YOU’VE done the vision boards, created the lists and you should be about four weeks in your ‘new you’, but can we talk about money for a second? Wealth advice often sounds like it was written for someone with unlimited time and absolutely no responsibilities. But real life looks different, you know that. Bills are due, people depend on you, and there is always something competing for attention. That is exactly why money needs a little more honesty and a lot less pressure.

If we were sitting together and talking this through, this is what I would tell you.

1) Let’s start with where the money really went

Before we plan anything new, we have to look back. Pull your statements from last year and sit with them. No judgement. You are not doing this to beat yourself up, you are doing it to understand your habits. Once you know where the leaks are, you can decide what needs tightening and what can remain the same.

2) Save before anything else happens

If saving is the last thing you do, it will always lose. Set it up so money moves to savings as soon as you are paid. You’ve heard “pay yourself first” a million times, let’s get cracking this year. Start with an emergency fund, because life does not send warnings before it sends expenses. Even small, regular amounts add up faster than you think.

3) Handle the debt that keeps tapping your shoulder

You know the one. The balance that never quite goes away. High-interest debt has a way of lingering and quietly stressing you out. Make a clear plan to deal with the most expensive debt first. Reducing it steadily frees up cash for saving and investing later.

4) Start investing and figure it out as you go

Not knowing where to start is so last year! You do not need to feel confident to begin, you’ll get the hang of it once you get started. Invest small amounts, invest regularly and give your money time to work. Spread your investments so everything is not resting on one decision. You don’t need to get it perfect, you just need to get started.

5) Ask questions before you make big moves

You do not get extra points for doing everything alone. You do not need to become a finance expert but before you commit to investments or major financial decisions, ask questions. Speak with a financial advisor. Attend information sessions. Understanding what you are doing makes every decision feel lighter and more intentional. The more you understand, the easier it is to spot red flags and avoid decisions that do not sit right with you.

6) Focus on what matters most right now

Not everything needs fixing at the same time. Decide what would make the biggest difference in your life at this stage. Less debt. More savings. Better structure. Pick one or two priorities and give them your attention. You can always move on to the next thing later.

7) Do something today that future you will appreciate

Retirement feels far away until it suddenly is not. Whether it is a pension plan through work or your own retirement account, start contributing now. Even small amounts make a difference over time. Think of it as doing a favour for a version of yourself you will be very grateful for later.

8) Put a safety net in place

Insurance and estate planning are not exciting, but they are important. Life and health insurance protect you from financial setbacks that can undo years of progress. Having a will and clear beneficiaries is an act of care for the people you love and the assets you have worked hard to build.

9) Give yourself a little extra coming in

One income stream can feel tight, especially when costs keep rising. Look for ways to earn beyond your main job, whether through a skill you already have or investments that generate income over time. Extra income brings breathing room, and breathing room brings options.

Building wealth requires making thoughtful decisions that support your life, your responsibilities and your peace of mind. Start where you are, take it step by step and trust that consistency will do the heavy lifting — you’ve got this!

Dr Karrian Hepburn Malcolm is head of wealth at NCB, where she works with individuals and businesses to build long-term financial confidence and security.