Month: December 2022

With the rush and excitement of Christmas and the anticipation of a well-deserved break, we often forget it can also be a time of added pressure and stress about money. So, we’ve put together some practical tips to help get you through the festive season and have a truly happy new year, and not a financial hangover in 2023.

Plan your spending

Christmas can be an expensive time of year, but it doesn’t mean that maxing out your credit card over meeting your financial commitments is a good idea. Here are a few things you can do:

• It sounds boring but it’s really important – start with a budget and stick to it.
• Make time to compare prices online and take advantage of pre-Christmas sales.
• Share the load and cut down time spent at the supermarket checkout by organising family members to each bring a plate on Christmas day.

Don’t over commit

Between friends and family, work and school, you are bound to have events or invitations fall on the same day. The best way to navigate your social calendar is to prioritise what’s most important and what you can attend in person. It’s okay to say no to a few invites, it will help relieve stress and you might save some money too. If you can, save a few of those catch ups for the new year, you’ll likely be more relaxed anyway.

Be realistic about your budget

You may have just bought a car, finished a kitchen renovation, or have a new addition to your family. Whatever stage of life you’re at, remind yourself that everyone’s financial situation is different. Try not to feel pressured into buying expensive gifts just because your best friend or brother always does.

Give yourself a break

Schedule in some ‘me’ time without breaking the bank. It could be a YouTube workout or walk around the block. A phone call with a friend, or even just 20 minutes sitting down with a cup of tea. Remember, you are only one person and you can only do so much. If the pavlova collapses it’s not the end of the world. It will still taste the same, and you can always try for that Instagram worthy pav next year.

So, this festive season, try to focus a little more on spending quality time with family and friends and less on time spent tapping the plastic!

Feeling financial pressure this Christmas?

If you have a loan with Oxford Finance and are experiencing an unforeseen change in your financial situation, don’t leave it too late to contact us on 0800 88 44 66.

Get confidential financial mentoring or budgeting advice from Money Talks, an organization that offers advice at no cost to you. Call them on 0800 345 123 or visit their website here.