How to prepare financially for the “BER” months
As the weather cools down and the holidays approach, many people find themselves spending more money than usual. Whether it’s buying gifts for loved ones or travel expenses for holiday parties, the so-called “BER” months (September, October, November, and December) can be a challenging time financially.
But with a little preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Here are 4 things you can do to prepare financially!
1. Create A Budget
The holiday season is a time for spending time with family, giving gifts, and creating memories. However, it can also be a time of financial stress, as people often spend more money than they can afford.
One way to avoid this stress is to create a budget for the holiday season.
- Start by estimating how much you will need to spend on gifts, travel, and other expenses.
- Then, look at your income and make sure that you have enough to cover your costs. If you don’t have enough money, consider ways to reduce your expenses or increase your income.
Creating a budget may not be the most exciting way to spend the holidays, but it can help you to stay financially healthy during a time of year when spending can easily get out of control.
2. Start Saving Now
No-Spend-September should be your motto to help save money for the upcoming holidays! By taking a month off of spending on non-essential purchases you can help alleviate some financial stress later on.
By starting now, you’ll be able to take advantage of sales and discounts and avoid the last-minute rush. Plus, you’ll have more time to shop around for the perfect gifts.
And, if you’re organized, you can even start making your gifts. So, what are you waiting for? Start setting aside some money each week, and you’ll be ready when the holidays roll around.
3. Only Spend What You Can Pay Back
Credit cards can be tempting when you’re trying to make all your loved ones happy, but it’s important to remember that you’ll eventually have to pay back what you spend.
If you know you can’t afford to pay off your credit card balance in full, it’s best to limit your spending to what you know you can afford. This will help ensure that you don’t end up with a hefty bill – and a whole lot of stress – after the holidays are over.
So while it’s important to enjoy the season, be sure to keep your finances in mind as well. Happy holidays!
4. Remember the importance of the Holidays
The holidays are a time to come together and celebrate the things that matter most. For many, that means spending time with family and friends, enjoying favorite traditions, and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
It can be easy to get caught up in the busyness of the season, but it’s important to remember what the holidays are really about. At their heart, the holidays are a time for giving and showing loved ones how much we care. They’re also an opportunity to slow down, reflect on the year past, and set our sights on the year ahead.
So as we move into this holiday season, let’s take a moment to remember the things that truly matter. And let’s give thanks for the joys and blessings of this wonderful time of year.
