End-of-the-Year

As 2011 comes slowly to an end, what do you need to do about your savings and investments? As always, do what few others ever consider doing--think about where you are, and where you're going. Did you make the IRA contributions you promised yourself you'd make this year? If not, do it now before the "holidays" take that opportunity from you. Yes you actually have until next April 15th, but why not put at least half the annual contribution in now. Some people sell stocks at a loss to offset other gains or even reduce their ordinary income for the year--but, first, that has to be done in a taxable account and, second, do you really want to lose money on your investments if you don't have to?
Obviously, if you want to take advantage of charitable donations, those have to happen by the end of this calendar year, and, frankly, this always makes me feel better than any foolish tax-loss-selling.