🍂Holiday Edition - Protect Your Coins This Season


Wealth and Wisdom
Monday's

I can celebrate, show up, and enjoy this season without draining my peace OR my pockets.


This time of year, has all of us out here making decisions we would NEVER make in July.

Something about twinkly lights, warm food, and a 75%-off email at 2am turns perfectly rational adults into: “I wasn’t planning on buying this… but what if I need it one day?”

It’s okay. We’ve all been there. But this year? We’re doing it differently.

🌟Here’s what we mean:
Holiday spending isn’t just swiping a card. it’s identity, belonging, tradition, family dynamics, “I don’t want to look cheap,” and “I want to treat myself because it’s been a YEAR.”
But here’s your coaching nugget:
Overspending is usually a sign that you’re trying to meet an emotional need, not a financial one.

Dollars and Sense

Picture this:

You walk into a store “just to look,” and instantly the holiday playlist hits you in the chest like a memory from 2004.


Next thing you know, you’re holding a basket full of candles, matching pajamas, and a blender you don’t even have counter space for.

What happened? Not lack of discipline. Your emotions made the purchase before your budget ever got a vote.

So, here’s the shift:
Instead of trying to fight emotional spending, plan for your emotional spending. Give it boundaries, not guilt.

The Holiday Spending Triangle 🔺

A simple tool to stop impulse buys BEFORE they start.

Next time you go to buy something, ask:


“Which corner of the triangle is making this purchase?”

  1. Comfort — “I’m tired, stressed, and this feels like a treat.”
  2. Connection — “I want to show love or not feel left out.”
  3. Comparison — “Everybody else is doing it… I should too.”

Once you name the corner, choose a response:

- If it’s Comfort:

Do I need rest or relief more than I need the item? Try a free comfort first: nap, music, bath, walk.

- If it’s Connection:

Would the person love this gift… or would they rather just spend time with me?
(95% of the time, it’s the second one.)

- If it’s Comparison:

Ask: “Is this aligned with MY goals or someone else’s expectations?”

This little pause can save your wallet AND your peace.


IG is Where We Get into the Good Stuff.

From budgeting hacks to “don’t let that sale play you” reminders, Instagram is where we drop the in-the-moment guidance you can use while you’re literally standing in the store aisle. Join us so you don’t miss out.


Hit reply and tell me: Which corner of the Spending Triangle catches you the most this time of year (Comfort, Connection, or Comparison)?

I read and respond to every message personally!

Until next time,

LaQueshia Clemons

Financial Therapist, AFC®, LCSW

Founder, Freedom Life Therapy

860-517-4352

www.freedomlifetherapy.com

101 Centerpoint Drive, Suite 214, Middletown, CT 06457


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