Everything Counts | Episode 37: How to avoid overspending during the festive season

Feeling like your December budget melts faster than an ice cream in the sun? You’re not alone; even the most disciplined savers lose control when the festive season hits. In this episode of Everything Counts, Motheo Khoaripe sits down with Investec financial advisor Nirvashni Rajkumar to unpack why we overspend in December, how festive marketing and emotions cloud our judgment, and the practical steps you can take right now to avoid a financial hangover in January. From understanding the psychology behind “DeZemba,” to making your 13th cheque last, and setting a realistic December budget the whole family can get behind. This conversation is packed with real-world strategies to help you celebrate without regret. If you want to end the year with clarity, avoid holiday overspending, and start the next one strong, you’re in the right place. 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Why are we prone to overspending during the holiday season? 03:00 How festive marketing drives holiday season spending 04:00 The psychology of holiday spending 06:00 When should we start budgeting for December? 07:00 Planning for holiday season spending isn’t a one-person job 08:15 How your financial advisor can help with your December budget 10:00 How to make your 13th cheque last: Confronting financial vulnerabilities 14:00 Top tips to avoid blowing your December budget 15:00 Setting a realistic December budget 18:00 Teaching children about delayed gratification 19:00 Hacks to getting the most out of your holiday season spending 23:00 How to plan and budget for the year ahead 26:30 How to end the year with financial clarity 27:30 Conclusion Investec Focus Radio SA