2016 is right around the corner, which means you’re about to be in the midst of drafting up those resolutions. Beyond the standard eating healthy and working out, this NYE make the goal to ask for what you deserve, especially on the job. If you have been waiting to ask for a raise because of company layoffs or downsizing, or you simply don’t enjoy the dance of negotiation, don’t let fear stand in the way of an amazing -- and economically fruitful-- 2016.

According to a study conducted by Payscale, almost half of the American workforce never ask for a raise. Moreover women are more likely than men to state that they are uncomfortable negotiating salary – 31 percent vs. 23 percent. 

It's time to get out of your head and into the money. You know if you deserve it. So don’t be afraid to ask. 

1. Be realistic. Does your work merit a raise? This the most crucial question you need to ask yourself. If there is any hesitation— we’re not talking self-doubt— it might be critical to wait until you’ve proven you worth. However, if you can say without fail that you meet and go beyond the requirements of your job description, are a key team player, benefit your company in multiple verticals, and know that you are indispensable to the business, what are you waiting for? Start jotting down your talking points now. 

2. Do the research. Simple but important. The average yearly salary increase is 3% a year. However, if you’ve done your homework and know that you are being drastically underpaid, it’s time you let your employers know that you know your worth. Averages vary from state to state, but there are many websites— like glassdoor— that can help you figure out just how many zeros should be at the end of your check. 

3. Ask in the morning, before you’ve had lunch. It may sound odd, but not only do people tend to be more “moral,” in the AM (and therefore more likely to take your proposal into serious consideration), but according to a study out of Cornell and Dartmouth, hunger tends to make people feel entitled. How does this benefit you? While that hangry feeling may not serve you best while meeting with clients, if you’re feeling at all hesitant or nervous, it could make you more assertive, firm, and all the more likely to get a raise.  

4. Know the boss’s workload, schedule, and temperament. Is your boss a morning person? Or does she really hit her stride in the afternoon? Does she like to answer emails without interruption for the first couple hours of the day? Schedule your meeting during a time period that works for your boss. If you’re the kind employee who deserves a raise, you’ll know the right time to ask. 

5. Don’t focus on the negative. Don’t complain. Sitting down with the boss to talk money isn’t the right time to air grievances, talk about how something is unfair, or how you’re doing someone else’s job for them. A salary negotiation should focus on everything you’re doing to benefit your company. Whining is not going to work in your favor. Ever.