Curb Your Excess

Are finances tight this season? Don't give what you can't afford. Allow yourself to shake up the routine. Let friends and family know that you are re-adjusting your gift-giving habits. If you're trying to cut costs, first and foremost, don't use your credit card. It's too easy to overspend. Determine the honest amount you can spend this holiday season and put the actual cash you will spend in an envelope labeled with the gift recipient's name. Let this help you curb your impulses and use only that cash. Challenge yourself to stop worrying about whether your gift given is equal to a gift received. Let this season free you with the true spirit of giving once again.