January 2026 Finance Newsletter: Your Money Plan for 2026

Out with the old and in with the new. Make a money plan that fits your life.

Your money plan starts in your mind. Before you check your payslip, bank balance or budget, stop and ask: “What do I think about money?” Many South Africans think, “I don’t have enough.” With the cost of living rising, debt weighing you down and payday always too far away, it’s easy to feel stuck. But small shifts in how you think can change how you choose.

When “Januworry” stress hits, try this quick check-in:

• What am I thinking about money right now?

• Is this thought helping me or hurting me?

Positive thinking won’t magically pay your debt, but what you believe affects how you act. A more positive money mindset makes it easier to face your finances and make better decisions over time. Here are some ways to change your money thoughts!

• “I’m bad with money” → “I’m learning one new money skill at a time.”

• “Debt is ruining my life” → “I’m ready to face my debt.”

• “I can’t budget”→ “I’m using a simple plan to track my cash”

Your money thoughts shape your money personality – understanding your natural response to money is key, as we all handle money differently. What is your money personality?

• Saver – careful, likes security.

• Spender – enjoys buying and treating others.

• Worrier/Avoider – scared of money, only looks when there’s trouble.

• Planner – loves lists and planning ahead.

Here is how your Money Plan for 2026 needs to align to your money personality 

• Savers – practice enjoying some of your money.

• Spenders – set limits before you shop.

• Avoiders – ask for help to face bills and debt.

• Planners – leave room for life’s surprises.

A Money Fix for every stage of your money journey

• Starting Out (Age 18–28):

  Know your income, know your worth. Check your payslip and track every income stream.

  Money thought: “My skills and time have value. I’m learning to manage what I earn.”

  
  

• Building & Growing (Age 29–44):

  Challenge old money stories. You may be building a career, paying rent or a bond, raising children, and paying off debt. Ask: “Is this belief still helping me?”

  Money thought: “Money can buy many things, not everything.”

  
  

• Balancing & Supporting (Age 45–60+):

  You may support children, parents and big bills. Break big goals into small steps – like starting an emergency fund or focusing on one debt.

  Money thought: “I can do it. Small steps, done often, bring big change.”

Whatever your age, income or role, you can change your money story in 2026:

• Change your money thoughts.

• Understand your money personality.

• Reach out for help and support – from your money coach, get guidance at every stage of your financial journey.