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Dropping a few hundred (or thousand) dollars can be easy to do over the holiday season. Between now and the start of 2011 there are a lot of events taking place that will require money. Do you have enough?

Here are some tips so you have enough cash over the next few months:

• Estimate how much you will need from now through New Year’s Day. For the holidays you may be purchasing gifts, food, decorations and have some travel expenses. For New Years you may need money for a new outfit, night club entry, dinner and transportation. Make sure you have enough money by listing the items you want to buy and how much they cost.

• Next, create a plan so you are able to afford those items. Create a budget to determine your current expenses and figure out how much you need to save to make those purchases. Check out Mint.com for free budget software.
   
• Determine your pay over the holiday period. A lot of people forget to factor a change in their income over this period and an extra day or two off without pay can impact your plan.
   
• The final step is simple - work your plan. Then you can go have fun on New Year’s Eve and afford those things you want over the holiday season.
   

Check out this video with skateboard legend Greg Lutzka as he discusses how money skills are helping him build his business. Interview by Malcolm McCassy of Ethika.

Filed under: Money XLive • Money XLive