3 Small Steps to Turn Your Financial Inertia into Momentum

Do you want to change your financial situation, but feel stuck? Perhaps you don’t know what action to take or you’re afraid of messing it up.

Sometimes we find ourselves in a state of financial inertia because we’re simply comfortable with just coasting along, even though we know we deserve better.

And sometimes we buy into the falsehood that we have plenty of time to turn the ship around.

The longer you stay stuck, the harder it is to take action.

Being in a state of financial inertia is the same as staying in the comfort zone. But personal and financial growth requires challenge and sometimes failure.

When we have financial momentum, we are driven to take action towards our goals and vision. Each step taken builds upon the last, producing feelings of accomplishment, excitement, and optimism.

The key to moving out of inertia and towards momentum is to take small steps that build your confidence and minimize your fears.

I spent my 20s feeling stuck, partly due to my limited financial knowhow, but also because I didn’t feel worthy of more. When I finally decided to make a u-turn, I started small. And as I built momentum, I took bigger steps until it felt like I was leaping my way to financial success.

Here are three momentum-building actions you can take today:

Step 1: Make a declaration that you are committed to change.

Set an intention like “I am shifting my attention and energy towards changing my relationship with money.” Repeat this to yourself each day.

Step 2: What you focus on grows, so be intentional with your time and attention.

Schedule 30 minutes on your calendar daily to read a personal finance book or article, listen to an uplifting podcast, or take an online money management course.

Step 3: Get reacquainted with your money.

Review your bank, investment, and credit card statements weekly. Try not to pass judgement, just observe the activity. Couple this task with something enjoyable, like a fancy coffee or pedicure, so that it becomes a treat you look forward to.

These steps repeated over time will become your habits. And when engaging with you money feels like second nature, you’ll be ready to take massive action.