Rules To Gift By

Let go of comparisons
“ So-and-so bought me something that cost about $30 last year so I should spend at least that much on her.” So-and-so chose to spend what she could afford, and so should you. If your budget is lower than hers, so be it.

Stop trying to impress
You’ve heard the saying, “It’s the thought that counts,” but many don’t really take it seriously or we wouldn’t have mountains of credit card debt. It IS the thought that counts. Repeat this to yourself as often as necessary. Fortunately, DIY gifts often take the most thought… and the least money. An auspicious coincidence you should exploit to your advantage.

Lower expectations
If you feel bound by a family tradition of overspending, start spreading the word around at Thanksgiving time that this season, you’ll be working within a budget. Just say, “I don’t want to run up my credit cards this year,” and you’ll probably get plenty of sympathetic nods.

Don’t self-gift
If you do find yourself in the mall this season, have a gift list and stick to it. Don’t start buying things for yourself; it’s the quickest way to stray from your budget.