10 (More) Financial Micro Goals You Can Tackle in 15 Minutes or Less

Following our first blog on financial micro goals, we share 10 more ways you can move the needle on your finances in 15 minutes or less.

1. Automate your savings

In his book I Will Teach You to Be Rich, Ramit Sethi says “automating your money will be the single most profitable system you will ever build.” And he’s right – studies show that people who automate their savings end up saving more money than those who do it whenever they have the time, or whenever they have extra money left over. 

Want to fund that dream vacation? Save for a down payment for a house or practice? Automate it, and you’re likely to get there sooner. 

2. Form a new habit

What habit can you form that will help you achieve your next financial goal? 

If you want to spend less, set a timer when you visit Amazon.com or other shopping websites so you don’t end up mindlessly scrolling (and buying). 

If you want to work more on your side hustle, block out time in your schedule each week. 

3. Contribute to your retirement account

If your company offers a 401(k) or another retirement plan, consider increasing the amount you’re contributing to a higher percentage of your income, or up to the maximum. If you have a Roth IRA, set up your contribution for the year. 

Compounding interest will increase your savings over time, so you’ll have more money when you retire. 

4. Open a brokerage account

A brokerage account can serve many purposes. You could invest your money for a medium to long-term goal or use it to supplement your retirement savings. 

If you are on an income-driven repayment plan for your student debt and going for forgiveness, a brokerage account is often recommended to save for the “tax bomb” or tax bill you’ll need to pay the year your loans are forgiven. 

5. Plan your meals for the week

Meal planning can not only save you money, but time and stress as well. If you’re new to meal planning, start with just planning a couple of meals and branch out from there. YouTube is a great source of ideas if you’re not sure what to cook.

With time, you’ll have your go-to meals that are healthier and much more cost-effective than DoorDash.

6. Sign up for online bill pay

You can set up online bill pay through your bank’s website. Automating your bills is the best way to make sure you never miss a payment. For those bills that can’t be automated, setting up online bill pay can still save you time writing checks and stamping envelopes. 

7. Spruce up your LinkedIn profile

Even if you’re not actively looking for a new job, building or updating your LinkedIn profile can help you connect with colleagues, increase your exposure, and boost your available opportunities. If you are looking for a career change, improving your LinkedIn profile will help you stand out.

Check out Vets, Stay, Go Diversify’s free Career Creator Workshop Series for practical tips on how to attract ideal career opportunities using your CV and LinkedIn. 

8. Calculate your net worth

Make a list of all of your assets (what you own), then make a list of all of your liabilities (what you owe). Subtract your liabilities from your assets to determine your net worth. If you have student debt or just bought a house, your net worth may be negative. As you continue your financial journey, you can expect your net worth to improve over time. 

9. Schedule a meeting with an expert

Have you been putting off meeting with an accountant, student loan consultant, financial advisor, or practice valuation expert? Take a few minutes to schedule a call. 

Working with an expert can save you time and money, and help you clarify your goals. 

10. Check in with your partner

Last but not least, check in with your partner to make sure you’re on the same page financially. Money can be a stressor in relationships, and keeping the lines of communication open can make sure you’re in alignment on your financial and life goals. 

Small financial steps can lead to huge strides over time. Which of these goals will you tackle first? 

Meredith Jones, DVM, CSLP®

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