A poll of 2,000 adults has revealed that nine in 10 Britons consider financial routines crucial for keeping on top of their budgets, with consistent money management habits saving £320 on average over the past year. The survey, conducted by OnePoll, found that 76% of respondents need consistent routines to stay on track with their goals, including preparing daily meals (45%), cleaning their home (44%), and managing finances.
Key Money-Saving Habits
Among those who maintain regular money management practices—such as checking bank balances frequently and setting aside funds on payday—three quarters reported saving an average of £320 in the last twelve months. Many turn to practical tools like budgeting and banking apps, while smart meters are increasingly used to monitor household spending.
More than two thirds (65%) of smart meter owners said the device helps them track energy usage and costs, and nearly half (47%) said it encouraged habits that cut energy consumption. Sarah Fitzgerald, a mother of two from Essex, shared her experience: “My routines are what help me stay in control of it all. I like to know what's coming in and going out each month, so having simple ways to stay on top of my budget is important to me.” She added that checking her smart meter display has become a regular part of her routine, helping her family build better habits. “My kids are more aware of the energy they use now, and those small changes can make a real difference to our bills,” she said.
Consistency and Satisfaction
The research also highlighted the psychological benefits of routines: 70% of respondents said they get quiet satisfaction from the small daily rituals that shape their lives. Gladiators star, Olympian, and TV personality Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, known as Nitro, emphasised the importance of consistency. He said: “I’ve always believed that success comes from doing the simple things consistently. Life can get pretty hectic, so routines help me stay focused and moving in the right direction. It’s the same with managing things like energy use at home – with a smart meter you can keep track of your usage and feel more in control of it. For me, it’s another example of how small daily habits and having the right information can make life feel more manageable.”
