Financial well-being December 4, 2015 By
This time of year can be a little stressful, especially when it comes to money. According to a recent survey by Harris Poll, 40 percent of Americans feel pressured to overspend during the holidays. These feelings contribute to impulsivity and overspending that can lead to credit card debt and struggles to pay bills in the New Year.
Our fondest holiday memories are most likely tied to moments spent with family, not to any particular present we found under the tree. Cutting back and saving money doesn’t mean that our Christmas celebrations become any less memorable. Bring the magic of Christmas back into your home this year by trying out a few traditions that we tend to overlook during the hustle and bustle of hurried gift purchases during the holidays.
Christmas cards can be expensive with family photo shoots, card purchases, and postage. With Facebook and email sharing so prevalent among family and friends, send family updates and photos for Christmas greetings in a unique digital way.
Homemade Christmas gifts are a lost art. DIY and Pinterest have opened up new opportunities for our society’s lost craft and skill in making gifts. Create a family heirloom that will last for generations.
Watch a holiday stage production in your community and support the local arts. If you usually exchange gifts with your closest friends and family, forgo the gifts this year, and see a festive show together instead.
Attend a religious program on Christmas Eve. Dinners and parties are expensive; gather together at a local service and celebrate the season with fellowship.
Bake cookies with the whole family. Listen to Christmas music and let everyone help with the baking. The results are perfect gifts for teachers and co-workers.
Family gift exchanges can make for fun-filled memories with Secret Santa or White Elephant gift giving. Minimize the stress and financial constraints and plan as a family to buy for one.
The message of Christmas is about so much more than the newest toy or latest technology-driven gadget. I challenge you to shift your focus from presents this year to family and time spent being together celebrating the season.
