Getting Ready for the ‘Ber Months

FINANCIAL AND WELL-BEING CHECKLIST

Getting Ready for the ‘Ber Months

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In the Philippines, the ‘Ber months usher in the world’s longest Christmas celebration. While many eagerly await this festive season, some find their joy clouded by the rising prices of goods. In fact, Ipsos, a market research company, reported that this inflation affected spending plans last year.

Amidst the festivities, it’s important to ensure your financial health and well-being are in top shape. You can ensure a seamless holiday season with some smart planning. 

In this checklist, we’ll guide you through getting ready for the holiday season while safeguarding your finances and maintaining your well-being.

✅Set a holiday budget 

If there’s one thing to overprepare, that’s your budget. By setting your holiday budget now, you can ease the burden of fixed expenses (mortgage/rent, taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.) and be ready for unexpected ones in the near future. Calculate how much you can comfortably allocate for gifts, decorations, and special meals. Having a clear budget will help you manage your spending and prevent overspending during the festive season. 

✅Grow your ‘Ber months fund

Plan ahead for holiday expenses by saving a portion of your salary throughout the year. You can explore investment options like mutual funds to grow your holiday fund for later use. These strategies guarantee you have the financial resources you need when the festivities kick in. It’s not about the amount, but the act of starting that counts.

✅Prioritize paying off debts 

‘Ber months are a great time to revisit your existing debts and create a manageable repayment plan. Prioritize clearing those outstanding debts to free up funds for your holiday budget. Steer clear of accumulating new debts during this season, especially high-interest ones.

✅Give meaningful gifts

“It’s the thought that counts.” Instead of splurging, focus on meaningful and thoughtful gift-giving. The value of a gift isn’t solely in its price tag but in the sentiment behind it. Get creative with your gifts and emphasize the thought and effort you put into them. 

✅Sneak in a little “me time” 

Don’t let the holiday season overwhelm you. Add self-care practices into your daily routine, such as mindfulness exercises and relaxation techniques, to avoid holiday stress. 

✅Wrap up the year responsibly 

Aside from holiday expenses, wrap up other year-end financial obligations. These may include school fees, taxes, and insurance premiums. Allocate funds for these expenses in your budget to avoid last-minute financial strain.

Getting ready for the ‘Ber months is all about balance. With our checklist in hand, you can enjoy the holidays without compromising your financial health and well-being. Remember, the joy of the season comes creating memorable moments with loved ones. 

Need a boost for your holiday funds? The SAVii Salary Loan is here for you. Enjoy budget-friendly interest rates, flexible payment options, and a stress-free repayment process.