Your savings workout
Want to grow that account balance? Your mental approach is key. Fear not, getting your brain into saver mode isn’t as scary as it sounds.
Ever heard the saying ‘slow and steady wins the race’? A bit like running a marathon, the key to saving is a good training plan. One that’s realistic, that doesn’t rely on you earning big bucks, or having to skimp and scrape, and that lets you have a life too.
Simple measures, like planning out the costs of upcoming events, or regularly putting away a few dollars for a rainy day all adds up. Little and often will create habits that last a lifetime.
What is financial wellbeing?
Financial wellbeing is the ability to meet your financial commitments and needs comfortably now and into the future.
From having an emergency fund, to tackling debt and staying on track, financial wellbeing is about being conscious of your money habits.
According to ANZ research, 47% of Kiwis consider themselves to be 'doing OK' in the financial wellbeing department and 25% have 'no worries' at all—. Find out where you're at by getting your financial wellbeing score.
Become an active saver
Active saving is the habit of putting aside money regularly.
Our research shows that active saving is the financial behaviour with the strongest influence on your overall financial wellbeing. It also puts you in the best position to ride out economic ups and downs. Feeling financially in control was found to have a big impact on a person's longer-term attitude towards things like investing in property and shares.
Some common active saving methods include saving a specific portion of your wage each week (or month) or even placing spare change into a jar.
Tips to think and act like a saver
Like training for that hypothetical marathon, consistent savings can help you stay on track and keeps your eyes on the prize. Here’s a number for you to chew over – it takes 66 days to form a habit—. There are plenty of small and achievable changes you can make to foster yours. Be patient as you strive to become a better saver using some of these suggestions.
Whatever you’re saving for, the right habits and mindset will get you across the finish line sooner.
Which saver personality type are you?
Take this nine-question quiz to find out if you’re a Spender, Striver or All-Rounder.
1. Download the Saver Personality Type Quiz (PDF 420KB).
2. Open the PDF in a desktop app, like Adobe, Javelin or Foxit (Note: if the PDF opens in your web browser, select ‘Open in desktop app’ to make sure the quiz can calculate your score correctly).
3. Complete the questions to find out your personality type.
Steps to financial wellbeing
Our financial wellbeing programme can help. Try one step or two, or work through the programme's six steps in any order.
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Important information
This material is for information purposes only. Please talk to us if you need financial advice about your situation and goals or about our products and services. See our financial advice provider disclosure (PDF 39.9KB).