As the holidays approach each year, it can be tempting to overspend, and often we find ourselves falling into debt to help others be happy.  The pursuit of making our friends and family happy is certainly a good one, but if we can find ways to save money while we are at it, we can be happy and secure even while our family and friends are satisfied and excited about their own successes. Here are a few tips to help you save this holiday season:

1. The first thing you should do is set a budget for yourself.  Once you have a budget, you will be able to determine who you will be buying gifts for, and how much you can spend on each of them.  Once you have a budget, stick to it!
2. Make gifts.  Whether you make cookies for your neighbors, or put together pillow cases or pajamas for friends on your list, you can save money and impress your loved ones by making some of your gifts rather than buying them at the store.
3. Spend the holidays trying to build a focus on love, by keeping this focus, you can remove the frenzy for money spending, and build your relationships instead.  Whatever holiday you celebrate, this is the time to show your love to your closest family and friends.

This holiday season, make your happiness, and the happiness of those you, love a priority, and show your love without breaking the bank.  You will be surprised of the difference it makes to take the focus away from money, and strive to build closer and more full relationships. 

photo credit: Isaac Torrontera via photopin cc