You've made a goal to save money in the new year and build up your savings account balance. You've got the best intentions, but do you have a plan?
You can be richer at this time next year by following these simple tips. They start off with setting a sensible goal and end with a nice, fat back balance:
1) Set a solid goal. As the video at the top of this article explains, you need to have a goal to help you focus your effort. It doesn't have to be a huge one. Maybe all you'd like to do is save up $1,000 by the end of the year, which breaks down to just $3 a day.
2) Make a specific plan to achieve your goal. Look at places where you can cut back to get the money for your savings account. You can even open a separate account with your credit union or bank that's just for your New Years resolution savings. Then find extra money everywhere possible, from big things like shopping around for your home and car insurance to little things like skipping that expresso.
3) Treat your savings like a bill. Commit to putting a certain amount of money into your account every week or month, and never, ever allow yourself to skip it. Make it as much of a priority as your mortgage or credit card bills.
4) Keep track of your progress. It feels good to bring up the account information online and see the balance rise. Seeing your success will help you continue it through the end of 2013.
Check out my Examiner Personal Finance column for more financial information.
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