Daniel Sampayo

Each year as the year nears towards the end, people are the happiest. A time to go back home, be on holiday, go on vacation, and enough time available for leisure. However, it is also a time which poses a threat on our safety, finances and robs us of valuable time to do productive things. They say your greatest friend can be your greatest enemy.

The festive season is believed to be a time for leisure, getting together with family and friends. This enjoyment, if not monitored, can be very critical to harm us in different ways – as the saying goes; “Too much of everything is not good.”  We get very excited that it blinds us not to watch our spending habits – all savings throughout the year are spent during this period. Festive seasons are often packed with many exciting events. An average person often attends all of the events in place; just in the name of fun. We also have the so-called Black Friday. This day can be both a good and bad day. Of course, there will be bargains almost in every shop.

We all like it when prices are low. Yet, we have to be mindful of what we buy. This is a time to ask ourselves the different questions. Can I buy it or not? And do I need it, or want it? If the answer is, you need it, then go ahead and buy it. On the other hand, if you just want it, then it’s better not to buy it. Most of us get tempted to buy things we don’t necessarily need. Listen to what Dave Ramsey said, “We buy things we don’t need with money we don’t have to impress people we don’t like.” If something costs less, it does not necessarily mean you have to buy it.

Remember, this is the time for business people to make substantial profits, which is a great thing. So, what about us consumers? The answer is, it’s a time to spend more. Often recklessly, which in my opinion is a bad thing. We should also think of doing something that ought to benefit us in the very same period. Read books, spend time with family, reflect on our goals for the year, watch productive TV programmes, travel to a planned destination, and help other people in the community. The list goes on.

There are always two sides to every situation. For instance, when the rain falls in summer, the farmers get excited because their crops will grow well, and their livestock will have enough food to eat. Whereas you and me celebrate, it’s the best time to sleep well and peacefully. In the end, one side will benefit more than the others will. It’s the same with festive seasons and the cousin Black Fridays. Entrepreneurs are now busy planning leaflets for advertisements while we, consumers, are prepared to spend more, often beyond our budgets. 

In closing, don’t let it be said that after this festive season and Black Friday, you have fallen prey to excessive buying, got yourself into debt, wasted your valuable time on unnecessary activities, and got yourself in dangerous places. Stay grounded. Be content, resist temptations and most importantly, stay safe. The year 2023 awaits you with bountiful opportunities and blessings.