resolution to improve your financial situation is a good thing to do at any time of year, many people find it easier at the beginning of the new year. Here are my seven key to getting ahead financially.

1. Get Paid What You're Worth and Spend Less Than You Earn

2. Stick to a Budget

3. Contribute to a Retirement Plan

4. Have a Savings Plan

Resolve to set aside a minimum of 10% to 20% of your salary for savings before you start paying your bills, or have money automatically deducted from your paycheck and deposited into your account separately.

5. Invest!

6. Maximize Your Employment Benefits

7. Review Your Insurance Coverages.

buy life insurance if you have no dependents. it is important to protect dependents and your income in case of death or disability. Related Resources.

How about you? If you do not do at least five of the seven, the determination to make improvements. Choose one area at a time and set a goal to incorporate the seven key into your lifestyle.