How to survive the January money slump
You do not have to experience another broke January like in previous years.
Katlego Sekhu
With the right planning and smart budgeting, January does not have to turn into a month of stress and financial regret. A little intention in December can make all the difference and help you start the new year feeling in control, not overwhelmed.
Here are two effective budgeting frameworks from Dave Ramsey that can help you avoid the January money slump.
1. Zero Based Budget
Give every rand an assignment.
This is Dave Ramsey’s core budgeting philosophy and it works especially well during December, when spending tends to spiral.
How it works
You plan your budget so that every rand of your income is allocated before the month begins, whether it goes towards expenses, savings or debt. At the end of the month, your income minus your expenses equals zero.
How to apply it in December to protect January
Start by listing your January fixed expenses first, including rent or bond payments, transport, school fees, groceries and data.
Set this money aside before allocating anything to December extras.
Create specific December categories such as gifts, food, travel and entertainment, each with a clear spending limit.
Once a category is spent, you stop spending in that area.
Why it works
This approach removes guesswork and impulse spending. December stops being a free for all and becomes a planned month that does not sabotage your January finances.
2. The Envelope System
This system is especially effective for controlling festive spending and avoiding overspending on credit cards or store accounts.
How it works
You divide your budget into categories and assign physical or digital envelopes with set amounts for each one. Spending is limited to what is inside each envelope.
How to use it in December
Create envelopes for high-risk categories such as gifts, groceries, outings, petrol and entertainment.
Withdraw cash or set digital wallet limits to reflect those amounts.
Keep a separate envelope labelled “January essentials” and do not touch it.
Once a December envelope is empty, spending stops, no exceptions.
Why it works
The envelope system creates a clear psychological boundary. You physically see your money leaving, which forces more conscious spending decisions and reduces reliance on credit
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