‘So here it is, Merry Christmas, everybody’s having fun!’ It’s hard to argue with Slade. But we should also listen hard to the line that comes after: ‘Look to the future now, it’s only just begun.’

You’ll find no shortage of money saving tips and financial hints at this time of year. They range from using up your supermarket vouchers to not wastefully overloading the table like one of those ‘happy hundred dining together’ adverts. They say a dog is for life, not just for Christmas, but that could equally apply to financial planning.  I know, it’s not a warming topic in the bleak midwinter, but (these puns are going to keep coming, I warn you) those who are joyful and triumphant in life tend to be those who take more time to consider their financial future, plotting their own timeline and laying plans.

For example, once the last mince pie has been eaten, most of us turn our attention to the coming year’s holiday. For many of us, the annual fortnight away has become a ‘must have’ whatever the financial sacrifice – but these aren’t getting any cheaper. Or what about spending next Christmas abroad – a fairy tale in New York, perhaps, or skiing in a winter wonderland? The only person who can give you that gift is you. So if you need to fund your holiday from regular income, put the money away at the beginning of the month, not at the end when you are relying on leftovers. Treat it as you’d treat the money for a Christmas present – because it is one, both for you and your family.

While we’re still talking (and singing) of Christmas – O little town of Truro, how still we see thee seeking financial advice! (Enough! Ed.) Well, it does appear from Unbiased’s 2014 Advice Map that Truro is, for the second year running, the UK’s number one hotspot for advice seekers. Meanwhile the north of England is notably lagging behind – are they yet to hear the tidings of great joy that professional advice can bring? If you’ve had a good experience with your adviser, why not share that with those around you? Because a proper financial plan really is the gift that keeps on giving.

So have yourself a merry little Christmas – and let your savings grow!

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About the author

Joss started in financial services as a clerk with a bank before moving into financial planning over twenty six years ago. She ran her own business for many years before meeting Tony Conner and the now retired Owen Temple. They set up Eldon in 2002 and haven’t looked back. Eldon Financial Planning is now widely recognised for providing a first-class wealth management service to personal clients.