Introduction

We've all experienced it… the undeniable allure of post-Christmas sales.

No sooner has Christmas wrapped up for the year than the frenzy of Boxing Day Sales descends upon us. Every store window beckons, and our inboxes overflow with promises of unbeatable discounts.

But before you indulge in some festive leftovers and make a beeline for the air-conditioned wonderland of sales, let's take a moment to pause and ponder...

Introduction

The days leading to Christmas, holidays and celebrations are exciting, frenetic times. They’re a whirl of parties and social engagements, gifts and food to be purchased and travel arranged. The rush to get things organised builds into a great festive crescendo then…well, it’s over.

If you’ve ever awoken on New Year’s Day feeling a tad flat, you’re not alone. Don’t beat yourself up; the Post-Christmas Blues is a well-documented condition.

Introduction

Just as the Grinch stole Christmas, excess spending can rob us all of yuletide happiness. Seasonal credit card splurges can create ballooning long term debt, while unnecessary consumption inevitably leads to a blow-out in rubbish bin waste.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia estimates $11 billion is spent on presents each year, including some 20 million unwanted gifts. At the same time, seasonal celebrations boost landfill rubbish by a massive 30 per cent.

Introduction

When we get to the end of another year, we often feel the stress and events of the last 12 months weigh on us. As we head into the holiday season, the overwhelming pressure and stress of spending can take a toll.

You don't need to keep up with the Jones' at Christmas, or any other time of the year

We live in a world driven by consumerism. New smartphones are released every year or two, the temptation to upgrade to a fancier car when your current lease ends lingers and our social media feeds, while sometimes a source of inspiration, can tend to celebrate material possessions.

Introduction

Summer and the festive season is a time we all look forward to, representing, balmy evenings, relaxing holidays and social get-togethers. Like a beacon on the horizon, it provides something to aim for as we work, play and navigate our way through twelve, long months.

Our modern world is busier and more stressful than ever, and for many the holidays, also represent a time when feelings of isolation, worries over work, finances and family conflicts, seem intensified. A time when more families than ever seek the assistance of charities.

Introduction

Move over debit and credit cards; consumers are flocking to Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services. Afterpay, Zip Pay and several similar payment solutions allow shoppers to take home their goodies now while paying them off via a few weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments. There’s no interest payable as such, although fees are charged for late payments.

Introduction

Ever dreamed of a white Christmas? While there’s something so very Australian about a sweltering southern-hemisphere celebration, the lure of snow and mulled wine is something else again.

Imagine the scene: horse-drawn sleigh, pink-cheeked children, fir trees and snow – Christmas card stuff!

But there’s more to a European Christmas than that – and it’s pure magic! We could write a book about these magical places but as we’re limited by space, here is a sampling of three.

Introduction

A new year is a time to look forward and plan new ventures and goals. But why does the New Year start in January? It hasn’t always been this way. So, where did our calendar originate?

Introduction

Another year has swiftly vanished into history. How were the past 12 months for you? Did you make the changes you’d planned or did your resolve for something different this year peter out by February? Don’t worry, there’s another 12 months ready and waiting for you!

If you’re not happy with the way your life is playing out, here are a few steps to help you take a whole new direction.

Introduction

These days Christmas appears to be more of a retail festival than a religious event, and while it can be a season of joy for many, it is a time of stress or loneliness for others.

If the ‘Xcesses of Xmas’ have been getting you down, or if you just want to shake up your usual routine, here are some ideas to help you re-write the rules, create a new meaning or start a new tradition for doing Christmas Day your way.

Introduction

From early November retailers have been telling us what we can’t live without and what our kids must have if they are to still love us on Christmas Day. It’s easy to get caught up in the momentum. Of course, the downside is you end up with the post-Christmas blues when the credit card statements arrive. This may mean that wealth plans get scrapped because you have to pay off the debt first.

Introduction

It seems to arrive earlier and earlier every year. Just when you thought Christmas was only weeks ago, suddenly it’s only weeks away! While children count down the days, Christmas for many adults can be a difficult time.

The stress involved in organising and preparing meals, buying gifts or arranging a Christmas party can have the opposite effect to what most of us would like to achieve at this time of year. And the financial anxiety that can eventuate when credit card bills arrive in January can be a most unwelcome reminder.

The good thing is that you get another chance each year to do things differently so you can have a different and much better Christmas this time around. Here are some ideas: