Keeping Sane for the Holidays

For many people in Akwesasne, Christmas is the best time of the year. Yes, just like the song. But for others, it becomes an overrated, overpriced, way overstressed time of year where all finances are thrown out the window and you’re bogged down in debt in January. Why? Why put yourself through it? There are many places where you can find ideas to make your Christmas and your life simpler at this time of year and actually enjoy yourself. Check online, magazines; ask your friends and family how they make the holiday easier and more enjoyable.

First of all relax. Take time for yourself and make quality time for your family. Here are just a few ideas:

Presents. You don’t have to buy a present for EVERYONE. Just buy for those you really care about in your immediate circle of family and friends. Let people know your intentions for this year and what to expect – nothing! There is the tried and true make or bake your presents. People love them! Or you and your family can try the “I can’t believe this is sooo ugly, gaudy, cheap, useless, gift,” that is bought for a set amount and you all exchange your “cheap” gifts at Christmas. It’s funny, it’s cheap, and you can take them all to your local thrift shop after. I know one family sets the limit at $3.00 and they set out to buy the ugliest, cheapest gift they can find to exchange on Christmas Day. They have a riot each year and the one with the ugliest, cheapest gift wins a “real” gift.

Parties – You don’t have to buy a new dress for each party. Trust me no one will remember what you wore two or three years ago. Unless you did something really stupid in the dress, no one will remember. Check the back of your closet to see what you have stored.

Christmas Cards – Who sends Christmas cards? You should. It helps builds relationships and it keeps relationships strong. Better yet – if your friends are local you should hand deliver them. What better way to spread holiday cheer than to hand deliver your cards than to stop in and say hello. Remember some people don’t like the unexpected; send a quick text announcing what day and time you are “dropping” them off will help.

Shopping for Children – Unless your children are shopping for gifts for others - don’t take your children shopping. It makes shopping less stressful and you will find them asking for less. The less they see, the less they want. The same goes for watching television. At this time of year children are bombarded with televised advertisements that scream, “You want me, you have to have me!” And your child doesn’t need it and he or she will survive quite well without it.

Shopping and credit cards – Make sure you can pay off the balance you make on your credit cards before the next billing. If that isn’t possible, double up on payments. Credit cards set a minimum payment to KEEP YOU IN DEBT. The great deal on a new TV loses if you pay for the TV over several months in payments and interest.

You will be asked countless times while paying for your items, “Would you like to open a charge account with us?” Don’t do it! Department store credit cards often carry an interest rate of at least 25%! If you do apply for a store credit card, credit bureaus see this as a red flag that you are hungry for credit.

Shopping online – Make sure you keep in mind shipping charges when buying. Some have a minimum purchase to receive free shipping while LL Bean, Target, Zappos, Nordstrom’s and Reebok offer free shipping without a minimum purchase.

This holiday relax and enjoy, and if you don’t find joy in what you are doing – create new holiday customs and traditions, it’s your holiday. And then again, you could give up Christmas shopping all together and share your blessing with those less fortunate. Happy Holidays.