If your goal is to make 2025 the year you take control of your savings, there are a few important steps to consider. Whether you want to improve your financial habits, save for a major purchase, or plan for retirement, getting started the right way is key.

Below are some of the best strategies and advice from five leading financial experts to help you reach your goals.

Suze Orman

If you’re aiming for financial freedom in 2025, Suze Orman emphasizes that it begins with a strong commitment. She advises living below your means but within your needs.

“Living below your means is simply choosing not to spend every penny,” Orman explains. “Instead, make it your lifetime goal to spend what is necessary to meet your needs.”

She also points out that while money itself doesn’t bring happiness, overspending can certainly disrupt it.

Dave Ramsey

Starting a new year often brings questions about savings goals. Dave Ramsey recommends having a clear plan for your financial security.

“Eventually, your goal is to have 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund and at least 15% of your gross pay going into retirement savings,” Ramsey says.

By building an emergency fund, you can handle larger financial challenges and shift your focus toward long-term retirement savings. Ramsey advises setting smaller goals along the way to keep your progress on track.

Rachel Cruze

Creating and sticking to a budget is a cornerstone of smart financial management. Rachel Cruze’s top tip is to work with cash for specific expenses.

“Especially if there are areas you know you tend to overspend on—mine is definitely food and coffee—seeing exactly what you have left can be the best way to stay on track,” Cruze shares.

Using cash can provide a clear, tangible reminder of how much you’re spending and help you avoid going over budget.

Ramit Sethi

Ramit Sethi suggests three actionable steps to save more money without giving up the things you love.

“The best way to save money is by cutting costs on things you don’t need, earning more by increasing your salary or starting a side hustle, and optimizing your spending through negotiation,” Sethi advises.

Ultimately, he stresses the importance of spending less than you earn. “It’s a simple formula: what you bring in has to be more than what you spend,” he explains.

Kevin O’Leary

Kevin O’Leary, known from “Shark Tank,” offers two key tips for building wealth: avoid unnecessary purchases and focus on long-term investments.

“Whenever I pick up something I’m about to buy, I ask myself, ‘Do I really need this?’” O’Leary says. “If I don’t buy it, the money can be invested and earn for me every year while I’m sleeping.”

He encourages using the money you save on everyday purchases to invest in opportunities that grow over time.

Conclusion

Saving money is about making thoughtful decisions and setting clear goals. By following the advice of these financial experts, you can build better habits and achieve financial success in 2025 and beyond.