Winter Financial Wellbeing
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If this year has taught us anything, it’s to plan for the unexpected. At PayPlan, we’ve put together our top tips for looking after your financial wellbeing this Winter.
Financial wellbeing isn’t just about what we spend, but it’s also about how we feel about our finances. You’ll find money saving tips as well as activities that don’t cost a lot to help you look after all aspects of your physical, mental and financial wellbeing.
Steps from now into the New Year…
November
The clocks have gone back, our jumpers are on and even our hats have made an appearance. Winter is not just coming, it’s here. But, don’t worry – you still have time to prepare before we’re in the thick of it.
That’s why we’re dedicating November as our prepare and save month. Here’s what you can do in advance:
Prepare your car for winter. The RAC suggests that you use the acronym FORCES to help you do regular DIY checks. That’s Fuel, Oil, Rubber, Coolant, Electrics and Screen Wash.
Save energy at home with an insulation and usage check – it’s sometimes best to go back to basics with the home.
- Change light bulbs to energy efficient ones
- Seal any gaps that let in cold air (with curtains or filler)
- Turn off unnecessary items – like the radio that’s on standby all day
- Wash your clothes at a lower temperature
- Check a price comparison site to make sure you’re not paying over the odds for your bills
December
Usually a festive month across the UK, most of us are winding down at work, spending time enjoying food with our families and friends – or celebrating the holidays.
We say usually because we’re not quite sure what December will hold for us this year, but we can certainly still make time to feel special and connect with our loved ones. This month is about connecting with people and spreading joy.
- Find new ways to communicate – many people haven’t had time to spend with loved ones as much as they’d have liked this year. Try sitting down either on your own or with your household and write a letter or story, or even draw a picture to a loved one or friend. Don’t overthink it, but this is a nice way to let someone know you’re thinking of them.
- Share a recipe or idea – have you ever made your own chutney, or do you make the best chocolate brownies in your family? Ask your friends if they’d be interested in a recipe or ideas swap this year. It doesn’t cost anything – but you may pick up some great tips along the way. It doesn’t have to be food related either. Can you teach people how to do homemade Christmas wreaths or decorations?
January
The new year has arrived! 2021 will be very poignant because for the first time, it’s hard to know what the external world has instore for us. Instead, we can focus on the things that are within our control. This month we’re looking at all aspects of our financial wellbeing.
- Take stock of your finances – start your new year with a new budget. It can be very refreshing to know your financial situation as you get ready to face the year ahead. The Money Advice Service has a great Budget Tool that you can use to fill in the money that you have coming in, and what you need to pay for.
- Think about what makes you happy – 2020 was different in lots of ways, but it gave lots of people time to figure out what makes them happy. New Year resolutions aren’t a new thing, but this is the year to think a bit deeper about what is important this year and how you will achieve it.
- Ask for help if you need it – whether you feel comfortable to confide in a friend, family member or a professional, now is the time to get help if you need it. PayPlan offers free and confidential debt advice over the phone or online. If you are worried about your finances, contact your employee rep today for free, confidential debt advice.