 Make a list – and stick to it! Sit down and make a budget plan for what you need to spend

over the holidays. Take into account normal expenses and special holiday expenses such as
bonuses for your staff, vehicle expenses if travelling, etc. If you suddenly think of something
that you’d like to buy, add it to the list/budget and decide after you’ve thought about it for a
while. Keep track of what you’re spending and make changes to the budget.
 Use your bonus wisely: If you are lucky to receive a bonus/thirteenth cheque at the end of

the year, consider using it to lighten the load of normal expenses throughout the year instead of
spoiling yourself and your family over a few weeks. Many monthly subscription services offer
discounts if you pay a year’s worth in full, so speak to your service providers.
Think about paying credit into your much-used and essential accounts, such as the vet or
doctor or dentist, or cellphone account.
It is always a good idea to settle your debt early, as you may even get a settlement discount.
But don’t make the mistake of thinking that because you are debt-free that you can get more –
aim to be debt-free permanently.
 Put your holiday plans on a diet: Could you consider deferring your holiday to a time

of the year when the rates are cheaper? Could you travel to somewhere closer instead?
What about choosing self-catering over B&B? A cheaper holiday does not have to be a less
enjoyable one. So consider also that the less you do, the more rest you get – and the less you
spend!
 Make use of holiday offers: Some lending institutions offer discounts if settling debts early,

or special rates offers if subscribing during the season. Take advantage of these offers if the
products apply to you.
Many stores also offer specials and sales at this time of year. If you have shopping plans, try
to work them around special offers. Defer purchases such as clothing to as late as possible, and
you could catch some post-season sales. Or look around for early specials as well, such as meat
that can be frozen until it’s needed.
 Get creative with gifts: Some homemade gifts are appreciated far more than store-bought

presents. Focus on your talents and consider making tubs of biscuits, or potted plants, or
whatever you are capable of making – the extra effort will be appreciated and you will save
some money.
 Be charitable: It you are charitably-inclined, consider turning some gifts into donations.

Speak to your family and friends about the idea of supporting a worthy cause instead of giving
big gifts. This could become a heartening and special project for friends and family, and should
mean so much more than another bottle of bubble bath or plastic toy. (Most donations should
allow you positive tax implications as well – ask your tax advisor.)