How to Set S.M.A.R.T. Financial Goals

Set clear financial goals with S.M.A.R.T. criteria and discover bunq’s tools to help you succeed.

October 16, 2023
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A close-up of a black and white dartboard with an arrow hitting the center.

Do you find yourself worrying about money more than you'd like to? Do you live from paycheck to paycheck, unsure of how to break the cycle? You're not alone. Personal finances can be a challenge for a lot of people. That's why we'd love to get you acquainted with a very effective method to help you manage your finances more efficiently and worry-free, leaving you with more time to focus on doing the things you love. Let's dive into what's known as setting S.M.A.R.T. financial goals.

What are S.M.A.R.T. Goals?

S.M.A.R.T. stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These criteria can help you create a roadmap to financial success. Instead of vague resolutions like "save more money," S.M.A.R.T. goals push you to define exactly what you want to achieve, how you'll measure progress, whether it's achievable, why it matters, and when you'll achieve it.

Why are S.M.A.R.T. Goals Important in Personal Finance?

Financial success is often a matter of good habits. And habits are easier to establish when you have clear, achievable targets. By setting S.M.A.R.T. financial goals, you're creating a clear path toward better budgeting and financial stability.

How to Set S.M.A.R.T. Financial Goals

Start by determining your specific goal. Maybe you want to save for a down payment on a house or pay off a debt. Next, figure out how you'll measure progress. This could be a certain dollar amount saved, or a percentage of debt paid off. Make sure your goal is achievable. It should stretch you, but still be within reach. Your goal should also be relevant to your life and values. Finally, set a deadline for achieving your goal.

Meet Your S.M.A.R.T. Goals with bunq

Now that you've set your S.M.A.R.T. goals, let's talk about how to meet them. That's where bunq comes in. With features like Easy Budgeting, AutoSave, and Savings Accounts with high interest rates, bunq makes managing your money a breeze. You can easily track your progress towards your goals and make adjustments as needed. Plus, with bunq's commitment to sustainable banking, you can feel good about where your money is going.

So why wait? Start setting S.M.A.R.T. financial goals today, and let bunq help you achieve them. Your future self will thank you!

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Find your perfect fit

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bunq Free

Free

The essentials to get you started.

Green diamond with a sparkle on the top-right, representing premium or elite status feature.

bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

Dark blue diamond icon with two sparkles, indicating an upgraded or polished premium feature.

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

Magenta diamond icon with multiple sparkles, conveying luxury or excellence.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

Find your perfect fit

Simple blue diamond icon on a dark background, symbolizing premium or high-value service.

bunq Free

Free

The essentials to get you started.

Green diamond with a sparkle on the top-right, representing premium or elite status feature.

bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

Dark blue diamond icon with two sparkles, indicating an upgraded or polished premium feature.

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

Magenta diamond icon with multiple sparkles, conveying luxury or excellence.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.