Considering how challenging 2020 has been, it’s important for us to take out time and flex. See ehn, this life is just one. Besides, we all deserve this! But flexing can be expensive, especially during festive periods like Christmas. If you are not careful, you will just go about with a dent in your purse. It’s even worse now with the surge in price and the economical downfall, everything has become quite expensive, making it impossible to even have a decent moment of enjoyment. Also, January is just around the corner and we know how long that month lasts. #Sigh
So, how do you get the best from this season, relax, give yourself a treat, and still be at the top of your financial game? Here are a few ideas.
Do not go overboard
It is easy to get sucked into the festive season and go overboard with impulse buying. This is why you need to make a list of items you need to buy, important Christmas items that should be bought, and stick to it. Set holiday spending limits that will enable you to stay on track.
Share the cost
One good way of spending less this season is by sharing the cost with friends with who you would love to have a good time. Share the expenses for traveling and have a mini-vacation in serviced apartments or have a potluck party where everyone has a responsibility of either bringing food, handling drinks, or seeing to the decorations. Everyone has a good time and spend less.
Online shopping
Online shopping is always an advantage this season owing to the ease they provide and the massive discounts they come with. Take advantage of them and save all your coins by doing part of your holiday shopping with trusted and discounted shopping sites.
Do not touch your savings
No matter what, do not take a dip from your savings to cover extra expenses. Find a way to make the allocated sum and your budget work for you. Remember that you have 12 more months ahead of you and you have no idea what they hold. Go big if you can but if you cannot, settle for a decent celebration with friends and loved ones.
Buy ahead of time
This is an ancient hack to getting what you want at reasonable prices before the increase comes. Stockpiling on essentials that are not perishable could help you cut down costs and reduce your expenditure. For instance, you could shop for Christmas decors, non-perishable food items, Christmas gifts, and outfits early enough so as not to be overwhelmed with exorbitant prices.
Trying to work with a budget for Christmas can be such a killjoy and suck out all the holiday spirit, but remember the devastating effect of financial setback and try to make your Christmas a celebration of love and beautiful memories despite what you can and cannot afford.