Second only to weight loss, improving one's financial situation is one of the cornerstones of New Year's Resolutions. Unfortunately -- much like weight-loss goals -- these aspirations are quickly kicked to the curb, often by the end of January.

But as long as you have reasonable expectations, there's no reason you can't help right your financial ship in 2016. In the slideshow below, I've collected five steps -- ranging from uber-easy to life-changing -- to help you save thousands in 2016.

You certainly don't have to follow through with all five to make a difference in your bank account -- even one could result in a tangible change come December 31, 2016. Click through the slides to find out more, and remember, No. 5 is not for the faint of heart, or those with a short-term mind-set.