By Dr. Sabirna M. Reed OD, FAAO
- Identify needs vs. wants. Christmas deals can be tempting but if it’s not something you need then it’s probably not the right deal for you.
- Avoid credit card debt with delayed gratification. Save and wait for purchases instead of buy now/pay later gimmicks.
- Don’t try to keep up with the Jones’. Why buy things you can’t afford to impress people you don’t even like?
- Shop in your own closet. Try making new outfits by mixing and matching something you haven’t worn together before. Look online or in magazines for inspiration.
- Avoid impulse shopping. Instead of making unplanned or big purchases on the spot- go home and sleep on it, then see if it’s still just as important.
- Get a part time job over Christmas break. Lots of employers need seasonal holiday help. Reach out to local retailers to make some extra money while you’re on break.
- Save where you can. Order water instead of soda, think about skipping or sharing dessert when you go out to eat.
- Be creative! Instead of purchasing gifts, you can show love to friends and family by spending quality time, performing acts of service like babysitting or helping out with household chores, and even making homemade cards with original poetry/words of affirmation.
- Be content with what you have- Regardless of what you see on TV or social media.
- Remember Jesus is the Reason for the Season! It’s not about how much stuff we give or receive. Focus on the things money can’t buy like Peace, Joy, Love, and Salvation!