SHAH ALAM - To keep your financial plan effective throughout the year, embrace it with enthusiasm and a positive mindset instead of viewing it as just another obligation.
Money management is not just about numbers—it is about mindset. Financial expert Suraya Zainudin, the creator of Ringgit Oh Ringgit, shared that the secret to sticking to your financial plan is not just discipline but excitement.
Instead of seeing it as a chore, embrace it with confidence: "Yes! This is my plan and I am going to make it happen!"
That shift in perspective transforms budgeting from something restrictive into something empowering—because taking charge of your finances means taking charge of your future.
“There are several main ways to make your financial plan stick. First, make it enjoyable. Turn budgeting into a fun challenge. Perhaps a ‘cook-at-home’ challenge to save on food expenses, a ‘no-spend’ challenge for clothing or a transportation savings goal.
“Framing it as a game rather than a sacrifice makes it feel exciting rather than restrictive,” Suraya said at Sinar Daily’s She Leads 6 programme.
She added that instead of focusing on what you cannot do, shift your perspective to what you can—shop your own closet, mix and match outfits you already own or even start a small business selling unused items.
This way, you are not just saving money; you are also developing entrepreneurial, sales and even photography skills.
“But if making it fun does not quite work for you, there is another way—automate it.
“Some people recognise that they struggle with self-discipline, so instead of imposing strict limitations, they set up automatic savings.
“By directing RM100, RM200 or RM500 into a separate account and then forgetting about it, they effortlessly build their savings over time. Six or 12 months later, they find themselves with RM1,000, RM2,000 or even RM5,000—without feeling deprived,” she said.
Suraya emphasised that having money set aside ensures it is available when needed, while also helping people stay committed to their financial plans without much thought.
Ultimately, she stressed that whether through automation or adding an element of fun, the key is to find a system that makes financial planning feel natural and stress-free.