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With the busy lives we lead, December can be a stressful time with additional work deadlines, social commitments, decorating your home, incessant sales and spending.  It is easy to get overwhelmed, whether your financial circumstances are such that you have no money beyond your basic living expenses, have over extended early to take advantage of the continuous sales or have other commitments.  Perhaps we can learn from the Grinch’s quote “Maybe Christmas, the Grinch thought, doesn't come from a store.”  Below are ideas that may help you think outside of the box to relieve your financial stress during the hectic season.

1. Gifts not from the store. If you think back, some of the nicest gifts that you received may not have come for a store. It may have been a family heirloom or decoration, homemade craft, gift card for a cooked meal or even an offer to help around the home.  One of the nicest gifts I received was a recipe book prepared by my mother with handwritten family recipes filed in a photo album.  The costs of these gifts are nominal in comparison to the store-bought gifts yet have a personalized touch that is priceless.
2. Turn down the lights. BC Hydro indicated in a recent Vancouver Sun article that hydro usage rates have gone up 7.5% in the past seven years, despite the switch to the more energy efficient LED lights and after adjustment for the population increase.  Reducing the size of the outdoor light display or restricting the time the lights are shown will reduce your overall utility bill.
3. Name drawing or price limits for gifts. You might try to suggest that your family draw names or set price limits if this is not already something you practice. Trying to purchase gifts for the entire family and friends can be daunting, particularly if you are in a blended family after a  marital separation.  Although most people prefer to purchase for the younger family members, you may find that suggesting a draw to purchase a gift for a single family member or even a price limit for the gifts is often welcomed.   Others may be feeling the same financial pressure but afraid to speak up.
4. Pot luck meals or altering locations. If you are planning the family dinners at your home, the family and friends can be asked to bring a dish or beverage. Most people will be happy to help if they have not already offered.  It is also nice if you set a tradition to alter who hosts the event each year.
5. Take control of your expenses. The holiday season can be a time of excess eating, entertainment and spending.  Many people recognize the need to exercise or cut back on their diets after the season.  This same philosophy should extend to your budget.  Interest rates have been rising.  If you have over extended on your spending, take the first step to take control by reviewing your budget and setting a goal to pay off any balances owing as soon as possible.