Many criticize Christmas commercialism. It is not uncommon to feel burdened by the necessity of gift-giving. Sometimes people overspend at Christmas and place themselves in financial difficulty. Handling money wisely is a skill that extends beyond investments—it’s just as important during the holiday season. To help you navigate this time of faith, budgeting, and practical choices, we’ve gathered a few resources we think you’ll find useful.
"How To Celebrate A Debt-Free Christmas: A Practical Guide to Enjoying the Holidays Without Financial Stress" by Dr. Hayley Nock (Author), Naomi G. Bricks (Author), Kindle Edition, 2024
Many find themselves caught in a cycle of overspending and regret, wishing for a more meaningful celebration without the financial hangover. (New and available on Amazon. Also check your local library.)
A free online tool that helps you plan and track your Christmas spending, keeping you organized and on-budget. Here you can track your gift ideas and plan your budget for Christmas.
“7 Money Strategies for Savvy Holiday Shopping” – NerdWallet
When shopping for holiday gifts this year, create your own discounts, use credit card rewards and consider alternative payment options.
“7 Ways to manage financial stress and anxiety this holiday season” – Bankrate
Anyone, regardless of income, can feel financial stress during the holidays. Consider these ways to celebrate and spend time with your loved ones, without facing extra financial stress.
In Defense of Gift-Giving – NPR podcast
A humorous and thought-provoking take on gift-giving. Host Jeff Guo tries to win over Planet Money's resident Scrooge, Kenny Malone, by going on a quest to find him the perfect gift. Along the way, they're visited by the spirits of three Nobel prize-winning economic theories that can explain why gift-giving is actually good. And by the end, Kenny's heart may just grow three sizes larger.
A Very Planet Money Christmas Carol – NPR podcast
An interesting podcast on how Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol took on some of the most important thinkers in the history of economics.
