How Financial Goals Shape 2026 Resolutions for 97% of Resolvers

Sakshi Gupta
Jan 3
3 min read

Every year, millions set New Year resolutions hoping to improve their lives. While many focus on health, travel, or relationships, a surprising fact emerges from recent research: 97% of 2026 resolutions include a financial component, even if people don’t explicitly call it that. This insight comes from the Wells Fargo/Ipsos November 2025 study, revealing how deeply money influences our goals, often behind the scenes.

Understanding this connection can help anyone set more realistic and achievable resolutions by recognizing the role of finances in every ambition.

Why Almost Every Resolution Has a Financial Component

The Wells Fargo/Ipsos November 2025 report highlights that nearly all resolutions touch on money in some way. This includes obvious financial goals like saving or budgeting, but also less obvious ones. For example:

Joining a gym requires membership fees.
Traveling involves transportation, lodging, and food expenses.
Spending more time with family might mean arranging childcare or paying for activities.

The phrase "everything costs money" is more than a saying; it’s a reality that shapes how people plan their futures. Even those who say their goals are “non-financial” face financial barriers.

The Rise in Financial Resolutions for 2026

According to Fidelity’s December 2025 survey, 64% of people plan to make financial resolutions in 2026, up from 56% in 2024. This jump shows growing awareness of money’s role in achieving life goals.

The most popular financial goal for 2026 is clear: save more money, with 70% of respondents selecting it as a priority. Saving acts as a foundation for other ambitions, whether it’s health, travel, or family time.

How Financial Awareness Can Improve Your Resolutions

Many people fail to meet their New Year resolutions because they overlook the financial side. For example, someone might want to travel more but forget to budget for flights and accommodations. Or they may want to eat healthier but underestimate grocery costs.

By recognizing the financial component resolutions play, you can:

Set realistic budgets for your goals.
Prioritize spending to support your ambitions.
Avoid frustration caused by unexpected expenses.

Examples of Financial Components in Popular Resolutions

Here are some common 2026 goals and their financial connections:

Health and Fitness: Gym memberships, workout gear, healthy food, and wellness programs all require money.
Travel: Flights, hotels, tours, and travel insurance add up quickly.
Family Time: Activities, outings, and sometimes childcare costs are involved.
Learning New Skills: Classes, books, and materials often come with fees.

Understanding these costs upfront helps you plan better and stay motivated.

Tips for Aligning Your Money Goals with Other Resolutions

Break down your goals into smaller, budgeted steps. For example, if you want to travel, start by saving a small amount monthly.
Track your spending related to your resolutions. This helps you see where your money goes and adjust if needed.
Use tools and apps to manage your finances. Many apps help set budgets and remind you of your goals.
Consider free or low-cost alternatives. For fitness, try home workouts or community classes instead of expensive gyms.
Review your progress regularly. Adjust your financial plans as your goals evolve.

Why Financial Planning Matters for Holistic Life Goals

Holistic life coaches and planners often emphasize balance across health, relationships, and personal growth. This balance is impossible without financial stability. The Wells Fargo/Ipsos November 2025 data supports this by showing how intertwined money is with every resolution.

When clients understand the 2026 money goals behind their dreams, they can create plans that support all areas of life. This approach reduces stress and increases the chance of success.

What to Do Next with Your 2026 Resolutions

If you haven’t considered the financial side of your goals, now is the time. Use the insights from Wells Fargo/Ipsos November 2025 and Fidelity December 2025 to: