It’s that time of year again! The 2010 New Year is right around the corner and it seems like this year, more people are vowing to keep their New Year’s resolutions. Whether it’s quitting an old habit, reaching out in new ways or even bettering your health, you’re not alone. Here are the top ten New Year’s Resolutions for 2010:

1. Spend more quality time with family and friends.
2. Make more time to work out and get into shape.
3. Lose weight.
4. Quit smoking.
5. Quit drinking.
6. Enjoy life more and learn not to sweat the small stuff.
7. Get out of debt!
8. Learn something new.
9. Help others.
10. Get organized.

If you’re like me, by the time January 14th rolls around your New Year’s resolution is a part of the past and long forgotten. If so, here are some tips to help you create achievable resolutions and stick to them:

1. Be realistic. Make sure your goals are achievable for you and that you have a plan to make it work throughout the year.
2. Tell everyone you know. If you have the support of your family, friends and coworkers, it will be much easier to achieve that goal.
3. Pick one or two resolutions and stick with it. Most people make the mistake of changing 10 aspects of their lives and quickly realize how difficult that can be. One or two goals is much easier and attainable.
4. Be specific. Create a plan with specific details. For example, if you plan on losing weight set monthly goals instead of one large annual goal. This will keep your goal in perspective and your plan on track. Smaller achievable goals will boost confidence and motivation.
5. Get to the root of the problem. Figure out why you’re doing something that you don’t want to do. If you don’t have time to work out because you’re not organized and get home late from work, get more organized.
6. Reward yourself!

Resources:

http://easyexpat.blogexpat.com/blog/expat/2009/12/28/top-five-new-year-resolutions-and-tips-to-help-you-keep-them

How much does it cost to return unwanted holiday gifts?

Have you ever opened a gift and felt highly disappointed? How many of you have made trips to stores after Christmas to return those gifts that just weren't for you? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. The day after Christmas is rapidly becoming one of the busiest days at retail stores due to gift returns alone. But how much are you really getting back when you return an item?

The Massachusetts Consumer Affairs office conducted a survey in which more retailers are charging restocking fees for items returned if they're opened or not in their original packaging. Most companies charge restocking fees anywhere from 10-25% of the product price, with some retailers charging as much as 60% in restocking fees!

Retailers can charge these restocking fees on anything sold including electronics, jewelry, appliances, tools, and clothes. To avoid this fee, simply don't open the package if you know you don't want what's inside. Also, always make sure you know the return policy and the restocking fees when purchasing gifts for others.


Resources:
http://money.cnn.com/2009/12/16/pf/saving/returning_gifts/index.htm