Why Early Christmas Shopping Can Support Your Mental Health

It seems that every year, shops start to sell Christmas items earlier and earlier.

Clearly, there is a benefit for retailers to do so, but consumers tend to groan when they see Santas in the shops in September. The other day I heard a woman shriek softly as she stumbled upon the Christmas aisle in a supermarket and say, “For goodness’ sake, Halloween has not even been yet.” A sentiment that I am sure many can relate to.

But is the craziness of early Christmas shopping all bad? Or are there actual benefits to consumers to start their Christmas shopping early?

Don’t leave it to the last minute

Worldwide, many people are struggling financially, meaning that Christmas may be viewed as an additional burden on the finances. Americans spend somewhere in the region of just under $900 billion during the Christmas season, and the average person splashes out over $800 on presents.

With such staggering figures, it is not hard to understand that some may not be looking forward to Christmas. However, for people on a shoestring budget, early Christmas shopping may, in fact, be helpful, as it allows them to spread out the cost.

More than 60 percent of Americans buy their gifts a week before Christmas. This means that the expense is condensed to the same month and thus increases the temptation to put it on a credit card, adding additional interest or fees. By starting shopping earlier in the year, you can reduce the risk of giving in to the temptation of using your credit card.

Leaving the Christmas shopping to the last minute can also increase your stress levels, which in turn may lead to feeling grouchy about shopping. This should be avoided, as negative emotions can increase the amount consumers spend.

Take your time

There is no need to rush (especially since it’s a while to Christmas) as most retailers will ensure they have enough stock on offer later in the season. This means that you can compare prices and make sure you pay the lowest possible.

Also, make sure you are not in a rush when you are shopping. Adding as little as just one second to the time you take when considering a purchase will help you make better decisions.

By prolonging the decision-making process, you allow your brain to gather more information. This helps the brain to direct attention to what is important and ignore irrelevant information, such as online banners and in-store displays that can distract you.

Set a budget

Don’t just go shopping without knowing what you can spend. Set a budget, perhaps for each month, or for your entire Christmas expenditures. Make sure you don’t go over it, regardless of how tempting it may be.

Try not to purchase things using a card. Instead, when possible, use cash, as you are more likely to spend more when using a card. People fail to see how much they are actually parting with their money when they use a card.

As credit card debts soar, consumers need to be careful. In the U.S. alone, credit card debts have surpassed $1 trillion, a record high, indicating that people are less careful with their spending.

If you like shopping in-store, you should know that you are more willing to buy products and pay more for them if you touch them. So, try to keep your hands to yourself and avoid picking up products whilst in the store. This can be easier said than done, as many store displays are designed to encourage consumers to pick up the items.

Be creative

Thinking outside the traditional purchasing box can also be helpful. Try buying second-hand gifts, as many find them meaningful. You may even consider making something yourself, as handmade gifts have been found to symbolize love.

Perhaps even try to be creative with the Christmas dinner. Different supermarkets have different offers, and whilst you may always have bought the turkey in one shop, this year, maybe try another, especially if it is cheaper. Or even rethink the turkey altogether and find a festive, fun alternative that is cheaper.

The moral of this Christmas story? Don’t let the crunch steal Christmas, but be sensible and think ahead.