Reaching your financial goals involves more than choosing the right investments. Often, its the small steps you take that will make a big difference to your long-term financial health.

Find the money. Track your expenses (mortgage or rent, child care, clothing, food, utilities, transportation, entertainment) for a few months. Then zero in on areas where youre spending more than you should. Distinguishing between wants and needs can help you free up some cash.

Pay yourself first. Automatically transferring money from your bank account to a savings fund on a regular basis is an easy, convenient, and disciplined way to reach your goals. Pre-authorized contributions are a great way to save for retirement, as well as a vacation or other short-term goal.

Pay down high-interest debt. Interest charges can add up quickly, so paying down high-interest debt, such as credit cards or department store credit, is one of the best financial moves you can make. You may be able to reduce your interest costs significantly by consolidating outstanding debt with a loan or line of credit.

Keep an updated list of your investments. Listing all your investments on a single sheet of paper will make it easier to find new opportunities for maturing investments. Consider consolidating your investment accounts for ease of tracking.

Invest found money and financial windfalls. If you receive an inheritance, a raise or bonus, a tax refund, or any lump sum that you werent expecting, put that money to work to meet your short-term or long-term goals.

Reduce mortgage costs. Making mortgage payments more frequently (bi-weekly as opposed to monthly) can reduce interest costs over the long term. Choosing a shorter amortization period (20 years instead of 25, for example) can also help you save on interest costs over the life of the mortgage.

Set up automatic bill payments. Paying bills electronically avoids the hassle and clutter of paper statements and may even save you money on late charges. Paying bills on time can also help build your credit history.

Use credit cards smartly. Paying off credit card bills on time will also help build your credit rating. Sticking with one card can reduce the temptation to misuse credit.

Make reconciling a habit. Its a good idea to reconcile your debit card withdrawals and credit card purchases with your monthly statements. This can help you uncover mistakes or fraudulent uses of your cards.

Reduce taxes. Are you taking advantage of all available tax credits and deductions? Get professional advice to help you find ways to save on taxes.

Set up an emergency fund. Despite our best intentions, life can sometimes derail our financial plans. Thats why it makes good sense to build a rainy day fund to cover any unplanned events, such as a disability or emergency home repair.

Review your beneficiary designations. Have there been major changes in your life (marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child) since you named your beneficiaries? If so, its important to update your beneficiaries.

Prepare a will. A properly drafted will can help ensure that your assets go to whom you intend, in an efficient and tax-effective manner, should you pass away.

Track your financial progress. You should review your financial plan at least once a year. Set attainable targets, such as increasing your regular monthly retirement savings plan contribution, or paying off your mortgage more quickly. Major changes to your situation, such as marriage or the birth of a child should also prompt a review of your plan.

Speak to your financial advisor about how you can do more of these little things right and stay on track to reach your financial goals.