Expert shares five 'smart moves' you can make right now to boost your finances

Almost half of Britons suffer from financial FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), fretting that they're not matching their friends' money habits. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that while 81% consider themselves financially savvy, 44% still compare their financial choices with those of their friends, and 23% believe others manage their finances more effectively.

Financial FOMO triggers include seeing friends save regularly, invest early, maximise loyalty rewards, take advantage of bank cash incentives, set budgets, achieve financial goals, or make money through side hustles and cryptocurrency investments. These 'smart moves' have left 29% feeling behind in financial planning, with 16% acknowledging they could do more, such as fully utilising their ISA allowance.

Brian Byrnes, head of personal finance at savings and investment platform , has dubbed those people quietly making savvy financial decisions as 'Optimaxers' - people who maximise benefits with minimal effort by making smart money moves.

He said: "Being financially smart isn't about having a fortune in the bank or a flashy lifestyle - it's about making what you have work harder for you.

"Whether it's using digital tools to stay accountable, building up loyalty points to fly first class, or putting spare savings to work through investing, these small, consistent moves can add up to something powerful."

He describes Optimaxers as people who spot low-effort but high-impact ways to make their money work harder and stresses it isn't necessarily about earning more but thinking smarter and acting sooner.

He also added that what sets these people apart is their mindset, as they are curious and proactive about tweaking their habits to get the best outcomes such as using an app to stay on top of goals or switching bank accounts to unlock better rewards.

"Anyone can become an Optimaxer," he adds, "It's not about perfection-it's about steady progress. A few smart decisions now can make a huge difference later, without taking up too much time or headspace."

Interestingly, the research from OnePoll found that while many shy away from discussing finances with their friends because it makes them uncomfortable, a huge 82% say they would feel proud if their own smart money moves inspired others to do the same.

After all, 47% admit they have already made smarter financial decisions after picking up tips from friends, and estimate those tips have saved them an average of £550 over the past 12 months.

Many have been inspired to plan ahead for major purchases instead of relying on credit (34%), while others stock up on non-perishables in bulk to cut costs (20%). One in eight (12%) also now use autosave tools to squirrel away money effortlessly.

Brian Byrnes added: "Financial FOMO is something most of us feel at some point. But instead of letting it stress you out, use it as fuel. If someone else's smart money move inspires you, let that spark your own.

"The more you learn and act on, the less comparison matters-because you're building a financial future on your own terms."

BRIAN BYRNES' TOP 5 SMART MONEY MOVES TO HELP YOU BECOME AN OPTIMAXER: 1. Save Smart and often

Match your savings to your goals. Easy-access accounts are great for flexibility, but fixed or notice accounts may offer better rates. The right account - more interest with zero extra effort..

2. Set Goals & Automate Everything

Define your goals - holiday, house, early retirement - and automate your saving or investing. Consistency beats perfection, and automation keeps you on track without the mental load.

3. Use Tax Perks to Your Advantage

Make the most of ISAs and LISAs. Whether you're investing or saving for a first home, these accounts grow your money tax-free-and in the case of LISAs, the government even chips in.

4. Talk Money & Know Your Worth

Open up. Sharing money tips can lead to real gains. And when it comes to income, know your value -whether you're negotiating a raise or setting freelance rates, don't sell yourself short.

5. Max Out Work Perks

From gym memberships to pension boosts, your employer might offer more than you think. Use every benefit available - it's money on the table that can boost your lifestyle or long-term savings.