It is the most anticipated time of the year: Detty December.
From weddings to concerts, beach parties to brunches, December in Nigeria is an entire mood. Everyone wants a “soft life” after a long, stressful year, and to be honest, it is well deserved.
But here’s the truth: while Detty December might be fun, January is waiting. And there’s nothing worse than starting the new year broke, anxious, and regretting how fast that 13th-month bonus disappeared.
The good news? You can still have a great time this December without emptying your account.
Here are ways to enjoy Detty December responsibly and still have money left when the calendar flips to January.
1. Be honest about your finances
Before making decisions about buying those outfits or attending that concert, get realistic about your finances. After covering your essentials like rent, feeding, and savings, how much is left? That amount is what determines your Detty December budget, not your salary or savings or even your bonus.
2. Set a “Detty December” budget
Set a budget and put them into different categories like outfits, food, transport, events, and gifting. Then assign a maximum amount to each.
For example:
Events: ₦70,000
Outfits: ₦40,000
Transportation: ₦40,000
Transport: ₦50,000
Once you hit the limit, stop spending in that category. This will help you track your expenses, ensuring you don’t overspend.
3. Prioritize experiences
Social media will make it look like everyone is outside. But remember, what you see online is often highlights and not the full story. Don’t go broke trying to keep up.
Instead, focus on meaningful experiences:
Spending time with close friends.
Exploring free or affordable events.
Hosting a game night or picnic instead of fancy dinners.
4. Plan for big events in advance
For your concerts, weddings, events, and trips, the hack is planning by booking your tickets in advance. This way, you can take advantage of promotions or any discounts, thereby saving costs.
Concerts, weddings, and trips cost more when you make last-minute plans. Start early—book tickets and accommodation in advance or take advantage of group discounts.
5. Watch out for impulse spending
Sometimes it’s not the big splurges that finish your money but the little things. Uber rides, extra drinks, “just one shawarma,” and impulsive online orders add up quickly.
6. Rewear and restyle your outfits
You don’t need a new outfit for every outing. Social media might say otherwise, but real-life fashion girls know how to restyle. Mix and match pieces you already own. Accessorize differently. Thrift if you can.
7. Earn extra cash before the holidays
Instead of cutting back on having fun due to expenses, look for ways to make more money instead. Start a quick side hustle (hampers, freelancing, baking, thrift selling). You will be surprised how far a little extra income can go toward funding your enjoyment guilt-free.
ALSO READ: 11 Profitable Business Ideas Guaranteed To Make You Money This Christmas
8. Plan for January now
The mistake you make every year is waiting until the end of December or New Year’s Eve to review your finances and think about your goals. Let that change this year.
Before you even start any December enjoyment, make sure January is covered, e.g., rent, school fees, transport, and any other essentials. That way, you’ll enter the new year relaxed, not regretting.
Remember, Detty December doesn’t have to mean Debt-y December. The truth is, you can dance, party, and enjoy life without financial stress; it just takes planning and discipline.
There’s a big difference between enjoying and overspending. So have fun, make memories, and still step into January with your peace (and pocket) intact because true soft life isn’t about how much you spend but about how well you live.