How to avoid Janu-worry

Right?

Before you do, hold onto your wallet for a second and hear me out. In a few blinks, Christmas, New Year’s, and all the laughter, sunshine and good times will be memories… And soon, you’ll be staring a very hungry January in the face. So hungry that your bank account may not be able to settle its appetite.

The notifications start arriving – school fees, bills, medical aid (with that increase), and credit card payments are due. It’s no wonder January feels like the longest month of the year.

The good news is that you don’t need to be another Janu-worry victim. Small, simple steps taken in December can help you sidestep financial stress like Cheslin Kolbe and start 2025 with a smile.

The illusion of December’s abundance

December has a way of tricking us. With early salaries and bonuses, it feels like we have more money than usual. But the truth is, what feels like extra cash is just an early slice of January’s paycheck. All that’s happened is that you’ve been paid early. You technically have almost 45 days ahead of you to manage.

Shift your mindset

Now that you know that you’re dealing with an extra long month, think of your income as belonging to both December and January. This simple mental shift can change how you spend your money.

Now here’s what you can do:

• Split your paycheck: The moment your December salary hits your account, set aside a portion specifically for January essentials. Think rent, utilities, transport and groceries. Remember to include the 2025 increases.
• Save your bonus: If you receive a bonus, consider treating it as an opportunity to boost your savings or pay off debt. While it’s tempting to splurge, your future self will thank you for being disciplined. Even if you split your bonus, using some of it to pay off debt and some of it on gifts and festivities, it’s a great start.

Avoiding December’s spending traps

Retailers know how to tap into our emotions during the holidays. Boxing Day sales and limited-time offers are designed to make us spend more. But you don’t have to fall for these traps. Here’s how:

• Can you buy it twice: Before buying something, ask yourself, “Do I have the money to buy this twice?” If the answer is no, rethink your purchase. This works because while most things seem within our financial reach, they’re not quite.
• The 48-hour rule: Wait two days before making an unplanned purchase. Often, the urge fades once the excitement wears off.
• Shop with a list: Take a list with you when shopping and stick to it. Whether it’s groceries or gifts, avoid impulse purchases. Stick to the list.
• Unfollow temptation: If online sales are your weakness, unsubscribe from promotional emails and mute retailers or influencers who are doing paid promotions on social media for the season.

Build a cushion for January

One of the best ways to avoid Janu-worry is to prepare for it in advance. Most people don’t step into the new year… they fall flat on their faces. Imagine being the person in your family that slides into 2025, gracefully. Here’s how:

• Emergency savings: Allocate a portion of your December income to an emergency fund. Even a small amount can provide peace of mind in January.
• Plan your meals: Reduce January’s grocery bill by meal prepping in December. Freeze leftovers from festive meals or cook batches of your favourite dishes.

Break the cycle for good

Who enjoys making the same mistakes over and over again? Not a single person. Yet we do, because they’re habits. And habits are incredibly tough to break. The best way to ensure a financially stable January is to think about your spending habits and commit to change.

• Track your spending: Use a notebook, app, or spreadsheet to track where your money goes during December. It might be uncomfortable, but following your money on its way out is like looking in a financial mirror. It shows you what you need to change. But be warned, like your face first thing in the morning, it may not be pretty.
• Set realistic goals: Decide what you want your financial January to look like. Whether it’s saving a specific amount or avoiding credit card debt, having clear goals can keep you motivated. Keep your goals small, achievable and realistic. When you achieve them, you’re going to feel like a million bucks.

Living out money values

Managing money isn’t just about numbers – it’s about values and the discipline it takes to live them. This December, embrace the money values of responsibilityand self-control. Take ownership of your financial decisions, and remember that the choices you make today will shape your tomorrow.

This awesome festive budgeting checklist also has some great ideas to help you manage your December spending.

Let’s make this January a month of fresh starts, not financial regret. By planning wisely and spending intentionally, you can enjoy the festive season without compromising your financial well-being.

I’ll leave you with one final thought.

This December, pause and ask yourself: “Am I spending in a way that honours my future?” By keeping January in mind, you can enjoy the holiday season with joy and confidence – free from the worry of what’s to come.