Awesome Wealthy Woman Hears “I Overspend Because I’m Lonely”

You may not want to hear this – it’s just 58 days until Christmas!

Have you started your shopping yet? 

Do you know how much you are going to spend this year? (and do you know how much you spent last year?)

Too often, come January, I hear people moaning and complaining about how much money they spent on gifts, decorations, new wardrobe and entertaining over the holidays.

One of the discoveries they usually make is that at least some of their spending was on themselves and was intended to make them feel better about what can be a difficult time of year.

Perhaps your children have all grown up enough to be out on their own…and they’ve just told you that they won’t be coming home for Christmas this year.

Perhaps you’ve lost a loved one recently and you are dreading facing this first holiday season without them.

The failure of a marriage, or the difficulties of successfully blending two families can also contribute to the emotional challenges of this time of year.

When we get overly emotional, we can sometimes attempt to fill the ‘void’ with retail therapy and, while it may help to lift the mood in the short term, it can often add to the unhappiness we are feeling.

If you are tempted to overspend this holiday season, here are some suggestions:

1)  Set a budget for each type of spending (gifts, decorations, food, clothing, travel, etc.)

2)  Set a budget for spending on yourself

3)  Shop with a list

4)  Keep an eye on your local paper for holiday-themed events that are no-cost / low-cost
     to keep you occupied (and out of the stores)

5)  Look for opportunities to volunteer over the holiday season and discover the joy of giving
     of yourself, your time and your caring

Finally, if you are coping with loss or separation this year, set aside some time to remember those you won’t be spending time with and allow yourself to feel the gratitude for all that you shared together.

Then, think about a new tradition you would like to start for the holidays and make this a season of new beginnings.

Are you struggling with how to manage the holidays this year (financially and emotionally)?  Learning new strategies and coping skills can help you rekindle the joy and start the new year with renewed enthusiasm.

If connecting with me for assistance feels right for you, please call me at 705.881.1846 or 1.844.881.1846 or email me at Patti@AwesomeWealthyWoman.com and I would be delighted to speak with you personally.

"I don't need a holiday or a feast to feel grateful for my children, the sun, the moon, the roof over my head, music, and laughter, but I like to take this time to take the path of thanks less traveled." ~ Paula Poundstone