7 Things That Are On Our Financial Wishlist (Expert Approved!)

The best ideas in life can start with a simple, “what if." Those thoughts can lead to action. When it comes to finances, we all probably have some sort of wishlist of things that could benefit our personal finances—and lives overall.

Who doesn’t want to feel like they are managing their money like a pro? A budgeting app can go a long way in getting you to the point where you feel you have a firm fix on your finances. There are plenty to choose from, like EveryDollar and YNAB (You Need a Budget). 

There’s nothing like having a truth teller in your life. You need that someone who will tell you the tough stuff, like that certain person you think is the best thing that ever happened to you, is actually bad news. Similarly, a friend or loved one who holds your feet to the fire when it comes to your money can help keep your finances from going to hell in a handbasket. 

“An accountability buddy can help you stay on track with your goals, with daily or weekly check ins to see how you’re progressing,” says Lester.

As a parent, one thing that probably tops your wishlist is doing your part to give your kids a solid financial foundation. 

No worries, there are fun tools for teaching them about money like David Delisle’s book, The Golden Quest. Another option is Our Family Money Ladder, a physical chart for kids. When they earn or invest, they move up the ladder. When they spend or give, they move down the ladder.

Or another simple way to teach money management to kids is the three-jar method. Set aside and label a jar for spending, saving, and giving. When kids get their cash, they put a portion in each jar.

You want to educate yourself about money. Motivate yourself to read by starting a financial book club with friends. Select a few financial books to get going.

“Being able to sit down with like-minded people and share your best ideas is a great way to spend time with friends and learn,” says Shinobu Hindert, a certified financial planner and author of Investing Is Your Superpower.

Go beyond books and keep increasing your financial knowledge. Take online personal finance classes, workshops, and webinars on budgeting, saving, investing, real estate, managing debt and more. You probably have podcasts that you listen to on a variety of topics, add personal finance to your mix. What better way to make use of your commuting time to and from work?

You’re ready to take your small business to the next level. Maybe you’re just starting out or been in a business a year or two.

“If you want to expand your side hustle, try outsourcing some of your home tasks. For example, by paying someone else to clean your home or do your grocery shopping, you free up time that can be spent on your small business. This is an easy way to find more time to devote to your business,” says Erika Kullberg, an attorney and personal finance expert.  

View spending money on expertise as an investment.

“Treat yourself to a fitness or wellness retreat. Investing in your health can reduce future medical costs and improve your overall quality of life,” says Gina Knox, CEO and financial coach with Gina Knox Coaching.