Financial Planning for 2025

April 28, 2025 | Mitchell J. Thompson CFP®, CDFA®, ChSNC®, AEP®

A Fresh Start for Financial Wellness

The beginning of a new year often brings a sense of renewal—and for many, a strong desire to get finances in order. With 2025 underway, now is the time to set goals that support your values and create sustainable financial habits.

Whether you're approaching retirement, rebuilding after a divorce, or simply looking to gain control over your spending, creating a financial plan anchored in realism and consistency is key.

Set SMART Financial Goals

Vague resolutions like "save more" or "spend less" are easy to abandon. Instead, set SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, "Save $6,000 by year-end for an emergency fund" gives you a clear roadmap and target.

Build Healthy Habits

Daily financial habits have a long-term impact. Monitor your spending weekly. Schedule monthly check-ins to review your budget. Automate savings contributions. These small actions create structure and reduce the mental load of financial management.

Minimize Decision Fatigue

Too many choices can derail progress. Simplify where possible. Use apps or tools that track spending automatically. Consolidate accounts. Delegate complex planning tasks to a financial professional.

Make Adjustments Along the Way

Even the best financial plans require flexibility. Life changes, and your goals may too. Review your plan quarterly to ensure it still aligns with your current circumstances and future aspirations.

Invest in Your Financial Confidence

Financial health is not just about numbers—it's about peace of mind. By setting clear goals, building habits that support those goals, and staying adaptable, you create a foundation of confidence and control in your financial life for 2025 and beyond.

Image for Mitchell J. Thompson CFP®, CDFA®, ChSNC®, AEP®

Mitchell J. Thompson CFP®, CDFA®, ChSNC®, AEP®

With a wealth of personal and professional experience, I help clients navigate life transitions with a holistic approach to financial planning. From expanding families and education funding to retirement and inheritance, I ensure plans evolve to reflect changing values and goals. Dedicated to my community, I volunteer with the MS Society and Autism Society of Minnesota, and my wife and I founded a nonprofit supporting special needs programs. I hold CFP®, CDFA®, ChSNC®, and AEP® designations and am an active member in industry organizations, committed to providing clear, client-focused guidance through life’s changes.


Through Collaboration, our goal is to help our clients understand the transitions they are going through and may encounter in the future. With Calmness and Clarity, we ensure that when they leave our meetings, they understand the Why of what we are doing to help them navigate those transitions. 

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