7 ways to reduce stress around holiday spending
The holiday season can come with lots of joy, positivity, togetherness, and celebration. However, many also experience added stress during this time. One area of stress that is often overlooked, but hugely impactful on our health, is financial stress.
Having enough money to tend to our daily needs like food and shelter makes us feel safe. Feeling safe is absolutely key to our wellbeing. Feeling unsafe can lead to changes in our nervous system that make us feel more anxious, depressed, sad, worried, stressed. Over time, this added stress can lead to serious health problems, mental disorders, chronic health conditions, and disease. When we experience financial stress we are more likely to use unhealthy coping mechanisms, experience trouble sleeping, and invest less in self-care.
I love that in our darkest and coldest months we have an opportunity to celebrate and create light. I also personally love gifting, though I know it can also be a point of stress for many. In an effort to care for our whole selves, including our financial health, here are 7 tips to reduce stress around spending and gifting this year:
Have honest conversations with partners, family, and friends. Be open about your expectations and try to get on the same page, whether that means deciding on not exchanging gifts this year, choosing a charity to give to, setting price ranges for gifting, or letting someone know what you really want or need. No one can read your mind and it can reduce stress for all to have an open line of communication.
Consider your budget and have an idea of the total amount you would like to spend around the holidays. Stay flexible and factor in some wiggle room because being too rigid may just add to your stress.
Give something personal and thoughtful. This is always a great option over something expensive. Make a homemade gift, offer an experience you can do together, print out and frame a meaningful picture, etc.
It’s not too early (or too late!) to start a bit of planning. Many people burn through money by waiting until the last minute to make rushed purchases. Start thinking about your spending now to make thoughtful decisions and not get too swept up in impulse buying.
Stay up to date with your bank account. No one likes the shock of seeing an unexpected balance at the end of December. Using an app on your phone can be a great way to check in daily.
Start thinking about your 2025 financial goals now. Let the momentum start building now, so you are already on your way when you get to January 1st.
If you are going to spend, do so with joy! Our happiness increases when we serve and give to others. And it is also completely wonderful to spend joyfully on yourself.
❤︎ Emily
P.S. I work with clients one-on-one to reduce stress around money, set personal goals, and to increase wealth and financial wellbeing. You are always welcome to get in touch by sending me a message or booking a call with me.