It's Christmas time again; be jolly but plan and temper your spending.
1 Plan: Make careful preparations. Plan your trips well. Avoid the traffic. Plan your shopping activities.
2 Budget: There is a lot of temptation to spend. The malls are decorated, carols are playing and the place is buzzing with activity. All of these things are intended to entice and induce us to spend more money. Many persons get carried away with spending. Before you leave home make a list of the things you really need to buy and be very disciplined and stick to your list.
3 Manage those credit cards: This is the time many persons go berserk with their credit cards. If you have a weakness put aside some of those cards; use only in emergency or to purchase budgeted items. Remember, you must be very clear as to how you will pay the credit card bills. The interest on credit cards is very high.
4 Think before you act: There is the temptation to do costly renovations and to purchase furniture and appliances at this time of the year. Think carefully. Ask yourself if it is 'a want' or 'a need'. Make a list of the things you want to get done and prioritise. You do not have to achieve everything before Christmas. Decide on the things that you can leave behind for later.
5 Be vigilant: We all have to be careful at this time of the year. Pay attention to security at home. Be vigilant in crowded places such as the bank, the malls and other public places.
6 Pay attention to your diet: Oh, there is a party every day and almost everywhere; it is easy to be caught up with excessive eating at this time. Socialise, if you wish, but watch your diet.
7. Be temperate in all things: Let moderation be your guide at this time of the year.
8. Accept your powerlessness: Especially at this time of the year, you will never be able to get everything done, you will never be able buy everything. Enjoy yourself. 'Tis the season to be jolly.
Dr. Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and head, Section of Psychiatry, Dept. of Community Health and Psychiatry, University of the West Indies; email: yourhealth@gleaner jm.com.
