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Spending Wisely During the Holidays



The Power of Financial Intentionality for Black Women

The holiday season often ushers in a whirlwind of financial demands—gifts, events, travel, and more. For Black women, who usually shoulder significant financial and familial responsibilities, this time of year can become particularly challenging. However, by embracing intentional spending, it is possible to maintain financial wellness without compromising the joy of the season.

Strength:
Mastering Financial Stewardship
Creating a budget is an act of strength. It requires forethought, discipline, and an ability to prioritize what truly matters. Studies suggest that budgeting not only improves financial outcomes but also contributes to overall well-being by reducing stress associated with overspending (Anderson & Strahle, 2021). Use your budget as a tool to make empowered choices, aligning spending with your long-term goals.

Resilience: Resisting Financial Pressure
The holiday season is laden with social and cultural pressures to spend. Advertising often targets women, perpetuating the idea that value is tied to material generosity (Taylor, 2018). For Black women, these expectations can intersect with cultural traditions that emphasize communal giving. Resilience lies in recognizing and resisting these pressures, opting instead for thoughtful, meaningful gifts that reflect care without breaking the bank.

Sparkle: Creative and Thoughtful Giving
Adding sparkle to the season doesn’t have to be expensive. Handcrafted gifts, acts of service, and personalized notes can create lasting memories. Research shows that the emotional impact of a gift often outweighs its monetary value (Zhang et al., 2020). Lean into creativity to make this holiday season special and financially sustainable.


Dr. ReRe



References

  • Anderson, J., & Strahle, R. (2021). Financial literacy and the role of budgeting in reducing holiday spending stress. Journal of Consumer Economics, 34(2), 145-162.
  • Taylor, R. (2018). Gendered advertising and holiday spending patterns: A feminist perspective. Gender & Society, 32(4), 562-579.
  • Zhang, Y., Barkan, R., & Fishbach, A. (2020). The art of meaningful gifts: Psychological impact over monetary value. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 91(3), 102-113.



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