I suppose I’m a bit late to the rescue now that Black Friday/Cyber Monday Week is over, but better late than never, right?! If anything, there’s no better time: being smart about money is of the essence. (See evidence below, Exhibit A: a screen shot of a group text between my girlfriends and I about our post-spree predicament.) You’ve spent more than you’ve budgeted and there’s still an entire month of festivities to go. Presents, parties, and holiday pick-me-ups do not come cheap. What’s a girl to do when she’s nearing (or at!) her credit card limit but still has travel, food, booze, and gifts that require more than a bone or two?

Going broke is NOT the answer. Here’s the frugal girl’s guide to getting by—and being smart:

1. Take a look at the current state of your finances.

I know it hurts, but girl: ignorance is not bliss. (It’s the stupidest saying I’ve yet heard.) I get it. I hate looking at my credit card statements when I’m guilty of spending more than I know I should, but a reality check is exactly what you need. Do not go on and spend as if you haven’t a care in the world. You’ll regret it when the monthly statements come in and you can’t pay your credit card bill in full.

I actually love the Capital One and American Express mobile apps for keeping tabs on my spending. In fact, I set an alert every time I reach $300 so I know to (1) be wary, and/or (2) put a lid on it.

Rip the Band-Aid off. You went overboard during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Own it. I’m not hear to baby you and help you justify why you’re in the red.

2. You’re gonna make a list and check it twice.

Now that you know the reality of your financial situation, it’s time to go over your calendar and gift list. To the giftees on your list who haven’t yet been shopped for: I’m sorry. We’re on a budget here, so instead of going splash-y (as I know we’re tempted to do in a world where social media hauls and reveals push people to spend/want more than they need), try going the sentimental route. Shop Amazon for books you know they’d like (I normally would suggest independent book shops or B&N, but I’ll admit: Amazon has unbeatable prices when you’re in a pinch). DIY. Bake some gluten-free goodies or try a raw recipe; wrap up the goods in pretty cellophane or a pretty plate they can keep (and double as a jewelry dish!).

Do you need to go to all five holiday parties? Do you really have to buy a different outfit for each occasion? Why go out for drinks when you can stay in, save money, and not have to worry about getting a designated driver or spending an exorbitant amount on Uber? Cut. That. Ish. Down. Financial safety and stability—think about your credit score—are of utmost importance. FOMO is something you buy into (pun intended). It’s not a real thing; there will always be a next time, and don’t you dare use that YOLO excuse on  me.

Acronyms aren’t real. Your bank account, however, is.

3. Do you need it? Or do you want it?

The difference is crucial. Remember: you’re living in a world consumed by capitalist consumerism. Retailers are the ones that need you—not the other way around. And during this time of year, they’re plaguing on your psyche, convincing you that you’re missing limited edition XYZ from your life (you’re not) and that ABC is a once-in-a-lifetime-sale (fine, they’re sometimes right about this).

Write down everything you want. If it’s not written down on that list, you can’t buy it. (We’re talking non-essentials, here.) Then, you want to check that list twice. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you need it, or do you want it?
2. How long have you wanted it? (If it popped up on your radar within the last two to three months, cross it out. You don’t need it. You’re buying into the hype. If it turns out you do, it’ll go on sale, trust. All things do.)
3. How often will you use/wear it? Be practical. (Special occasions only? X it out. Crunch is not a time to be spending on [expensive,] one-time-only things.)
4. How many ways can you wear it?
5. What’s the cost per wear?
6. Are there better sales or prices elsewhere? Is there another brand that does something comparable? Do your research. (My tip? If I can’t find a promo code or if I have to pay for shipping/returns, it’s a pass.
7. Do you have room for it? (No? Chances are, you’re buying more than you can physically handle. Either put a lid on it or go through what you’ve got. Sometimes it’s nice to shop your wardrobe and rediscover old favorites or never-worn newbies. Sell what you can to a consignment shop and donate the rest.)

Way harsh? Probably. But I’m all about tough love.

(Don’t worry. I know you’ll thank me later.)

.   .   .

xx

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