Christmas and Consumption. How To Balance Them?
Stop overspending this Christmas. No matter how much money you make.
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We know that the holiday season is a time of overconsumption, with people indulging in rich foods, buying gifts for loved ones, and participating in various holiday activities. While it is natural to want to enjoy the holiday season, overconsumption has negative consequences for your health, your finances, and the environment.
The piles of junk around the world are only getting bigger, and if that is not reason enough to re-evaluate your holiday consumption, think about all the waste. It is estimated that globally we waste about 1.4 billion tons of food every year. Huge amounts of good food, clothes, electronics, and other items are simply discarded, often because we’ve got a new one. Let’s plan better this Christmas and buy only what we need and if you are making presents consider giving more experience than stuff. If you buy stuff try to understand what those people could actually use.
Here are some more tips for staying away from overconsumption during Christmas:
- Set a budget: A no-brainer, but so many of us don’t do it. How many times did you realize at the end of the holidays that you spend way too much than estimated? The problem is that estimate was never written down or planned for. Before you start buying gifts or planning holiday activities, it is important to set a clear budget for yourself. Of course, allow yourself a range rather that a fixed number. This will help to ensure that you do not overspend, which can lead to financial stress after this magical season, and no one needs that.
- Be mindful of your food choices: The holiday season is often associated with rich, indulgent foods. While it is okay to enjoy these treats in moderation, it is important to be mindful of your food choices and to have a list of groceries. Think about limiting your portion sizes, choosing healthier options, or avoiding buffets and all-you-can-eat events. Your body will also thank you if you don’t overindulge, and it will be easier to get back on track after.
- Avoid impulse buying: It can be tempting to buy gifts for everyone on your list, but this can quickly lead to overconsumption. Instead, try to be selective…
