In the haze of the Dezemba daze, don't forget that next week kicks off 2026 with a month that drags on for what feels like a year.

What are your needs come next week? Enough money for bus fare for the month, toiletries, maybe rent, groceries & electricity too. And a little extra, just in case an emergency pops up?

Financial independence is part of your well-being. Your well-being is your human right. By right, independent doesn't mean moreki waya waya. Independence means you have a full understanding of what your responsibilities are and you protect your ability to supply your needs.

Your needs are non-negotiable. Your wants? Nice to haves, be they experiences or things can never be more important than your needs.

So for your peace of mind please have a spending limit. Transfer the money into a separate account, if you can and only use that separate account for Dizemba vibes and stuff.

Don't be coerced by anyone to spend more than you can and are willing to. No babe, not even Mamkhulu Getrude ongadli i-beetroot nge festive, whose cravings murmur loudly qha xa ku qhitha wena. “Oh sbwl iLindnt. Oooh sbwl i-sush, sbwl i-seafood platter case Cape Town Fish Market. JiK'iZinto sbwl uba u January wakho angabi u Januworry nono.

Independent means sovereign, clear on your needs and honouring your boundaries. Okay?