As a new year begins, many people look at their finances and set money goals. This is a great time to pause, think, and make plans that match what matters most to you.

From Everence Financial’s perspective, good money habits aren’t about big changes. They are about simple, steady steps that build confidence.

Your Mission, Your Finances

Healthy financial habits take shape through small, intentional decisions made consistently over time. They’re about clarity, consistency and intentional choices – habits that build confidence over time.

Set the stage for your soul. Music has a unique and special power and Everence member Dr. David Berry shares how preparing for a performance mirrors financial planning for the future—both help us share our gifts more fully with the world.

Here are some key habits to focus on early in the year, with ideas for different stages of life.

1. Revisit Your Goals and Priorities

Money works best when it supports your life goals.

  • Early career / young adults: Focus on paying off loans, saving, or getting ready for your first home.
  • Mid-career / families: Check that spending, retirement savings, and college funds match your family’s needs.
  • Pre-retirement / retirees: Make sure your money can support everyday life, healthcare, and your legacy plans.

2. Create or Refresh Your Spending Plan

A budget helps you see where money goes and make choices that match your goals.

  • Early career: Track spending and find ways to save, even a little at a time.
  • Mid-career: Review subscriptions and bills. As income grows, small increases in everyday spending can reduce progress toward bigger goals.
  • Later years: Make sure your spending fits your retirement income and adjust for changing costs.

3. Build and Maintain an Emergency Fund

Unexpected costs happen. A savings cushion can protect you and prevent debt.

  • Early career: Start with one month of expenses and grow to three to six months.
  • Mid-career: Make sure your emergency savings match your household size and responsibilities.
  • Retirement: Keep some money easy to access for healthcare or major repairs without affecting long-term investments.

4. Make Saving and Investing Consistent

Setting up automatic savings and investments keeps you on track.

  • Early career: Save for retirement, especially if your employer matches contributions.
  • Mid-career: Increase savings when possible and make sure your investment mix fits your comfort with risk.
  • Later years: Focus on steady growth and ensure your plan provides income when needed.

5. Review Protection and Planning Documents

Check insurance and legal documents regularly.

  • All stages: Confirm beneficiaries and review life, disability, and health coverage.
  • Families and retirees: Update estate documents, including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, especially after big life changes.

6. Schedule a Financial Check-In

Talk regularly with your spouse, family, or a financial professional. A check-in helps spot issues, make adjustments, and stay confident.

At Everence Financial, we help people gain clarity and confidence, so their money supports their values and purpose.

Contact Brian at Everence Financial here.

Start the Year with Intention

Financial goals don’t need to be overwhelming. Focus on a few meaningful habits and revisit them as life changes. Small steps now create momentum that lasts.

As the year goes on, regular check-ins and small adjustments can help your finances support what matters most today and in the future.

Additional events and resource articles can be found on our website – https://everence.com/virginia

Brian is a Chartered Financial Consultant® and provides families, churches and businesses with advanced financial planning – including investment, insurance and retirement and estate planning services. A bilingual Spanish speaker, he also served as a volunteer in Africa and South America. Since joining Everence in 2015, Brian enjoys helping people integrate their finances with their values – and partnering with Everence members and clients on their financial journeys. Brian is a native of Rockingham County and he and his family attend Zion Mennonite Church.

Contact Brian at Everence Financial here.