SHOPPING WITHOUT DROPPING: FIVE HELPFUL HINTS

DOLLARS AND SENSE

by Joe Plemon 

Memo to those of you who have already completed your Christmas shopping:  “This column is not for you”.  I think you are awesome and I tip my hat to you, but you need read no further. 

For the rest of us procrastinators (yes, I am one), take a deep breath and chill.  The following five tips will help you to not only survive, but thrive as you shop:

1. Plan before you buy.  Make a list and check it twice.  Know exactly who you will be buying for and how much you will spend on each.   From there, make a list of possible gifts within the price parameters. 
2. Prioritize.  In making your list, you may discover that you simply don’t have enough money to buy gifts for everyone.  Some people may get cards instead of gifts this year.
3. Listen and remember.  People drop hints and if you can act on those hints, you will take some guesswork out of shopping and pleasantly surprise the recipients.  If you don’t have a clue what to buy, just ask.  Most people would rather receive what they want even if it isn’t a surprise.
4. Use cash.  You know how much you can afford.  Get that money in cash, put it in an envelope and take it with you when you shop.  Remember: when the envelope is empty, you are done, so if you spend extra on Uncle George, you will have to spend less on Aunt Lucy.  Leave your credit cards at home.
5. Enjoy the spirit of the season.  Smile at the harried check out clerk.   Open the door for the woman with a full cart and three small children.  Say “Merry Christmas” a lot.  Give to the Salvation Army bell-ringer and thank her for volunteering.  As you make the season better for others, you will enjoy it more yourself.