Hey friend,
I get it. The Target holiday aisles are already calling your name, Amazon deals are popping up, and somewhere in your mind, you’re making that mental list of who’s getting what this year.
But before you start swiping that credit card (or worse—opening a new store card for that “extra 15% off”), we need to talk about something those cheerful holiday commercials never mention…
The real cost of holiday debt.
Let’s do some quick math they don’t want you to see:
Say you put $2,000 worth of gifts on a credit card this season. Seems reasonable, right? Maybe even modest compared to what others spend.
At an average 19.99% APR with $50 minimum payments, here’s what actually happens:
- You’ll be paying for this Christmas until the summer of 2029.
- You’ll pay $2,797 total.
- That’s $797 in interest—money that could’ve gone toward your goals.
That $40 sweater for your sister? It really cost $56. Those toys for the kids? Add 40% to every price tag.
But here’s what hurts even more than the interest:
January through March are already the hardest months financially. The celebrations fade, the bills arrive, and life still costs money. Starting the new year behind means your other goals—like building that emergency fund, planning a family vacation, or finally paying off debt—get pushed back even further.
Holiday debt doesn’t just cost money—it costs peace, progress, and momentum.
So, what can you do differently this year?
1. Get brutally honest about your number.
Before you buy a single thing, decide your total holiday budget. Not the “hopeful” one—the real one that fits what’s in your account and what you can afford without undoing your progress.
2. Remember: You can’t buy love.
No amount of presents will make someone love you more. No gift will fix a strained relationship. The people who truly care about you don’t need you to go into debt to prove it. If overspending feels like “love,” it might actually be fear disguised as generosity.
3. Ask the joy vs. regret question.
Before each purchase, pause and ask: “Will this bring lasting joy—or will I regret it when the bill arrives?” If you hesitate, that’s your answer.
4. The best gift you can give? Your financial stability.
Your kids don’t need the newest toy nearly as much as they need a parent who isn’t stressed about money. Your family needs your peace more than another present under the tree.
I know this isn’t the “festive” message the stores want you to hear—but I care more about your financial freedom than their sales goals. You’ve worked too hard to start the year in a hole.
If you want help creating a simple, joyful holiday spending plan that actually works, that’s exactly what we do in coaching. Let’s make sure this is the last year you dread January.
Cheering for you always,
Jenny CiotoMoney & Life Coach | pursuingtruenorth.co
P.S. Feeling anxious about how you’ll afford the holidays? That’s not a sign you need to spend more—it’s a sign you need a new plan. Reply to this email, and let’s create one together.
See you next week!
