January often starts with good intentions – and a bank balance that tells a different story. After the festive season, many South Africans feel financially stretched, yet hopeful that this will be the year they finally stick to their financial resolutions.
The reality, however, is sobering. Research shows that only around 6% of people manage to stick to their New Year’s resolutions beyond a year. When it comes specifically to money-related goals, the success rate drops further to just 3%.
According to Mariné van Brakel, Deputy CEO at RCS, the problem isn’t motivation, it’s unrealistic expectations.
“Many people try to change everything at once,” says van Brakel. “They cut back too hard, set goals that don’t match their income, and then feel discouraged when life gets in the way. Financial goals are far more likely to stick when they focus on small, manageable habits that can be maintained over time.”
Start small and stay consistent
Rather than attempting a complete financial overhaul, van Brakel encourages South Africans to focus on small habits that can be sustained throughout the year.
“A good financial resolution should fit into your everyday life,” she explains. “It should reduce stress, not create more of it. Small, consistent changes can have a powerful impact over time.”
Simple money habits that actually stick
For anyone looking to make 2026 a more stable financial year, these practical tips are a good place to start:
1. Set one clear money goal
Choose a single, achievable goal to start with – such as consolidating loans or automating monthly savings. Too many goals at once can feel overwhelming.
2. Build an emergency buffer
An emergency fund is about peace of mind, not perfection. Even saving a small amount each month can help cover unexpected expenses and reduce the need for unplanned credit.
3. Automate where possible
Set up an automatic transfer to your savings account on payday, even if it’s a modest amount. When saving happens automatically, you’re less tempted to spend first and save later.
4. Be honest about your spending
Track your expenses for a few months to see where your money really goes. Awareness is often the first step towards better financial decisions.
5. Leave room for flexibility
Life happens. A realistic budget allows for small treats and unexpected costs, making it far easier to stick to in the long run.
Make money a family conversation
Beyond individual habits, van Brakel believes financial resilience is strengthened when money becomes a shared conversation at home. She says that budgeting as a family, and involving children in age-appropriate discussions, helps normalise financial planning and builds confidence from an early age. “When children are included in simple budgeting conversations, they learn to distinguish between needs and wants, understand delayed gratification, and see how goals are set and achieved. These lessons stay with them well into adulthood.”
Family budgeting does not need to be complex. Simple actions, such as planning a grocery budget together, saving collectively for a short-term goal, or discussing why certain spending decisions are made, can have a lasting impact. Importantly, open conversations also remove the stigma around money, replacing secrecy with understanding and accountability.
The role of responsible credit
Through financial education, responsible credit providers like RCS play an active role in supporting South Africans as they build healthier financial habits. RCS in partnership with Welltec offers all consumers access to the Credit Gateway platform. Using the platform, consumers can obtain a free credit report and credit score. All that’s needed is a valid South African identity number. It’s important to highlight that requesting the report will not have any negative effect on one’s credit rating.
“Responsible credit, when used wisely, can support progress rather than undermine it,” van Brakel notes. “Our aim is to empower consumers to make informed choices that support their long-term wellbeing.”
A different approach for a better year
As 2026 gains momentum, van Brakel encourages South Africans to redefine what success looks like when it comes to money.
“Don’t aim for perfection,” she concludes. “Aim for progress. If you focus on small habits that you can maintain, you’re far more likely to look back at the end of the year and see real, lasting change.”