Money Goals Top New Years Resolutions for 2013

If you're making New Years Resolutions this year, chances are good that they'll have something to do with money!

Every December, as the New Year approaches, I search web for lists of the top New Years Resolutions.

It's probably no surprise that these lists are all pretty similar to each other. But what especially interests me is how so many of the most popular New Years Resolutions have to do with money - directly or indirectly.

Here's a compilation of the top ten New Years Resolutions I've found (in no particular order):

  1. Get organized
  2. Get out of debt
  3. Lose weight
  4. Quit smoking
  5. Quit drinking
  6. More time with friends and family
  7. Enjoy life more
  8. Learn a new skill
  9. Get a better job
  10. Save more money

Two of these top New Years Resolutions are explicitly about money: "Get out of debt" and "save more money".

These make sense because so many Americans struggle with debt. And the reason why they struggle with debt is because they don't have enough money in savings for "emergencies" or to buy big-ticket items like cars, furnishings, appliances, etc.

But "get organized" is very close because one of the biggest areas of disorganization is in finances, and more and more people are realizing the importance of being organized financially.

Really, I can make the case that nearly all of these top New Years Resolutions somehow impact or affect our finances!

Look at "lose weight" and "quit smoking and drinking," for example. Accomplishing these resolutions might actually cost you money in the short-term to get started (if you join a club or buy supplies), but will definitely save you money in the long-term, in health care costs, food, cost of cigarettes, alcohol, etc.

"Learn a new skill" or "get a job" might cost you money in some ways as you take some classes buy some books and resources, and expand your personal network, but they will hopefully lead to long-term financial benefits when you finally get paid to do the work you love.

"More time with family" and "enjoy life more" might also have some financial costs associated with them if you end up eating out more, going to movies and shows, or going on vacations, but you'll also reap some wonderful rewards and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you're not sure what New Years Resolutions to focus on this year, consider picking one from this list that will improve at least two of these life areas: health, relationships, or finances.

This will give you a multiplier effect that will help you move farther, faster, toward success - not just in keeping your resolutions, but in bettering your life.

at 8:15 PM
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