FESTIVE but frugal

The festive season doesn't have to be a spending frenzy that leaves you feeling ill in January. Calm your spending and focus on creating memories

- SYLVIA WALKER

This time of year lends itself to overspending. Whether we're trying to meet family expectations, rewarding ourselves, or succumbing to massive retail marketing campaigns, every swipe of your bank card adds up.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Your salary may be paid earlier in December, which can be disastrous if you're not careful. Set aside money for your January expenses, including debit orders, accounts and living expenses. Don't be tempted to spend more than you actually can because you're feeling flush. Move the funds into a separate bank account and forget about them.

You might be fortunate enough to receive a year-end bonus. Work carefully with this money, and save some for the future. If you don't receive a bonus, plan even more carefully so you're not caught short in January.

CREATE A FESTIVE BUDGET

Plan your spending so that you don't overspend. Sit down and calculate how much you will spend on food, entertainment, gifts and any other potential expenses. And don't stray from this, no matter what.

ONE MAN'S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN'S TREASURE

It's a great time to get rid of things you don't want to generate some extra money. Start at one end of your home and look for items you haven't used in the past six months that have no sentimental value. Donate some items and sell the rest online.

ZERO-WASTE GIFTING