The M-Word: We need to talk about it

The festive season is filled with joy, but also temptation. Specials, social media photos and family expectations can gear us toward emotional spending. We buy gifts to demonstrate our care, splurge on decorations to create a jolly atmosphere and over cater on food because we want to make sure there is more than enough for everyone.

While our intentions may be good, the financial aftermath often is not. Overspending now can lead to debt later, creating a devastating cycle of stress that overshadows the very joy we were trying to create. Identifying these triggers is the first step toward breaking the pattern.

Recognising these emotional triggers helps us pause, reset, and make more intentional choices about how money matters during the festive season.

A good way to begin is to start a financial journal. A little notebook you can use to record your goals, ideas and progress. It is meant to be fun, so add it to your calendar under your ‘get-to’ list (we will get to this later). Write down what you expect to spend money on during the holidays and how much more is it than your normal monthly budget.

Then put a rating next to each in terms of necessity. For example: I expect to spend R2 500 extra on dining out (6/10) and I expect to spend R4 000 on additional petrol traveling to and from my destination (9/10). This simple exercise creates awareness and helps you identify the value assigned to spending. You might discover that some expenses are driven by habit or social pressure rather than genuine need.

With an ever-increasing ‘to-do’ and ‘must-do’ list, we start to lose sight of the ‘get-to’ list. The holiday season often feels like an endless checklist of obligations of 1) buy gifts, 2) attend events, 3) meet deadlines and so on. What if you reframed it? Instead of a ‘must-do’ list, create a ‘get-to’ list.

This subtle shift reminds us that planning and reflection are privileges, not punishments. You get to spend time with loved ones, you get to plan for your financial future and you get to take control of your money mindset.

When you approach money from a place of gratitude and empowerment, the conversation changes. It is no longer about limitations, but rather a well-considered decision. You get to decide what matters most and align your spending with your values.

Here are four simple actions you can take before the year ends:

1. Start your financial journal: Write down your holiday spending expectations and rate each item by necessity (1–10). Awareness is the first step toward control.

2. Set a mini goal for the new year: Choose one financial habit to improve, such as tracking daily expenses or avoiding impulse buys. For example, commit to writing down every purchase for the next two weeks.

3. Book a money conversation: Talk openly with your partner or family about holiday spending limits and financial goals for 2026. These conversations prevent misunderstandings and set shared expectations.

4. Celebrate small wins: Every time you stick to your plan, acknowledge it. Positive reinforcement matters. Treat yourself to something small and meaningful, without breaking the budget.

Before you finish this article, take five minutes to answer these questions:

• What does financial freedom mean to me?
• Which holiday expenses truly bring me joy?
• What is one financial habit I want to change in 2026?
• Writing these down creates clarity and sets the foundation for intentional action.

Read More: How a Higher Certificate in Banking Sparked Leonard’s Success

The end of the year is not just about closing chapters. It is about setting the tone for the next one. Imagine starting new year with clarity instead of regret. By taking control now, you avoid the dreaded “extra-long January” and step into 2026 with confidence.

Financial wellness is not about perfecting your spending habits, but rather progress. Every small decision you make today compounds into bigger results tomorrow. The more you talk about your finances, the more confident and intentional you become.

Do not let stress or social pressure dictate your financial choices over the festive period. Rather make that ‘get-to’ list, start your journal and have those conversations. When you take time to reflect on why money matters to you, these small steps today will set the tone for a financially empowered 2026.

If you are ready to take the next step in understanding why money matters and how to make more confident financial decisions, explore the programmes available at Milpark Education. Whether you are looking to strengthen your financial knowledge or plan, the right education can help turn intention into action.