Stem the Flood of Holiday Excess

The past two years should have taught us all about the consequences of excess. After a thirty-year binge, many consumers found themselves out of resources and forced suddenly live within their means. If you are one of these new converts to living on a budget, how can you stay on the shopping wagon during Christmas, when frugality seems almost un-American?

Your best defense against holiday excess is to develop a good offense. Make a budget, plan your strategy and stay away from the mall unless you have a specific purchase to make. Stay away from all advertisements and marketing messages that may entice you to buy something you don't really need, no matter how much of a bargain it is. Throw out the advertising inserts before you read your newspapers. Stay off of Internet auction and shopping sites. Tivo your favorite television shows and fast forward through the commercials.

Talk to your family about ways that everyone can save money. Agree to buy gifts only for the children. Or have adult members draw names, to cut down on everyone's gift list. Make it fun by challenging your family members to buy low cost, used, or re-gifted items. The laughter you'll share will be the best gift you've given your family for years of holidays.

Sit down with your children and talk about their expectations. Go through their toys and clothes and help them talk about what they really need or want. With so many advertising messages aimed at children, it's easy for them to keep adding to their wish list. Teach them the joy of giving by selecting a name from an “angel tree” at your local Salvation Army or family service organization. Get your child involved in buying gifts for a less fortunate child.

Take advantage of free holiday events, such as tree lighting ceremonies and community music concerts. Create new holiday traditions with your family. Spend an afternoon making homemade decorations. Start a cookie exchange with friends and family.

On December 26, you'll wake up more relaxed, with more money left in your bank account, and a satisfied feeling that this may have been the best Christmas yet.

photo by Sanja Gjenero