Freshen your finances for 2015

Changes can be made in any area of our lives at anytime of the year, but there is something special about making proactive and often simple changes and starting from a fresh blank canvas in the new year.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, a time of giving and extravagance, but the aftermath of generosity and frivolity is far too often reflected negatively in many bank accounts across the globe!

If you are looking to get 'out of the red' and into the black in 2015 here are five simple, practical steps and suggestions that will help you feel better about your finances.

1. It's not permanent
Take a sigh of relief in knowing the reality, that however bad your financial situation may appear, even if you see no way forward now, remember that this is not a permanent situation. Just because your overdraft may be maxed out to its limit or you don't know how you will pay off your credit cards, there are many, many ways to improve your financial situation if you are willing to put in a little commitment to change your attitude to money and make small steps towards improvement.

2. Switch your bank account
Seeing your bank account in negative or 'in the red' each month can be disheartening for anyone, and can facilitate feelings of powerlessness, anxiety and insecurity. Psychologically the most empowering thing you can do in this situation is to  physically view your own money in a bank account that is in the positive, which you monitor regularly. Many banks are offering great deals to switch to them; i.e. move your main stream of income to the new bank and within a certain time frame, if you have closed your old bank account, your new bank will even pay you a thank you sum. Also some banks will reward you for being in credit each month. You can then work proactively to pay off the old overdraft debt with manageable monthly standing order payments. The important thing here is that psychologically your attention will be focused on your new account in the black and the red will begin to take care of itself. 

3. Thoughts attract things - positive affirmations about money
Repeat the below affirmations to yourself on a regular basis (every day if you can - when you remember) over the next month and notice the difference in how you feel.

"I am increasingly magnetic to money, prosperity and abundance."
"I allow prosperity in all areas of my life now."

4. Know that money is not the root of all evil
Wanting money does not mean you are greedy. Money is not something you make or accumulate to fill a void, instead view money as a tool that can help you fully express yourself and reach your potential.

5. Know that the universe meets our needs when we follow our true path.
Often when we think about doing what our heart desires, we might wonder how on earth we will make money from it, and this alone can cause distress and put us off from going forward. If you decide that you want to begin to follow your life's purpose, know that you live in a supportive, abundant universe, and that It is only possible to build an empire or reach a dream by taking one small step at a time. Many successful entrepreneurs start with nothing and keep a day job for years but a commitment to holding your vision and taking one step at a time is required. 

Wishing you a happy and prosperous new year! 

Hayley