It’s the start of a new year, and thus time to turn over a fresh leaf and look at how we can do things better.
I wonder how many of us can say the resolutions we made this time last year have gone the distance? Is it even possible to keep a resolution made in that way? Perhaps not, but let’s not give up trying! Here’s my top 10 for 2014:
1) Try to pay off my mortgage faster. I’m going to increase the repayments and pay off a lump sum so I can be in a good position to have that monkey off my back when I retire.
2) Think more seriously about my KiwiSaver contribution. Am I doing enough to keep me in comfort later on? I suggest you do the same. Log on to kiwisaver.govt.nz to keep track of your contributions and look at your options. If you haven’t joined KiwiSaver, make 2014 the year you do so.
3) Take the advice of our finance writer and check to see if I have the optimum credit card. I already clear it every month, so now I want to make sure I’m getting the most bang for my buck!
4) Help someone else achieve their goals. I realise I live a privileged life and should not forget to help those who don’t or haven’t had the same opportunities.
5) Check regularly on our free Powerswitch website to ensure our family is on the cheapest electricity and gas plan. There’s no point throwing away money. You can also do the same by going to powerswitch.org.nz. It provides free, independent advice and takes just a few minutes to complete. At the end of it you’ll find out what the best plans and prices are to fit your power needs.
6) Wear more sunscreen – I’m a red head! Use a sunscreen that offers a high SPF and use the correct amount. That equates to one teaspoon (5ml) for each arm, leg, your back, face etc. It all adds up to 35ml for a full body application.
7) Get better at gardening – yeah right!
8) Walk to work more often as it’s good for me.
9) Talk to our Consumer members more often – without them we don’t have an organisation.
10) Help others more often to stand up for their rights – well, that’s my job so I definitely have to stick to this resolution!
Good luck in achieving all the resolutions you write on your list this year. Happy New Year.
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