SIX tips to stretch your December SALARY to end of ‘Januworry’

Most salaried employees in South Africa will have a hard time making their December salary last all the way to the end of ‘Januworry’. But if you show restraint and follow a few of these expert tips this festive season, you’ll make it to the end of ‘Januworry’ no problem.

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The vast majority of South Africa’s salaried employees were paid last week Thursday 14 December 2023, ahead of the end-of-year shutdown. Excellent, you may think to yourself, just in time for the Rugby World Cup and Day of Reconciliation long weekend.

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END OF ‘JANUWORRY’

Needless to say, but your December salary has got mighty far to go to get to the end of ‘Januworry’. The last day of January 2024 falls on a Wednesday. That’s SEVEN weeks. And unless you want to blow through that thirteenth cheque (assuming you’re lucky enough to receive one) and get no tangible benefit from it, here are some expert tips.

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1. LIFE CARRIES ON

According to a psychology expert from Netcare, Zipho Mhlongo, it’s important to acknowledge that life continues on beyond the festive season. With the same expenses and responsibilities depending on your December salary. This is an important mindset to maintain over the festive season.  

2. WANTS VS. NEEDS

We love to indulge and reward ourselves and our loved ones at the end of the year with presents. But to reach the end of ‘Januworry’ unscathed you must considering what you want versus the things you need. Do you really need that new expensive plaything? If you are going to spend money, make them practical purchases.

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3. BUDGET FOR THE YEAR

Rather than waste money, December is a great time to take a look at your budget and plan ahead into 2024. Set goals for things you want to achieve fiscally in the New Year, then set concrete plans you can work towards.

4. HOLIDAY ON A BUDGET

Making it to the end of ‘Januworry’ in good shape means going easy this festive season. No easy task when friends and family come together. However, a memorable summer does not have to cost an arm and a leg. There are plenty of cost-effective ways to holiday: Visit the beach, enjoy the beauty of nature and stay away from shopping malls for goodness sake.

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5. LOOK OUT FOR SPECIALS

Spend less on Christmas gifts this year. Set a budget cap within your friend and family circle. Better still, play Secret Santa where you draw a name out of hat and only need to purchase one gift in secret. If a loved one wants something special, shop around and get the best deal.   

6. BE WATCHFUL

To reach the end of ‘Januworry’ in one piece, keep any unforeseen expenses to a minimum. This means accidents, hospital or vet visits afterhours. Similarly, criminal activity tends to increase around this time of year, so secure your home if you go on holiday and be watchful on the roads. These are some of the ways you can make it SEVEN weeks on one salary.

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Do you think you’ll make it to the end of ‘Januworry’? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.