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Hello Reader,

Welcome to a brand new year and a fresh start!

The beginning of the year brings lots of excitement and possibilities.

As you’re taking advantage of the new year's energy, we’re here to remind you it’s okay to make slow and steady progress.

Remember what happens to a balloon when you inflate it too fast: it pops. If you try to complete all your goals in one month, you’ll burn out.

So, let’s focus on having a healthy year where your progress is sustainable!

"I can't wait for this book to get here 🎉 " - Yinka

The Myth of “All or Nothing” in January

January often feels different, doesn’t it? You feel focused and determined and ready to tackle your finances and revamp everything from your budget to your savings.

Before you start tackling everything all at once, remember that time you tried to declutter your entire house. You started putting out items from closets and drawers, and five piles later, you were overwhelmed and exhausted.

Do things differently

This time, instead of trying to power through the first two weeks of the month, focus on building momentum. Instead of focusing on getting everything done in a short amount of time, focus on building strong habits.

For instance, trying to control your spending by not buying coffee, not eating out, no more hair appointments, etc, can be overwhelming. However, creating a habit of tracking your spending can help you gain a sense of control over time.

4 Simple things to do this week to start the new year strong

Let’s start with four simple things you can do this week to help you achieve your goals this year.

1. Adjust your budget

Start or review your January budget. Make sure your budget is up to date with new expenses and any changes in income for the new year. If you struggled with following a budget last year, consider revising your budgeting approach by trying a different method.

2. Choose a focus

Next, choose one financial focus for the month. This can be connected to your financial goals, such as paying off debt or starting your emergency fund.

Or your focus can be connected to your habits, such as spending less money or not using your credit card.

Staying focused on one aspect of your financial life will help you to follow through on your goals and intentions.

3. Boost your financial literacy

Financial education is the basis of having a strong financial future. This is why we offer over 30 free courses. Pick one free Clever Girl Finance course to complete this month. (Plus you've love our new course platform!)

You can also choose to read one financial article or listen to one new podcast episode.

For more in-depth information, you can choose a financial book to read.

4. Accountability = power

It’s important when creating new habits that you hold yourself accountable. You can do this by creating a goal-setting sheet, using the Clever Girl Finance life planner. ​

Additionally, it’s helpful to have an accountability partner.

Look to your circle of friends, see who could help you stay on track.

We are also here to support you. You can join our IG community channel, where we have weekly conversations around our financial goals, wins, and challenges.

To recap, for a successful start to the year, consider these four simple things:

1. A strong budget

2. A monthly focus

3. Financial education

4. An accountability partner

By focusing on these four aspects, you’ll create consistent steps that will render big results over time.

Regardless of how your finances were in 2025, in the new year, you can achieve financial peace of mind.

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So what will you focus on for January?

Don't forget to check out our course on setting financial goals.​

Once you sign up, you can schedule a free call discuss your goals with a Clever Girl Finance mentor!

📺 On YouTube

Tune in to this YouTube video on, "How to reset your finances after a rough year!"

Be sure to Clever Girl Finance YouTube channel for more great videos!

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📖 On the blog

• ​Money advice that doesn’t work (What to do instead)​​
• ​5 Toxic money beliefs that kept me financially stuck (What I Believe Now)​​
• ​11 Key ways to improve your money mindset​​

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🎧 On the podcast

• ​How Shanice paid off over $40k of student loan and credit card debt!​

🔊 New Mindset, Let's Go 2026! Book A One-on-One Coaching Session!

​Clever Girl Finance coaching sessions are designed to give you the personalized support, strategy, and encouragement you need to thrive financially.

Whether you're just getting started, working on building wealth, or facing a major financial decision, our 1-on-1 coaching will meet you where you are—with zero judgment and 100% support.

Let’s create a plan that works for your life. Book your coaching session today and start moving forward with confidence!

By the way, if you know anyone that would benefit from ​our completely free courses and worksheets​, please share! You can simply forward this email.

PLUS when you sign up for a free course, you can schedule a completely free call with one of our amazing Clever Girl Finance mentors.

WE ARE IN YOUR CORNER!

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Talk soon ❤️
Team CGF
(Kiersten & Bola)

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