She Strengthens

Mid-Year Reflection: Take Control of Your Life

As we reach the midpoint of 2018, it’s essential to pause and assess our progress. A mid-year review can be a valuable tool in helping us stay on track, make adjustments, and ultimately achieve our goals.

Reassess Your Finances

Take a closer look at your budget and spending habits. Have you been sticking to your financial plan? Are there areas where you can optimize your expenses? With six months of data from personal finance apps like You Need a Budget or Mint, now is an excellent time to refine your budget and make informed decisions about your money. Consider tweaking your short-term and long-term savings strategies to align with your changing priorities.

Get Insurance Quotes

It’s easy to overlook insurance policies, but regular reviews can lead to significant savings. If you haven’t compared insurance rates recently, take the time to shop around for better deals on auto, renters, or home insurance. Websites like TheZebra.com make it easy to compare rates from multiple companies at once.

Prioritize Your Health

Don’t neglect your physical and mental well-being. Schedule routine check-ups, including dental cleanings, health exams, and eye exams. If you have health insurance, take advantage of free annual exams and medication adjustments. Stay on top of your prescription renewals, and don’t wait until the last minute to schedule appointments.

Monitor Your Credit Reports

Maintaining a good credit score is crucial, especially when making big financial moves. In the U.S., you’re entitled to one free credit report each year from Experian, Equifax, and Transunion. Space out your reports throughout the year to catch any issues early.

Re-evaluate Your Goals

Take a fresh look at the goals you set in January. Be honest about your progress, and make adjustments as needed. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you haven’t met your targets – simply revise your goals to make them more realistic and achievable. And if you’re doing well, consider adding new challenges to keep yourself motivated.

Find Something to Look Forward To

In a world filled with negativity, it’s essential to have something positive to look forward to. Whether it’s a small pleasure like painting your nails or a bigger event like a vacation, make time for joy in your life. Schedule it in your calendar and give yourself something to anticipate.

Take Action

Set aside a few hours this week to review your life, make adjustments, and plan for the future. Regular check-ins with yourself can make a significant difference in achieving your goals and living a fulfilling life. What’s on your mid-year checklist?