We officially reached the month of December. It's that time of the year when most of us employed individuals receive our 13th month pay and some are even lucky enough to receive their Christmas Bonus, yey!! :) And since most of us celebrate our Christmas and New year by preparing sumptuous food, partying, and gift giving, pretty sure most of us would end up broke after the Holiday Season. Well let me tell you this, your hard earned money shouldn't vanish in a blink of an eye. Photo credit: www.urbandictionary.com and www.daveramsey.com For all the events and parties that we need to attend this season, it's unavoidable for us to spend money for contributions and gifts for our family, colleagues, and not to mention, OURSELVES. That's a lot of money to spend there huh.. haha. And because of the fact stated above, I have listed here 5 tips to manage your hard earned money this holiday season. I know these are easier said than done but if you're in a tight budget like me, then you don't have a choice but to comply :) 1. SET YOUR LIMIT FOR YOUR EXPENSES (BUDGET!) As early as you can, make a list of your POSSIBLE expenses for the Holiday Season. It’s important to set a budget ahead of time and establish clear boundaries before you go shopping. This will prevent you from "accidentally" spending more money than you can afford. Added to that, I would like to stress out that YOU SHOULD SAVE A PORTION OF YOUR 13TH MONTH PAY OR CHRISTMAS BONUS - Don't just let it disappear with the wind :) Phot credit: blog.dol.gov 2. BUY YOUR NEEDS NOT YOUR WANTS You may have heard this several times from your parents, friends, or financial adviser and believe me, I'm aware how challenging it is to stick to this "principle" :) But friends, unfortunately, it actually works :) When you go shopping, ONLY buy those things that you NEED. Those things that you needed for the past couple of months or you will be needing in the future. Try to avoid the SHOP ALL YOU WANT feel that most of us have during this season. You may end up regretting once you check your wallet after shopping :) Unless you have an extra money to spend, then feel free to buy ONE OR TWO of your wants as a reward for a year of hard work :) Photo credit: www.doncooper.com 3. DON'T LET THE PARTIES RUIN YOUR BUDGET You may want to show up to every party in a glamorous outfit and give gifts to all people you know, BUT that will surely cost you a lot of money. Why not let your creativity shine? I suggest that you go for DIY outfits and gifts. For outfits, you can actually just wear the same dress to two or three parties without the worry of looking the same on your party pictures. It's just a matter of accessories and cover up change :) while for the gifts, if you are into baking, then bake goodies for your colleagues or if you really have the talent to create artistic pieces, then do it :) Photo credit: www.lisaleonard.com and diycozyhome.com 4. SEARCH! When buying specific gifts for your loved ones. Try not to be lazy in searching for stores (physical or online) where you can get the most bargained price. Ask as many people as you can or USE GOOGLE MY FRIENDS. It'll help you a lot :) 5. DON'T FORCE IT
This pretty much sums up this post. I mean if you can't afford to spend a lot for the holidays, then just don't force it. At the end of the day, this season is not about the dress you wear and the expensive gifts you give. It's the genuine act of love that counts :) Happy Holidays, Friends! :) -JEN- Like my FB page here to be updated on my latest blog posts |
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July 2017
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