Surviving the Holidays Without Spending More than You Have: Part 1
The holidays are a time of year when most of us have a chance to spend time with friends and family. It is also a season for which we are likely to spend more money on gift giving, traveling, parties, and more. Often we do not notice the spending until after the holidays are over, and it is too late. While some of us can afford to have this yearly increase in spending, there are so many others who cannot. With this in mind, let’s discuss some things to think about for this holiday season.
The Game Plan
Yes, we are still in football season. No, I am not talking about football here. I am referring to your state of mind with the holidays. Similar to how we try to avoid eating too much, we have to set limits on our spending. One of the common phrases I am hearing people use to avoid eating something is not, “I shouldn’t eat that,” but rather, “I can’t eat that.” The same basic thought process can be applied to your spending. Do not think about the stuff you are tempted to buy as something you shouldn’t, but something you can’t. It will take time and likely a few mishaps to see a difference. However, gradually you will rewire your thinking to avoid buying stuff you know you cannot afford and certainly shouldn’t try!
The Gift and the Grinch
We have all probably seen the most recent revamp of the classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, right? Well for those of you who haven’t, I am sorry for these spoilers. In the movie, all of the Who’s gifts which do not get used end up in the trash, which is then sent to Mount Crumpit where the Grinch gets them. This isn’t too far off from how our society works (minus the Grinch). Although some of us feel obligated to buy gifts for everyone, remember much of the holidays is not about the presents. For many, including my family, it is about the birth of Jesus Christ. Others, it is the commemoration and remembrance of their ancestors. Regardless of how you choose to celebrate, I would stress not buying a gift for the SAKE of buying a gift.
Spend time with family, hang out with friends, and build memories. This is not only cheaper on your budget, but the return is far more valuable than the temporary satisfaction of giving a gift. Gifts will eventually break and end up in the trash for the Grinch, but memories can last a lifetime. Please understand, if gift-giving is the way you celebrate and enjoy the holidays, I am not suggesting you stop entirely. I would encourage you to be smart about your spending. I also want to convey there are more important things around the holidays than spending exorbitant amounts of money in an attempt to satisfy what society views as appropriate behavior this time of year.