It is time to start planning ahead. There are 14 weeks until Black Friday. I was prepared in advance a few times in the past and the holidays were more fun and less stressful. I have to admit that by shopping early I overspent a little bit but my budget didn’t feel it quite as much since it was spread out.
Now I have a Gift category in my budget and I am setting aside money with each paycheck. I don’t put gifts on a credit card. I have in the past and it is too stressful! The gift shouldn’t continue to cost fees and finance charges after it has been unwrapped!
To set up your Christmas Fund or your monthly gift fund, decide what percentage of your income could be devoted to this category. If it is 1%, 5%, or 10%, set it up and don’t overspend. If you could fit $10 a week into your monthly budget, you would have $140 for Black Friday shopping (if you are brave enough or crazy enough to get out there for the best deals of the season!)
Or you could be like me and buy a little bit each week while you are out and about and get great deals by following the weekly sales.
Let this be the year that you finish your holiday shopping early. That way, you can enjoy the week of Christmas and only head out to the mall if you want to and not because you have to. Spend your time creating memories, connecting with family and friends, and enjoying the season.
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