Christmas time is just around the corner and many people are feeling the financial crunch already! In line with the Christmas spirit of giving, there comes a long list of gifts you need to purchase for your inaanaks, friends and family.
The truth is that you really do not have to worry. There are many options other than spending too much money and shopping at the mall. This is not to say that giving gifts should not be a part of Christmas. Gift giving is fun and is a way to express how much you care for someone but Christmas season is more than that.
So, here are some creative and meaningful ways to save money this Christmas so the holiday season doesn’t hurt your pocket and doesn’t rub you off its true meaning.
*** 1. Set a Christmas budget based on your own finances***
Once you receive your Christmas bonus or 13th-month pay, decide how much you are going to spend for the holidays. Just as Santa Claus makes a list, write down the names of the people who will be on your list and the items you need to buy. Decide how much you intend to spend on each person. Keep track of your budget and make sure that you stick to it. Never ever touch your emergency funds or investments.
2. Send a Personalized Card Instead of Gifts
Call it old-fashioned but I still love to receive letters and cards. A Christmas card is a sentimental gift and shows people that you are thinking of them. It can often mean more than an ordinary gift if you include a heartwarming handwritten note to personalize your card.
3. Give Personalized Gifts Instead of Expensive Gifts
One of the best ways to save money this Christmas is by giving personalized gifts. A thoughtful, personalized gift is worth more than an expensive gift that someone may never use. Personalized gifts are often more sentimental and you can’t find that in any trendy department store. Consider sending baked goods or crafting instead of simply buying presents at the store. You may look for gift ideas online to help you create your gifts.
4. Always pay in cash
As much as you can, purchase holiday gifts that you can only afford and avoid using your credit card. This way, you save yourself any regret and you avoid adding up to any unnecessary debt.
5. Focus on the Celebration, Not the Gifts
Reach out to your family and friends and suggest about spending quality time together instead of merely exchanging gifts. Sometimes people are more eager to have your full presence and not just your presents. Suggest a no-swap-gift this year and focus on building and nurturing relationships.
The Bottom Line
Don’t let your debt or money become the thief that steals the joy out of your holiday season. After all, Christmas season is a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus. It’s also a perfect time to express your love to the people that matter to you the most by being fully alive and fully present.
Enjoy this Merry Season!
(Upvoting this POST will help street children of Manila, Philippines this Christmas season) Docu here: https://steemit.com/life/@rashley01/iskolar-marie-simple-wishes