When the New Year rolls around, many people set resolutions to help guide their path for the months to come. Whether new goals pertain to health and wellness, family, faith or finances, 2018 just might be the year to jump start a new financial strategy.

Cindy Fletcher, Iowa State Uni­versity professor and Extension specialist in the department of human development and family studies, said it may be slightly tougher for families whose cash flow is seasonal or fluctuates, such as farmers, small business owners and sales professionals, but it’s still possible for everyone to set and attain financial goals for 2018.

“I think sometimes people make it harder than it...