Year after year there are always two New Year’s resolutions that top most lists: losing weight and improving finances. With more people out of work and feeling a financial pinch, even more New Year’s resolutions are focusing on being frugal. If you’ve made it your goal for 2010 to save more and spend less here are some tips for achieving your money goals so that in a year your pocketbook will be in a better place.

Be Specific

If you want your New Year’s resolution to focus on finances, be specific. Instead of simply saying it’s your goal to save more, be specific by saying you want to save $100 extra each month. You’ll easily be able to tell how you’re doing with your goal and if you’re achieving it.

Make a Budget

First things first– if you want to get your finances in order for 2010 you need a budget. There are lots of free resources that make this much easier than you might think. Check out websites like Mint.com and Wesabe.com. Not only will you be able to easily make a budget but you’ll be able to track your spending. Find out where your money is really going and which areas you can cut back on so that you’ll be able to save more.

Tell Others

Experts say you’re much more likely to achieve your goals if you tell others about them. It makes failing more difficult. Tell friends and family members about your money goals for the New Year. Explain your plan of attack so they can help hold you accountable. You can also create a free online contract at StickK.com so that you’re more committed to those resolutions.

Celebrate Success

Set small milestones for yourself and when you tackle one take some time to celebrate. It’s easy to focus on the negative and let that stop you from achieving your goals– but don’t let it! Celebrate small strides because that is what will ultimately carry you to accomplishing what you set out to do in 2010.