The Economy Is Coloring Our New Year’s Resolutions

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Resolutions are focused on the economy for 2011.

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An improved financial situation is as desired as losing weight this year. Except in Asia.

According to a new global survey, 40 percent of respondents said they want to improve their economic circumstances, which has become the most popular response around the world. The exception, however, is Japan, where only a quarter of respondents said they’re focusing on their economic situation.

In the U.S., though, “losing weight” is still as popular as economic concerns, as well as “developing a healthy habit” and “getting organized.” But across the globe, most people are not ready to make major purchases such as a computer, car or home next year. Except for China. Eighty-five percent of Chinese surveyed said they planned to make a big-ticket purchase in 2011.

Need some help this year with one of your resolutions? If you’re looking for a better way to rein in your own spending, check out TIME’s It’s Your Money blog. And for helping keep off that extra weight, read TIME’s story about how consistent exercise can do the trick.

(Check out TIME’s story about how to keep your New Year’s Resolutions.)