Editorial: Beware of Christmas spend bug

Beware of overspending this Christmas.

As we head into the last few shopping days before Christmas budget advisers no doubt get rather anxious.

They know only too well what the aftermath of over spending can do.

It's so easy to get caught up in the Christmas buzz and spend, spend, spend.

The twin cities are alive with shoppers at the moment and the supermarkets are starting to go crazy.

It's fine to stock up the cupboards if you have guests coming but just remember that they will more than likely contribute. There is no point having 10 bags of chippies and peanuts left in the pantry the following week when you don't have enough money left to buy bread and milk.

As for gifts I'm sure that your relatives and friends would be absolutely mortified if they thought you had gone into debt to buy them gifts.

Or if because you bought them expensive gifts there's no money at the end of the month to pay the power bill.

I know I would be. I'd much rather have nothing or, if the giver feels they must give, I'd be very happy with some home-made biscuits.

It is hard to resist all the temptations at this time of the year. Everywhere you look there are sales, tinsel and delicious looking food.

I think the best way to do your shopping is to make a realistic list and stick to it. Don't be side-tracked or talked into buying something you will regret.

I hope I don't sound like the Christmas grinch, because I'm far from it. I love Christmas - the tree, the decorations, the food, the lights, getting together with family - and yes the giving and receiving of presents.

However, I learned a long time ago that over spending often ends in tears.

-For some financial advice see Liz Koh's column, p20