Making Christmas a time of joy for you

It seems to arrive earlier and earlier every year. Just when you thought Christmas was only weeks ago, suddenly it’s only weeks away! While children count down the days, Christmas for many adults can be a difficult time.

The stress involved in organising and preparing meals, buying gifts or arranging a Christmas party can have the opposite effect to what most of us would like to achieve at this time of year. And the financial anxiety that can eventuate when credit card bills arrive in January can be a most unwelcome reminder.

The good thing is that you get another chance each year to do things differently so you can have a different and much better Christmas this time around. Here are some ideas:

Create a Christmas budget

It’s a good idea to start a Christmas savings account early in the year that relieves the financial pressure. But if you worry about spending too much, suggest changes to the way that you and your family or friends exchange gifts—perhaps giving to children only, buying gifts under a set figure, or buying for just one person each in the group (aka ‘Secret Santa’). An even better habit is to leave your credit card at home when you go shopping. By taking only cash you will be sure to stay within your limits.

Start shopping for gifts early

Any benefits of “retail therapy” are soon lost as we push through overcrowded shopping centres looking for the perfect gifts for our loved ones. If you have left your Christmas shopping too late, make a list of the gifts you need in advance so you don’t waste precious time “browsing” or exceed your budget. Or maybe do most of your Christmas shopping from the comfort of home – go online!

The alternative – post-Christmas sales

Maybe not the best option for kids, but instead of buying gifts before Christmas pop a pre-paid voucher in a card giving your adult family and friends the option to choose their own gift from the Boxing Day or New Year sales. This helps you stick to your budget and your dollar will go further.