Obviously I have way more than 3 things I need to accomplish for 2010 so today I’m adding to my list:
4. Filing and Organization
This sounds strikingly like a resolution, but as soon as I throw all of my unorganized and unfiled 2009 paperwork into a box, I intend on keeping 2010 in pretty, neatly labeled file folders. Keeping paper organized not only makes it easier to find something when you need it, but bills and important events are less likely to be overlooked or missed. I have everything I need for this step already and I’ve decided upon a routine in which I open the mail, put bills in a tray and when the bill is paid it is filed away and forgotten. Easy, right? Unfortunately, I need to file away about 2 months of 2009 first.
5. Establishing a Savings or Oh, Crap I Need Money Account
I had far too many close calls last year that would’ve been hella easier if I had a savings account or money stashed away. I already have a savings account at my credit union with the minimum amount needed to keep it open, I just need to use it. For now, I’m not worrying about fancy accounts or interest, I’m focusing on getting into the habit of saving. I use to smoke which was costing at least $150 a month, so why don’t I have that money to put into a savings account? I am planning at least $50 this month. I know I could do better but…baby steps, right?
6. Paying Bills Early or On Time
It goes without saying that people that manage their finances online pay less in late fees, not to mention saving on the postage. I should know from paying all of my credit cards online. I can’t remember the last time I paid a late fee for a credit card payment. Utilities and other bills though, are a different story. I don’t want to even speculate how much I’ve paid to the electric and gas companies in late fees. For some reason I haven’t managed these accounts online when I could and my plan is to start paying everything online that I possibly can.
I suppose I could round out the 2010 To Do List to an even 10 but these six I think are the most important things I feel like I should focus on. Plus, with any goal, we need to make sure they don’t get out of hand, and become unattainable. Notice there isn’t anything about keeping a spotless home….bahahaha…
What do you plan on working on or changing this year? (Seriously…)