Summary of this article
Plan budgets, prioritise essentials, avoid financial FOMO.
Focus on experiences, celebrate Navratri without overspending.
Creative, budget-friendly ideas keep celebrations fun, affordable.
Browsing through stories and reels gives the impression that everyone is partying in style. Garba nights, outfit hauls, and holiday treats fill you with pressure to spend. Pressure can easily convert to financial FOMO or the fear of missing out, where you feel compelled to keep up with what others are doing. Fun, though, does not always come with a cost. Remember that social media tends to highlight the best, not the fact that there are bills in the background.
Plan Your Budget Before the Fun
Begin with a list of essentials such as clothes, shoes, snacks, and tickets. Invest money per category and adhere to it as much as possible. Monitor expenditure with an easy app or even a list of notes. Outfit rentals, exchanges with friends, or second-hand shopping is a trendy and budget-friendly way of celebrating. Accessories from street stalls, local markets, thrift stores, or online shops can add to your ensemble without draining your purse. A little advance planning takes the reins and reduces impulsive purchases.
Spend Smart, Not Fast
Digital transactions make paying quick and convenient, and they can encourage you to make impulsive purchases. Take a moment before you click the 'pay' button and wonder whether you truly need it. This simple practice can prevent you from getting into debt or feeling guilty about a purchase later. Treat your wallet as part of the party too, financially healthy for your own sake is a victory in itself.
Experiences Over Materials
Rather than indulging in various outfits or costly treats, invest in a couple of experiences that are closest to your heart. Choose one or two garba nights that get you pumped up, have a few friends over at home for a mini dance practice, or attempt making your own decorations. Experiences are long-lasting and usually less expensive than keeping up with every trend. You will have something to tell people about without feeling guilty of having spent too much money.
Turn Budgeting Into Fun
Budgeting doesn't have to be tough. Challenge yourself to remain trendy, creative, and festive within a set amount. Exchange ideas with friends, challenge one another to the most hip look or decorating scheme on a budget, and make financial discipline a game. This keeps the spirit alive and your finances intact.
