Ayanda Ndimande, Business Development Manager at Sanlam Credit Solutions, says the South African Depression and Anxiety Group estimates a third of all South Africans are burnt out. Moreover, Sanlam’s Benchmark Survey this year shows 80% of South Africans worry about their finances daily, contributing to year-end fatigue and financial stress. “Year-end fatigue can make seek retail therapy relief right as sales season ramps up. Dealing with stress through increased spending is not the answer.”

Counselling psychologist Sanam Naran agrees: “If we want to improve our financial confidence and overall wellbeing, we’ll do well to understand our emotional spending habits and consider the value of getting qualified professionals to support us.”

Ndimande says the answer to navigating the realities of the holiday season, starts with an honest review of what we can afford and then putting a plan in place which enables us to stay within those parameters.

Ndimande says financial confidence is linked to understanding our financial reality and managing our finances. Educating ourselves and reaching out to the right people for qualified financial advice and supportive credit coaching, can help us live our best lives. “There’s a great sense of confidence that comes from knowing that you’re managing your money responsibly. Then debt doesn’t feel overwhelming, and a summer holiday break doesn’t have to be a looming financial stressor.”