One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is saving money or working on personal finances. Now that the New Year is here it’s time to make a plan if you don’t have one already. Whether it’s sending a child off to college, saving for retirement or looking into purchasing a new home…here are some tips to help you get the ball moving.

Greg Mursett, a financial planner and founder of Busykid.com tells us 5 key money moves that you should make this year:

  1. Set real goals for yourself: To help stay motivated for saving money try writing it down or taking a picture of the goal that you are trying to achieve. Whatever your goal or experience may be that you are saving for you or your family this year make it known so that you will be reminded all the time what your end goal is.
  2. Invest in something: Even if you are not a wealthy investor you can still research different ways to invest and find something that works for you and your family.
  3. Try a card vs. Cash: A recent study of 1000 consumers showed that 88% used a debit or credit card to make their purchases. Cash money can be hard to track if you are not on top of your spending. Using your debit or credit card can make it easier for real time tracking
  4. Give your time: If you do not have the means to financially give to an organization or charity try giving your time. Volunteering your time is extremely valuable.
  5. DIY: A recent study showed that household will spend $2000 a year to have someone handle a project for them because they do not have time to handle it on their own. Instead of hiring help for yard work, landscaping, or cleaning the house try doing it yourself or having your family help out more.