Saver or Spender

A TIP FOR MANAGING YOUR SPENDING AT THE HOLIDAYS

Identify which of you tends to be the spender and which tends to be the saver. In every relationship, one person takes on the role of the spender while the other takes on the role of the saver. In the process, we project a part of ourselves onto our partner. For example, the saver projects their "inner spender" on to their partner while the spender protects their "inner saver" on to their partner. This way we avoid taking personal responsibility for our attitudes. Instead of struggling internally about how to balance the family budget, we engage in a power struggle with our partner. When you understand this, there's no longer any need for the power struggle. You just need to work things out together.

Reality Check

A TIP FOR MANAGING YOUR TIME AT THE HOLIDAYS

Begin with a reality check. What are the current time constraints that you can and cannot control? Be realistic. This is no time to bite off more than you can chew. Be generous while estimating time. Tasks, such as shopping, usually take more time than we expect. Be gentle with yourself when you get behind.

Decide Together

A TIP FOR MANAGING YOUR SPENDING AT THE HOLIDAYS

Make a mutual decision about spending limits. Every family has limited resources when it comes to holiday spending. By making a mutual decision on spending limits, you will avoid conflicts in your relationship and minimize the post holiday hangover from excessive credit debt.