It’s the final quarter of the year — that time when we’re all reflecting on where we’ve been, what we’ve achieved, and what still needs work. But instead of waiting until January to set your 2026 goals, what if you test-drove them now?
Welcome to Week 2 of the Last Quarter Challenge, where we’re focusing on creating “test goals” — small-scale versions of your big financial goals for next year. Whether it’s increasing your income, saving more, or paying off debt, this is the time to practice your 2026 plan in real time.
Because here’s the truth: goals without practice often stay just that — goals.
💡 What Are “Test Goals”?
“Test goals” are trial runs of the goals you want to achieve in the upcoming year. Instead of waiting until 2026 to start, you experiment with them now — during the last few months of 2025 — to see what’s realistic, what needs adjusting, and what strategies actually work for you.
Think of it like a financial dress rehearsal before the big performance.
For example:
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Income test goal: Try adding one new income stream before the year ends — a side hustle, selling unused items, or freelancing.
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Savings test goal: Set a mini goal to save an extra $200 by December. Treat it as if you were testing your 2026 savings target.
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Debt payoff test goal: Choose one debt and test a new payment strategy — like the snowball or avalanche method — and see how it fits your budget and mindset.
🎯 Why Creating Test Goals Matters
1. You’ll Catch the Gaps Early
If your 2026 goal is to save $10,000, testing now can reveal whether that goal fits your income, lifestyle, and priorities. It’s better to adjust now than be blindsided next year.
2. You’ll Build Discipline Before January
Discipline doesn’t magically appear with a new calendar year. Testing your goals in October helps you train your financial habits early, so by the time 2026 hits, you’re already in motion.
3. You’ll Find What Actually Motivates You
When you start practicing your goals, you’ll quickly learn what keeps you going — whether it’s visual trackers, accountability partners, or seeing your balances drop. Motivation is personal, and testing lets you find your rhythm.
4. You’ll Reduce the Overwhelm
Many people burn out by February because they set unrealistic goals without testing them. Trying them now helps you see what’s sustainable long-term.
5. You’ll Start 2026 Ahead, Not Behind
Imagine walking into the new year already saving, paying off debt, or earning more. You’ll be entering 2026 with momentum — not starting from scratch.
🧾 How to Create Your 2026 Test Goals
Step 1: Review Your 2025 Progress
Look at your income, expenses, savings, and debt so far. Where did you excel? Where did you struggle? Your reflection will help you create smarter 2026 goals.
Step 2: Set One Test Goal Per Category
Focus on three key areas:
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Income: Try to increase your take-home pay by testing a side hustle or asking for overtime.
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Savings: Automate a small amount weekly or biweekly into a high-yield savings account.
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Debt: Choose one debt and make an extra payment to see how it feels and fits your budget.
Step 3: Track Every Step
Use your Last Quarter Challenge workbook or planner to write down your weekly progress. Seeing your wins visually keeps you engaged and honest.
Step 4: Reflect Weekly
Every Sunday, check in with yourself. Ask:
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Did I meet my mini goal this week?
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What challenged me?
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What can I tweak for next week or next year?
Step 5: Stay Accountable
Share your test goals in the Last Quarter Challenge community or comment on my YouTube walkthrough video. Accountability keeps you consistent — even when motivation fades.
💬 Why This Week in the Challenge Matters
Week 2 of the Last Quarter Challenge is all about proactive planning. When you test your goals now, you’re not just setting yourself up for success — you’re building a stronger, smarter, more intentional version of yourself for the year ahead.
If you haven’t joined yet, this is your sign!
Inside the Last Quarter Challenge, you’ll get:
✅ Step-by-step prompts to finish the year strong
✅ Space to create your 2026 test goals
✅ Weekly Challenges
✅ Tools to help you enter 2026 organized, prepared, and motivated
You can also watch the walkthrough video on the Paper By Moe YouTube channel for tips and guidance on how to complete this week’s challenge.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Financial growth doesn’t happen by accident — it happens through awareness, planning, and consistency. Setting 2026 “test goals” now gives you a real head start, while helping you understand how your goals fit your current life, income, and mindset.
Don’t wait until January to start living your financial goals.
Start testing, learning, and building your 2026 success story today.