Top money resolutions people are making for 2025 (and tips for setting your own financial goals)

The new year is the perfect time to hit ‘reset’ on your finances.  

In fact, according to a new Opinium Research survey of 2,000 people, 43% of Brits plan to set financial goals in 2025.  

If you’re in the 18-34 age group, you’re more likely to make a financial resolution than anyone else, with a whopping 64% of young adults planning to focus on their money. Meanwhile, just 21% of the over-55s are making a financial goal. 

So, what kind of financial goals are people setting for themselves in 2025? 

Top money goals for 2025 

• boosting savings 

• improving budgeting 

• cutting back on spending 

• reducing debt 

• investing (especially for retirement and saving for a rainy day)  

Miranda Seath, director for market insight at the Investment Association which commissioned the research, said: “It is great to see so many people prioritising their financial goals in the new year, especially younger people.  

“With the cost-of-living continuing to impact many households, building financial resilience is clearly a priority, with the majority looking to boost their savings and focus on better budgeting.” 

But let’s be realistic, setting financial goals and putting money aside can be easier said than done.  

Our top tips about setting money goals can help you stick to them.  

What is a financial goal? 

A financial goal is simply a plan for your money. Whether you’re saving for something big or tackling your debt, the goal is to put aside a little bit of money each day, week, or month, to go towards achieving it. 

You might be saving for:  

• a new car 

• your wedding  

• deposit for your dream home 

• starting a family 

• your kid’s education 

• paying off debt 

• a dream holiday 

• paying off your mortgage early 

• retirement 

Why financial goals matter  

Setting clear financial goals has huge benefits, including:  

• making you more mindful about how you spend your money 

• keeping you focused and motivated 

• giving you direction and a sense of purpose 

How to set financial goals you’ll stick to 

Setting the right goals is key to achieving them. Here’s some tips to help you achieve your targets.  

Keep goals realistic 

Rather than making unrealistic goals and setting yourself up for failure, choose targets that are achievable within your budget.  

Be honest about what you can afford to save and work with what you’ve got. 

Break big goals down 

Planning to save for retirement or your first home? Break it into smaller monthly targets to help you stay motivated.