Spending during a pandemic and the holidays.

So given the title, let's talk about spending and how it's different during a pandemic but especially during the holiday craze. A lot of people have had to make adjustments to how they spend and not everyone plans ahead so holidays may be making it more difficult for some.

I feel that gaining some perspective helps in situations like this. We see all the Christmas items ready to be purchased and gifted or maybe you are just tempted to buy the items you like for yourself but only see in stores this time of year.

Whatever your urge is to buy, don't, not just yet anyways. Bare in mind sales are going to come up so why not wait? It really isn't the end of the world if everyone else gets it first. Also, do you really need it/want it that badly? If it's not been on your list of things to aquire asap then probably not. Trust me, it's not as painful to pass up upon your first impulse as it sounds.Personally I would encourage everyone to consider anyone less fortunate first, and maybe donate where you can. I do this and for me, it's important because it really helps knowing that while I may be struggling myself, I can still help someone else. What better time than when so many are already hurting financially, which can lead to other kinds of hurting such as anxiety and depression. Imagine the big snowball effect you may have helped put a stop to or at least slowed it down enough for other intervention.

As an army veteran, I can't hear the cashier ask for donations for a soldier's child and not make the purchase. I just can't, it would not be right. Am I saying I can do it every time I am asked, probably not but I try. Even if it's just a little change in the bucket or rounding up at the register. Anything helps out plus you will feel better knowing you did something truly in the spirit.

You can also donate to food pantries, homeless shelters, and churches who help others in need. I am not saying to not buy gifts at all, but prioritize a bit more before you start out and see how a little can go a long way!

It's not just about what you give or who to but the nature of the gift you give. Remember, just after all the gift giving you will soon be toasting to the new you for the new year so why not start a little early? Your bank account will thank you but so will karma or whatever we call it. Do something good, kind, and spread that. We need kindness now more than ever.

Sometimes we have to change our perspective a little bit and see where it takes us. So between doing something good for others and redirecting your attention to priority over succumbing to all the fa la la la around you, you might just have a happy new year ahead after all.

It's so easy to get caught up in all the holiday cheer when we are wanting so much more and right now, we all want and need more. What we first think of as a need is more often than not just a want. If you do really want something, that's fine, sometimes we do need a little something to get into the spirit. Hopefully you can really enjoy what you already have too, friends, family, and a future of growth and cherished memories because that is what is truly priceless.

YoYoi