Costing before Christmas

Christmas is here, again. Your heart is full of anticipation, with promises of rest after a year’s hard work. You dread being left out as others have a meaningful celebration. Everyone is in a spendthrift mood. Among the expenses topping your list are travel, buying gifts for family and friends and of course food for the numerous parties that are sure to follow. At this time every business person seems to charge twice the usual amount on commodities like food, transport and clothing. It is hence wise to brave yourself for this season. Even more so if you just had a new born or are expecting one shortly. Of course you will have to meet your little one’s needs and also play host to the visitors as they come to give their blessings.

Below are some tips that will help you hove a good enjoyable time over Christmas and still look forward to a stress-free year ahead:

Gifts
Buy presents for those that absolutely need one. It is a fact that you cannot please everyone.
Someone will always have reason to complain no matter how hard you try to be pleasant. You do not have to go buying gifts for every friend and acquaintance that you met in the last one year. It might cost you a fortune! Limit your gifts and treats to close ties and even then do not over-indulge in exorbitant gifts that will leave your bank account spinning. For cards you could try making handmade cards, something that is fun to do. The recipient will also be touched by the personal touch.

Volunteer
Offer to help at charity organizations. Offering love and care is the most invaluable and inexpensive Christmas treat you can otter a needy person at this time. Think of children’s homes, homes for the elderly and other charitable organizations that would appreciate the no longer used clothes and shoes in your closet. If you have nothing to give you may opt to offer your services, like helping in cleaning up. Just sitting down and chatting them up also goes a long way.

Travel
You could drive around a town in your area with family members. This will give you time to catch up and bond with them while saving on long distant trips that are costly. For refreshment you could carry a simple snack from home such as home made cookies and fresh fruit juices.

Pool resources
This can be done as a group. If you agree with the extended family or friends to go for a picnic, let everyone chip in for the expenses. One family group could hire a bus for the whole group to travel in. while another provides lunch for that day and the other family pays an entrance fee for the venue if it is required. Picnics are hassle-free because no one has the responsibility of being a host. Everyone shares in and friendship is enhanced.

Shop early
Business people tend to take advantage of the merry season by overpricing their goods, knowing that you will buy anyway. Budget as early as possible for your requirements, especially the non perishables. Then proceed to store the non-perishable items. This will not only save you from jostling with thousands of other last minute shoppers, but will also ensure you have everything you need for the holidays at a fair price.

Transport
Minimise travel by public transport on Christmas day. If you travel upcountry during the festive season it is bound to be costly. Fares are always hiked up. sometimes up to twice the amount that is normal. Plan early and visit in advance. This way the costs are saved and the inconvenience of lacking transport is avoided.

END: PG17/54