Happy New Year to one and all. Did you make a resolution(s) for the new year? We all know that they are easy to make but often difficult to keep. This time take some steps to help you achieve the goals you have set for the new year. When you make your goals or resolutions list, your goals should be specific. Start with the words "I will."

USA.gov lists some popular New Year's resolutions, then passes on information to reach your goal. See the link at the bottom of this article to start your journey to health, wealth and a smoke-free, stress-free life.* Vows to lose weight or stop smoking, sometimes both, are always popular "will-do's". Is your resolution here?

• Drink Less Alcohol*
  
• Get a Better Education*
  
• Get a Better Job*
  
• Get Fit*
  
• Lose Weight*
  
• Manage Debt*
  
• Manage Stress*
  
• Quit Smoking Now*
  
• Save Money*
  
• Take a Trip*
  
• Volunteer to Help Others*

A couple of years ago, this is how the resolution list looked:

• Lose Weight
  
• Managing Debt
  
• Save Money
  
• Get a Better Job
  
• Get Fit
  
• Eat Right
  
• Get a Better Education
  
• Drink Less Alcohol
  
• Quit Smoking Now
  
• Reduce Stress Overall
  
• Reduce Stress at Work
  
• Take a Trip
  
• Volunteer to Help Others

Your goals should be realistic. If you are bogged down in debt and want to buy a house next year, "I will buy a house" may unrealistic, "I will pay off my debts and save money to buy a house", is not. You may not be able buy your house, but you will have a good start towards home ownership. You will find that making a chart or using a large calendar to track and measure your goals is very useful. It always helps to see a plan on paper; the thing is you must be honest when you keep records. Do not fudge the document because someone else may see it.

You will be inspired to keep your goal if you list the ways you will benefit once you reach it. It may be helpful if you list where you are now, against where you will be after reaching your goal. Be sure to include the time, money, etc., you will need to achieve a specific goal. For instance: (1) "I will spend 1 hour each week working on the budget" or (2) "I will exercise 1/2 hour, 3 days a week" (name the days and the time). Where will you be be after reaching your goal? You will be closer to becoming free of debt and better at money management; and you will have lost weight and feel healthier.

If your main goal is to become debt-free, be specific about paying off your bills. Which bill will you pay off first? By what date will it be paid in full? Whatever your goal, it does help to have a target date. It gives you something to strive for.

If you need to learn a skill to achieve your goal, find a class. If you are determined to become computer literate, check out your local library, they often have free computer classes. And finally, find someone who will help you attain your goals. It always helps to have a friend or group of friends offering words of encouragement.

At the end of the year when your mission has been accomplished, celebrate with those who helped you achieve your goal.

List source: Popular New Year's Resolutions-USA.gov.*