One of the scariest times of the year is almost here – when we get those credit card bills after doing all of our holiday shopping. But before we even get there, you can make a plan for your finances that will make sure you don’t get too many of these scary bills in the mail. Before you even order online or head to the mall, it’s time to start planning your holiday shopping before you even start buying.
Get Your Finances Back on Track
We have a little bit of time before we are in the heart of holiday shopping season and before you even get started you need to know the state of your finances. Maybe you already have a lot of debt and you don’t want to start spending again. Or maybe your income isn’t where you want it to be. You have some time to start repairing those finances or even creating a budget and saving up for the holidays.
Yes, it’s not that long until you’ll technically be a last minute shopper. But it’s ok to take that position if you don’t want to take a huge financial hit this year. Before you even get started take a look at what you have coming in, what you are required to pay out each month, and if you have anything in savings. Is your debt overwhelming you already? You need to evaluate the current state of your finances before you even walk out the door.
Set Your Goals for the Holidays
The ultimate goal each year at the holidays is to get everyone something they want and will love for the holiday season. But the reality is, we’re not always in the position to be able to do that. Not every year can be a wow year, and your finances shouldn’t take a hit in order to make everyone happy.
So what do you do instead? There are a few things you can do to help you through this including:
- Make a budget
- Get smaller gifts
- Trade physical gifts for experiences
- Host a party instead of parties
- Do a gift free holiday season
- Make edible gifts
Find a Professional to Help You Out
If you still want to go crazy shopping this holiday season, get ready to see those scary bills coming soon. But if you’re hoping to avoid that and want to repair your finances and credit at the same time – you need to start looking for professional help. There are financial planners and companies like Golden State Partners who can help you find the right way for you to get your finances back on track. From helping you evaluate your current financial standing, helping create a budget for your life or even one for your holiday shopping a financial professional can lead you to the best place for your finances and help you get back on track for your future.
Avoid overspending and those harsh holiday bills this year when you start making your shopping plans now.
