How to stick to your New Year’s Resolutions on a Budget

Whether your goals include getting fit, learning a new skill or picking up a hobby, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to achieve them without emptying your wallet!

The new year is the perfect time to set goals and make positive changes in your life, but sticking to your resolutions can be tough, especially if you’re worried about keeping costs down.

In this guide, we’ve put together a list of ways you can achieve your New Year’s resolutions while keeping your finances in check.

What’s in this Guide?

• 4 Tips on How to Get Started
• Achieve your Fitness Goals on a Budget
• How to Learn a New Skill on a Budget
• Stay Motivated Without Spending Money

4 Tips on How to Get Started

1. Start with a Plan

Firstly, we recommend putting together a plan that clearly defines your goals. The more specific your resolutions are, the easier they’ll be to tackle. For example, instead of saying “I want to get fit,” try “I’ll exercise three times a week by jogging or doing home workouts.” Breaking your goal into small steps will make it less overwhelming and easier to measure progress. Plus you’ll be more likely to stick to it.

2. Set a Budget

You should also set a budget and work out how much you can afford to spend on your goal. If you’re trying to keep costs low, consider low-cost alternatives before committing to anything expensive.

3. Take your Time

Trying to tackle too many goals at once can quickly lead to burnout. We suggest focusing on one or two resolutions first to ensure you stay consistent. Once you’ve created positive long-term habits, then you can start pushing yourself to achieve the next goal.

4. Stay Flexible

If something isn’t working, don’t give in, simply adjust your approach. For example, if running isn’t your thing, try walking or cycling instead. It may take a few attempts to find something you love, that is why we recommend holding off on spending a fortune on your new hobby until you know you really like it.

Achieving your Fitness Goals on a Budget

Improving health and fitness is usually one of the top resolutions on everyone’s list of goals. But getting fit doesn’t always have to include taking out an expensive gym membership. There are plenty of affordable ways you can work out and lose weight while sticking to a budget.

Try Free Home Workouts

Skip the gym fees and use free resources like YouTube. This platform is full of workouts with channels that specialise in everything from HIIT workouts to Yoga. Creators like Chloe Ting and Joe Wicks offer hundreds of free workouts that you can do in the comfort of your own home, so why not take advantage of them?

There are also plenty of free apps that can help you get started on your fitness journey including Nike Training Club and Couch to 5K.

Invest in Affordable Home Equipment

You don’t need to go all out on a full home gym to get started. All you need are workout essentials like resistance bands or yoga mats which you’re sure to find at a discounted price during the January sales. If you don’t want to spend on these items, you can always try repurposing household items. You can switch out weights for other heavy items around your home, or even use your stairs for cardio exercises.

Join Free Community Events

If you find it easier to stick to your fitness goals when you workout with other people, why not get involved in community sports events? Parkrun is a great example. This free weekly 5K run is held in parks across the UK, just look out for it online or on social media to find where your local group runs. 

We also recommend checking your local council for low-cost or free fitness classes or simply getting out and going for a walk, cycle or jog with a friend.

How to Learn a New Skill on a Budget

If you’re feeling refreshed after the Christmas break and motivated to try something different, New Year is the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby or learn a new skill. The best part is that not all hobbies cost a fortune. Whether you want to master a new language, learn to cook, or start coding, there are many affordable ways to acquire new skills.

Use Free Online Resources

Instead of splashing out on an expensive course, look out for free online resources first. Platforms like YouTube, Coursera, and edX offer tutorials and courses on almost any subject. Many libraries also provide free access to eBooks, audiobooks, and even online classes that can help you pick up a new skill.

Try Budget-Friendly Learning Apps

These days there are also loads of apps that you can download for free that can help you master a new skill. Apps like Duolingo are great for language learning while Skillshare is perfect for creative pursuits. Make sure you watch out for free trials or discounted subscriptions, these are often available in January.

Start Small

Choose hobbies that don’t require a big upfront investment to get started! For instance, drawing only needs a sketchpad and some pencils, while gardening can begin with just a few seeds and pots. Knitting or crocheting is another budget-friendly option, as all you need is a ball of yarn and a pair of needles to get going.

If you’re looking for something more active, running is a great sport to try on a budget. Simply throw on your trainers and get outdoors! Or, take it a bit slower with a brisk walk. Walking is a fantastic hobby that’s great exercise too. Walk with family & friends, or switch off on a solo walk.

Buy Second-Hand or Borrow

Start your new hobby without overspending by borrowing equipment from friends or family to test it out first! If you decide to commit, shop second-hand on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace for budget-friendly deals. This is a great way to save money while still being able to enjoy your new pastime!

Join a Club or Community Group

Connect with others who share your interests by joining a club or community group. Places like community centres, museums, and libraries often host free or low-cost workshops. From pottery to coding, these sessions are great for beginners.

Many community groups offer shared resources, free lessons or even equipment rentals. For example, photography clubs often lend out cameras or organise free photo walks, making it easier to explore your hobby without a hefty upfront cost. 

Look out for groups on Facebook that are involved in the skill you’re trying to pick up. You’ll probably be surprised to find there’s already a thriving community in your area that will be happy to help you out.

Stay Motivated Without Spending Money

Keeping up with resolutions can be challenging, especially when motivation starts to dip. The good news is that staying on track doesn’t have to cost a penny! These simple tips can help you stay focused and inspired throughout the year without stretching your budget.

Track Your Progress

Staying consistent becomes much easier when you can see your progress! Use free Habit Tracker apps to monitor your progress and keep yourself on track. Or, you could always use a simple journal, which can help you track milestones and reflect on your achievements. Creating a sense of accomplishment is key to staying motivated.

Find a Friend

Sharing your goals with like-minded friends or family members can work wonders! Having someone by your side to encourage you, celebrate your wins and hold you accountable adds a fun & social aspect to our journey! Plus, the more you enjoy the process, the more committed you will be.

Reward Yourself

You don’t need expensive rewards to celebrate your progress! Instead, choose small and meaningful treats to keep you on track, like a relaxing walk, movie night or delicious meal.