January is traditionally a challenging month for Brazilians’ finances. Bills such as IPVA, IPTU, school supplies, and accumulated holiday season expenses can strain the budget and make it difficult to start the year with financial balance. For Guy Peixoto, serial entrepreneur and author of ‘101 Essential Principles of Entrepreneurship,’ good financial planning for 2025 is the key to facing these challenges and achieving goals throughout the year. Check out the expert’s seven essential tips to organize your finances and start 2025 strategically:
- Know your finances
The first step for effective planning is having clarity about your financial situation. ‘List all your income sources and all fixed and variable expenses,’ advises Guy. Knowing exactly what comes in and what goes out is essential to identify possible adjustments and avoid surprises.
- Prioritize debts
January is a month when accumulated bills can weigh heavily. Guy recommends prioritizing debt payments to avoid interest and penalties. ‘Organize your pending payments by urgency and renegotiate payment terms if necessary,’ he suggests.
- Create a realistic monthly budget
Set a ceiling for your monthly expenses, considering your fixed costs, variable expenses, and unforeseen events. ‘A realistic budget should balance paying bills, saving money, and leaving room for occasional expenses,’ explains the expert.
- Prepare for January expenses in advance
Bills like IPVA, IPTU, and school supplies are not surprises, so it’s important to plan for them from the previous year. ‘Start saving small amounts monthly for these expenses as early as November or December. This way, the impact in January will be smaller,’ advises Guy.
- Set clear financial goals for 2025
Having well-defined goals is crucial to maintaining focus throughout the year. ‘Set goals like creating an emergency fund, investing in a course, or even planning a trip. This will give meaning to your financial efforts,’ says Guy.
- Set aside an emergency fund
Unexpected events happen, and having a financial reserve can prevent debt. Guy recommends saving at least 10% of your monthly income in a separate account. ‘This fund should only be used for emergencies, such as medical expenses or unexpected repairs,’ he warns.
- Start investing
Even with a tight budget, it’s possible to invest. ‘Start with low-risk options like Treasury Bonds or fixed-income funds, which allow small contributions and are ideal for beginners. The important thing is to start and build the habit,’ explains the expert.
Guy Peixoto emphasizes that financial planning is an ongoing process that requires discipline and adaptation to changes. ‘Approaching your finances with responsibility and strategy is the first step to turning your dreams into reality. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can start today,’ he concludes.
