How to set the right money mindset for 2026

As we look into 2026, it's an opportune moment to cultivate a powerful money mindset that will guide our financial journey.

The new year is the perfect time to take stock of personal finances, and one financial expert says people can get off in the right financial direction in 2026 by taking a few simple steps.

Janet Gray, money and wealth coach, joined CTV Your Morning Ottawa on Monday to share some tips on setting the right money mindset for the new year.

Setting your money mindset

As we head into the new year, Gray suggests performing a money check up.

“That’s actually looking at the nuts and bolts of it all and saying ‘okay, what do I have? What do I need? What did I start with?’ Look at the actual numbers,” Gray said.

For those who find the task daunting, Gray suggests putting a time limit on the check up.

“I also like to recommend people set a timer and say, ‘you know what, I’d just like to do this for 20 minutes. I think that’s the max I can do with my brain, and my emotions, and everything,’” she said. “Then, just stick to that and just do an overview without getting to much into the weeds at this point.”

Gray says taking a distanced and analytical approach to a financial review can help create a clearer picture of one’s finances.

“It’s very important to step away from maybe guilt and shame that you might be feeling, and just kind of analyze it a little bit more,” Gray said. “Why did I make those decisions? What do the indicate about my patterns?”

Simple tips

Gray says one thing people can do to make achieving their financial goals easier is automating payments. She recommends automating one payment to start the year.

“If you’re looking to pay off your credit card, maybe you’re going to set it so you pay an extra $100 a pay, or $50 a pay, or whatever you can,” she said. “But do it automatically, so you don’t have to keep thinking about it. Set it once, with your intention and then just let it roll.”

For those feeling overwhelmed, Gray suggests reaching out for help.

“It doesn’t have to be a professional, it could just be a trusted friend or family member who knows more about this stuff than you might, and just ask them for help,” she said. “Maybe something specific, maybe something general, but just reach out and ask.”

Lastly, Gray suggests prioritizing consistency over perfection, as putting unnecessary pressure on oneself usually results in failure or discouragement

“This is just making it a little more likely to succeed and a little more likely to keep you engaged,” she said.

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