New figures on the spending habits and financial position of Brits suggest that there may be evidence contrary to the old saying “money can’t buy you happiness”.

In Mintel’s flagship report British Lifestyles 2011, it was revealed that almost six in ten (58 per cent) Brits earning £50,000 and over report to be “satisfied” with their life, while just four in ten (43 per cent) of those earning under £15,000 said the same. However, with New Year just around the corner there has never been a better time to get your finances in order to enter 2012 with a fresh start.

Of course, the primary trick up the sleeves of frugal individuals is budgeting. There are basic current accounts out there, such as those available at Secure Trust Bank, to help you keep on top of your income and outgoings. Set yourself a realistic budget after assessing your monthly income and spending and resist from deviating away from this budget, no matter how tempting it may be over the festive period.

Head of Finance at Mintel Toby Clark said of the figures: “There have always been sections of society who do better than others, but when times are tough it becomes harder to gloss over those differences.”