We’ve all been there – motivated to start a new fitness routine, excited to lace up our sneakers, and determined to reach that goal. If you’ve been following me for a while, you know how much I enjoy exercising and how much I value achieving financial goals. Yet, even with a plan, life can get busy, and excuses creep in. The gym bag gathers dust.
It happens to all of us.
And the irony is that saving money is no different.
Just like sticking to a workout plan, building your savings requires motivation, discipline, and consistency. The good news? If you have ever committed to getting physically fit – even for a short time – you already know the mindset it takes to achieve financial fitness too.
Here is how I believe the same rules apply:
1) Set Clear Goals for Fitness and Financial Success
Start with a goal – whether it’s walking 10K, running a 10K, or saving $10K, knowing your “why” keeps you focused. A clear, specific goal helps you visualize success and track your progress.
Here is an example I have often used. Fitness goal: I want to walk 30 minutes a day, five times a week. It is concrete, specific, and achievable. A financial goal: I want to save $250 every pay for an emergency fund or a goal that matters to you. It has to excite you, and it has to be your goal. You will never achieve a goal someone else has given you. You need to own it.
2) Consistency is Everything
Results don’t happen overnight. The magic comes from showing up regularly, even on the tough days. That’s what builds strength – physically and financially. Get into a routine. Pay yourself first. Small amounts can lead to significant results over time, and it all adds up. That’s the power of momentum.
3) Tracking Your Progress to Stay Motivated
Track your progress when you see your strength increase or your savings grow. Your discipline will skyrocket. I use fitness trackers and budget apps. I love to see patterns forming, momentum building, and remember to celebrate the small wins. Your plans aren’t carved in stone and can be altered as life dictates. However, if you don’t have a plan, how will you know if you have arrived at your destination, both physically and financially?
4) Don’t Let One Setback Derail You
We all miss a workout. We all overspend now and then. The key is getting back on track and not giving up. I try to give myself a little grace and wiggle room. One bad day doesn’t define me – getting back on track does.
5) Look at Your Rewards Differently
I take a rest day after a heavy lifting day. When it comes to our finances, we plan for the little “wants” in life. The money spent can’t only be on the things we need. The trick is not to let your mini reward sabotage your overall goals.
Bottom Line:
Whether you’re lifting heavy weights or lifting your savings account balance, the habits that fuel physical health are the same ones that build financial wellness. Discipline. Focus. Patience. And a little bit of sweat equity.
Train your body. Train your wallet. The results? Strength you can count on – now and in the future.
It is time to take charge now. Let’s get fit financially one dollar at a time and physically one rep at a time.
Pattie – plr@heb.ca
