Honesty is the best policy

If you want to realise your financial goals, then it’s best to front up about what you routinely spend your money on

Most people can cover day-to-day expenses. but aren’t good at making long-term financial plans Picture: Getty

The former US vice-president Joe Biden once said: “Don’t tell me what you value, show me your budget, and I’ll tell you what you value.” Biden was speaking in the context of political spending and priorities, but the principle applies to one’s personal finances too.

Often, there’s a divergence between what we say we want and how we act, between our spending habits and our financial goals. Do you, for example, daydream about ...