Merry Christmas 🎄 you’ve almost made it to the end of 2025!
It’s been a long, hectic year for most South Africans. Just don’t make 2026 long by overspending this December. A quick heads up: your emotions usually take the driver’s seat during the festive season. It’s like giving your teen, who just passed their driving licence, the car keys to take a spin with friends. That’s how emotions can run the show in December.
January is only weeks away, and you don’t want to score an own goal in the 90th minute in your finances. Rein in those impulse emotions now, and your “Janu worry” might just become a normal January.
How to budget your December bonus (13th check) wisely
If you’re lucky enough to receive a bonus, remember: it’s not free money. It’s your 13th paycheck, not some easy money to blow.
Treat it with respect, plan for it, and put it to work. You can take a portion of it and spoil yourself no problem with that, but most importantly, take a sizeable chunk of that hard-to-get bonus and buy your freedom through investing.
The real consequences of December overspending
Chasing January with no savings is like trying to chase a massive score in test cricket; even a night watchman might struggle to keep his wicket overnight because of the fury of fast bowlers of impulse buying.
You cannot underestimate the impact of December overspending. The same thing happens every year: January arrives, and most people have more month than money. Don’t repeat the same old mistake.
Christmas goodies are yummy 😋 but they also cost more. When shopping for festive groceries, we rarely look at prices; we’re more interested in the vibe than the cost. That’s exactly what cripples us in January.
Why festive season shopping is a financial trap
December prices are almost always inflated; retailers know our festive weaknesses. Most people leave big shopping for the last minute, and last-minute shopping is never a financially wise approach.
Ever studied for an exam the night before? You cram all night and then blank out on exam day. Don’t do that with your hard-earned moola, solution plan.
A bit of preparation when planning your special meals goes a long way in securing a better start to the new year.
Let’s be honest: December grocery spending is usually higher than in any of the other 11 months. No judgement, who doesn’t want Christmas cookies and special foods? Gammon costs an arm and a leg these days. No wonder we gain weight during this period and then scramble in January with New Year’s resolutions that remain in our journals and never make it to the gym.
I’ve been there too, planned many New Year’s goals and forgot them by February.
Cutting back on alcohol to save money this festive season
Alcohol is a big nonessential expense this time of year.
Liquor sales in December often skyrocket on the retail sales chart.
Don’t drink as if there’s no tomorrow. Drink water, yes, it’s the rainy season in Mzansi, so no water-shedding worries.
If you travel, do not drive under the influence. You don’t want to become another December statistic.
You might even save more by holidaying at home. December travel and accommodation providers often inflate prices because it’s “in season.” Sometimes being at work most days might save you cash.
Teachers will probably spend more because the December holidays are long. It’s hard to eat a peanut-butter sandwich while smelling your neighbour’s braai all week. But don’t chase the braai enthusiasts, no need to braai every day. A cheese and ham sandwich can be your January saviour.
Be intentional: why planning in December saves your January fund.
As we welcome December, be intentional.
Don’t party like life ends in December; it doesn’t.
Start your January plan in December.
When your December budget is done, don’t reach into your January fund.
Stay within your reach. No need to eat steak 🥩 every day just because it’s December; bean stew 🍲 can be your superpower during this spending season.
It’s in your hands. Don’t bleed cash like sweat, or you might end up in financial tears 😭 come “Janu worry”, the longest year packed into one month.
Actionable tips for a December spending plan
- Create a budget plan for December.
- Resolve to stick to that plan, no matter what.
- Sort out school stationery, January fees and uniforms now, before January.
- Build or top up your January crisis fund.
- No need to go crazy on presents; even handmade gifts can do the trick.
The biggest present is Christmas itself. - Stay away from consumer debt. Live below your means.
Don’t let your credit card fund your Woollies fancy Christmas groceries. - Free kids’ parks exist you don’t need to jingle bells in malls
(malls = impulse buying traps) - Whatever you do this December, be sober-minded.
Don’t get intoxicated by the festive spending spree
Life continues after Christmas🎄🎁.
Merry Christmas & Happy January 2026
Trading Time or Buying Freedom 
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