To Be Fiscally Responsible
The financial strain can be one of the most challenging aspects of the holidays. There are all sorts of opportunities and expectations to buy, buy, buy. There is nothing wrong with a little extra spending if you enjoy it and can afford it, but having debt that takes most of the next year to pay off, is stressful and not fiscally responsible. If you’ve gone all out on holiday spending in previous years, but are ready to cut back, here are some tips to help:
Adults
- Let people know that you’re planning on scaling back. They will most likely be as relieved as you are.
- You may decide to set a small gift spending limit or enjoy coffee, lunch, or an evening out together in lieu of a gift exchange.
- Take in a plate of edible treats (no-added-sugar) for the entire office to enjoy rather than purchasing individual gifts for people.
- Talk to your extended family about eliminating gifts for those over 16 or have a gift drawing rather than purchasing individual gifts for each adult and/or child.
Children
- Talk to your children and let them know you’re not spending as much money on gifts this year and the reasons for your decision.
- Plan inexpensive activities with your children so they don’t feel like they are missing out on holiday fun. You may want to decorate gingerbread houses (graham crackers and frosting work great), bake and decorate cookies, take a Christmas light tour, read Christmas stories, watch holiday movies, volunteer together, or make holiday crafts together. Few people can remember the gifts they received the previous year, but they remember the memories that were made.
