New Year, New priorities: Planning For A Good Year
Many people find that the beginning of the year is a natural time to reflect on the past and think about what they want to accomplish in the future. Setting goals is a helpful way to focus your efforts and work towards something specific you want to achieve. Goals also help you to stay motivated and track your progress over time. It’s also a fun and exciting way to start the new year on the right foot.
Personal goals
Pick up a new hobby
Hobbies are a fun way to occupy your mind and potentially get out of the house and meet new people. Hobbies are also good for learning new skills.
Build your fitness
It’s always difficult to stick to a fitness routine, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Just start slow. Spend 30 minutes daily on light cardio exercises, then build your way up. Think about getting a gym buddy to encourage you to stay the course. We are so lucky to live close to beautiful beaches here in Maroochydore and just as stunning waterways and parks in Brisbane.
Take more time for yourself
Sometimes life gets so busy we put our own needs on the back burner. Take the chance once in a while to stop and treat yourself. This could mean taking a holiday or be as simple as getting a coffee and just relaxing. If you are visiting our Maroochydore office, you might like to pop in early for a coffee at Harvest on the bottom floor of the Kon-Tiki building. They do great coffee and delicious treats!
Educational goals
Pursue a qualification
Earning a new qualification opens doors to new employment opportunities. Qualifications can also allow you to upskill and take advantage of opportunities for advancement in your current career.
Learn a new skill
Picking up a new skill can give you a great sense of personal fulfilment and increase the joys in life. You could:
- Attend a cooking class;
- Learn a language;
- Take music lessons.
There are plenty of new experiences out there waiting for you.
Financial goals
Reduce debt
Reducing debt goes a long way to securing your financial future. Consider the new year an opportunity to consider debt reduction strategies. You can seek advice from free financial counselling services at https://moneysmart.gov.au/managing-debt/financial-counselling.
Start a business
Starting a business used to require significant capital input. In the online era, one-person businesses are flourishing and creating more opportunities for growth. If there’s a business idea you’re passionate about, why not pursue it this year?
Charitable giving
Australians are some of the most charitable people in the world. In fact, The Charities Aid Foundation’s latest report named Australia the fourth most generous country in the world.
Charitable giving doesn’t just mean donating money. You can also donate your time to volunteer organisations and participate in fundraising initiatives. Consider how you can give back to your community this year.
Ensure your affairs are up-to-date
While you’re focused on looking to the future, it’s a good idea to ensure your personal affairs are straight.
Your will
The new year is always a good excuse to revisit what is perhaps the most important part of your estate plan. Here are some things to consider:
- Do you have a will in place, and if so, does it still reflect your wishes?
- Have you nominated a suitable executor?
- Are there any new beneficiaries you wish to include?
- Has your estate changed in a meaningful way?
Your power of attorney
Looking after your health is always important. However, in the event you become incapacitated, it’s vital you have established an enduring power of attorney. Welcoming the new year with the peace of mind that your affairs are looked after is invaluable.
Contact the team at Life Law Solutions to get your estate planning needs in order. It would be our pleasure to assist you!
