Another year down and now we’re into 2012. As you look back on 2011, I hope you smile more than you frown, but in either case, we can start anew. Anything not finished, put aside, can be started again. Take this year one step at a time. If you have a long to-do list that seems endless and daunting, commit to focus on one item each month. Here are some important categories to focus on:

1. life insurance - get it if you don’t have it, make a quick review of  current policies. Expiration dates can sneak up on you, so be prepared. Plus, you may need to update beneficiaries for new children’s names and family who might have passed away.

2. Taxes- as you prepare for tax time, take this time to review your spending habits for the year. Does anything stand out? If you’re trying to cut costs, use this information to determine where you possibly overspent and create a new atttitude for 2012. What one expense can we change your thinking on and make a difference for this year?

3. Investments- look at your year end statement and determine your rate of return for last year. How does that compare to a common benchmark? (S&P 500, for example) If you’re paying trading costs or annual fees, what was your total cost in fees for 2011? Would it make sense to switch to a fee-based account? Do the math.

4. Debt and emergency fund-How did last year turn out? Did you pay down debt or increase it? Same with the emergency fund…if you failed on a goal you set, don’t get down on yourself. Think hard as to why your plans didn’t work and make the committment to fix those issues this year so that they don’t stand in your way again in achieveing your goals.

5. Will- Get that will in place, no matter what. Life’s uncertainties are why we have to have things like wills in place. There will never be a more convenient time, you just have to take the time to do it. Seek professional help to make it as painless as possible, here’s a suggestion: Mark DeAndrade, www.demalawfirm.com

 Here’s to an even more successful and happy 2012!