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Christmas is coming, should you still be paying for it next year
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I wonder how many people have not finished paying for presents, either to themselves or others, bought this time last year?
The big question is, how do you get through Christmas without adding to your debt in such a way that every new year is just the beginning of paying for the past. There are a lot of websites and retailers offering great deals and 0% interest free credit. Turn on the TV and you are bombarded with "it can be delivered before Christmas and nothing to pay for a year". THE TROUBLE IS THAT THIS TIME NEXT YEAR WILL BE CHRISTMAS. We are encouraged to have, the latest, the newest, the coolest, the fastest and the most convenient! Society makes us feel that the way to show you care is to spend money on the ones you love. Children no longer expect just one main present for Christmas, but now make a long list that is circulated around families. Here is a novel idea!!! What if, instead of doing what you think everyone expects you to do in terms of spending money, you thought about the future? What if, you worked out how much better life could be if you did not have to take a chunk of your money every month to pay for something that has already gone? I am not saying it is easy….But I am saying it is simple. You just need to have a good reason and see how less stressful life can be when the money you get each month is yours to spend on today. Those of you with small children, ask yourself if your child will look at the price of the present received or will they just enjoy playing with it. Is it the size or quantity of presents or the fun of unwrapping lots of boxes inside boxes to finally get to the present? Children love the anticipation and excitement of what might be. Remember that when you find yourself contemplating spending more than you can afford on one present. Those of you with ever growing extended families,how about being the one who suggests that everyone spends money on their own immediate family and, instead of getting all members of the family gifts, suggest getting together and spending time rather than money. I am sure there will be others in the family who are grateful that you suggested it. How to minimize getting into more debt at Christmas buying presents If you do have to put some of Christmas on the credit card then be proactive. Work out how you are going to pay off the balance and when the debt will be paid. Stick to it. Promise yourself and tell someone else, so they can remind you, that you will not take on another debt until Christmas is paid for. Remember your financial future is in your hands but, it takes a bit of looking into the future and patience to make it safe and bright. Margaret Corridan – Author of Brilliant Personal Finances |
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