‘Tis the Season for making New Year’s resolutions! As we approach 2007, it is likely that many people are making lists and checking them twice, preparing for a fresh start in the new year and setting goals for the things they’d like to accomplish.

Typically it seems that the most common resolutions include pledges to work out more often, watch what we eat, get involved in volunteer work, take up a new hobby and spend more time with our families. Also high on many peoples’ lists are financial goals for the coming year. After the extra spending of the holiday season, many of us may be looking for ways to make better decisions regarding our money.

The thought of New Year’s resolutions is often not taken seriously by many people, because historically it seems that these resolutions are made to be broken. Here are a few tips that might help this be the year where you make, and just as importantly keep, your New Year’s resolutions.

• Make sure that your resolutions are realistic/attainable. If your resolutions are realistic you’re more likely to work toward them without getting discouraged.
• Write your resolutions down. This will keep you from forgetting them and will give you an informal contract with yourself to refer back to.
• Tell your friends and family about your resolutions. Telling others will make you feel more compelled to stick to your resolutions – plus these people can serve as your most helpful supporters and cheerleaders.
• Make a plan. Thinking about ways you might achieve your goals will help them seem more attainable, and help you work toward them daily.

Also remember that managing your money is a long-term commitment, with long term consequences. It is not meant to be a a temporary phase, so I encourage you to set realistic goals, make a plan to reach them, and take steps each day toward the financial future you’ve always wanted.