For most Americans, there's almost always a reason to put off a financial decision. Enrolling in a 401(k) can wait until the next raise, building an emergency fund until expenses settle down, and writing a will may not seem urgent at all. As everyday responsibilities take priority, these important tasks can remain unfinished for years.
While delaying financial decisions may seem harmless at first, waiting too long can make certain goals harder to achieve. Understanding why people put them off can help explain what keeps them from taking action.