The holiday season is often seen as a time to celebrate with family and friends. However, the pressure to spend on gifts, travel, and parties can make this joyful time stressful, especially with the added influence of marketing emails, social media trends, and family traditions.
With credit card debt climbing and inflation driving up prices, overspending during the holidays can intensify financial burdens. According to Dr. Marketa Wills, CEO and medical director of the American Psychiatric Association, this stress can quickly become overwhelming.
“Feeling obligated to buy gifts for everyone in your circle adds a significant level of stress, especially for those aiming to create the perfect holiday experience,” Wills explains.
Thankfully, there are strategies to enjoy the season without overextending your finances. Here are expert tips to help you stay stress-free and within budget:
1. Start with a Budget
Before you begin shopping, determine a clear spending limit for holiday expenses. Matt Watson, CEO of financial planning app Origin, emphasizes the importance of setting a firm budget.
“It’s easy to fall into ‘justification mode,’ where you justify spending extra on a few items, and suddenly you’ve doubled your planned budget,” Watson says.
When budgeting, don’t forget to factor in taxes and shipping costs to avoid surprises.
2. Manage Expectations with Loved Ones
Gift-giving can quickly become a source of stress if your finances can’t keep up with family traditions. Being transparent about your financial situation can ease this burden.
“Having open conversations about your financial limits can help set realistic expectations,” says Watson.
Discussing budget-friendly alternatives, like low-cost gifts or shared experiences, can ensure everyone enjoys the holidays without pressure.
3. Plan Ahead
Last-minute shopping often leads to overspending. By planning early, you can spread out expenses across multiple paychecks and avoid hefty credit card bills.
“When people feel rushed, they’re more likely to spend on pricier items,” Watson notes.
Make a list of gifts early and shop gradually to avoid impulsive purchases and rising shipping costs as the holidays approach.
4. Get Creative with Gifts
Homemade gifts or thoughtful gestures can often carry more meaning than store-bought items. Dr. Wills suggests non-material gifts like babysitting, preparing a meal, or offering a favor to loved ones.
Younger generations are increasingly favoring experiences over physical gifts. Fun and affordable options include hosting a potluck, going ice skating, or gifting a framed photo album.
5. Start New Traditions
Feeling pressured to match extravagant family traditions can lead to unnecessary financial stress. Instead, create new, budget-friendly customs that align with your financial goals.
“Share your priorities, like saving for a house or paying off debt, to help loved ones understand why you’re keeping expenses low,” Watson advises.
6. Share the Costs
Hosting holiday gatherings can become expensive, but potlucks or shared responsibilities can ease the financial strain.
“Ask each guest to bring a dish or contribute to the event. This way, the cost is distributed, making it more manageable,” Wills suggests.
7. Communicate Your Feelings
Talking openly about financial stress with friends and family can be therapeutic. “Sharing your feelings can help reduce the mental toll of financial worries,” says Wills.
Also, make time to listen to loved ones’ concerns, as emotional support is a two-way street.
8. Know When to Say No
It’s okay to skip some social events if they’re adding to your financial or mental stress. Similarly, if holiday conversations become uncomfortable, step away for a breather.
Prioritize your well-being by maintaining healthy habits, including regular exercise and adequate rest.
9. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If the holiday season takes a toll on your mental health, resources are available to help.
- Dial 211: For free, confidential mental health support.
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text ‘Home’ to 741-741
- The Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Youth): 1-866-488-7386
- The Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
By approaching the holidays with a practical plan, you can enjoy the season without financial stress. Remember, the true spirit of the holidays lies in spending meaningful time with loved ones, not in extravagant spending.
Source: AP News
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