The new year is a great time to set some financial goals and start fresh. But if you’re like most people, you may find it hard to stick to your resolutions for more than a few weeks. In fact, research shows that only 9% of people who make resolutions actually achieve them.

So how can you beat the odds and make your financial dreams come true? Here are seven tips to help you create better financial resolutions and follow through on them.

• Be realistic. Don’t set yourself up for failure by aiming too high. Choose goals that are challenging but attainable, based on your current financial situation and past habits. For example, if you struggle to save money each month, don’t expect to save $10,000 by the end of the year. Start with a smaller amount that you can comfortably afford, and increase it gradually as you go along.
• Be specific. Vague goals are hard to measure and track. Instead of saying, “I want to make more money,” say, “I will look for a new job that pays at least 10% more than my current one.” The more specific you are, the easier it will be to plan and execute your actions.
• Make a plan. A goal without a plan is just a wish. To increase your chances of success, you need to have a clear road map of how you will achieve your goal, and what steps you will take along the way. Use the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) to set and track your progress. For example, if you want to save $4,800 for a vacation in one year, you could say, “I will save $400 per month for 12 months in my high yield savings account, and check my balance every month to make sure I’m on track.”

• Create a budget. A budget is your best friend when it comes to managing your money and reaching your financial goals. It helps you see where your money is going, and how much you can afford to save, spend and invest. Without a budget, you may lose track of your finances and fall behind on your resolutions. Use a budgeting app or a spreadsheet to organize your income and expenses, and stick to it throughout the year.
• Adjust for life changes. Life is unpredictable, and your financial goals may need to change accordingly. If you experience a major life event, such as having a baby, buying a house or losing a job, you may need to revisit your resolutions and make some adjustments. For example, if you just bought a house, you may not be able to save as much as you planned, but you may want to start a 529 plan for your child’s education.
• Know yourself. Your personality and behavior can have a big impact on your financial resolutions. If you know your strengths and weaknesses, you can use them to your advantage and avoid potential pitfalls. For example, if you tend to procrastinate or forget things, you may want to set up automatic transfers to your savings account or reminders on your calendar. If you are prone to impulse shopping, you may want to limit your exposure to online ads or create a waiting period before you buy anything.
• Find support. Achieving your financial goals can be easier and more fun if you have someone to share them with. Whether it’s a partner, a friend, a family member or a financial advisor, find someone who can offer you advice, encouragement and accountability. You can also join online communities or forums where you can learn from others who have similar goals and challenges.

By following these tips, you can make your financial resolutions more effective and sustainable. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but progress. Celebrate your achievements, learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward. You can do this!