.”
To hold yourself accountable throughout 2025, Robinson recommends using banking apps like Pocket Guard or Every Dollar to keep an eye on your budget.
