How can you enjoy a relaxing and affordable holiday season?

1. Create a December budget

A budget helps you keep track of your spending and prevents you from spending more than you want to. It's very easy to get started:

• Write down the maximum amount you want to spend on gifts. For example, you can agree on a maximum amount with the people you are celebrating the holidays with.
• Consider which holidays you celebrate and what you need for them.
• Set aside money for unexpected expenses

Many people like to keep track of their expenses on their phone. Nibud and Geldfit also have very useful tips and tools that you can use for this purpose.

2. Save smartly on gifts

Gifts don't have to be expensive to be enjoyable. Personal gifts or experiences are often much more valuable.

Consider:

• Exchanging or swapping gifts
• Homemade gifts
• Secondhand gifts

Many people buy too much in December because they think they "have to." But that's not necessary. Agree together that it can be small.

3. Celebrate the holidays in a smart way

It doesn't have to cost a lot to have fun.

Examples of what you can do:

• Cook together, with everyone bringing something
• Take a winter walk
• A game or movie night
• Make your own decorations

4. Save on energy

Because it is often colder in December, the heating is turned on sooner. This increases your energy bill. However, there is an easy way to save money:

• Turn the heating down by one degree
• Take shorter showers. You can use a timer for this, for example.
• Put on warm clothes

5. Think about yourself too, and take breaks when you need them.

December is fun, but also busy. Both at work and at home.

Watch out for these signs:

• You get tired more quickly
• You are less enthusiastic about your work
• You feel rushed
• You worry more
• You have less concentration

If you recognize this, it is wise to intervene.

The free training course "Less stress, more energy" can help you with this by:

• Daily short assignments via an app
• Understanding stress signals
• Weekly video calls with a personal coach
• Tips for recharging your battery

The training is designed to fit easily into your daily life. It only takes 15 minutes a day, making it easy to combine with work and the busy December month.

6. Keep track with Budget Coaching

Do you find December a difficult month financially and are you worried about your finances? Doorzaam offers free help to temporary workers with Budget Coaching. With Budget Coaching, you work with a coach to gain insight into your income and expenses, and you receive advice on how to save money. This will help you get through the holidays with greater peace of mind.

At Doorzaam, we help you stay healthy, safe, and skilled at work, even during the busy month of December.

December doesn't have to be an expensive or stressful time of year. With smart choices and a little preparation, you can keep control of your finances and yourself. That way, you can enjoy the holidays without any worries.