How to Quit 10 Bad Money Habits That Rob You Blind

Failing to fund a retirement plan

There are compelling excuses for putting off saving for retirement. But none of those excuses will matter if you reach retirement age with little saved. And, if you don’t take advantage of your employer’s matching contributions, you’re passing up free money every month.

Build a better habit: Imagine yourself at age 70 or 80. Picture concrete details — how you look, where you are, how you’re spending time and who is with you. The more real your future self is to you, the more likely you are to care for her or him today.

Start paying close attention to your retirement savings. If you can’t significantly increase the monthly contribution you make to your plan immediately, increase it by 1 percent a month. Once a year, check the performance of your investments and rebalance your portfolio.