A wise man once said, “The poorer you are, the longer your days”. Little wonder January is the longest month of every year. Thirty-one days of God abeg, but if you look closer, you would realize that the misery began in December. Yes, the detty December that always does you dirty.
You know the drill. December is the month of fun, frolic, and festivities. But it can also be the month of overspending, debt, and regret. How can you enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank and ruining your finances for the new year?
Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are three tips to help you have a Detty December without a Broke January:
Don’t fall for the ‘Ballers’ trap:
If you’re a “Baller”, you enjoy spending on whatever catches your eye, thinking your money should flow like a current. Tame it this December, or you will enter the “Ballers” trap.
Simply put, The “Ballers” trap is when you spend more than you earn, rack up debt, and end up broke, and your days become longer.
How can you avoid the “Ballers” trap? Simple. Plan and stick to a realistic budget. Use a spreadsheet or an app to track your income and expenses and allocate a certain amount for your holiday spending. This includes gifts, travel, food, entertainment, and other costs. Once you have a budget, follow it and don’t let impulse buys or peer pressure tempt you to overspend.
The principle here is to consistently opt for the more economical choice. Opt for fruits over alcohol, engage in home cooking instead of dining out, and limit unnecessary outings. By making these mindful decisions, not only do you save money, but you also contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Remember, being a Baller is not about how much you spend but how much you have left after spending. And trust us, your January will be much happier if you have some money left in your account.
The Gift of DIY— personalised gifts are the best:
1. Plantain Chips Delight: Transform a simple snack into a personalized treat. Create a batch of homemade plantain chips seasoned to perfection. Package them in a charming container with a personalized label or note. It’s a delicious and thoughtful gift that showcases your love.
2. Bake with Love: Consider baking a cake from scratch. Whether it’s a classic favourite or a new flavour combination, the effort you put into crafting a delectable cake speaks volumes. Package it carefully, perhaps in a decorative box or tin, and include a handwritten recipe card for an extra special touch.
3. Words from the Heart: Craft handwritten notes or letters expressing your feelings. Share cherished memories, affirmations, or simply let them know how much they mean to you. Thoughtful words have a timeless appeal and can be revisited whenever a mood boost is needed.
The beauty of DIY gifts lies in their cost-effectiveness and the sentiment and personalization woven into each creation. Embrace the art of crafting to elevate your gift-giving experience, leaving a lasting impression on those who matter most.
Strategically avoid billing
We all know the feeling. You’re having a good time with your friends, laughing and joking, when suddenly, someone drops the bomb. “Boss, you go pay for this one.” You look around, hoping someone else will step up, but no one does. You’re stuck with the bill, and your wallet is crying.
How can you strategically avoid billing? Here are some tips:
1. Know when to stop the laughter
Laughter is good, but too much laughter can be costly. When having fun with your friends, remember the time and the tab. Refrain from letting the jokes and stories drag on for too long, or you might pay more than you bargained for. Know when to wrap up the conversation and say goodbye before someone asks you to foot the bill.
2. Show your account balance
Sometimes, the best way to avoid billing is to be honest. If you need more cash, be bold and let your friends know. Show them your account balance, and they’ll understand you can’t afford to pay their expenses. They might even offer to pay for yours or split the bill with you. It’s better to be upfront than to pretend you have money and regret it later.
3. Respond to ‘Boss’ with ‘Chairman’
If your friends call you “Boss”, it might sound flattering, but it’s also a trap. They’re trying to butter you up so you’ll feel obliged to pay their bills. Don’t fall for it. Instead, respond with “chairman”. This way, you’re returning the compliment but also implying that they’re the ones who should pay. It’s a subtle way of dodging the bill while being playful and respectful.
So, there you have it. These tips would save you from experiencing a Broke January. Now you have the right information; you are responsible for flying with it.
Have fun, be wise, and stay safe. Merry Christmas in advance.