As the year winds down, the festivities ramp up. Time with family and friends bring us all together for annual celebrations and traditions.
Holidays across all religious and cultural backgrounds share many similar themes of unity, joy, and valued relationships. Another reality is that the get-togethers, dinners, gifts, and travel all require a common denominator: Money.
What we often treasure – time with family, friends, vacation, etc. – are priceless. However, the meals, presents, plane tickets, etc. come with a cost.
So check out these ideas to encourage intentional and savvy spending for the upcoming holidays:
- Plan ahead. Perhaps you’ve been stashing aside some cash for this year’s Thanksgiving meal. Or you saved up to host another milestone family celebration. You’re on the right track – congrats! But, if you’re feeling a bit behind, no worries. There’s still time to “make your list and check it twice” for Christmas, Hannukah, and more. Whatever your starting point, just be intentional as you….
- Shop on a budget. The holidays are a time to make memories. You can give homemade gifts like cookies and desserts. If baking is not your jam, you can explore other thoughtful tokens like photo books, embroidered or personalized swag, etc. You can make a gift basket with items from the dollar store or Target’s dollar section. Smaller children tend to appreciate the excitement of simply opening gifts, so oftentimes you can score with less-expensive tokens which bring just as much joy. For loved ones who appreciate pricier gifts, consider contributing a portion towards travel, accommodations, massages, or more with gift cards at a fraction of the cost.
- Consider having the “talk.” If money is really tight this year, let family and friends know you’re on a budget. With inflation and the ups and downs of the economy, many folks are trying to get by. True friends and family will support you in your decision – no love lost!
- Share the Wealth. Leverage potlucks to not only bring diversity to meal options, but also to make your contribution to the celebrations strategically. Consider “Friendsgivings” or “Secret Santa’s” with your co-workers or family members so that you’re splitting the cost, but multiplying the impact of giving.
- Recycle and Regift. Let’s be honest – some gifts are well-intentioned but they may duplicates of what you already have. Or simply you just don’t want a present you have received – maybe it doesn’t fit or it’s not your style. There’s no need to explain. It’s a safe space here. Leverage your old collection of unwanted presents and repurpose them thoughtfully to offer what you may perceive as “trash” for someone else’s treasure.
- Embrace new traditions. “The best things in life are free.” Whether you agree or disagree with this adage, we all know that time is the most precious asset we have. But, once it’s gone, we can’t get it back. Also, we can learn a lot from our Muslim friends who give to charities during Ramadan annually each Spring. Consider pairing your generosity with helping others and your local community. While presents are nice, quality time and creating new memories and experiences with those you love in life are long-lasting.
So as we celebrate all year long, prepare and organize with intentionality and clarity for giving the best of you – the most beautiful present of all.