014 – SDP – Budgeting For The Holidays

Budgeting For The HolidaysI covered budgeting in general in Episode 4 of the Surviving Divorce Podcast, but with the holiday season approaching I wanted to revisit it.  I've seen several news articles and blog posts about Black Friday lately and thought I should give you some advice for dealing with the holidays.A Budgeting ReviewMost of us will be worse off financially after a divorce.  A very few of you may be better off but that is definitely not the norm. The rest of you need to:Creat a budget - This a monthly budget that you do every month.  Each month is different and you need to plan in advance how you will spend your moneyAvoid using credit cards - If you don't have the money now you probably won't have it when the bill comes due.Make the tough decisions - you probably can't maintain your pre-divorce lifestyle.  Things like cell phones, cable, etc. may need to be cutHolidays - HalloweenI'm writing this in late October and Halloween is fast approaching.  If this is a holiday you have historically celebrated you may need to adjust your plans for this year.Make costumes for your kidsMake treats to give out or just leave your light offThanksgivingYou may not be able to afford traveling across the country to see family at Thanksgiving.  Have family come to you if possible or be creative and have a Skype Thanksgiving.  Don't have credit card bills from travel expenses come due right before ChristmasChristmasYour kids need you not a pile of gifts. Don't try to make up for not being there by overspending.Create a budget for the holidays including for your gift givingCreate lasting memories by spending time togetherDo NOT get in a gift giving competition with your ex.  It's not good for the kids and will wreck your finances.Wrap-upYou can support the podcast by starting a free trial with Audible.com herePlease consider leaving a review in iTunes if you enjoy the podcast. It will help keep it visible for others to find it.If you'd like to discuss this topic you can leave a comment below and I'll gladly join you.And finally, if you have a question you would like me to address you can leave a message on Listener Feedback Line at 347-433-7664 or email me at [email protected]