04 February 2026
Create a Savings Plan You’ll Love
Saving money shouldn’t feel like a chore — it should feel empowering. At its heart, a great savings plan is one you actually want to stick with. Here are simple, practical ways to build a savings routine that fits your lifestyle, aligns with your goals, and grows with you.
- Start with Goals That Excite You
A savings plan becomes far more motivating when it’s tied to something meaningful.
Think beyond the generic “save more.” What do you want?
- A dream holiday
- A deposit for your first home
- A safety cushion for unexpected expenses
- A new car
- Upgrading your home
- Starting a family or returning to study
Once you have a clear goal, estimate the cost and choose a realistic timeline. Suddenly, saving becomes a journey — not an obligation.
- Know Your Number
A simple way to get started is to track your monthly income and spending. You don’t need a complicated spreadsheet; even looking at your last two months of bank statements can reveal:
- Where you're overspending
- Subscriptions you’ve forgotten about
- How much room you realistically have to put aside
Choose an amount that’s comfortable — not painful. Even €20 a week adds up to over €1,000 a year.
- Set up deducation at source — Make It Effortless
Automation is one of the most powerful tools for building lasting habits.
If you’re serving, set up deduction at source. Alternatively if you’ve retired or employed elsewhere set up a standing order so that money moves into your savings account right after you receive your pension / get paid.
Why it works:
- You’re paying yourself first
- You avoid the temptation to spend what you don’t see
- Consistency compounds — small amounts become big achievements over time
- Build a Buffer You’ll Be Proud Of
While your DF salary / pension guarantees a steady income coming into your household, life is full of surprises — not all of them pleasant. Having an emergency fund:
- Reduces stress
- Gives you more financial control
- Prevents debt from creeping in during tough moments
A common rule of thumb: aim for 3–6 months of essential expenses.
Start small. Grow steadily.
- Keep It Fun With Mini‑Milestones
Celebrating your progress keeps you motivated. Try:
- Saving challenges (e.g., €5 a day, the 1% challenge, or “No-Spend February”)
- Monthly check-ins with yourself or a partner
Each milestone is proof you’re making your goals a reality.
Review, Refresh & Realign
Your life changes — your savings plan should too.
Every few months, ask yourself:
- Has my income changed – did you get a pay rise / have you an overseas or at sea allowance coming in?
- Are my goals the same?
- Can I increase my savings a little?
A saving plan you love isn’t rigid. It’s flexible, supportive, and aligned with the life you want.
You’re Not Saving Alone
We’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're starting small or planning something big, ANSAC is proud to help you build a financial future you’ll love.
