So the year is almost through, 2009 comes to an end for most and for others such as business people 2010 mode has already kicked in, new opportunities and many new ways of acquiring CASH FLOW are the order of the day and have been since halfway through the year. 3 more paychecks to go for others and the thought of being broke come January has already settled in the minds of others. What to do, what to do??
This is a phenomenon that always amazes me, year in and year out with the knowledge that budgeting is key towards the end of the year, but people always tend over spend every year around Christmas season. Is it the bonus that most get around this time that always makes them feel on top of the world? Is it the well implemented marketing strategies of the media-world that blinds your sub-conscious brain and opens your consumer spending abilities? Maybe it’s both, but whichever the reason it may be, it needs to be to a minimum.
The December paycheck is the one that is filled with more opportunity than any other. If you simply had to stick to your normal budgeting path that you follow through out the year with all other paychecks and then save or invest your bonus, then sky rocket your savings will be. Although I’m pretty sure that one of the realities that will need to be faced is the fact that people travel, re-decorate their houses, visit distant family etc. amongst many other options in the festive season and that alone can be expensive.
What also contributes to this “January madness without money” is the fact that people take long leaves in December this making their time at home more and therefore increasing their spending as they have more time on their hands.
People must look into creative ways to enjoy their Festive season in a financially savvy manner without compromising the entire experience. I’m sure that a festive season with all the basic celebrations and also being on top financially will be a much better experience than any others that you have had thus far. There are 3 Pay checks [October, November and December] to go till 2010, but an entire lifetime to save and be financially fruitful.