As we get into the waning days of the first month of the new year, it's a particularly good time to take a look at both your physical and your financial health.

First, let's look at the physical side:

• When was the last time you saw a doctor for any reason?
• Are you getting the appropriate screenings for your age group? (For example, when was your blood pressure checked last?)
• Are you up to date on your immunizations? (They're not just for kids anymore!)
• What steps are you taking to eat properly, get regular exercise, get enough sleep, and maintain a healthy weight?
• Are there any bad health habits that you need to eradicate?
• When did you see a dentist last? Have your eyes checked?

Though now is a particularly bad time to try to get in to see a doctor (flu season is really bad), you can make appointments for the spring. At the very least, make a note on your calendar to call for an appointment.

With tax season moving into full swing, it's a good time to take an honest look at your finances.

• If you need to cut spending, keep a spending journal for a month — note every cent that goes out — even change for the parking meter and the vending machine at work. You might be surprised by what you see.
• Check your withholding at work to make sure that you have the proper amount taken out of each check. You don't want a huge bill on April 15th, but you don't need to make the government a no interest loan either.
• Look at what you are contributing to your retirement account at work. At the very least, you should maximize your company match. If at all possible, try to increase it a little over last year.
• Consider having money moved automatically from the account where your paycheck is deposited to a savings account that you don't touch. Even $50 a pay can make a big difference over time.
• Take a look at all of your debt. Do you have a plan to pay it off?
• Consider scheduling a meeting every few years with a fee-only financial planner. It's good to have an impartial opinion on how you've organized your finances/

What steps are you taking to make sure your health and finances stay sound?