With more than half of 2025 already gone, many Nigerians are reviewing how well they have managed their money so far. Rising living costs, debt concerns, and the search for extra income have placed financial habits under greater scrutiny.
But it is not too late to make changes. By building new routines and adjusting old ones, individuals can still strengthen their finances before the year runs out.
Seven financial habits that can be adopted before 2025 ends, according to Credit Direct.
Read also: 7 practical steps to grow your wealth
1. Assess your financial health
The first step is to understand where you currently stand. This involves taking stock of debts, savings, income, and spending patterns. Reviewing lessons learnt from 2024 can provide a useful guide. Using tools such as a budget tracker can make the process easier by categorising income, expenses, and debt repayments. Think of this as a health check for your wallet.
Read also: Meet 6 College dropouts who defied the odds to become billionaires
2. Set SMART financial goals
Vague targets such as “I want to save more” are not always effective. Instead, goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). Examples include saving ₦500,000 by June, clearing 50% of outstanding debt by September, or investing ₦100,000 in a yield plan by December. Aligning financial targets with life goals helps ensure consistency and purpose.
Read also: 8 money-saving hacks every Nigerian needs to know
3. Start tracking your budget
Small, everyday expenses often add up to significant amounts. Lunches, subscriptions, or impulse buys can erode savings without notice. Tracking every naira helps highlight these spending patterns. Free templates and digital tools can simplify the process. Consistent monitoring ensures individuals stay on course with their financial goals.
Read also: Top 7 degrees that produce the most millionaires
4. Say goodbye to bad spending habits
Identifying habits that weaken financial stability is key. Impulse spending, inconsistent saving, or unnecessary borrowing are common challenges. Replacing them with simple strategies can make a difference. For example, applying a 24-hour pause before buying, automating savings, or setting bill reminders can help develop stronger financial discipline. Small changes, when applied consistently, produce lasting results.
Read also: The six easiest ways to lose money when saving
5. Diversify your income streams
Relying on a single source of income may no longer be sustainable. Exploring side hustles, freelancing, or investment opportunities provides an additional layer of security.
Read also: 7 skills every Nigerian child should learn before 18
6. Embrace the “Buy Now, Pay Later” lifestyle
Spending can be more manageable with structured payment options. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platforms such as Credit Direct Checkout allow individuals to spread payments over time. When used responsibly, BNPL solutions reduce immediate financial pressure and help people manage budgets more effectively.
Read also: 15 money-saving hacks for your business
7. Keep learning about money
Financial education does not end with setting a budget. Continuous learning about saving, investing, and earning strategies builds long-term resilience. Individuals are encouraged to set monthly learning goals, such as exploring new saving methods or understanding investment options.
