Are you looking forward to the Christmas of your dreams? Or does it all feel like a bit of a nightmare?
For many of us, we approach Christmas with mixed feelings and anticipate starting the new year in debt.
We are surrounded by advertising and shop windows all telling us “Go on, it’s Christmas” and, with parties and songs all setting an expectation of a perfect Christmas, it is only too easy to feel pressured into spending more than we should.
This year rather than starting 2019 in debt, let me share with you my tips for enjoying the festive season.
Six ways to Enjoy the Christmas of your Dreams
1. Set a Budget
Decide now what you want to spend on Christmas. Then allocate it to the different things you want to have. Decide how much to spend on presents, on food and drink, on parties, on outings and so on. Once you have set the budget, stick to it.
2. Decide now how you want to feel in January
By having a clear vision of your future, you can use it to remind you every time you are tempted to over-spend. This trick works for other forms of over-indulgence too – if you want to step on the scale in January and not have gained weight, keep that in mind when the rich foods come round.
3. Always have consequences in mind
As you stare at the expensive gift in the shop window, ask yourself, “How long will it take me to pay for this?” If you don’t like the answer, walk away.
4. Put your credit cards away
It is so easy to over-spend on credit cards because it isn’t as ‘real’ as cash. You can see how much you have left in your wallet when you pay with notes and coins and it is a very simple way to manage your spending.
5. Own your own Christmas
Every time you watch an advert or go out into the crowded shops, keep reminding yourself who is in charge? This is your Christmas and no one else’s. Don’t let the holiday season make you feel that you have to spend more than you have on expensive gifts and lavish parties.
6. Don’t let “it’s Christmas” be an excuse to not take action
Every December, I hear the same thing. “I’m in debt, but there is no point doing anything now, since it’s nearly Christmas.” If you are in financial difficulties, now is the perfect time to start. You can take action now, today, which will put you back in control of your spending, set a plan to clear your debts and allow you to enjoy Christmas all the more, by knowing you are on the way to being debt free.
Start by taking my Money Type Quiz and getting in touch for a free, initial consultation.
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