The January Reset Savings Challenge: Small Wins That Make a Big Difference

The holidays are over, credit card statements start rolling in, and suddenly everyone is telling you it’s time to “get your finances together.” That can feel overwhelming - especially if your budget already feels stretched thin.

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That’s exactly why we created the January Reset Savings Challenge.

This isn’t about extreme budgeting, skipping groceries, or giving up every small joy. Instead, this challenge focuses on small, realistic money wins you can complete in just 5–10 minutes a day. No spending required. No complicated spreadsheets. Just simple actions that help you reset after the holidays and start the year feeling more in control.

Whether you’re easing back into budgeting or just want to tighten things up, this challenge is designed to meet you where you are.

Why a January Savings Challenge Works

January is actually one of the best months to reset your finances:

• Holiday spending is fresh on your mind

• Motivation is naturally higher

• Many expenses and subscriptions renew at the start of the year

• Small changes now can free up money all year long

  
  

Instead of trying to overhaul everything at once, this challenge focuses on progress over perfection. One small step each day adds up quickly, and by the end of the week, you’ll likely have already saved or found extra money without feeling deprived.

How the January Reset Savings Challenge Works

• Length: 7 days

• Time commitment: 5–10 minutes per day

• Cost: $0

• Goal: Find, save, or free up money you already have

  
  

You can start anytime in January - or repeat it later in the year when you need a reset.

The 7-Day January Reset Savings Challenge

Day 1: Cancel or Pause One Subscription

Subscriptions are one of the easiest places to save money fast. Streaming services, apps, delivery memberships, workout platforms—many of us are paying for things we rarely use.

Today’s task:

• Cancel or pause just one subscription you no longer need

Even a $10/month cancellation adds up to $120 per year. That’s a big win for a five-minute task.

Day 2: Check for One Recurring Charge

Recurring charges often fly under the radar because they’re automatic.

Today’s task:

• Review your bank or credit card statement

• Identify one recurring charge

• Decide if it’s still worth keeping

You don’t have to cancel everything - awareness alone is powerful. Knowing exactly where your money is going is the first step to taking control of it.

Day 3: Plan a Meal Using What You Already Have

Groceries are expensive, and January is a great time to use what’s already in your pantry, freezer, or fridge.

Today’s task:

• Plan one meal using food you already own

This might mean a freezer meal, pantry pasta night, or a “clean out the fridge” dinner. Every meal you don’t buy saves money immediately - and reduces food waste.

Day 4: Set a $25 Mini Savings Goal

Big savings goals can feel intimidating. That’s why today is about starting small.

Today’s task:

• Set aside $50 in savings (or commit to finding $25 through this challenge)

Use a high-yield savings account, a separate checking account, or even cash in an envelope. The goal isn’t the amount; it’s building the habit.

Day 5: Use One Freebie You Already Own

You likely have “free money” sitting around right now.

Today’s task:

• Use one freebie you already have:

  • A gift card

  • Cashback rewards

  • Store credit

  • Loyalty points

  • Pantry staples

Using what you already own reduces the need to spend new money; and reminds you how resourceful you already are.

Day 6: Find One Bill You Can Negotiate or Shop

Bills aren’t always set in stone.

Today’s task:

• Choose one bill to review:

  • Internet

  • Cell phone

  • Insurance

  • Streaming service bundle

Call, chat online, or price-check competitors. Even a small reduction can save hundreds over the course of a year.

Day 7: Celebrate Your Progress 🎉

This step is important—and often skipped.

Today’s task:

• Look back at what you accomplished

• Add up what you saved, canceled, or avoided spending

• Celebrate your wins (big or small!)

Progress deserves recognition. You showed up for your finances and that matters.

Want to Stretch This to 14 Days?

You can easily repeat days, go slower, or dive deeper:

• Cancel another subscription

• Plan more pantry meals

• Negotiate a second bill

• Increase your savings goal

There’s no “right” way to do this challenge—only the way that works best for you.

Join the Challenge on Social Media

We’ll be sharing daily reminders, tips, and encouragement throughout the January Reset Savings Challenge.

📌 Follow along and join the conversation using #JanuarySavingsReset💬 Comment “DONE” when you complete a day📲 Share your progress to help motivate others

Small steps really do add up, and January is the perfect time to prove it.

Let’s reset, refocus, and start the year with confidence. 💰✨