Everyone seizes the opportunity to start anew with a clean slate when January arrives. For many, January signifies the first chapter to reaching a significant life goal – be it completing a financial milestone, or achieving one’s fitspiration. But is January truly the best time to take that important first step?

International studies indicate that 8 out of 10 people say that they’re unable to achieve the New Year’s resolutions they set in January. Many find it too late and too far from the most actionable months of the year.

According to Metrobank, the best time to start working on your financial aspirations is in August – a few months before January, and here’s why:

It’s the month before your spending peaks

Setting your goals in August allows you to plan your finances ahead of the holiday season or the ‘Ber months, when Filipinos traditionally have a surge in expenses. This allows you to be more financially mindful and helps you avoid the so-called financial hangover that’s often experienced post-holidays.

You’re able to allocate your expected financial windfall for things that matter

Once you’ve set your intentions for the coming year, you’re able to allocate upcoming salaries and bonuses on things that are aligned with these goals – be it completing the downpayment for your first condo or saving up for capital of a small business you’re planning to put up.

This enables you to build better financial habits

Early financial planning doesn’t only give you a better shot at success – it also allows you to develop financial habits that are necessary in building a better future. By making it a yearly tradition to set your resolutions in August, you’re able to create a cycle of financial readiness for the years ahead.

And this year, Metrobank has a G.I.F.T. for every Filipino

Metrobank’s G.I.F.T. framework aims to give Filipinos a simple way to get started on their financial mindfulness and early planning habit that can be seen through to reality, such as:

• Get guided with goals: Setting your goals as early as August gives you more time to strategically plan your finances even before the new year starts.

• Invest a portion of your bonus: As you receive your bonus during the holidays, commit to reserving a portion for investments that grow in value.

• Follow a budget: As you find the perfect present this holiday season for those who are close to your heart, it is important that you still follow a budget plan.

• Take advantage of deals: Avoid the tendency of overspending by maximizing opportunities to save – including keeping an eye out for value-based offers.

Be part of the #EarlyGIFTChallenge

Following G.I.F.T’s successful launch in 2024, Metrobank is taking the next step with the introduction of the #EarlyGIFTChallenge. This is an invitation for every Filipino to take a few minutes of their time to make a SMART goal this August, which will jumpstart their journey to financial mindfulness.

Participants are encouraged to share their commitment on their social media accounts and tag their family and friends to join, with the hashtag #EarlyGIFTChallenge.

Whether it’s saving for your emergency fund, that dream vacation, gadget, or the big life goals like a new home, this creates a powerful community spirit, fostering a support system and a ripple effect that inspires collective financial empowerment.

With the gift of an early start and the right financial guidance, Metrobank aims to empower you to take proactive steps towards your goals now – ensuring a more secure and prosperous future.

For more relevant financial tips, head to earnest.metrobank.com.ph/gift-of-financial-wellness/.