Season spending checklist

I used to get so into the spirit of spending, you would think I was the “season’s ambassador”. I was spending so much that my hand used to almost cramp up from signing those credit card slips when paying in stores.

In order to see you in a good financial state in January, I have come up with a check list that you can use as a survival kit for this festive season.

(Oh, and buy yourself a present FIRST…before you buy anyone else anything!) 

1.Have a six months' rule. If a family member or friend has not made an effort to see you for six months or more…I don’t see why they should get a present. Yes, presents are based on your performance and commitment to the relationship.

2.Give your kids' school a present too, in a form of a small deposit towards next year’s fees.

3.When buying electronic gifts, always ask a sales person to compare two products. Most of the time you’ll find that they have the same two-year guarantee, same functions, but very different price ranges. Pay for trust and peace of mind…not the brand logo

4.If you are going to buy groceries specifically for Christmas and New Year’s Day. I would look at getting more canned stuff, or non-perishables. In that way you can use them during January, when money is tight. 

5.Should you decide to go on a little holiday locally, do so as a group. In that way you’ll be able to split all costs. 

6.If possible, why not work an extra few days during the festive season? Get this! From the second week of December until the second day of January, there are four Public Holidays. Use those as your recharge days.  Make that extra cash and you won’t be able to find the time to go and overspend. 

7.Lastly, do a Christmas braai, as opposed to a Christmas Dinner. It’s easier to clean up after and there’s usually very little food wastage. Better still, attend someone else’s Christmas Dinner!