A key component of being budget smart is buying only what you need and not what you want. Make a New Year resolution to think about this principle before you make a purchase.

Sometimes overspending and having too much stuff causes you to worry about how you’ll pay for it or how will you afford the repairs when something goes wrong…which it will. Think before you buy and make not keeping up with the Joneses your New Year resolution.

We often tell ourselves we’d be happy if we had more of this and that, more money, a bigger house, a faster car. Ask many people who have had great fortunes and everything their heart desires and they’ll tell you they still felt they needed more. Today and going into the new year, sit and think about what truly makes you happy. Sometimes it’s the simple things like taking a walk in nature, spending time with family and friends etc. The good news is lots of the things that make us happy don’t cost a fortune.

Sometimes things seem impossible. We doubt ourselves, we tell ourselves we can’t do it. Quieten the inner critic. You can do this, perseverance always pays great rewards.

Dreams mean we get things done. Every successful person, product or business began with a dream. What’s your dream?

Don’t ever be too hard on yourself. Business idea didn’t take off or you couldn’t stick with your budget. We’re human and we sometimes fail and fall. That’s not what matters, it’s if you get back up and what you do next.

Research, research, research. Rushing in without looking at options, checking out prices, reading reviews can cost you money when you both try to save money and make money. Spend some time up front and you’ll win every time.

One of our biggest downfalls is comparing ourselves to other people. Don’t think you have to follow someone else’s footsteps. You are unique and often finding your own way on the road less traveled, leads to great success.

Everyone has something they’re good at. Sometimes it’s just a matter of figuring it out. This week, dive deep and see what your special talent is and put it to work.

Sometimes we stand in our own way. Write something positive about yourself and put it someplace you can see it each day. When self-doubt creeps into your thoughts, remember the positive thing you said about yourself.