Kickstart your financial resolutions: 5 tips to get you started

(BPT) - Whether you’re working on saving for a financial goal or just looking to keep your spending on track, it is important to start the new year off on the right foot to accomplish your resolutions.

It isn’t easy, in fact, only one third of Americans felt they accomplished their financial goals in 2015, according to a recent Capital One Bank survey. So as you set goals for next year, be sure to use tools and resources to help you achieve them.

Here are five tips from Financial Expert, Author and Journalist Nicole Lapin, to help accomplish your savings and financial goals for 2016.

1. Hit the sales.

It might sound counterintuitive to go shopping after the holidays, but the only discounts deeper than those before the holidays are those after. Score some gifts for next year — plus wrapping paper, holiday cards and ornaments. This time next year you’ll be glad you did!

2. Map out your spending.

It’s easier to make spending decisions when you know what you’re working with. Level Money powered by Capital One — can track your cash flow to help you determine what you can safely spend. You’ll also learn more about your behaviors so you can chart a course towards financial resolutions in 2016.

3. Spring clean — in the winter.

We all have them — those boxes of perfectly good stuff tucked away. Pull out the clothes and household items you haven’t used in ages, or don’t want anymore. You can auction them off online, and use this money to start saving for next year’s goals.

4. Get an early start on your taxes.

If you’re one of the lucky taxpayers that receives a refund each year, do your taxes as soon as you receive all of your forms. Use the refund to invest in a financial goal you’re working towards — or even set it aside for next year’s holiday spending.

5. Take an entertainment time-out.

You’ve probably seen enough holiday movies and concerts to last until next year — not to mention dinner tabs. To start the new year right, put a freeze on going out, at least through February. Use the downtime to enjoy the gifts you received; curl up with a book, or play outside in that new jacket.