‘Tis the Season

by Emma Banes

I feel like I’ve been waiting forever to say this, but FALL IS FINALLY HERE! Fall is full of my favorite things-football, leaves, cooler temperatures, and pumpkin spice. Fall also means that the holidays are right around the corner, and that means it’s time to plan our holiday family events and our budget. I will admit, planning family activities and budgeting during such a busy season can be stressful, but Centric is here to help!

This time of year, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. School is getting back in full swing, kids are going to extracurriculars, and holidays plans and menus are being made. It’s easy to let our budget slip our priorities, but we have a few ways to help you stay on track. First, it’s important to look at your budget, or make one if you haven’t already. Look at your money, and find out exactly where all of it is going. Once you look at that, it’s easy to pick out a few ways you can cut spending to save for the holidays. One way we like to help stay on budget for the holidays is the Envelope Method. Label a separate envelope for each person you want to buy a gift for and stuff it with a designated amount of money. This way, you know exactly how much you can spend on each person, and the money is there when you’re ready to shop. If you’re struggling with budgeting for gifts this year, put yourself ahead for next year with Centric’s Santa Saver Account. This account keeps the holidays on your mind year-round and releases your money to you the first week of October.

While budgeting is important, it’s also important to slow down enough to enjoy things. Don’t get too caught up in the rush of the season that you forget to enjoy the cooler temperatures and spend quality family time. Preparing for the holidays can even become a fun family activity that the kids can get involved in. You can make treats as a family and plan activities together. You can even invite friends over for a potluck to watch the big game or host a game night. If you’re like me, and you like to take it easy, you can call the family into the living room and have a movie day one weekend. The opportunities are endless!

While budgeting and slowing down can be a struggle, it’s important and worth it! These tips can help you get ahead and remind you to spend quality time during this busy season. Have questions? Call us today, and find out how we can help you live better!