FINANCIAL ANXIETY IS absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.

With challenges such as cost of living, rent and mortgage repayments, childcare costs and more, it can be hard to get on top of your spending and find a way to alleviate your economic anxiety. 

With An Post Money Manager, you can track your spending, set budgets and link your accounts no matter who you bank with.

Paul Merriman, the financial advisor behind Ask Paul, has some essential tips for building yourself a bedrock of financial security and developing habits that can turn your feelings of fear into a sense of comfort. Read on to find out how to solve your financial anxiety.

First and foremost, what are some of the top tips for people who want to start down the path towards financial stability?

• Automate a small savings amount each payday; even €10 a week is ok.
• Switch your utility provider. 30 minutes of effort can save you hundreds a year.
• Cancel unused subscriptions like gym, apps, and delivery services.
• Have one no-spend day a week, or set a limit on contactless tap payments.
• Talk to someone about money. It removes the fear and gives you back control.

If someone is reading this and feeling anxious about their finances, what is the absolute first thing they can do to start down a path towards stability?

Take a breath and get everything down on paper. Clarity comes from knowing where you stand. Write out your income, your regular outgoings (such as rent/mortgage, groceries, bills), and any debts.

This is not about shame or blame. It’s about facing facts so you can make decisions. Then, speak to a qualified financial advisor to map your next steps. Even one good conversation can shift the entire direction of your money journey.

Financial stability doesn’t happen overnight. What are the building blocks that someone needs to put in place to feel financially stable?

When making a budget, you need to create a spending plan that reflects your real life, and not some ideal version.

You should set about creating an emergency fund, starting with a sum in the region of €500 or €1,000 if you can. This can help to protect you from spiralling debt.

Getting short-term debt like credit cards or overdrafts cleared is essential, as is setting up a pension, even a modest one. Time is your biggest asset.

These steps can form the beginnings of learning to live within your means while still enjoying life. It’s about control, not restriction.

What are some of the leading causes of financial instability in Ireland, and how are they best avoided?

Don’t wait too long to start planning. A lot of people think they need money before they look for advice. The truth is that getting good advice is how you keep your money.

Many people are also leaving money on the table by not understanding tax entitlements or missing out on reliefs like medical or rent credits.

Other pitfalls arise from underestimating the impact of rising costs, and comparing yourself to others. Lifestyle inflation is a silent killer of financial health.

What resources are available through An Post Money to help a customer make inroads towards financial stability?

An Post Money Manager in the An Post Money App helps people track spending, set goals, and stay accountable.

Competitive loan and credit card options for people looking to consolidate or manage debt. Savings products that are simple & accessible. Access to budgeting tools and financial education to build habits, not just fix short-term issues.

Is there anything else that readers should know?

Everyone’s financial journey is different, but the principles are the same: get clear, make a plan, stick with it.

The earlier you start, the easier it gets. But it’s never too late. Most importantly, don’t let shame or confusion hold you back. Financial literacy is a skill, not a personality trait.

Terms and conditions apply. Money Manager is provided by An Post in conjunction with Tink. Tink is a payment Institution authorised by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority to provide account information services”.