Turning over a new leaf is easier said than done, and trying to do too much at one time can be a set up for failure. However, with proper planning and execution, important small changes can eventually add up to big results.

"Start by clarifying your short and long term goals," said Mike Miroballi, president, BMO Harris Financial Advisors. "Do you want to buy a house, send your children to college or be comfortable in retirement?"a "Once you know what your goals are, the next step is to develop and implement a plan to help you reach them."

Here are five things Miroballi suggests to get you started if 2013 is the year you plan to get your finances in order.