Do you love the When You Are a Giver post? Have you ever been excited to find out the gifts that were coming in? But at the last minute you stop, because you are running out of time. But it's okay! Because I have been through the same thing, so I know how you feel.
So here's a secret that will help you face the coming rush of gift giving. When you are a giver you should be thinking about your limits. That's right, your limits. When you see something that you think might go over or under the budget you set, stop right there. That's right! Just stop doing it.
You might think that you just have to give because you got to keep the person happy. You got to give because you had to feel guilty! Well, maybe that's part of it, but most of the time, that is not why you do it. There is a reason why people give gifts, and that is to build relationships. They don't care that it is just to build relationships. They only want to know if they can do anything to help, so they keep giving.
But what happens when the budget is low? When there aren't as many gifts to give? When people seem like they can't keep buying gifts? Don't worry, there are still things that you can do to honor the person and not break your budget. Here are some ideas!
Be more generous than you normally would. Instead of buying a $2 steak on a Monday, treat yourself on Tuesday by having lunch with your best friend. Be more generous with the treats that you give, too. Instead of a big dinner on Friday night, have an all-together affordable lunch that everyone can enjoy. You can still throw in a movie or two, or play a board game together.
If you are getting overwhelmed, there are two things that you can do. First, talk to someone who understands your budget. Or, hire a budget planner who can make sure that all your money goes where it is supposed to go, so you don't find yourself in the red. Just be sure that you always honor your limits, even if they are very hard to meet! That way, you'll always have a little extra cash to play with, instead of nothing.
Also, when you go out, be careful about what you are eating. Know your portions. If you are eating out at a restaurant, see if the manager will come to your table and ask what you are eating. If they won't, go somewhere else. Who knows, you might end up throwing that money away on something that is really fattening!
Finally, be very generous with your time. Even if you feel like you are a little under the weather, don't slack off on any of your tasks. It will show in your face! Oh, and please don't ever fall asleep while on the phone with your friends! Life is too short to make someone suffer while you're trying to sleep!