Four Money Moves to Make Before the First Quarter Ends

D. Harmon
Feb 21
2 min read

We are almost through the first quarter of 2026, and you still may not know where to start regarding your finances.

That changes today.

Here are four money moves you should make as soon as possible.

1. Update Your Resume

When was the last time you updated your resume? If you cannot remember, it is time.

Your resume should be organized, clearly articulate your skills, and highlight your experience and accomplishments. It is your representative. A potential employer sees your resume before they ever see you. In short, a lackluster resume could be holding you back from earning more than you are earning right now. Opportunity often follows preparation.

2. Calculate Your Current Monthly Expenses

What does it actually cost to run your household each month?

If you do not know that number, it is time to find out.

Add everything:

Mortgage or rent
Utilities
Debt payments
Childcare
Restaurants
Subscriptions
Insurance
Gas
Groceries

You cannot grow your numbers if you do not know your numbers.Clarity removes financial anxiety.

3. Calculate Your Total Debt (Excluding Your Mortgage)

Add up every balance:

Credit cards
Car loans
Student loans
Personal loans

You may owe more than you think. Financial anxiety thrives in the unknown. When you avoid the number, the number controls you. Get clear on your total debt, then create a strategy to eliminate it. I recommend the debt snowball method: pay off the smallest balance first, gain momentum, and build confidence as you go. Progress builds discipline.

4. Calculate Your Net Worth

The formula is simple:

What you own minus what you owe equals your net worth. This number is not about ego. It is about awareness. Tracking your net worth over time shows whether you are moving forward or standing still.