Discover small, intentional changes to make this holiday season meaningful. Tips on money management, staying active, and creating deep connections for a festive season of growth and joy
Happy December, my people! The year’s final month is here, with its usual mix of wicked Harmattan mornings and of course, the frenzy of holiday preparations. Whether you’re drafting your Christmas budget (assuming the economy gives you such grace), fighting traffic to buy that perfect aso-ebi for the weddings this season, or making sure you’ve sent “Happy New Year in advance” texts to your extended family WhatsApp group, this season has a way of pulling all our focus outward.
But let’s pause for a moment. This holiday season, I want us to flip the script. Instead of only looking outward—at gift lists, decorations, and party plans—let’s look inward. Let’s talk about the small, intentional changes we can make to truly show up for ourselves and the people we care about. And because this is Vaami, we’ll tie it to money, hustle, and the Nike spirit of “just doing it.” So, grab a plate of puff-puff and let’s gist.
Money Matters: Be Intentional About Spending
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: money. The holiday season in Naija is notorious for testing our financial discipline. From family demands to elaborate weddings, December can turn into a black hole for your savings. Plus we already know about the 99 days of January. But here’s the gist—you don’t have to blow the bank to make this season memorable.
Small change: Create a simple spending plan. Before you start buying anything, make a realistic list of what you need and what you can afford. Prioritise experiences over excess. For example, instead of buying your nephews and nieces expensive toys, consider organising a game night or storytelling session. Trust me, those moments stick longer than any PS5 controller.
And if you’re looking to stretch your naira further, keep your eyes on holiday discounts. Yes, even Nike has them! It’s a great time to invest in quality items like running shoes or workout gear that will keep you moving long after the Christmas lights come down.
Health is Wealth: Move Your Body
Ah, the holidays. A season of indulgence, where rice meets fried meat meets soft drinks meets…the couch. It’s easy to find yourself in a food coma by Boxing Day. But how about we shake things up this year? Literally.
Small change: Get active. I’m not saying you should suddenly become the face of fitfam on Instagram, but a little movement goes a long way. A brisk walk around the neighbourhood, a quick yoga session in your living room, or even some playful dancing with your kids can make a huge difference. It’s not about weight loss; it’s about feeling good in your own skin.
Here’s where Nike comes in.
Their gear is more than just apparel—it’s motivation. Slipping on a pair of quality running shoes can turn an evening stroll into an empowering routine. Plus, let’s be honest, there’s something about Nike gear that makes you feel like a pro athlete, even if you’re just jogging to the corner store.
Time Well Spent: Give Presence, Not Just Presents
In Naija, December is reunion season. Everyone’s back from Lagos, Abuja, or even the diaspora. It’s tempting to fall into the cycle of spending more time snapping selfies than actually catching up. But let’s change that this year.
Small change: Be truly present. Put your phone down (okay, maybe after one or two group photos) and focus on connecting. Ask your aunt about her favourite childhood Christmas memory. Play cards with your cousins. Volunteer to help your mum cook instead of just waiting for the food to appear. It’s these moments that remind us of what really matters.
And if you’re the fitness-minded one in the family, why not invite everyone for a group activity? A mini football match, a hike, or even a dance-off in the living room can be both fun and bonding. You don’t need much; just a pair of trainers and a willingness to laugh when your uncle tries to do “zanku.”
Dream Big: Use the Season to Reset
As the year winds down, it’s natural to reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Maybe you wanted to save more, exercise regularly, or finally start that side hustle. Maybe life happened, and you’re carrying some disappointment into the holidays. That’s okay. The key is to channel those reflections into actionable goals.
Small change: Write down one thing you want to improve in the coming year and take a tiny step toward it now. For example, if you’ve been meaning to get more active, why not start by investing in the right gear? Nike’s collections are designed for performance and style, making it easier to turn your fitness goals into reality. Or maybe your goal is financial stability—set aside a small amount to start your savings or investment plan today.
Remember, it’s not about making grand resolutions. It’s about planting small seeds now so you can reap big rewards later.
Concluding Thoughts: Do It for You
This holiday season, let’s make it about more than just decorations, food, and aso ebi. Let’s make it about growth—financial, physical, and emotional. Small, intentional changes can have ripple effects that last well into the new year. Whether it’s spending wisely, moving more, connecting deeply, or dreaming bigger, the most important thing is to do it for you.
As Nike always says, Just Do It. Not because someone else is watching, not because it’s trendy, but because you deserve to live your best, most fulfilling life. So, step into this holiday season with purpose and watch how those small changes make a big impact.
Here’s wishing you all a festive season full of joy, growth, and meaningful moments. Until next time, stay intentional and keep shining.
