Once again, the festive season is upon us, a period during which everyone longs to do all the nice things for their families and loved ones. It is a time for large family gatherings, bringing together some that have not met in months. The urge to ‘celebrate’ pushes many to spend more, more often than not unnecessarily. To some, the festive season means taking the family on a trip abroad or on holiday to a nice resort out of town, while others expect expensive gifts. ALSO READ: Foods people enjoyed on Christmas Day However, while it is good to enjoy all the luxuries that come with the festive season, it should be done with utmost responsibility. Don’t do what is not within your financial means just because of the celebrations that come every year. It should be everyone's right to enjoy but everyone also must spend within their means, to avoid the financial pressures when the New Year sets in. After the festive season, you will still have to pay school fees, and bills and generally meet the needs of your family. The start of the year is usually difficult for many especially parents because some spend extravagantly during the festivities without planning for the beginning of the year, when the back-to-school period sets in. In this case, many schools will immediately reopen in January after the Christmas and New Year term break. ALSO READ: Christmas Day: Thousands throng churches to celebrate A simple Christmas budget done with the help of family members can still enable you to have a memorable Christmas, yet without having to break the bank. It is important to understand that some of the things you may wish to have cannot be possible to get during this festive season. A simple family get-together in the village or at home can still create a memorable experience for the family. Let’s spend without finishing for tomorrow. There will be more to life after the festivities. Let us also keep away from trouble during the festivities. Don’t drink and drive and take precautionary security measures for your life and property. Crime tends to be high during the festive season. Merry Christmas.
