Christmas is fast approaching. Are you done with your Christmas list? Even if you are miles away, the reality is you will always feel responsible to give something to your family (and extended family!) back home.
Unfortunately, gift giving means you need to prepare your pocket because this will surely eat up a big chunk in your salary. You always feel the urge to make up for the lost time that you should’ve spent with your family. Still, does this mean you should go bankrupt just to send something back home?
The answer is no. It will take you a lot of discipline and strict budgeting skill, but you can still make everyone happy during Christmas without compromising your financial future – or that of your family’s.
Here’s what you need to do and remember when it comes to gift giving:
Tip No. 1: Make a list.
This is the first thing you need to do when it comes to gift-giving. OFWs are always obliged to give the entire barangay something, even if it’s just one bar of chocolates per family. Before you shop for Christmas gifts, make sure you know who to give gifts to – and the best way to do this is by making a list. This will serve as your guide during the holidays.
Tip No. 2: Set up a budget.
Aside from making a list, you also need to set up a budget.
Christmas is a season of giving, but this doesn’t mean you need to spend every centavo you have. Set up a budget for each recipient to guide you on your spending. This way, you can check the amount of money you are willing to spend (preferably not all of your income and savings, combined) versus how much you can save.
If the gift is below your intended project, then good. Still, don’t use the extra amount of money you have to buy something that won’t last.
Tip No. 3: It’s not always about the material things.
New shoes, clothes, perfume, and gadgets – these are the usual contents of your balikbayan boxes. Does your family really need all of them when you just bought them the same items months ago?
Keep in mind that gift-giving is not always about material things. We understand that this is your way of showing how much you love them because you cannot be physically present in their lives, but this doesn’t mean spoiling everyone with things that don’t last. Focus more on intentional gift giving.
READ: Meaningful Gift Ideas to Give this Christmas
Tip No. 4: Stick to people who truly matters.
Again, don’t feel obligated to give gifts to everyone. You’re not Santa Claus and you only have so much money to spend because you will need it for more important things.
Therefore, give gifts to those who truly matters to you – family, closest friends who helped you get through life overseas, relatives who genuinely helped you and your family while you’re away, and an understanding boss who knows what you’re going through. Unless you want to run for office or a position in an organization, only give gifts you are genuinely closest to.
Tip No. 5: Always start early.
Christmas season can be overwhelming. Prices tend to be higher during the holiday because people are willing to pay regardless of the price. Before all the rush happens, make sure you start early. Plan your shopping trips ahead instead of wrestling your way with people in the malls.
Are you ready to go Christmas shopping?