Festive Frugality
How to Have a Holly, Jolly Holiday… on a Budget 🤑
Guest Blog by Money Healing Club Moderator, Melissa Jensen
“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas … perhaps … means a little bit more!”
— Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Hello, it’s the holidays. 🎄✨ And if you’re on a money healing journey, this festive time can also feel like a financial minefield. Maybe you’re a parent trying to create holiday magic. Or a single adult trying to make it feel like Christmas. Maybe you feel the pressure to participate in office Secret Santa or show up to every party. One month can feel like it can undo months of inner work. Yikes!
But it doesn’t have to be this way! Last month we discussed some ways to prepare for the holiday triggers. Now that we’re in the thick of the holidays, here are some ways to stay festive all season long without suffering a money relapse. 🛷💰
🎁🎨Bring Back the Homemade Gift
Gifting can be a pressure cooker, and every year I've felt the need to outdo myself. But here's the truth: it really is the thought that counts (well, except maybe for teenagers, but that's a different story). People don't need fancy gifts, so why not get crafty?! Homemade gifts don't have to cost a sleigh-load; you can often create them in batches, making gifts for everyone in one go! If you're a craft wizard, try knitting a cozy scarf, painting a pet portrait, or whipping up some upcycled container candles. Not feeling too crafty? DIY bath bombs, diffuser oils, or seasonal potpourri are great options. Kitchen skills more your vibe? How about some candy cane bark, flavored simple syrups (we recently made some at a Money Healing Club event!), or cookies in a jar. Get creative and spread homemade joy! 🤗🎨
🏡🎉 Host at Home
No need for a grand fête, the simplest celebrations are often the most memorable! Gather friends for wreath decorating – all supplies available at the dollar store. Host a latke party, with each friend bringing a unique topping. Get messy with cookie decorating (try my favorite recipe) or gingerbread house construction – you likely have most baking supplies at home. Or go for a potluck Friendsmas. It's not about fancy food or decor; it's about filling a room with loved ones and soaking up that holiday joy. 🍪☕ It’s a little act of rebellion that brings us to the heart of gatherings — connection.
🌟🚗 Lights Displays Can Be Free
Lights epitomize the holidays for me. I've chased holiday light displays everywhere – the drive-through, the holiday trail, the mini village. After years of hunting for cheer, I'm ready to admit it: they're not always worth it. The good news? Holiday lights are free and everywhere! Google the best neighborhood lights near you, whip up some hot cocoa to go, and hit the road. I promise you'll have just as much fun, maybe even more, without the pressure of making that $40 ticket worth it. If you're in a bustling city, chances are there's a free light display in a public park. Light up your night without dimming your budget! 💡🌃
As we wrap up this year’s money healing journey, remember that the joy of the season doesn't come with a price tag. This festive season, let's redefine celebration and focus on the love, laughter, and togetherness that truly make the holidays special. May your home be filled with the aroma of baked cookies, the glow of twinkling lights, and the sound of loved ones laughter. Cheers to a season that's light on the wallet but heavy on the heart! Here's to financial peace, festive fun, and a new year filled with financial victories. 🌟💕🎉
P.S. Tried every budgeting tip, but impulse buying still feels like the only relief? The 7 Day Mindful Spending Challenge offers a different approach, with seven days of mindfulness prompts that uncover the deeper “why” behind your spending. Start your journey to peace with money here.
