Frugal Friday, Overspending at Christmas.

Most of us really over do it around the holidays - we cook too much, we eat too much, and we SHOP too much! Stastically speaking, consumers not only buy presents around the holidays each year, but we also consume more ourselves! Have you been a part of this phenomenon? I know I have!

Yesterday we went to the mall to finish our Christmas shopping, but we did more than just that. We had lunch for $11, (which we wouldn't usually do), I got a haircut and purchased the suggested styling product for $18, (which I NEVER do), and I actually almost bought something because it was on sale even though I KNEW I didn't need it! Luckily they did not have the size I was looking for or I would have overspent there as well!

I'm not really sure why this overspending phenomenon occurs. I imagine it has something to do with all that generosity you're bestowing upon your loved ones and so that little voice in your head says, HEY! I deserve something too! Or maybe its all the sales and you just literally get sucked in! I guess its the one time of year many people allow themselves to splurge (As we did yesterday).

But if you're trying to live within your budget, as we are, its important to find that healthy balance between splurging and being frugal. You don't want to be a scrooge and not enjoy the holidays, but you also don't want to over do it and land yourself in debt. So be careful out there! Think about your purchase before you ring it up. Do you really need it? If not, is it something you really truly want? I like to put the thing I want back down and continue shopping. If I can't stop thinking about how much I love it, and if its a worth a trip back to its location then I allow myself to indulge. But if I forget about it, or its not worth a drive back to the store, then I know I really can do without.

Happy Shopping!