How to kick financial shame to the curb and start fresh for the year ahead

What are your financial goals going into 2026?

New research from Meridian Credit Union reports that 64 per cent of Canadians feel ongoing financial stress. And, even though 86 per cent of Canadians say they regularly track their spending, the majority aren’t managing their money from a place of financial wellness.

ANTONI SHKRABA production/Pexels

“To me, that’s a big signal that your money decisions may not be aligned with your personal values and goals,” Dilys D’Cruz, SVP of Retail Banking and Wealth Management at Meridian Credit Union, tells Daily Hive. “And if you’re in that boat, reach out for help — that’s why we’re here.”

Well with Money

As part of Meridian’s ongoing commitment to providing holistic financial guidance, the credit union is offering Well with Money, a free online program created by non-profit partner Conscious Economics to help Canadians explore and improve their financial wellness.

“At Meridian, in addition to offering personalized in-person and virtual support, we offer lots of free online tools that you can do at home in your PJs,” explains D’Cruz. “At a time when so many people are feeling anxiety and stress, this is a great time of year to start taking action to reset your finances ahead of 2026.”

Tangible actions

Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Understanding the links between physical and mental health and emotional well-being is critical in strengthening overall financial wellness. That’s why, in addition to helping users think about money values, fears, and goals, Well with Money also provides practical tools to help you take steps toward turning financial stress into confidence.

These include brief videos, worksheets, and exercises that inspire reflection and awareness about personal money values and spending triggers.

“Everyone will take away something unique and personal, depending on where they are in their financial journey,” says D’Cruz.

You’re not alone

Financial stress can be a very isolating experience, with many feeling too embarrassed or nervous to even start looking at their finances. That’s why D’Cruz emphasizes, “you’re not alone.”

“Everyone feels this way, and at Meridian, we know that and are here to help in the way that’s most helpful and comfortable to you.”

Meridian Credit Union

You can start small by checking out self-directed online budgeting and investing tools, and build your confidence by exploring Meridian’s Well with Money program. Once you’re ready, you can receive even more support through Meridian’s new OnYourWay suite of human-centred tools and services, which provide custom online and personal support.

“Take a deep breath and imagine how great it would feel to approach financial decisions with more confidence and peace,” says D’Cruz. “Then, take one step forward and make that reset happen.”

Discover how to build a healthier relationship with money and kickstart a financial reset for 2026 by exploring Well with Money on Meridian’s website.