Ke December

What comes to mind when we hear Ke December?

The phrase is commonly associated with Christmas, family, celebration and, of course, spending.

It’s that season where we splash out on almost everything. And let’s be honest, men often fall victim to this.

Last year, I remember buying an entire case of wine, because yes, I’m a true wine lover, but looking back, was it really necessary to spend that much on wine?

We tend to convince (or pressure) ourselves into reckless spending, like on those whisky gift sets with the fancy magnetic boxes, or spend our bonuses on Black Friday deals that suddenly feel like a need.

That is Ke December for you. January will sort itself out until January becomes Januworry.

Another sad truth about this season is that everyone is out chasing December money, and some people choose the darkest paths, such as stealing, robbing, even harming others just so they can go and celebrate the very birth of Jesus Christ.

The irony is unbelievable. It doesn’t make sense, yet it happens every single year. Just recently, there was an incident where two guys attempted to rob someone in broad daylight.

Make it make sense. It’s important to be extra mindful of your surroundings this December. Stay alert, protect your belongings, and be on the lookout for anything suspicious. This is the sad reality we must acknowledge.

But now, let’s shift to the brighter side, the part that brings warmth to our hearts.

According to many authors, Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrated on 25 December, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Over time, it has grown into a widely celebrated cultural season, reaching far beyond religious circles. Families come together to prepare big meals, exchange gifts, decorate their homes with Christmas trees, and simply enjoy each other’s company. The Western world has also influenced how we celebrate today.

Back in the day, Christmas in our communities meant spending 12 hours at church and embracing the spiritual meaning of the day, but for many, that tradition has slowly faded.

What we do is eat and drink, and that’s it.

Although we come from different backgrounds, different walks of life and different demographics, there is one thing we all share when December arrives: Everyone and everything is positive.

Nature comes alive, the fields turn green and the rains return. And what better time to slow down, spend time with family and truly unwind?

December gives us permission to relax and reflect, because while we enjoy the mood, many of us fall into the December trap. We go on spending sprees, swiping cards like there’s no tomorrow, and before we know it January shows up.

Suddenly it’s back to school, kids’ uniforms, stationery, transport, rent and all the usual monthly expenses waiting for us.

I am no financial expert nor adviser, but I’ve seen this cycle repeat itself far too many times – not only in the lives of others, but in my own life as well. Everyone wants to enjoy December, and we know it comes with joy, but January comes with reality.

And that reality can hit hard.

So let’s be mindful of how we spend and prioritise what truly matters.

Most of the time, we spend on wants instead of needs, and before we know it, the excitement fades but the expenses stay behind.

It’s not about denying yourself enjoyment, it’s about being smart enough to enjoy without harming your budget.

If you are like me and planning to go to the village, go drink whatever they sell that side (traditional drinks).

There is no need to buy overpriced spirits.

December should be enjoyed, not regretted when January arrives.

– Meneer_SK is a passionate voice for men, advocating on issues that matter to men. Follow him on Instagram @Meneer_SK

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