When making a financial plan, there is a major key that will above all other things ensure it’s success or failure.  That key is stickiness.  How well will the plan stick with you for the long term?  Here are 5 ways to make your plan sticky.

1. Buy In-  If everyone in the family likes the idea of a plan, this will be easier to get initially.  The challenge is to maintain the buy-in.
2. Rewards- A good cause of buy-in.  People will want to be a part of a plan that provides clear, consistent, and desireable rewards.  As a family set individual goals for each person as well as a family goal, with a reward for meeting each goal clearly spelled out.
3. Flexibility- This isn’t a cut in stone plan, and it should change when necessary, having the ability to change will help you avoid tossing the plan out the window when an emergency comes.
4. Anticipate Hardship- Life can suck sometimes, and a good plan will take that into account, perhaps part of a goal would be to add to an emergency account first, and other accounts afterwards.
5. Track Progress- Do it big, on posterboard, in a place where it’s easy to see (like the bathroom).  Everyone can create their own “goal thermometer,” so when they reach their goal they can see how far they’ve gone, and why they earned their reward.
6. You-  What are ways that you’ve made your plans sticky?