Christmas is on the way – are you ready? Me neither.

Key points

• By gifting experiences over physical items, we’re enhancing memories – and reducing waste.
• By changing our focus from a monetary value to a more relational value, everyone wins.
• For more tips and tricks for a (financially) stress-free Christmas, listen to this Episode of Money, Faith and Finance in the player above, or wherever you get your podcasts.

---

Even though it comes around every year, Christmas catches most of us financially unprepared.

It may come as no surprise that Pete’s top tip is to start budgeting 12 months before.

But for those of us who aren’t ready for this Christmas?

Here are Pete and Ben’s top tips for having a (financially) stress-free Christmas this year:

Consider experience-based gifts

By gifting experiences over physical items, we’re enhancing memories – and reducing waste.

Spend some time thinking about what they would enjoy and do your research.

Local businesses often have great package deals or specials available around Christmas.

Get creative!

By gifting experiences over physical items, we’re enhancing memories – and reducing waste.

Change your perspective on hospitality

Hospitality doesn’t have to break the bank -focus on creating memorable experiences rather than expensive meals.

“Plan for experience over excess,” Pete said.

Make memories and think carefully about what would be truly meaningful.

And above all, refuse to fall into the trap of competing with others and spending more than you can afford.

Change your perspective on gift giving (and receiving)

“A gift should be something you’re happy to give with no expectation of return,” Pete said.

By changing our focus from a monetary value to a more relational value, everyone wins.

In other words, have a good think about what the person might like to receive, figure out what your budget will allow, and think creatively about ways to make it happen.

“Price is what you pay, but value is what you get,” Pete said.

By changing our focus from a monetary value to a more relational value, everyone wins.

Remember what it’s all about it

Understanding the true spirit of Christmas and how generosity can be expressed in different ways, other than spending money, adds a richness that extravagance and expensive gestures lack.

Jesus was the ultimate gift when He came as a baby.

It was a generous, powerful, personal gift, that changed everything, for Eternity.

THAT is what Christmas is all about.

Start planning next Christmas

Now is the time to start planning and saving for next year.

Take note of how much you spend this Christmas, and make sure you factor in any holiday travel and associated costs.

Once you have a final figure, divide it by 50 weeks.

Set up an auto payment or savings plan and voila!

You’re on your way.

For more tips and tricks for a (financially) stress-free Christmas, listen to this Episode of Money, Faith and Finance in the player above, or wherever you get your podcasts.

---

Feature image: Photo by CanvaPro