The countdown to 2016 has begun. Why not add some financial resolutions for the new year?

• Pay yourself first. Even if you aren’t living “paycheck to paycheck,” you probably don’t have much trouble spending your money – because there’s always something that you or a family member needs, always a repair required for your home or your car, always one more bill to pay. But if you are going to achieve your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement, you need to invest consistently. So before you pay everyone else, pay yourself first by having some money automatically moved from your checking or savings account each month into an investment. • Take advantage of your opportunities. If you have a 401(k) or similar plan at work, contribute as much as you can afford – or at least enough to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered – and choose the mix of investments that give you the potential to achieve the growth you need at a level of risk with which you are comfortable.

• Focus on the long term. In the short term, you might be excused for not wanting to invest. The headlines are typically scary, after all. Yet, if you can keep your focus on tomorrow, you will find it easier to follow a disciplined investment strategy that gives you the opportunity to meet your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement.

• Don’t be driven by fear. When the market is down, investors tend to react with fear. You may find that a down market can offer you the chance to buy quality investments at good prices.

• Cut down on your debts.

Making these resolutions – and sticking to them – can help you as you work toward achieving your financial goals.