Holiday Budgeting 101: 3 Therapist-Approved Tips to Avoid Overspending
- Honest Hour
- Dec 6, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago

Why is it that when the holidays roll around, we suddenly feel pulled to spend money we don’t even have? It’s like a magic spell — one minute we’re budgeting, the next we’re impulse-buying something we hope will make someone feel loved. But here's the truth: your value isn’t measured by how much you spend, and you don’t have to break the bank to make the holidays meaningful.
At Honest Hour, we know holiday stress and money shame go hand in hand — especially for caregivers, first-gen professionals, and BIPOC clients who feel pressure to “get it right.” These therapist-backed shopping tips are here to help you set limits and still show love.
Tip #1: Create a Holiday Shopping Plan
Before hitting the stores or clicking "add to cart", slow down. Walking aimlessly through the aisles with no idea of what you want can lead to impulse buys that go way over your budget. Set a budget limit for each person on your list and decide what kind of gifts you’re giving—experience? physical? homemade?. Pacing yourself protects your peace and your wallet.
Tip #2: Don’t Fall for Marketing Gimmicks
The holiday sales cycle is full of “Buy One Get One” traps that push urgency over intention. If it wasn’t on your list, ask yourself: do I actually need this? Stick to your holiday shopping plan and avoid unnecessary purchases that don't fit your needs. You definitely don’t need 10 pairs of fuzzy socks just because they’re $5 each!
Tip #3: Think Outside the Box
Some of the best gifts don’t come with a big price tag. Jasmine, our financial therapist, once received a $5 adult coloring book with a heartfelt note — and it meant everything. Handwritten letters, personalized playlists, or homemade treats can say “I see you” more powerfully than any big-box item ever could. Thoughtful gifts > expensive ones, every time.
There are so many ways to give with intention this season. You can love your people and protect your peace. You can show up fully and set a budget. And no — you don’t have to earn the holidays by emptying your savings. The best gifts come wrapped in love, not debt.
If you’re looking for more holiday budgeting tips, check out our Financially Savvy Gift Ideas That Won’t Break the Bank for additional ideas on how to make meaningful gifts without stretching your budget.
If you ever need more help navigating budgeting or managing holiday finances, our Financial Therapist, Jasmine, supports high-achieving professionals and BIPOC millennials in navigating financial stress. She offers both In-Network (UMR) and Out-of-Network services in NY & NJ.
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