It’s that time of year when nearly half of all Americans declare their resolutions. You may not realize it, but as a military spouse you hold a distinct advantage. Yes, I said “advantage.” You and your family have a bounty of free resources developed — and waiting — to assist you in reaching your goals. By delving deeper into those resources, even ones you already know, 2009 could be the year that you stick to your resolutions successfully.

According to http://www.mygoals.com, 2009’s top three resolutions were in the areas of health and fitness, career, and personal finance. Let’s match each of those three resolutions with a specific military-exclusive resource you can utilize to reach your goal.

Health and Fitness

In a special edition of The Biggest Loser: Navy Wives vs. Marine Wives, personal trainer Jillian expressed concern that the women may have a tough time sticking to their new healthy eating plan. Kids and busy schedules coupled with a lack of knowledge about nutrition information could be some culprits. Does this sound like your life?

With the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), http://www.commissaries.com, you could enlist the help of their dietitian to help you make good snacking choices. Major Karen Fauber is a licensed dietitian who shares her base of knowledge with quick tips and columns. She answers your questions in her “Ask the DeCA Dietitian Forum.” There is an awful lot to learn with making healthy choices at the commissary at the heart of it.

Perhaps exercise is your priority? Most military installations offer modern fitness centers and classes. If you work within a civilian community, search for resources such as the Armed Forces YMCA (http://www.asymca.org) or simply ask for a military discount at your own gym.

Career

If you want to start your own business, change career paths or seize a telecommuting opportunity check out military community resources such as the Military Spouse Career Center here at Military.com (http://www.military.com/spouse). Another great resource for career help is http://milspouse.org. You can also find information about educational benefits and on the job training check at Military.com’s Education Channel.

Are you thinking about advancing your education to further your career? Check out the new changes to the GI Bill in the area of spouse benefit by reading The GI Bill Overview.

Personal Finance

The Department of Defense believes that financial readiness equals mission readiness. This is why they created the Financial Readiness Program.

For too many, “payday” means receiving your direct deposit and spending it with no planning or clear priorities. To get out of debt, you should review your financial status (short and long term), pay yourself first, know your weaknesses, and identify back-up plans in case you’re unable to make ends meet.

Military Saves is part of America Saves and the DoD Financial Readiness Program. You can join the campaign by registering your debt reduction and savings goal. Writing the goal down is a powerful tool in itself. Check their website at http://militarysaves.org, reveals advice from investing in the Thrift Savings Plan to how to shop around for an inexpensive loan.

Finally, as a military spouse, I truly believe the biggest resource you can utilize is the power of your attitude. Keep a positive attitude, empower yourself with resources, remain realistic in your goal setting, find balance and surround yourself with supportive friends and family members.

Make 2009 the year you choose to be an active part of your military journey!