How to keep up with those New Year's resolutions, researchers find commitment is the secret of success

By Alan Marlatt

In the next week or so, about 100 million Americans will venture down a well-traveled path paved with bold and sometimes hastily conceived New Year's resolutions.

It is a route covered with promises to exercise more, lose weight, stop smoking, cut down on alcohol, eat a healthier diet and make new friends. All of these are not necessarily broken promises. According to a new University of Washington survey, 63 percent of the people questioned were still keeping their number one 1997 New Year's resolution after two months.

The study, conducted by Elizabeth Miller, a UW doctoral candidate in psychology, and Alan Marlatt, director of the university's Addictive Behaviors Research Center, sought to understand the factors that best predict success in keeping New Year's resolutions. The researchers focused on health-related resolutions because these types of pledges are the most common and 60 percent of Americans die from illnesses connected to behavior such as overeating, lack of exercise and smoking. In addition, little is known about the process by which people make successful behavior changes.

"The keys to making a successful resolution are a person's confidence that he or she can make the behavior change and the commitment to making that change," says Miller. In addition, the study indicates that "resolutions are a process, not a one-time effort that offer people a chance to create new habits." Even if people are successful, they need to follow-up on their behavior over the years, she adds.

To be successful with your own resolutions, Marlatt, who has studied the subject for more than 20 years, suggests:
• Have a strong initial commitment to make a change.
• Have coping strategies to deal with problems that will come up.
• Keep track of your progress. The more monitoring you do and feedback you get, the better you will do.

Sure-fire ingredients for setting yourself up for resolution failure, he adds, include:
• Not thinking about making resolutions until the last minute.
• Reacting on New Year's Eve and making your resolutions based on what's bothering you or is on your mind at that time.
• Framing your resolutions as absolutes by saying, "I will never do X again."

Data from the new study was largely collected over the Internet, with 264 subjects filling out questionnaires in early January and again in March. The majority of subjects, 90 percent, came from the metropolitan Seattle area, with the remainder coming from across the United States. Fifty-four percent of the respondents were female, and the age range of all subjects was 18 to 66.

While the study focused on primary resolutions, most people made several resolutions, with 67 percent making three or more. Increasing the amount of exercise was the most common primary resolution, being made by 37 percent of subjects. It was followed by: increasing the time devoted to study or work, 23 percent; increasing the consumption of healthy food or decreasing the amount of unhealthy food, 13 percent; reducing the use of tobacco, alcohol, caffeine or other drugs used, 7 percent.

People made significantly more resolutions to start or increase a behavior --222-- than to stop or decrease something -- 42. Only 65 percent of subjects made their resolutions between Dec. 28 and New Year's Day. The rest made pledges they considered to be New Year's resolutions as early as May and as late as the end of January.

Miller also said that persistence can pay off. Of the people who successfully achieved their top resolution, only 40 percent of them did so on the first attempt. The rest made multiple tries, with 17 percent finally succeeding after more than six attempts.

As final words of encouragement to resolution makers, Marlatt has these suggestions:
"Take credit for success when you achieve a resolution, but it is a mistake to blame yourself if you fail. Instead, look at the barriers that were in your way. See how you can do better the next time and figure out a better plan to succeed. You do get to try again and can make behavior changes throughout the year, not only at New Year's."

For more information about New Year's resolutions, contact Alan Marlatt at (206) 685-1395 or marlatt@u.washington.edu.
For more information about the study, contact Elizabeth Miller at lizza@u.washington.edu or at (206) 543-6694.

Coach Robin Hardy joins Anna D Banks on Strictly Business Radio to discuss “How to REALLY Be Successful with New Year's Resolutions"

By Anna D. Banks

How long a New Year’s resolution lasts can depend on the nature of the resolution, how you prepare and your state of mind for accomplishing it. New Year’s resolutions can be a good time to create new goals and personal improvement projects.

Empowered Options Coach, Robin Hardy of Robin Hardy Coaching joins Anna Banks on Strictly Business Radio to discuss “How to REALLY Be Successful with New Year's Resolutions". Listen to the live show on Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at 3:00 PM.

Hardy is well known for her expertise in guiding men & women into creating tangible actionable
results through Media Training, PR Consulting, Creative Development, Marketing and Business Plans.

Through the application of her 6 Empowered Keys Program Robin ensures that her clients create a solid sense of direction leading to greater profitability. Her methods empower people to stretch beyond their limitations, re-invent through a solid sense of self-esteem and deepen their levels of confidence for unstoppable success.

Robin speaks nationally, teaches on college campuses and coaches individuals, small business owners and entrepreneurs. As Development Director & Feminine Leader for The Amazing Woman’s Day Movement she contributes her insights to empowering women entrepreneurs and business owners. Whether it be as an Empowered Options Coach, An Inspirational Speaker, An Author or host of Empowering you Radio, there’s one thing for certain; Robin is dedicated to helping others achieve their wildest dreams.

Contact Robin Hardy

19510 Van Buren Blvd. #F3-390

Riverside,California 92508

951-789-6648

Robin@RobinHardy.net

www.RobinHardy.net

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Smart Spending Tips Can Help Stretch a Family’s Budget

(ARA) – There’s no doubt about it, times are tough for many Americans. With today’s record-high gas prices and an uncertain economy, families are looking for advice on how to cut unnecessary costs from their daily spending.

Family/lifestyle expert, mother of three and author of “Simplify Your Household,” Tara Aronson, has teamed up with Procter & Gamble’s Cascade brand to share tips on how to make the most of your paycheck and help save money on household essentials:

Cheaper isn’t always better
When you’re trying to stretch your dollars, it can be tempting to purchase generic or sale priced products, but you may be doing yourself a disservice as these products may not be the most effective and can result in double the work. Find products that offer you great value like Cascade with the Grease Fighting Power of Dawn, which has the trusted power of Cascade with the grease-fighting power of Dawn. It delivers an excellent wash and cleans so well, there’s no need to prewash your dishes. A product like this helps conserve water and can save you money in the long run.

According to a study done by Procter and Gamble, it takes between 6 and 10 gallons of water to run your dishwasher compared to the 9 to 24 gallons you would consume washing them by hand.

Bulk up: Buy your family's essentials -- paper towels, laundry detergent in bulk -- to use less packaging and help save money at the same time.

Purchase a water filter rather than bottled water: According to an AWWA Water and Wastewater Rates survey, the average price for 1,000 gallons of tap water is about $2.77. If families spend their money on a water filter they can potentially save up to $400 a year.

Clothes call: If the label reads "Dry Clean", not "Dry Clean Only", it may be hand-washable. If the garment is simply constructed without lining or delicate trim; has no sequins or beads glued to the fabric; and is not open-weave or loosely woven, give it a try. Hand-wash only please with gentle fabric wash and follow the label instructions.

By following these simple tips and making smart decisions consumers can save money on household essentials without breaking the bank.

For more information on how to help save money and resources when washing dishes, log on to www.cascadeclean.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Hidden Savings: Look Up Phone Numbers Online

(ARA) – If you’re looking for ways to trim your household budget, you’re not alone. Every penny counts in these tough economic times. Here’s one simple step that can put hundreds of dollars back into the family budget: Go online for free directory assistance and stop calling 411.

Directory assistance costs consumers $8 billion a year, a figure that’s dramatically escalated over the past decade with the increase of cell-phone only households. The average directory assistance expense for cell phones is around $1.67 per call. Traditional landline directory assistance is slightly lower but still over $1 per call on average.

For the busy mom or small business owner who makes 10 directory assistance calls a month on their cell phone, the annual expense can easily climb into the hundreds of dollars. However, because directory assistance charges are tucked into monthly phone bills, the expense can go largely unnoticed and its true impact can creep up over time.

Today there are online tools that provide free directory assistance, significantly reducing or eliminating the need to call 411. One of the easiest sites to use is www.whitepages.com, a free Web site that provides contact information for more than 200 million American adults. Included in the company’s massive database are residential, business and work listings. Consumers can search by name or address and can even use reverse look-up tools to identify unknown callers.

Additionally, online directories are often more up to date and reliable than dialing 411. Traditional directory assistance can only provide contact information for half of what sites like WhitePages can provide. Online sites also provide national reach, a valuable convenience not found with bulky phone books which are limited to only local numbers.

Consumers who rely on their Web-enabled cell phones can also easily access WhitePages data from anywhere. For those who own the immensely popular iPhone, the company has developed a free application that takes seconds to download and is as simple to use as the website. All of the same search features are included and the application allows consumers to easily add contact information to their phone’s contact list.

The next time you are tempted to call 411, consider the cost and go online instead. Web sites like www.whitepages.com can help anyone put money back into your pocket.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Celebrate the Holidays with a Balanced Budget

(ARA) - Long before the sweltering summer humidity dissipated, before the leaves changed into vibrant reds, oranges and yellows and before football games and halftime shows were the weekend entertainment, Americans were planning ahead for upcoming holiday expenses.

In the Western Union Money Mindset Survey taken in August, 43 percent of consumers were already planning cuts on all holiday gift purchases. The survey was conducted by Javelin Research.

"In today's struggling economy, budget-conscious consumers have been thinking ahead and planning changes long before this holiday season kicks in -- and with good reasons," says Royal Cole, executive vice president and general manager of Western Union Payment Services. "As watchdogs of their own personal finance affairs, consumers are trying hard to stick to their budgets so they can keep paying necessary expenses such as rent, mortgage, utility, credit card and auto bills."

However, less green in your wallet doesn't have to equal pre-holiday blues. Western Union Payment Services offers some simple ways to curb spending and still preserve holiday happiness.

* Decide how much money you can spend on gifts and make sure to stick to this budget. If you need a point of reference, look at what you spent last year, and determine if you are able to match that, or if you can cut back on the list, either by buying fewer gifts, or spending less. Make a list of who you will purchase gifts for and tally how much you can spend on each to ensure you don't go over your budget.

* Be a savvy shopper and watch for sales, special promotional discounts or buy-one, get-one free offers. Also, spread your shopping out, so you can balance the costs between paychecks. If you find yourself short on funds and need to get the bills paid, consider last-minute, same-day payments, which can keep your payments current and avoid late fees.

* Discuss setting a budget limit on gift-giving with family and friends. One way to cut back is to draw names out of a hat, so you're only purchasing one nice gift for one person, rather than many gifts for everyone.

* Go online to www.overstock.com or www.half.com to find good deals. Remember, it's the idea behind the gift, not how much you spend on it.

* Research flexible payment plan options to maximize your cash flow for the holidays; ask your bank or creditor if they offer these customized bill payment plans. Or ask if you can organize a holiday account, with little deposits made into the account all year long.

* Give the gift of cash this holiday season -- a modest cash gift can help a friend or relative pay for basic necessities and living expenses. In this economy, it's a universal gift that everyone will appreciate, and you get a bang for your buck -- no extra costs for taxes, shipping or handling. Visit www.westernunion.com for more information.

* Make sure you're monitoring all household budget items so you might have a little extra money to keep you going during the holidays. Read personal finance articles for the latest ways to tighten your budget on sites such as www.smartmoney.com, www.ivillage.com or www.kiplinger.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

How to be Successful with New Year’s Resolutions

(ARA) – “I’m going to lose 50 pounds. I’m going to save more money. I’m going to spend more time with my spouse and children. I’m going to complete my education. “ These are just some of the typical New Year’s resolutions that many people pledge at the start of a new year.

How long a New Year’s resolution lasts can depend on the nature of the resolution, how you prepare and your state of mind for accomplishing it. New Year’s resolutions can be a good time to start new initiatives and personal improvement projects.

Dr. Jim Wasner, associate professor of clinical psychology and program chair at Argosy University, Schaumburg suggests viewing resolutions in the larger context of personal growth and goal setting. “Think of resolutions as a reminder of the larger goals and plans you have for your life. These life changes should be planned carefully with both long-range dreams and desires and short-term actions on how to get there. Just because you have difficulty in achieving a short-term objective doesn’t mean you have to give up your aspirations. You may just need to revise your actions and fine tune your solutions,” he says.

Here are some suggestions to consider when making New Year’s resolutions:

* Select fewer resolutions. Long lists of items that will result in drastic life changes can be overbearing and cause a landslide of overindulgence.

* Select resolutions that have a real chance of being accomplished.

* Ask family and friends to be supportive by providing gentle reminders and constant encouragement to help you keep the resolution.

* Create a plan that starts slow and eases you into a routine to help ensure your success. Create attainable benchmarks so you can track your progress.

* Do not beat up on yourself if you give in to temptation, but resolve to continue on at the next appropriate opportunity.

* Do not compete with others or become discouraged if they seem to be fulfilling their resolutions. Instead, look at their accomplishments as an inspiration that you can do the same.

Wasner adds, “Life changes are an important part of our development as mature adults. Resolutions are a fun way to remind us that change is an important part of who we are as humans. Use them as an impetus to fine tune your plans and not as a weight to be shouldered.”

New Year’s resolutions should be fun and meaningful but not overbearing or burdensome. They should help you to look at areas of your life you want to change or improve in the upcoming year. Most important, do not become discouraged if you are not successful on the first try, but commit to starting over until you accomplish your goal. In the words of Dr. Wasner, “New Year’s resolutions are not a short run but more like a marathon where you must pace yourself to reach success.”

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Smart Strategies for Removing Bad Debt and Stress from Your Life

(ARA) – Given the current economy, it is no surprise that Americans are stressed out about making ends meet, which is affecting their work and personal relationships. Nevertheless, many are optimistic and say they are committed to persevering with their personal finances, according to a new survey.

The Western Union Money Mindset Survey, taken in August, shows consumers are taking steps to manage their bill payments so they can pay on time and reduce their stress. For example, one in four (25 percent) have cut recreational activities (gym memberships, sports gear) and nearly three out of four (72 percent) have cut back on dining out.

“Americans have worked too hard to save their money and pursue their goals, and they are not going to just give up. Many people are wisely scaling back their budgets and seeking solutions that will greatly improve their situations,” says David Shapiro, senior vice president at Western Union. “Only 4 percent of people who believe their situation is going to get worse feel that declaring bankruptcy or defaulting on debt will help. To improve their situations, many are looking for a new, better-paying job or a second job to keep up with their bills.”

One in five Americans is paying bills late, the survey shows, and 31 percent of those surveyed were waiting longer to pay, racking up late fees and risking good credit standing.

Bad debt isn’t healthy for individuals or the people close to them. And some choices made to correct bad debt, such as withdrawing from a 401(k) account to make bill payments, can lead to bigger issues, impacting future financial activities like obtaining loans for mortgages and cars or getting a job.

Here are some tips to help people avoid and reduce debt: * Start or revise a monthly budget -- Use calculators at www.BankRate.com to determine if your mortgage should be refinanced or if your money market account is earning interest that can help you build up savings or pay your bills off faster. Visit www.financialplan.com to download a budget tracker as a monthly guide for managing your money. You can also examine your expenses and see what you can cut back.
* Start an emergency fund -- Finance experts recommend having between three and six months of your budget stored in a savings account in preparation for unplanned events like losing a job, needing emergency medical help or treatment for a long-term illness. Try to cut back on entertainment activities so you can be ready for that last-minute car repair.
* Arrange automatic payments -- Having your rent or mortgage payment, utility bill or telephone bill automatically withdrawn on a designated day of the month helps you plan your finances better, maintain your cash flow and avoid late payment fees.
* Explore all payment options -- For instance, consider paying the bill on the day it’s due by going to a Western Union Agent location and paying in cash. Ask your bank or biller to explain all of the bill payment options available.

* Negotiate rates -- Contact your telecom provider to see if you can reduce your monthly bill payment by bundling your phone, Internet and cable services. Call your credit card company and see if you can get a lower interest rate. Research credit cards with the lowest rates by visiting www.cardratings.com.
* Winterize your home -- Insulate your windows, doors and pipes for energy efficiency. Visit your local energy provider for tips and check Web sites such as www.energyassistance.org and www.acf.hhs.gov.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

This Year’s Resolution: Manage Your Credit

(ARA) – What is your resolution this year? To eat better, weigh less, exercise more, to spend more quality time with your friends and family? The majority of Americans have not ranked paying down debt as their top New Year’s resolution. But given the current economic landscape, many consumers should focus more on improving their credit standing in 2009 than ever before.

“While losing weight is typically at the forefront of Americans’ minds as they enter the new year, managing credit health should take precedence for consumers this year,” says Lucy Duni, vice president of consumer education at TrueCredit.com by TransUnion. “Consumers who play a more active role in managing their credit will establish important lifelong habits that can enable them to have a truly holistic view of their finances.”

Here are five easy tips to help keep Americans on the right path with their credit resolutions in 2009.

Tip 1: Always pay your bills on time.

While it may sound like a no-brainer, making payments on time is essential whether consumers are trying to boost or maintain their credit score. Yet, TrueCredit’s 2007 survey revealed that one in four (25 percent) respondents had missed making one or more on-time bill payments.

Tip 2: Don’t overspend.

Keep debt below 35 percent of your limits. Although it can be tempting and easy to overspend, it’s important for consumers to keep their credit card balances low and not to max them out. Part of a lender’s evaluation includes reviewing a consumer’s available credit. If consumers are nearing or have over extended their credit, it may impact their ability to be approved for a loan at a competitive rate.

Tip 3: Keep tabs on your credit report.

In order to maintain a “healthy” credit score and to position yourself best with creditors, it’s important for consumers to monitor their report regularly to provide an up-to-date view on credit card activity and debt. It also enables consumers to identity possible signs of fraudulent activity, as the potential for identity theft remains high.

Tip 4: Monitor leases and loans closely where you are the co-signer.

When consumers open a joint account or co-sign a loan, they are taking on legal responsibility for the account. Any activity on these shared accounts, good or bad, will be reflected in both credit reports.

Tip 5: Long-standing credit card accounts can help your credit score.

Consumers should be cautious when thinking about closing credit card accounts where they have been making punctual payments over a long period of time. In addition to lowering your available credit, canceling old credit accounts can also ultimately lower your credit score by making your credit history appear shorter.

To learn more about managing your credit, visit www.gotruecredit.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Resolve to Get in the Black in 2009

(ARA) - For many Americans, the only area where they may have lost weight over the holidays is their wallet. And as their credit card statements begin to arrive with the reminder -- and obligation -- of their holiday spending, consumers should resolve now to lower their debt in the New Year.

“Losing weight and losing debt are among the top New Year’s resolutions every year,” says Joseph Montanaro, certified financial planner with USAA, a leading financial services organization serving military members and their families. “But, unfortunately, the resolve of consumers to stick to their plans typically thaws along with the weather when spring rolls around.”

Montanaro notes that many consumers set goals that may be too ambitious, whether trying to lose weight or lower debt. With 15 years of experience as a financial planner, including the last six as a salaried planner with USAA, Montanaro believes consumers can achieve their debt reduction goals by following five steps:

1. Start with a specific goal. It’s great to want to eliminate all debt and start with a clean slate, but when faced with the proverbial mountain of debt, the goal may seem daunting. So start small, and add incremental goals along the way. For example, to pay down $20,000 in credit-card debt -- and credit-card debt is what’s known as “bad” debt because of the typically high interest rates and the money spent isn’t being used to purchase a long-term asset like a house -- the first goal can be to eliminate 20 percent of that total by summer. Then set new goals with each milestone you reach.

2. Put the plan on paper. “Budget” is not a bad word, so embrace it. One of the first things Montanaro advises consumers who want to get their debt under control is to establish a realistic budget, and stick to it. Put the budget on paper or online, and adhere to it with each paycheck. Committing to stick to a budget can have multiple benefits -- it can help prevent piling on more debt and can identify extra money that can be put toward debt payments.

3. Track progress. There’s nothing more satisfying than not paying interest to a credit-card company. As debt decreases and less interest is charged, more money will be available each month for other expenses -- or for those unexpected emergencies that occur from time to time. Continually tracking progress over time will help keep the overall goal front and center, and allow for budget adjustments as more money is freed up over time.

4. Splurge ... in moderation. While keeping a focus on reducing debt undoubtedly will require some sacrifice, it’s OK to splurge on a reward for a job well done from time to time. But keep in mind that moderation is the key. Maybe one reward is a night on the town. If so, avoid the five-star restaurant and enjoy something at a more moderate price point. In fact, “moderation” is a good way to start thinking about how to approach spending overall.

5. Save like there is a tomorrow. While many consumers are used to spending like there’s no tomorrow, turn that philosophy on its head and start saving. There are a few easy ways to get started. First, spend less than is earned so there will be money left over to save. Second, with that extra money, consider increasing contributions to a 401(k) or IRA. And third, start saving more for everyday expenses and emergencies by setting up a monthly automatic transfer into a savings account.

Finally, for those who are overwhelmed by debt and don’t know where to begin, consider enlisting the help of a financial planner. Be sure to look for one who is salaried and has a CFP designation to ensure the advice is coming from a credentialed professional.

Eliminating debt and keeping it in check is a great way to start the New Year. With a plan in place and a disciplined approach, anyone can start on the road to securing a better financial future.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Make Smart Spending, Saving a Family Resolution

(ARA) – With the economic crisis hitting everyone in the pocketbook, it’s more important than ever for parents to talk to their children about how to manage money. New Year's -- a prime resolution time for millions of Americans -- is a great time for children and their parents to learn better spending and savings practices together.

Forty-six percent of American families hold a credit card balance according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2004 statistics. And in 2007, more than 800,000 bankruptcy cases were filed in the United States.

Managing money is a family affair. By resolving to set financial goals and working together to practice management, families can enjoy independence and security. "Parents and their children can learn from and challenge each other to plan better ways to use the money they earn and save," says Scott Oberkrom, director of Community Investments at American Century Investments.

As families sit down to discuss their financial resolution, they need to determine how the changes will affect each member. Once the resolution is finalized, post it in a public place so all members can see it every day. Visit www.YesYouCanOnline.info to learn more on how to make sure resolutions stick.

Some tips families can incorporate into their smart money management resolution include:

1. Financial responsibility starts with examples from home.

Parents need to evaluate their budgets and make wise spending choices -- don’t buy a new speed boat if you just told the kids you couldn’t afford to get them a new iPod. Share the family budget with your children to demonstrate how money doesn't grow on trees and the family has regular expenses that must be paid.

2. Set up allowances for children.

Once your children are old enough to understand basic math, an allowance can help them learn how to budget, spend and save. Parents can also set up allowances for themselves. Showing the children that Mom and Dad fit haircuts, buying lunch or shopping for new clothes for themselves within a weekly cash budget gives children the best example of wise money management. 3. Take a trip to the bank and organize savings accounts.

Children -- and many adults, it seems -- need to be taught how to save money. Take the whole family to the bank to set up savings accounts. Decide as a team what goal you’re saving toward. Parents should consider saving to help secure the family in case of a financial crisis. Kids’ accounts could be earmarked for college tuition or to buy their first car.

4. Teach kids creative ways to earn money.

A hobby could become an income-generator for all members of the family. Perhaps you have a tremendous green thumb. And maybe you have your children help tend the vegetables and pull the weeds in the garden. The entire family can turn this hobby into a small income by taking the produce to farmers markets or setting up a neighborhood stand.

All New Year's resolutions take work, but they can be accomplished if all family members share in the effort. Having all family members work together, giving encouragement and little reminders, also can help you stay on track.

"Setting goals, both at New Year’s and throughout the year, is one way people can achieve their dreams," says James Stowers, founder of American Century Investments. "As I reflect on what I have learned through the years, I am convinced that anyone -- and I mean anyone -- can become what they are absolutely determined to be."

Make 2009 the year your family resolves to take charge of your money management together. Visit www.YesYouCanOnline.info for additional tips.

Courtesy of ARAcontent.com

Simple Ideas for Organizing Your Finances

(ARA) – With the economy struggling and many Americans adjusting the way they spend, now is a great time to do some financial planning. But with so many things to consider, sometimes it's hard to know where to start.

"Organizing your finances doesn't have to be something you dread. Start with a to-do list and work through each step until you’re done. You should feel better knowing what you're spending and saving and what you can expect in the future," says Scott Oberkrom, director of Community Investments at American Century Investments. "Web sites like YesYouCanOnline.info offer easy tips for getting started."

Consider getting your finances in order by completing the BEST to-do list -- budget, estate, savings and taxes:

* Budget Analysis
It's important to create and maintain a budget and the New Year is a great time to review your income and expenses. This will be easier if you get in the habit of tracking the money you spend using a paper ledger or with your computer. Remember to account for any debt expenses you may have, such as credit card and loan payments and include changes you anticipate such as a pay raise or a new car payment in the New Year.

Think about ways to maximize your income and minimize expenses. If you need more income, you may decide to work a few extra hours at a part-time job in addition to your current job. Look for ways both large and small to spend less throughout the year. For example, you may be able to save a significant amount of money by bringing your lunch to work instead of eating out.

* Estate Planning
Review your beneficiaries for your insurance policies, investments and retirement plans to make sure they are accurate and up to date. Review your will and trust documents to make sure they're accurate, too. If you had any life or family changes, such as a birth, adoption or divorce, you may need to revise your beneficiary designations.

* Savings and Investments
Make sure you have adequate savings or at least a plan to save during the year. This includes a separate emergency fund which should have at least three to six months' worth of living expenses.

Set specific investing goals, such as retirement or college education, and review how much money you'll need to reach each of your goals. Adjust your investment plan or goals if needed to increase your likelihood of success. For example, you may decide to establish an automatic investment plan to invest toward your goals on a regular basis. Or maybe you planned to retire early but find you'll have a greater likelihood of retiring comfortably if you work a few years longer.

* Tax Preparation
If you typically owe additional income tax each year or you get a big tax refund (which is essentially money you've loaned to the government throughout the year), you may want to consider adjusting your income tax withholding to have more or less withheld from your paycheck. You can adjust your tax withholding through your employer on IRS Form W-4.

Review the personal exemptions you claim for federal and state taxes to make sure they're accurate and up to date. Also, take advantage of deductions to reduce your taxable income. For example, why not maximize your state tax payments before year-end since state taxes generally are deductible from your taxable income? You can deduct interest on your mortgage payments and you also may be able to deduct charitable donations.

"Don't delay in getting your finances organized and getting the peace of mind that comes along with it," says Oberkrom. "It's easier than you think if you take it step-by-step."

Visit YesYouCanOnline.info for more information.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Danny Fontana joins Anna D. Banks on Strictly Business Radio, Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Danny Fontana, Sr. Partner of Triune Capital Advisors and host of the nationally televised Danny Fontana Show (iLifetv), joins Anna D. Banks on StrictlyBusinessRadio to discuss current economic climate and ways to “Get Back in the Black in 2009”. The show will air, Tuesday, December 23, 2008 at 3:00 PM (EST).

Danny Fontana is an award winning television and radio host, author, public speaker and founder/Senior Partner of Triune Capital Advisors. Mr. Fontana hosts the award winning Danny Fontana Show which is broadcast to a national audience via the iLifetv television network as well as Charis Radio Network which Fontana founded in 2003. He is currently in his second year as a weekly contributor to the Fox Business Network and provides analysis on a recurring basis to “Your World with Neil Cavuto” on the Fox News Network.

Mr. Fontana garnered number one radio ratings in top 50 US markets as a morning show host, and served as a National Investment Commentator to 209 NBC affiliate stations in 1996. More recently his radio and television program have featured guests ranging from financial experts Steve Forbes, Sir John Templeton, Louis Rukeyser and Ron Blue to marquee political guests Senator Hillary Clinton, Senator John McCain, President Elect Barack Obama, Governor Sarah Palin, Governor Mike Huckabee and Senator Mitt Romney…just to name a few.

In 1994 Danny garnered national attention for his award winning Business Beat series which he hosted from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange and in 2007 Danny garnered further attention from a series of interviews from the National Rethink conference featuring Lou Holtz, Kathy Ireland, Ben Vereen, Chuck Colson, George Foreman and several other A-list names from Hollywood and beyond.

In 2002, Danny left a seven figure annual salary as Managing Director at the fourth largest US bank to found Triune Capital Advisors. In 2007 Triune Capital Advisors was named one of the 20 Fastest Growing Financial Institutions in the banking hub of Charlotte, NC and Fontana was awarded a 2008 Top Financial Leaders by Charlotte Business Leader magazine.

Mr. Fontana has authored two books, Waking Up to Wall Street and A Christian’s Guide to Investing. The latter earned top ten ranking on Amazon.com’s Faith and Values category, and was the catalyst to a successful national publicity radio tour.

To listen to Danny Fontana visit:
http://www.fontanaonfinance.com/
http://www.dannyfontanashow.com/

Contact Danny Fontana:
Triune Capital Advisors, LLC
201 South College Street, Suite 100
Charlotte, NC 28244
Toll Free: 888-874-8634
Phone: 704-714-2200