Article By: Christine Roberts – Kelly
Contributing Writer

As we approach year end, it’s a natural time to reflect on what we’ve done and where we want to
go. It’s also the perfect moment to align your financial goals with your values, ensuring that you
step into 2025 with intention, and a solid plan (y’all know your girl loves a plan).
Whether 2024 was a year of financial wins or challenges, it’s never too late to set yourself up for
success. Here are my thoughts and tools for wrapping up 2024 with gratitude and an intentional
strategy for the year ahead.
Take a moment to think about your financial journey this year. What went well? Did you hit any
savings milestones, stick to a budget, or find ways to earn more? Celebrate those wins, no matter
how small they may seem.
Equally, take stock of the challenges. Did unexpected expenses throw you off track? Did you
struggle to save or stay consistent with your financial habits? Acknowledging these hurdles is the
first step to overcoming them in the future.
Gratitude isn’t just about recognizing what went right; it’s about seeing the lessons in the
setbacks. These moments of reflection can inspire actionable goals for 2025.
Now let’s set goals for 2025. Are you saving for a dream vacation, paying down debt, trying to
dig out of a financial hole or the BIG one … working toward financial freedom? Having a clear
purpose behind your goals can make them more attainable.
For example, if your goal is to save $2500, break it down into manageable steps. How much can
you set aside monthly? What expenses can you cut back on? When your goals are tied to a
deeper intention, staying committed becomes easier.

I often talk about creating a budget and saving. So, I am highlighting tools that are a must in my
book for getting and staying on track so you can hit those financial milestones. To help you
achieve financial clarity, I recommend starting with two timeless tools:
A budget is the foundation of financial health (in my humble experience). A simple budget
planner—whether it’s a spreadsheet, app, or physical notebook—can help you track your income
and expenses. By seeing where your money goes each month, you can identify opportunities to
save and spend more intentionally.
I know I’ve said it before however it’s work repeating! Start by dividing your expenses into
categories: essentials (rent, utilities, groceries), savings, and discretionary spending
(entertainment, dining out). Then, assign each dollar a purpose.
The key to success with a budget planner is consistency. Set aside time weekly or monthly to
review and adjust your plan as needed. This habit will give you control over your money and
ensure your spending aligns with your goals.

My other go- to tool is a savings envelope system. It is a tried-and-true method for those who
prefer a hands-on approach to managing money. Here’s how it works:
• Label envelopes with specific savings goals, such as “Emergency Fund,” “Holiday Gifts,” or
“Vacation.”
• Allocate a set amount of cash to each envelope from your income.
• Watch your savings grow as you add to your envelopes over time.
This tangible method can make saving feel more rewarding. Plus, it encourages discipline, as
you’re less likely to spend money allocated for a specific purpose.
For a tech twist, consider digital envelope systems through budgeting apps that let you allocate
funds to different “virtual envelopes.”
If you head over to my website, you can purchase my favorite budget planner and my go to
savings envelope system. www.intentionenterprises.com
The close of the year is a chance to reflect, reset, and renew your commitment to a brighter
financial future. With a budget planner to guide your spending and a savings envelope system to
keep you focused, you’ll have the tools to turn your goals into reality.
Remember, financial wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Embrace your journey
with hope and intention, knowing that each small step brings you closer to the life you envision.
As you gather with loved ones during the holiday season, take a moment to be grateful for the
lessons of 2024 and the opportunities that 2025 holds. Let’s step into the new year together,
ready to achieve our goals.
Here’s to gratitude, growth, and an intentional plan for 2025!