Five Financial Habits Sabotaging Your 2026 Resolutions

Common Financial Pitfalls to Avoid

As the new year begins, many Indonesians are revisiting their financial goals, ranging from simple desires like dining out to major plans such as international family vacations. However, reflecting on past years reveals that numerous resolutions remain unfulfilled. Understanding the root causes of these failed intentions is crucial, with daily financial habits playing a significant role. According to OCBC's Financial Fitness Index 2025, several financial behaviors are consistently hindering progress toward financial objectives.

1. Frequent Borrowing from Personal Networks

39% of respondents admitted to frequently borrowing money from friends or family, primarily to maintain their lifestyle. This pattern reflects an underlying issue of unsustainable spending habits where expenditures exceed income, echoing the proverb "lebih besar pasak daripada tiang". Such financial strain makes saving and investing increasingly challenging.

2. Poor Cash Flow Management

The survey revealed that 14% of respondents have expenditures that surpass their income. This situation often stems not from low earnings but from a lifestyle that doesn't align with financial capabilities. Without proper budgeting, maintaining financial health becomes difficult.

3. Minimum Credit Card Payments

A concerning 56% of respondents only pay the minimum credit card bill, creating a false sense of financial security. While this may provide short-term relief, it risks accumulating interest and turning credit cards into long-term financial burdens.

4. FOMO-Driven Spending

Social pressure significantly influences financial decisions, with 76% of respondents admitting to spending money to keep up with their peers. Whether it's socializing, traveling, or following shopping trends, uncontrolled spending can erode long-term financial goals.

5. Chasing Quick Financial Gains

The prevalence of quick success stories on social media has led 10% of respondents to engage in excessive speculation for fast profits, often without adequate understanding. This risky behavior frequently results in financial losses.

Building Better Financial Habits

Despite these challenges, the new year presents an opportunity to reset financial behaviors. By gaining a better understanding of spending patterns, debt management, and long-term objectives, individuals can establish a healthier financial foundation. The growing availability of digital financial management tools from various banks is making it easier for people to monitor and manage their finances more effectively. A more focused and disciplined approach is expected to help maintain financial consistency and enhance resilience amid ongoing economic challenges.