Setting financial goals in 2009 is no different than at any other time. However, this year more than ever before, your goals must be far more realistic. You’ll need to understand what you can and cannot control. It is important you be aware of the obstacles you may encounter along the way and have a contingency plan in place. You should be increasingly disciplined with your goal actions and aim for completion.

This year is predicted to be a year of an uncertain economy. Reaching financial goals in an uncertain economy can be a challenge nevertheless; the following tips will positively help.

1. Be realistic with your goals and action plan. Consider your past experience in good economic times and adjust accordingly. Create a plan of action taking small steps to build and maintain a successful momentum. If your steps are too large, there is room in between to procrastinate. I recommend you take baby steps and allow for growth.

2. Be in control. You cannot control many aspects of the current economic situation and must accept this temporary recession; however, you can control the elements of your personal goals. You can control your thoughts, self-talk, attitude, actions and reactions. It is essential that you constantly review your goals and take stock of your actions. It is possible to succeed when times are tough as long as you remain disciplined with your daily activities.

3. Identify possible obstacles and create contingency plans. As you know, we usually come up against a brick wall before we enjoy success. What sort of brick walls (obstacles) manifest themselves along the way? What are your contingency plans should these obstacles appear. A prepared mind is motivating and progressive. With that in mind, you will undoubtedly move forward and achieve those life goals.

4. Be disciplined. Stick to you plan and do what you have to do, even when you don’t want to do it. Discipline is the key to your success and to accomplishing your goals. It is a commitment to the most important person in the world. As you move forward and achieve your goals, remember to recognize and reward yourself along the way. It is a discipline that will be repeated.