5 Ways to Build Your Financial Fitness Ahead of the Holidays

If you're like many people, you're probably waiting until New Year's Day to commit to habits that will improve your financial fitness. According to financial technology platform MoneyLion, however, there's no time like the present to embark on money-smart strategies. Getting started now will help protect your financial well-being as we head into the higher-spending holiday months.

Developing good money habits will not only positively impact your bank account, but your overall mental and physical health as well. In fact, MoneyLion's 2025 Health is Wealth report found that 66% of U.S. adults reported experiencing physical symptoms due to financial stress, including trouble sleeping (40%) and headaches (37%). Meanwhile, 67% of Americans say inflation has harmed their physical or mental health, with respondents citing increased stress (38%), heightened anxiety (36%), and difficulty affording healthy food (30%).

So don't wait until 2026 to make financial resolutions. The following five simple steps will help you build financial fitness before the ball drops on the new year:

1. Commit to "no-spend" days. 

Designate at least one day a week where you commit to spending zero discretionary dollars. It's easier than you think—brew your own coffee instead of stopping at Starbucks, rummage through your pantry to create a home-cooked meal instead of ordering take-out, and avoid browsing sites and social media accounts that entice you to make impulse purchases. Instead of spending money, spend your time with a good book, playing a board game or taking a walk with a good friend, cost-saving habits you're likely to continue.

2. End your financial "situationship." 

Treat your finances like a committed relationship by scheduling monthly "money dates" to build accountability, check in and reduce stress. The common tendency to avoid reconciling your finances will prevent you from improving your overall financial health.

3. Practice good financial hygiene. 

Check your credit score monthly, review your credit report and automate at least one bill to simplify your routines. Each of these tasks will help you improve your credit score and catch any missed payments or incorrect reporting.

4. Take a subscriptions cleanse. 

Review recurring streaming, app or gym memberships every three months to free up cash flow for what really matters. During your review, be honest with yourself when determining how much you actually need and use your subscriptions.

5. Set up your emergency fund. 

Contribute to an emergency fund and aim to save 3-6 months worth of basic living expenses. If your emergency fund is set, start a small "flex fund" ($100–$300) for low-stakes experiments like a side hustle, class or new tool to build confidence and create financial flexibility.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2025. All rights reserved.

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