The new year is here, and that means a full year’s set of resolutions are here as well. Has maintaining a proper budget, keeping your spending in check, saving up for that brand-new car or trying to pay down your credit card debt been part of those resolutions year after year? Have you found yourself struggling to keep them? Many people worry, according to Money Management International, and they offer some suggestions to help with those financial resolutions.

First of all, be honest with yourself, your spouse and your family about financial need. When the credit card bills pile up, the interest payments spiral out of hand and it seems there is nothing you can do to get out from underneath - take inventory, recognize your situation and react accordingly.

Look directly at the details of your financial situation, because hiding your debts or expenses will only hinder your efforts. Make sure everyone in your family is on board with the new financial spending of your household so you can all work together.

Set realistic goals for paying down your debt or saving up for that dream vacation. Sometimes, in an attempt to reach the financial goal quickly, people bite off more than they can chew. Over time, this becomes frustrating and aggravating, causing some to abandon their goals altogether. Short-term success leads to long-term financial stability, according to Money Management International.

Constantly remind yourself of your successes and the goals you are trying to achieve. Pat yourself on the back each time a large credit card debt is paid off, or when you’ve reached a milestone toward saving up for the family cruise.

Perhaps a better way to motivate yourself is through friendly reminders near your desk—a picture of that shiny red Corvette will continue to encourage you to spend well for your financial future.

Be flexible with the changing demands of fulfilling your financial resolutions. Over time, you will no doubt need to re-tool your plan, change your goals or modify your payment strategy at some point during the year. Change is normal. Don’t let such shifts derail your resolution.

Stay confident in yourself and your family that you can stick with it, even when the going gets tough. Utilize your support network of friends and family who will pick you up when you are down, and remember to believe in yourself.

Seek assistance if ever you feel like the task of sticking to your financial resolutions is a little too much to bear. Certified credit counselors, financial planners and debt organizers are here to help you. They deal with financial planning on a daily basis and can offer expert advice in almost every aspect of fulfilling your financial resolutions. They may have a few tricks up their sleeve or an idea you’ve never thought of before to keep you on track.

Sound financial planning helps throughout the year, not just the holidays, but with a brand new year, the time is perfect to set goals, make resolutions and deliver on the promises you’ve made yourself. You can do it!

You can do it all year long!

- For more information on financial planning or other money management tips, contact Timothy Walsh, attorney at law, 1319 Travis Blvd., Fairfield or call (707) 429-1990.

Timothy Walsh

Honesty is the best policy. Nothing helps combat your own fears over keeping your financial resolutions than confronting them honestly. Don’t hide debts or expenses, take a hard look at your financial situation, and let others in on your financial secrets.

Set realistic goals for yourself. Though ambition is always a good idea, try not set the bar too high or bite off more than you can chew. Small successes in the short-term equal long-term financial stability.

Friendly reminders of your progress will become your best friends over time. Write goals down and remind yourself of just how close you are over time. Use photographs of the brand new car or family vacation to give you just a little more incentive.

Be flexible. Change is inevitable. Don’t be afraid to adapt your plan, shift your goals or alter your course if situations arise that are out of your control. Never lose sight of your resolution!

Get help if you find it all a little overwhelming. Certified credit counselors or financial planners deal with these kinds of things on a daily basis and are here to help. Consult with them to find the best way to fulfill your promise.