* Set a gift-giving budget and stick to it.
* List people you plan to buy gifts for and then allocate money for each person.
* Before heading out the door take your list with you. Lists make it less likely to impulse buy.
* Broaden your definition of giving. Volunteerism, handmade gifts, sharing time and/or talents.
* Consider giving loved ones gifts of experiences, not things.
* Once you’re in the habit of buying expensive gifts, it can be difficult to change course.
This can lead to unintended consequences including a sense of entitlement and lack of gratitude.
* Track spending. Stick to your budget.
Downsize your holiday spending, not your holiday joy. By spending less time stressing over gifts, you’ll free yourself to enjoy the family, friends and traditions that make this time of year so special—and you’ll do your budget a favor in the process.
* List people you plan to buy gifts for and then allocate money for each person.
* Before heading out the door take your list with you. Lists make it less likely to impulse buy.
* Broaden your definition of giving. Volunteerism, handmade gifts, sharing time and/or talents.
* Consider giving loved ones gifts of experiences, not things.
* Once you’re in the habit of buying expensive gifts, it can be difficult to change course.
This can lead to unintended consequences including a sense of entitlement and lack of gratitude.
* Track spending. Stick to your budget.
Downsize your holiday spending, not your holiday joy. By spending less time stressing over gifts, you’ll free yourself to enjoy the family, friends and traditions that make this time of year so special—and you’ll do your budget a favor in the process.