It's essential to find the one that works for you. Here is one basic four-step model that can serve as a good starting point.

1. Assess Needs
One of the most important first steps to take in getting on top of your personal finances is to understand the difference between your needs and your wants. Your wants are basically the things you can do without -- everything from that high-end tennis racquet to a meal at that new Italian restaurant downtown. Wants are purchases that, while they may make your life easier or more enjoyable, you don't need to make to get by. Your needs, on the other hand, are not as discretionary. They are hard and fast financial demands, from paying the rent or meeting your mortgage payments to buying groceries.

To determine what is a "want" and what is a "need," consider making a stream-of-consciousness list. Grab a pen and let your mind gallop through a rambling inventory of those things you would like to see added to your life. Allow your wish list to roll off the top of your head and onto paper. Make each item as specific and tangible as you can.

Next, look at each item in turn and decide whether it qualifies as a want or as a need. If there are any particular items that give you pause, ask yourself exactly why you want a particular thing. Ask how your life would be improved if you had it, and how if would be affected if you didn't. Then, consider whether its addition to your life would fall in line with your values. Add it to the appropriate wants or needs list.

2. Set Your Goals
Set aside your list of "wants". Your task now is to turn your "needs" list into a collection of goals. In other words, these are the things you'll set your sights on attaining over the next little bit. If it makes sense for you, split this list up into short- and long-term goals. Perhaps you will even have daily, weekly or annual goals. Modify the list in whatever way works best for you.

3. Make a Plan
With your goals in hand, the next step is to decide what you're going to do -- and when -- to achieve them. Here, the secret is to visualize yourself moving toward each goal. Consider which steps need to be taken first, which second and so on. Write your plan down so its concrete existence is hard to deny.

4. Take Action
Now you have a plan. Congratulations. Print off several copies, and keep them in places of prominence. Refer to them often. Say them out loud. Tell your friends. With these objectives clearly expressed, you've reached the trickiest part of this goal-setting exercise: taking the action that will make your goals a reality.