New Year's Resolution No. 1: Go easy on yourself. Resolve to forgive yourself for what you should have put into savings but spent instead - on the holidays, on those beautiful boots or on your new condo.
Feeling guilty is so 2009.
Besides, I don't know many people whose financial futures are working out exactly as planned. Luckily, it's a new year, a chance for a fresh start. Plan to get your money milestones back on track in 2010.
The first step is to lay out your financial objectives in definite terms. Ask yourself: What do I really want? Write your response down in present tense and positive terms, and make it specific. This isn't an exercise in taking mental notes or scribbling out sweeping statements like "make more money." Detail the exact amount of dough you'd like to see, the date you want to start receiving it and the action steps necessary to get it done. The latter is key, and best broken down into small, tangible tasks you can work toward every day.
The same exercise applies to any dream or goal that comes with a price tag attached: a tropical escape, a kitchen overhaul or making more contributions toward your golden years.
Start today. And if you find yourself falling off course at any point during the year, refer back to Resolution No. 1.
Angela Self is one of the founders of the Smart Cookies money group. Read her weekly column on managing debt and saving money at globeinvestor.com.
