Fall Into Good Financial Practices For A Strong Finish
By Andrew J Evans • 09/23/2025
Embrace the Calm Before the Holiday Storm
As the vibrant hues of autumn leaves fill the landscape, many individuals may find themselves overwhelmed by the approaching holiday season or uncertain about their financial standing. It's a time when expenses tend to ramp up and financial anxiety can often accompany the festivities. But fear not—fall presents a golden opportunity to pause, reflect, and make smart financial decisions. By adopting a proactive mindset, you can close out the year strong and lay a solid foundation for a prosperous 2026.
Revisit Your Budget
Think of fall as the calm before the financial storm of the holidays. This period is ideal for assessing your income and expenses. Take a close look at your financial situation and consider building a small cushion for the upcoming seasonal spending. Assessing your budget now may spare you from a holiday hangover later.
Pay Down High-Interest Debt
Carrying credit card or high-interest debt can be financially burdensome. The long-term cost of debt is significant, making it crucial to prioritize repayment strategies. By tackling high-interest debt now, you'll gain financial breathing room heading into the new year.
Automate Savings
The convenience of automating your savings cannot be overstated. Setting up automatic transfers to your savings or investment accounts ensures consistent contributions. Even small, consistent steps can grow into significant financial security over time.
Schedule a Year-End Financial Review
Meeting with your financial advisor before the year ends can be invaluable. A year-end financial review allows you to optimize for tax efficiency, refine your plan, and set the trajectory for 2026. This personalized support can be instrumental in steering your financial future.
Set Year-End Goals
Take time to define what financial wins you can still achieve this year. Whether it's paying off a specific debt, bolstering your emergency savings, or maximizing retirement contributions, setting concrete goals can lead to significant fiscal milestones.
Put Idle Money to Work
If you have idle funds sitting in low-yield accounts, consider other options. Evaluating and redirecting funds into higher-yield or growth-focused investments that align with your risk tolerance and timeline can enhance your overall financial growth.
Take Charge of Your Financial Future
Fall can indeed be a strategic time to fine-tune your finances. Remember, even small, intentional actions can convert uncertainty into progress. Consider booking a financial review to receive tailored support and to build momentum as you head into the new year.