A Letter To Zimbabwe from Mama Santa

Of the 25 % tax and cash shortages, you would think Christmas this year should be canceled. Is it possible?  I wish!!! With our income cut in more than half with the US dollar to bond rate. There is a need to make sacrifices and learn to live on a tight budget.

Christmas is an expensive time of year. From gifts to decorations, parties, food, travel and other costs. The holidays can really throw your financial plans off course. So, to prevent yet another Christmas where you spend money that you don’t have, here are ideas on how to enjoy on a shoestring budget whilst avoiding debt.

US dollar price tags - yet you receive bond notes which is a strain already, keep it simple. Sit down and figure out your income versus expenses, find out how much flexible spending money there is, have a slow spending Christmas and finally “live within your means.”

Family gatherings are a life saver this Christmas. I know they come with drama and stress, you have to put up with that noisy aunt or cousin, but hear me out. Spend time with your loved ones on a low budget. Assign expenses which will certainly lead you in the right direction. Small measures like using the oven when necessary, buying a chicken carcass instead of cutlets and minimizing driving frequency are important to avoid January disease woes.

Play a gift game. It is a fun way to spend time as a family and save a couple of dollars in your bank account or mobile app. Cash is now a privilege for the autocracy. It is an easy way to save, that way, you will only have to shop for one person. This simplifies shopping expectations as well as your budget.

Remember fun is free. In as much as we might be in the deep end, there is no stipulation that you have to spend money you don’t have this holiday season. Use what you have, unwind, have fun and enjoy.