Financial goals set at the start of the year have already fallen by the wayside

Financial goals set at the start of the year have already fallen by the wayside – as motivation to see it through wanes.

A poll, of 2,000 adults, found of the 56 per cent who set themselves money-related goals for the year, 67 per cent have given up after four months.

But 21 per cent were determined to get their money in a better shape at the start of the year – alongside becoming fitter, spending more time with family and friends, and travelling more.

However, 43 per cent expect their resolutions not to go to plan this year – with 16 per cent putting it down to setting unrealistic goals, and 10 per cent blaming laziness.

Lack of motivation, and too many distractions, are other reasons for the failure of meeting self-imposed targets.

The research was commissioned by NatWest, which has teamed up with athletes including Sir Chris Hoy, Max Whitlock and Beth Shriever to record a motivational ‘team talk for the nation’ [https://www.natwest.com/teamgb.html].

Sir Chris Hoy said: “As a professional athlete, I know first-hand the significant role motivation plays in achieving your goals.

"During training for each of my Olympic Games, my coach's words of encouragement and the unwavering support of the entire nation were a huge part of my motivation.

"Whatever your goals are, we wanted to be part of the Team Talk to inspire you to get there – just like the way our coaches inspired us.

"That's why I've teamed up with Team GB partner NatWest and a whole load of other incredible athletes – so whatever your goals are, you have the motivation to strive for the finish line.”

The research also found 56 per cent of those polled said improving their financial situation is what motivates them most in life.

A spokesperson from NatWest, Team GB's banking partner, added: “We’re hoping to inspire people across the nation to both come together to support the team as well as get going to reach their own goals.

“Our Team GB athletes are hugely inspiring, so we hope their words and experiences can help motivate the nation. Whatever your goals – let’s get going.”

BRITS' TOP 10 GOALS:

1. Getting fitter (35 per cent)
2. Becoming healthier (30 per cent)
3. Spending more time with family and friends (23 per cent)
4. Travelling (23 per cent)
5. Financial goals (21 per cent)
6. Reducing debt (16 per cent)
7. Becoming more organised (14 per cent)
8. Work/life balance (14 per cent)
9. Spend time on mental wellbeing (14 per cent)
10. Having more flexible income to spend on treats (12 per cent)