How To Set Financial Intentions For 2025: Stop Should-ing Yourself And Start Thriving

It’s resolution season again—the time of year we promise ourselves to tackle all the “shoulds” in our lives. But let’s be real: resolutions often fizzle out because they’re rooted in guilt or unrealistic expectations. That’s why setting intentions instead of resolutions has become such a powerful shift. Intentions invite you to think deeply about what you want your life to look like and actively start living into that reality.

For 2025, we’re encouraging you to focus on financial intentions—because knowing where you want to go financially is the only way to truly celebrate how far you’ve come. Here’s how to stop “should-ing” yourself and cultivate intentionality for a financially confident and fulfilling year.

Step 1: Define Your "Enough" for 2025

Instead of saying, “I should make more money in 2025”, focus on what “enough” means for you.

Here’s the truth: More money doesn’t always solve the feeling of not having enough. In fact, 41% of Americans earning over $200,000 still report feeling financially stressed. Why? Because with every income increase comes new expenses: bigger homes, fancier cars, lavish trips—the cycle continues.

To break free, get crystal clear on what “enough” looks like for you in 2025. Here are some questions we find helpful in guiding clients to define their “enough”:

• What do I truly value in my life?

• What financial resources are required to fund the things and/or experiences that you value most?

• What is my definition of financial freedom?

• Do I want to work fewer hours?

• Retire early?

• Spend more time coaching my children’s sports teams?

• What spending habits bring me joy versus guilt or anxiety?

Remember, your "enough" is dynamic. As life changes — through marriage, parenthood, career shifts, or retirement — reassess what "enough" means to ensure it aligns with your evolving priorities. Once you’ve defined your “enough” for 2025, you’ll have a tangible framework for setting financial intentions that feel purposeful, not pressured.

Step 2: Set Financial Intentions (Not Resolutions)

Here are three examples of powerful financial intentions to guide your 2025:

Financial Intention #1: Build Investing Confidence, One Step at a Time

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines with investing because it feels intimidating, you’re not alone. Many people—especially women—hold back due to a lack of confidence. But waiting too long to invest can cost you a lot. For example, the “investing gap” (the tendency for women to hold more money in cash than men) could lead to a $1 million difference over a 35-year career.

How to take action:

• Subscribe to financial newsletters like The Morning Brew or Marketplace Daily Newsletter to learn about investing in bite-sized pieces.

• Pick one investing book to tackle this year (try The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway).

• Open an investment account and start with small, consistent contributions—even $50 a month will make a meaningful difference in the long run.

The goal is progress, not perfection. With each step, your confidence will grow.

Financial Intention #2: Save with a Purpose

Saving without a clear purpose feels like deprivation, but saving with intention feels like empowerment. Start by identifying your top three savings goals for 2025. 

Here are a few examples:

• An emergency fund for peace of mind.

• A down payment for a house.

• A bucket list vacation.

For each goal:

1. Write down the total amount you need and your target date.

2. Break it into monthly contributions.

3. Automate your savings to ensure consistency (pro tip: schedule it right after payday so you never miss it).

When you attach meaning to your savings, you’re more likely to stay committed and enjoy the journey.

Financial Intention #3: Track Your Net Worth

Your net worth is the ultimate financial scoreboard—it’s a snapshot of your overall wealth. To calculate it:

1. Add up all your assets (savings, investments, property).

2. Subtract your liabilities (credit card debt, student loans, mortgages).

By tracking your net worth, you can focus on long-term financial health rather than just monthly budgets. Tools like Mint or Personal Capital can simplify this process. Set a net worth goal for 2025 and track your progress quarterly.

Step 3: Reflect with Three Mana Moments

To set meaningful intentions, take three moments of pause during the holidays to connect with your present self, future self, and personal values.

Moment #1: Your Present Self

Celebrate what you’ve accomplished in 2024. Did you pay off a debt? Start saving consistently? Spend more time with family? Acknowledge these wins and recognize how your financial habits supported them.

Moment #2: Your Future Self

Visualize your life at the end of 2025 and five years from now. What do you want to achieve? How will your current financial habits support that vision? Write down one or two specific goals that align with this future.

Moment #3: Your Personal Values

Think about what truly matters to you. Are your financial decisions aligned with your core values? For example, if family is a priority, are you setting aside money for shared experiences? Connecting your values with your financial intentions creates a roadmap that’s both actionable and fulfilling.

Step 4: Make It Achievable and Fun

The best financial intentions are realistic, specific, and flexible. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Automate everything: From savings to bill payments, automation keeps you consistent without relying on willpower.

• Track progress quarterly: Revisit your goals every three months to celebrate milestones and make adjustments.

• Share your intentions: Tell your financial advisor, partner, or trusted friend about your goals—they can help keep you accountable.

Final Thought: Live Intentionally in 2025

Your financial intentions for 2025 should reflect what matters most to you. By defining your “enough,” setting clear goals, and aligning them with your values, you’ll create a financial plan that feels both achievable and empowering.

At Mana, we’re here to help you design a life that aligns with your dreams. If you’re ready to set your 2025 financial intentions and live the life you deserve, reach out—we’d love to guide you on your journey.

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Stephanie Bucko and Cristina Livadary are fee-only financial planners based in Los Angeles, California. Stephanie is the Chief Investment Officer and Cristina is the Chief Executive Officer at Mana Financial Life Design (FLD). Mana FLD provides comprehensive financial planning and investment management services to help clients grow and protect their wealth throughout life’s journey. Mana FLD specializes in advising ambitious professionals who seek financial knowledge and want to implement creative budgeting, savings, proactive planning and powerful investment strategies. As fee-only fiduciaries and independent financial advisors, Stephanie and Cristina never receive commission of any kind. Stephanie and Cristina are legally bound by their certifications to provide unbiased and trustworthy financial advice.