🔄 Step 9: Reviewing & Adjusting Your Financial Plan — Stay on Track, No Matter What
You’ve built a solid financial foundation — but remember, life doesn’t stand still. Your job might change, expenses may rise, markets fluctuate, and your goals evolve. That’s why the smartest people in finance don’t just make a plan — they review and adjust it regularly.
“What gets measured gets improved.” – Peter Drucker
🧭 Why Reviewing Matters
Even the best financial plan can go off track if not checked. Regular reviews help you:
-
Spot spending leaks early
-
Rebalance investments
-
Realign with changing goals
-
Adapt to new income or expenses
-
Stay confident and in control
🗓️ How Often Should You Review?
Review Type | Frequency | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Spending Review | Monthly | Check if you’re sticking to your budget |
Savings Progress | Quarterly | Are you saving enough for your goals? |
Investment Check | Every 6 months | Rebalance if needed (e.g., equity/debt mix) |
Full Financial Plan | Yearly | Revisit all goals, insurance, income streams |
🔍 What to Review in Your Financial Plan
-
Income Changes
Got a raise or started a side hustle? Redirect the extra money wisely. -
Expense Shifts
Is your rent or EMI increasing? Adjust your budget to stay on track. -
Goal Progress
Are you hitting your savings targets? If not, adjust either the goal or the savings rate. -
Investments
Market gone up or down? Check your asset allocation. Don’t panic — rebalance calmly. -
Insurance & Protection
Is your cover still enough? Review health, life, and other protection based on new life stages. -
Net Worth Update
Assets minus liabilities = Your net worth. Is it growing? That’s a clear progress marker.
✏️ Tools You Can Use
-
A simple Google Sheet or Excel tracker
-
Personal finance apps (like Walnut, Money Manager, or ET Money)
-
Monthly calendar reminders
-
Even a physical journal works — consistency matters more than the tool
✅ Quick 5-Step Review Checklist
-
Revisit income and expenses
-
Check savings and emergency fund
-
Update financial goals if needed
-
Review insurance coverage
-
Adjust investments and rebalance
🔐 Final Thoughts
“Success isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being consistent and flexible.”
Reviewing doesn’t mean your original plan failed — it means you’re staying actively involved in your financial life. This habit separates dreamers from doers.
Comments
Post a Comment