A Vital 6 Point Checklist For 2015

With Christmas gone, it is time to think about what to do in these last few days … and what to do with the next 365.

1) Make Resolutions

1. Be like the Romans and make your resolutions for 2015. Or better, make lifestyle changes and take dieting and working out off the list of resolutions.

2) Maximize your Tax Deductions

Be sure you have maximized your tax deductions and credits:

A. Take stuff to Goodwill or other charity (keep a list)

B. Write down your mileage on 12/31/14 if you use your car for work

C. Buy an electric vehicle and get the $7,500 deduction

D. Give thanks that Congress passed the Short Sale Tax Waiver

E.Contribute your last paycheck of the year to your 401K or IRA

3) Plan a Vacation

3. Plan a vacation by using your Christmas gift cards to buy new Designer Swimwear. Choose a sunny spot out of the country so your devices will not work and leave them at home. You can always find an internet café if you absolutely must check emails, but you may see you will spend less than an hour doing it. And maybe even skip a day. The world does not end.

4) Make a Will

4. Do you have a will? If not, make 2015 the year to do it. Important for everyone, especially if you have small children. Do you want the State to decide who should raise them?

5) Pay Attention to the Economy

5. The economy is better. Is 2015 the year to venture out and get a new job? Something you will be happier with? Or, do it just to be fresh and challenged if you are feeling stale and under-appreciated in your current one.

6) Find Happiness Within

6. Find happiness within. You cannot make anyone else happy, but you can choose to be around happy people. Dress nicely. At a minimum, all women should use lipstick and wear earrings.

Pick some wildflowers for yourself. Smile at strangers. Sing.

Wishing you a Happy, Healthy New Year!