The weather is chilly, you’re eating Thanksgiving leftovers, and family is stringing lights on the house and trees-the Christmas festivities are upon us! It’s time to start thinking about how we are going to check everything off our holiday to do list, the most pressing item on the agenda being how you are going to tackle all of your gift purchases. Before you dive in, be sure to take a look at our top 6 things to avoid when taking care of your holiday shopping.
1. Don’t Skip Setting Up a Budget
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It can be easy for things to get a bit out of hand when it comes to buying gifts for your loved ones. That one thing that your little one just has to have can quickly lead to another purchase and then another, and before you know it, you’re in the red. Determine exactly how much you want to budget for each individual you’re purchasing for, and stick to it. You don’t want the holiday fun to be clouded by money troubles.
2. Don’t Miss a Chance on Building Credit
Source: Chiropractic Economics
You are already planning on making some holiday purchases, and you already have the money set aside to make it happen. Don’t pass up a prime opportunity to build your credit and improve your FICO score by using your visa platinum credit card to get what you’re looking for.
3. Don’t Go In Without a Plan
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I can almost guarantee that if you go into your shopping without a plan of what you’re going to be buying for your loved ones, you will go over your budget. In the months leading up to the holidays, be listening to your family and friends for things they say they want, or even frustrations they have. Is mom getting frustrated with her dull knife set? Do you catch your dad looking up information about a particular power tool? Make a note, see what fits your budget, and go into your shopping trips with confidence!
4. Don’t Go to the Stores
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You read it right. At this point, almost any deal that is going on inside the store is also applicable online, or there are special deals for shopping online that can’t be found in stores. Stay in your pajamas and snuggle in bed with your phone to take care of your holiday gift purchases. You’ll avoid the cold, the crazy crowds, and everything will be delivered right to your door. Just make sure your family doesn’t see any of the packages coming in!
5. Don’t Be Distracted by Black Friday
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Yes, Black Friday is notorious for its incredible deals. But don’t let it keep you from taking advantage of other important shopping days, like Small Business Saturday or Cyber Monday. Black Friday will get you some deals from the big box brands, but if you’re looking for a boutique sweater or deals on appliances, you’ll want to hold off for just a beat until you can check out all of the deals provided just a few hours or days following Black Friday.
6. Don’t Let Yourself Get Overwhelmed
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also prove to be one of the most stressful. Between the family visiting from out of town, staying up late to wrap presents, and all of the food to prepare, many people feel exhausted and haggard during the holiday season. Do your best to plan ahead, have those around you help with the to do lists, and schedule in time to relax so that you can enjoy the festivities.
You Have Totally Got This
So get out a pen and paper, set the budget, make the lists, and set the alarms to remind you to take advantage of the deals that are sure to come. The process of holiday shopping can be free of stress and frustration as long as you take the time to prepare. Happy planning!
