Have a happy but money smart season

IN our country, December is not just a month but a lifestyle.

When the much loathed January creeps in, many of us hang our heads in misery at the thought of the accumulated bills and responsibilities to attend to.

Here are 4 simple tips to have a great festive in a smart way by saving an extra buck or two:

• Start small – at least 10% of your salary needs to be put away in a long-term fund of some sort or a monthly-savings debit order. Do it, you’ll appreciate it later.

• Get rid of debt – stop trying to keep up with the Jones’. Many are applying for a second home loan or a credit card simply to pay off the first. Instead, why not combine last year’s debt by cutting up those store and credit cards and set a date by which to pay off that debt.

• Say cheers the smart way and use cash only – this helps you budget smarter as it gives you a limit as opposed to having free will to swipe incessantly. Start by deciding in advance what the cost will be for your choice of drink, then leave your credit card at home and carry only the cash you’ve allocated for that night. Find out what the house brands and specials are for the evening. And remember: cocktails are much cheaper than usual at Happy Hour.

• Think before you eat (out, that is!) – Start by looking for special offers – many restaurants do seasonal promotions. Maybe share a starter or a mains platter and skip dessert and buy a chocolate on your way home.