As 2025 unfolds, many people are already focused on setting resolutions that will guide them to financial stability, better health, and personal growth this year. While it’s easy to get excited about new goals, too often these ambitions fall short without a clear plan. ALSO READ: Rwandans usher in 2025 with celebrations, optimism To help you turn such resolutions into reality, experts in finance, fitness, and personal development share actionable strategies for staying on track throughout the year. Adopt a structured approach for money Isaac Nkusi, a Personal Money Management and Financial Literacy Executive Trainer based in Kigali, advises creating a detailed plan for both income and expenses. This includes setting fixed budgets for recurring expenses, like groceries, to avoid the temptation of unnecessary purchases due to fluctuating prices. A weekly grocery budget, for instance, can help maintain consistent spending. ALSO READ: Struggling to manage your finances during festive season? Here's what experts advise Budget for irregular income Whether you have a steady job or supplement your earnings with side gigs, Nkusi stresses the need of budgeting for even irregular income. “When you’re in a season of plenty, store some. When you’re in a season of lack, you can benefit from the times where you had plenty,” he explained Avoid impulse spending Nkusi warns that many people spend all of their earnings, regardless of the amount. Whether you make Rwf 200,000 or Rwf one million, consistently spending everything can lead to financial strain during lean months. Planning for highs and lows will create financial resilience. Plan for investments Nkusi urges individuals to invest their money in growth assets like stocks or bonds. “Money should work for you, not sit idle,” he said, emphasising how investments can help offset the negative effects of inflation. Cultivate discipline Nkusi asserts that self-discipline is the backbone of financial success. Research shows that over 95% of people who suddenly come into wealth through inheritance or gambling squander it within five years. Developing disciplined spending habits is essential to retaining and growing wealth. Start small Fabrice Tuyizere, a Physiotherapist and Personal Trainer at Fellite Physiotherapy in Kigali explains that when it comes to keeping fit, begin with manageable goals, such as a 10-minute daily walk, before increasing intensity. “Start small and build gradually, especially for those new to fitness,” he advises. Set specific goals Rather than vague resolutions like “get fit” or “lose weight,” Tuyizere suggests setting concrete targets. Examples could include running five kilometers within three months or attending three fitness classes a week as this makes progress measurable and less overwhelming. Track progress To stay motivated, Tuyizere advises tracking your workouts. Use apps, journals, or fitness devices to monitor your activities. “When you track your progress, you can see improvements and stay focused,” he said. Stay flexible Life can throw curveballs, which is why Tuyizere emphasizes the importance of flexibility, stressing that if you miss a workout, don’t be discouraged, rather, adjust your goals and keep moving forward. 10) Find enjoyable activities The best way to stay committed to a fitness routine is to choose activities you enjoy. Whether it’s dancing, swimming, or hiking, finding joy in exercise makes it easier to stick with your plan, he added. 11) Build a support system Tuyizere highlighted the need for accountability, whether it’s joining a fitness group, working with a personal trainer, or having a workout buddy, having support can boost your chances of success. 12) Celebrate milestones Recognizing and rewarding yourself for achieving small goals is crucial for motivation. Tuyizere suggests celebrating even minor milestones to keep the momentum going. 13) Define your overall vision Jane Mwangi, a life coach and founder of Team Lead Jayn Leadershift, a firm that empowers individuals and organizations to unlock their full potential, advises asking yourself what overarching goal you want to accomplish in 2025. “When you know exactly what you want, write it down, and have a clear vision to guide your goal-setting process.” 14) Make your goals smart Mwangi also adds that stressed the need to set goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Writing them down makes it easier to track your progress. For example, instead of vaguely deciding to “upgrade your skills,” commit to starting a course by a specific date. 15) Break down large goals It’s not about one big leap, instead, break your goals into smaller, manageable steps. This will help avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensure consistent progress toward the bigger vision, Mwangi added. 16) Be realistic Mwangi cautions against setting unattainable goals. “If your goal is to pursue a course that doesn’t exist in your country or you lack the resources, it’s not realistic,” she said. Be honest about your circumstances and set goals that align with your current abilities and resources, she added. While having a plan is essential, Mwangi advises to adjust your goals as circumstances change. If something unexpected happens—like a job loss or a health issue, remain adaptable and reassess your goals. 17) Acknowledge every achievement Mwangi encourages celebrating each small success along the way. Whether it’s completing a two-week course or making progress on a fitness goal, taking time to celebrate will re-energize you to keep going. 18) Reflect and adjust regularly According to Mwangi, it’s vital to periodically reflect on your progress. She suggests setting aside time every three months to assess how you’re doing and adjust your goals if needed. “Reflection is key to understanding what’s working and what needs to change,” she noted. 19) Seek support when needed Mwangi adds that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s from family, friends, or mentors, seeking guidance and support can make a huge difference in achieving your goals.
