It is easy to say ‘I'll start saving money tomorrow or by the end of the month’, until the 30th rolls around and you realize how difficult it is to remove a percentage of your salary to put away for rainy days because it always starts to rain the next day.

We’ve all been there, procrastinating our savings or just been unable to commit to the very unrealistic target we set for ourselves regarding savings towards our future or a goal. Responsibilities, unforeseen circumstances or just life in general would always find a way to distract us from developing a healthy savings habit, so here is a guide to make sure that in 2026 you Japa, buy that car or just clear your shein cart.

1. Start Small, Consistently

No matter how big your dream is or how extravagant your savings target, the most important step to take is to make small consistent deposits in your savings account. Habits are formed by repeating them as frequently as possible, the human brain can create a routine overtime subconsciously when we create a loop of repeated activities and reduces the burden of making the decisions over & over again and just does it.

Saving 5000 Naira every week may seem inconsequential but it adds up significantly. In a year, over 250,000 have been saved without making any drastic life changes. Consistency is the key to forming habits.

2. Be S.M.A.R.T About Your Savings

Do not save without a purpose,by setting realistic savings goals you give yourself a stronger chance to achieve them. Targets are better reached when they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time- bound. How much are you trying to save, by what time, can this be done in your present financial state? All these are important questions to be asked when setting a goal. It is easier to stay committed to your goal if you know why you set it and if that is achievable. 

3. Automate Your Savings

You can ‘conveniently’ forget to transfer your weekly/monthly set amount into your savings account but your automated and scheduled banking app will not forget. This is the easiest way to ensure you don’t miss a beat in your savings journey. Build a savings plan with your preferred bank and I would recommend the Assets MFB because of the unbeatable interest rate they give when you use the app to save.

With automated savings, you do not have to rethink or make the difficult decision to save every other week or month, transfers are made smoothly and savings targets remain intact.

4. Separate Your Savings From Your Spending

This is where having different accounts for different purposes comes in. Having an account for quick and easy transactions is important but for someone trying to develop a health savings habit, there needs to be a division. To build financial discipline, honesty in your personal limitations is important. Would you be able to resist the temptation to dip into your account if you can readily access it daily? Regardless of your answer, having a dedicated savings account would keep you focused on your goals and ensure you stay on the right track.

5. Plan for Unexpected Expenses

One major reason people break their savings habit is emergencies. Building an emergency fund helps you stay consistent without having to start over every time something unexpected happens. Rainy days are accounted for without having to break your or entirely empty out your savings.

Sometimes the challenge is having access to the correct tools that fit your finances, not just lack of discipline. Having the right financial partner ensures that you stay on top of your savings and not get overwhelmed by it. At Assets Microfinance Bank, we have savings plans to help you achieve your desired goals.

• Save consistently
• Grow your money over time
• Stay in control of your finances

Ready to Start Saving Smarter?

Take the first step today by opening a savings account with Assets Microfinance Bank and begin building a stronger financial future.