One Small Step for 2021

December is here and what a year it's been. From the pandemic to the market crash to the election, this has simply been the craziest, most turbulent year in living memory. Here's one thing you can do to make 2021 a little bit easier.

There's no denying the tragedy and hardships that our country has faced this year. I hope that however depleted you might be feeling, you are also feeling at least some sense of relief as the year winds down and the holidays approach. After such a tough year and with 2021 holding so many question marks, I'd certainly understand if you don't have any bandwidth for New Year's Resolutions.

But let me give you one idea for your consideration. Consider blocking off one hour on your calendar this month to think about your finances. Don't put any pressure on yourself to make breakthroughs or have a financial epiphany. In fact, go the other way. See if you can make it a fun, low-stakes meeting with yourself. Have a good cup of coffee or tea. Maybe it's an hour to check one modest item off your to-do list, like check in on your 401k. Maybe it's a brainstorm for your 2021 financial goals. Maybe it's time to email your accountant. Maybe it's an hour to search online for a good budget template spreadsheet. If you've had money stuff on your to-do list for a while, it'll be a relief to carve out some time to take care of it. If you're all caught up, it might be nice to start thinking about 2021. And of course this is just an idea. If you don't have time for a financial date with yourself, give yourself the gift of not feeling bad about it. Happy holidays, and I hope you have a peaceful New Year.