Day 1: Mid-Quarter Check-In: Are You on Track with Your 2025 Financial Goals?
As we reach the final quarter of 2025, it's time for a crucial financial check-up. Just like a regular health exam keeps your body in peak condition, a mid-quarter financial review ensures your money is working as hard as you are.
Why Mid-Quarter Reviews Matter
Most people set financial goals in January and then forget about them until December. This "set it and forget it" approach rarely leads to success. By conducting regular check-ins, you can:
Identify potential problems before they become major issues
Adjust your strategy based on real-world results
Celebrate wins and learn from setbacks
Stay motivated and accountable
Your Mid-Quarter Financial Checklist
Review Your Original Goals: Pull out those New Year's resolutions. Are they still relevant? Have your circumstances changed?
Analyze Your Progress: Calculate where you should be at 75% through the year versus where you actually are.
Assess Your Cash Flow: Review your income and expenses for the past nine months. Look for patterns and opportunities.
Check Your Emergency Fund: Aim for 3-6 months of expenses. If you're behind, make this a Q4 priority.
Review Investment Performance: Don't panic over market fluctuations, but ensure your portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance.
Common Q4 Adjustments
If you're behind on your goals, don't despair. The fourth quarter offers several opportunities:
Increase retirement contributions before year-end
Harvest tax losses in investment accounts
Pay down high-interest debt
Review and optimize recurring expenses
Taking Action
The most important step is honest assessment without judgment. Whether you're ahead or behind, use this information to make informed decisions for the remainder of 2025 and beyond.
Remember, financial success isn't about perfection—it's about progress and adaptation.