
Holiday Planning: Tools to Keep You on Track!
For years I’ve planned my holiday spending similar to how I money map (aka budget). I’m sharing tools that have helped me stay on track and be intentional.
Intentional planning is key to reaching your goals—and that’s especially true for the holiday season! By setting a spending plan in advance, you’re less likely to find yourself in a spending ditch that will follow you into 2025.
With a plan, you can enjoy gift shopping without the worry of overspending and make thoughtful, intentional choices (while keeping impulse buys in check!).
Your Gift-Giving Roadmap- Here are three tracking tools for different styles:
App Option - Perfect for tech lovers who want to plan on the go 📲
Printable Download Version - For those who love paper and prefer jotting down notes ✍️Click here for Christmas versionClick here for Hannukah version
Spreadsheet - Ideal for those who like organized details in a digital format (with built in formulas) 📊 Click here, then download the file for yourself
Simply pick the tool that suits you best, and enjoy a stress-free holiday season!
Bonus Tips to Stay on Track
Set a Total Budget: Before diving in, decide how much you want to spend overall. This “big picture” number helps keep everything in perspective.
Pause on Impulse Buys for Yourself 🛍️: It’s easy to get tempted by “justifications” like sales or holiday deals. Remind yourself that sticking to your plan now means less stress later & not delaying the goals you’ve set!
Track in Real-Time: Log each purchase as you go so you’re always aware of where you stand. Awareness is key.
Build in Flexibility: Leave a little “wiggle room” in your budget for any unplanned gifting opportunities that pop up.
Include Handmade Gifts 🎁: Crafting something yourself adds a personal touch—and often keeps costs down! Consider gifts like baked goods, custom photo albums, or handwritten letters.
Remember: Experiences Count, Too : Not every holiday memory has to come from a wrapped gift! Consider low-cost or free experiences & services (like what you do well) that bring joy without adding to the budget.
Happy planning and enjoy the season—stress-free and financially secure so you can enjoy the moments and family.
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