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by: Kelly Kennedy
The day after Thanksgiving is usually a day full of excitement for those that anticipate the winter holidays.
Whether you are a go-getter and are at the stores when the open at 5a.m. to hit the sales and get first dibs
on hot gifts or if you prefer to spend the day setting up Christmas decorations and other winter decorations
there is something for everyone to look forward to. The stores and the banks await your presence but what if
you can't afford it?
If the festivity of lights, seeing Santa, and trying to figure out what you should get for all your loved ones
stresses you out, you are not alone. As much as the holidays are supposed to bring about cheer and merry good
times, it can be stressful for those that already have credit card debt, and too many things are there to do
list before even being able to think about holiday expenses. No need to fear, this year you can make it one
to remember without stressing out.
Setting some ground rules is the best place to start. You might have had them growing up, or now set them
for your children, but they can work for yourself as well, especially when it comes to spending
money.
First start by making a list of all the people you need to buy gifts for and set a price for each person,
maybe it's the same, maybe it fluctuates, however make it and don't break it. Once you've given everyone
a price, add up the total and see if you can afford it and if it's reasonable. If you are over your
expected spending budget, make any necessary adjustments. If you don't have a considerable amount of money
this year to spend there are gifts you can give which don't cost a lot at all. Some quick ideas are to bake
something, gift baskets full of the person's favorite items such as coffees, pastas, candies, or make picture
frames.
If you can't spend this year but want to next year start a holiday savings fund which is basically like a
direct deposit into an account, so you don't see the money and therefore won't miss it. Determine how much
money you want to put aside and have a small portion of it deducted from your account each week or month.
When the time comes when you are ready to start shopping, you'll have your money all set to
go.
Ever hear the expression, "early bird gets the worm?" ItŐs very true. Do your shopping early not only to
avoid the crowds come winter but no need to have the money and crunch time during the last couple months
of the year either.
There is so much one can do to ensure that they have safe and happy holidays. Start with the tips above
and come up with more as you go that are realistic for you. For more information please
visit www.holidaydebtresource.com.
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