January is traditionally a challenging month for the finances of Brazilians. Accounts like IPVA, Property Tax, school supplies and accumulated bills from the holiday season can compromise 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", a good financial plan for 2025 is the key to facing these challenges and achieving goals throughout the year. Check out the seven essential tips from the expert to organize your finances and start 2025 strategically
- Know your finances
The first step for effective planning is to have clarity about your financial situation. "List all your sources of income and all fixed and variable expenses", orient Guy. Knowing exactly how much comes in and how much 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 repayment to avoid interest and fines. Organize your pending tasks by order of urgency and renegotiate payment terms, if necessary, suggests
- Create a realistic monthly budget
Set a ceiling for your monthly expenses, considering your fixed expenses, variables and unforeseen events. A realistic budget should anticipate a balance between paying bills, save money and still have room for occasional expenses, explain the specialist
- Prepare for January expenses in advance
Accounts like IPVA, IPTU and school supplies are not surprises, so it is important to plan for them since the previous year. "Start saving small amounts monthly for these expenses as early as November or December". Thus, the impact in January will be smaller, advises Guy
- Set clear financial goals for 2025
Having well-defined goals is essential to maintain focus throughout the year. "Set goals such as creating an emergency fund", investing in a course or even a trip. "This will make sense of your financial efforts", says Guy
- Set aside an emergency fund
Unforeseen events happen, having a financial reserve can prevent indebtedness. Guy recommends saving at least 10% of your monthly income in a separate account. "This fund should be used only for emergency situations", such as medical expenses or unexpected repairs, alert
- Start investing
Even with a tight budget, it is possible to invest. Start with low-risk options, like Tesouro Direto or fixed income funds, that allow small contributions and are ideal for beginners. "The important thing is to start and create the habit", explain the specialist
Guy Peixoto emphasizes that financial planning is a continuous process, that requires discipline and adaptation to changes. Facing 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", concludes
