As a 28-year-old with student loans and a public-sector job, I often find myself in a financial bind. After covering monthly bills like student loans, rent in Brooklyn, groceries, and phone, I'm left with very little between paychecks. While I'm not poor, I definitely feel broke most of the time. This time of year, it becomes even harder as many of my friends seem to be getting bonuses and raises.

Overcoming Holiday Financial Woes with Practical Advice

Understanding the Holiday Financial Gap

You're not alone in feeling the strain during the holiday season. It's a time when the gap between our desires and our finances widens. There's this societal pressure to participate in all the fun and festivities, but it's not always easy when money is tight. Many of us find ourselves at home in our sweatpants, wondering how others can afford it all. But remember, it's not about having a lot of money; it's about making the most of what we have.

Just like in my own life, with student loans and a public-sector job, I often have to make tough choices. But that doesn't mean we can't enjoy the holidays. It's about finding creative ways to participate in the two best activities of December: hanging out with people and eating and drinking.

Setting a Holiday Budget

Trying to spend as little as possible or nothing at all will only lead to disappointment. It's better to set a specific budget and stick to it. After paying the necessary bills, look at what's left over and enjoy yourself within that limit. It could be $20 to spend at a holiday market, $15 on a bottle of wine, or $10 on cookie ingredients.

Your holiday budget is not a reflection of your life choices. What you deserve and what you can afford are two separate things. Don't let your bank balance detract from the good things in your life. Use this budget as a guide to have fun without overspending.

Taking a Break from Social Media and Certain People

During the holiday season, social media is flooded with advertising and promotions, making it difficult to resist the urge to buy. If you need to, take a break from social media for a while. Shield your eyes from the aggressive promotions and gift guides.

Also, consider stepping away from certain friends who only want to do expensive things. You don't know their financial situation, and they may have their own struggles. Plan to meet up with them in January when the pressure is off.

Planning Cheap (or Free) Gatherings

Your friends will appreciate your efforts to plan cheap or free gatherings. Instead of going out for expensive cocktails, coordinate with your roommates to decorate cookies. Buy a roll of slice-and-bake cookie dough and ask your friends to bring toppings. It's a fun and inexpensive activity that everyone can enjoy.

You can also make mulled wine by buying a cheap bottle of wine and heating it up with sugar and spices. Or host a pajama movie night with your friends, like I do. These gatherings are often more fun because there's no pressure to spend money.

Having a Conversation with Family about Christmas Gifts

The gifting industrial complex can be tough to navigate, but it's important to talk to your loved ones about your budget. Consider pitching a familywide Secret Santa or asking people what they want before buying gifts.

Instead of buying tangible things, think about gifting joint activities or services. Offer to help your loved ones with chores like cleaning out a closet or organizing their pantry. Your time and company are valuable gifts.

Allowing Yourself to Be Annoyed

It's normal to feel annoyed about not being able to afford certain things. But remember, it's not your fault. Society makes us feel like it's our problem, but it's not. Someday, you may be able to afford the things you want, but for now, it's okay to be grumpy.

Learn to sit with the feeling of disappointment and know that you'll be just fine. Use this as an opportunity to focus on the things that really matter.

Finally, pick one thing you want to do differently next year. It could be saving up for Uber rides or buying a party outfit. These small goals become more achievable when you take a long-term view.