11 New Year Resolutions That Actually Fit Indian Lifestyles

10. Build an emergency fund of three months’ essentials

Financial shocks happen—medical bills, sudden repairs, or job transitions. An emergency fund for three months of essentials gives breathing room. Start small: transfer a fixed amount each payday to a liquid savings account or a low-risk short-term deposit. Automate the transfer so saving happens without daily decisions. If you share finances in a joint household, agree on the amount and purpose so funds aren’t touched for routine spending. Keep the fund accessible but separate from everyday accounts, and top it up after any withdrawal. This small discipline prevents high-interest borrowing and reduces stress when unexpected costs come. Over time, reaching this buffer creates real financial resilience for the whole family.