LifeSkills Academy Blog
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Written By: Sandi MacCalla, Founder - LifeSkills Academy ~ 9/22/2025
A practical guide to set budgets, manage expenses, and avoid holiday debt.
Do you ever feel like the holidays sneak up on your wallet faster than on your calendar? You’re not alone. Many families find that the joy of the season is dimmed by financial stress, overspending, and January credit card statements. But here’s the good news: with a little preparation, you can create a holiday season that’s generous, meaningful, and debt-free.
Think of this as your holiday financial game plan - a way to keep the celebrations full of joy while keeping your finances under control.
Holiday Spending Snapshot
Most households spend between 1–2% of their annual income on the holidays. A well-planned allocation looks like this:
Six Strategies to Build Your Holiday Game Plan
Grab a highlighter, and mark the strategies that will work best for you:
1. Master the Gift List
Since gifts are usually the biggest slice of the holiday pie, they’re the best place to start.
2. Budget Beyond Gifts
Gifts aren’t the only expense to watch.
3. Try the “Cash Stuffing” System
This method (also called envelope budgeting) helps you stick to your plan.
4. Shop Smart with Spending Strategies
5. Build a Holiday Cash Cache
The surest way to avoid debt is to prepare in advance.
6. Reflect and Reset in January
The holiday season doesn’t end when the decorations come down—it’s the perfect time to plan for next year.
When you take control of your holiday finances, you’re not just saving money—you’re creating space for peace, generosity, and connection. The best gift you can give your loved ones is a stress-free you. With a thoughtful plan, you can step into the season confident, generous, and debt-free.
“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you.”
~ Mother Teresa
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Written By: Sandi MacCalla, Founder - LifeSkills Academy ~ 9/22/2025
Following up after sending a thank-you note is critical to maintain
momentum and demonstrate your continued interest.
Here are some effective strategies:
Remember, your follow-up communicates your high interest and professionalism. Use it as an opportunity to highlight your compatibility for the position. Good luck!
“Success is not final; failure is not fatal.
It is the courage to continue that counts."
~ Winston Churchill
Join us at LifeSkills Academy, where we offer e-learning classes in Etiquette/Social Intelligence, Financial Skills, and Personal Organization. Our educators are seasoned professionals with proven success in the world of commerce. Sign up for newsletters and class notices to start your journey toward a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Written By: Sandi MacCalla, Founder - LifeSkills Academy ~ 9/15/2025
Hidden Power of Thank-You Notes After Job Interviews
Amid a competitive recruitment process, my ultimate choice of a candidate often hinges on an unseen dimension: Connection. It’s not just qualifications. It’s also about shared interests, values, and communication style. My gut whispers, “I can work with this person.” Recall, that connection is a two-way street—a dance of give and take that transcends etiquette.
An effective thank-you note after an interview can enhance a lasting impression. Here are some tips to help you create a memorable and impactful connection.
So, the next time you pen a thank-you note, recognize its hidden power. It’s not just about politeness. It’s about forging a bridge—one that can lead to meaningful professional relationships and career success.
“Connecting is the ability to identify with people and relate to them in a
way that increases your influence with them.”
~ John C. Maxwell
Join us at LifeSkills Academy, where we offer e-learning classes in Etiquette/Social Intelligence, Financial Skills, and Personal Organization. Our educators are seasoned professionals with proven success in the world of commerce. Sign up for newsletters and class notices to start your journey toward a more intentional and fulfilling life.