Easy Steps to Save Money On Your Holiday Gifts and More : Step 2

Make a list and check it twice!

On Day 1 we talked about how creating a budget for your holiday spending is the number one priority. Today I want to encourage you to take that budget and create a detailed list of everything you think you’ll need to buy over the course of the next few months.

You may be wondering why I didn’t have you create the list of needs/wants first. It’s simple. Too easily when the list is in front of us, do we start to rationalize the budget. I am completely guilty of this all too often. It’s very easy in my mind to rationalize extra expenses when my list of items are in front of me.

But this year I want you to think first of your limits financially. Bah, humbug! Right?

Nope. We tend to spend this time of year with our most favorite and treasured friends and our dear families. What do you think they would want for you most of all? How many of us would want someone to spend money on us that they didn’t have? Would you not immediately tell them that you don’t need it – that they should use it for themselves?!

That is exactly why a budget is key to beginning your journey of saving money this holiday season. I know this isn’t the fun chat – but my heart is to share with you that those you’re spending time with and giving your gifts to, want more of who you are than of what you have. By creating your budget first you are setting limits on yourself to give of yourself creatively without stretching yourself financially.

Okay – off my soapbox.

Day 2 of Saving Money on Holiday Gifts and More

Make your list. Looking at your budget you created yesterday, list specific items you plan to buy. For example, under Thanksgiving dinner list every item you’ll need to buy at the grocery store. If you’re hosting the dinner this year your list may be long. If you’re only bringing a dish to share, your list may be very simple. Either way, list everything right down to the fried onions. (Green bean casserole, anyone?)

And of course, I’ve created a list template to help you plan.