Mr. Wonderful:Kevin O’Leary’s 3 Reasons to Cut Holiday Spending

An old holiday adage says that it is better to give than to receive. But giving can be costly! This holiday season, give your kids the lasting gift of common sense instead of the short-term satisfaction of their entire wish list. Here are three things you must keep in mind to cut down on the time and money you spend at the mall during the holidays.

1. Don’t spoil the holidays by spoiling your kids

Just because you can afford to, it doesn’t mean you need to spoil your children—even during the holidays. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying you shouldn’t get your kids any gifts over the holiday season. Like I always say: discipline, yes; deprivation, no. Consider the benefits of a carefully constructed holiday gift reward system. Kids could be rewarded for achievements in the classroom, the soccer field or helping the family with chores.

2. If you create a budget, you will discipline yourself

The worst thing for your wallet during the holidays is going shopping without creating a maximum budget for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Determine your spending thresholds before you hit the mall, and don’t exceed them under any circumstances! Make sure you total all of the spending so that you’re confident the ultimate number isn’t too much!

3. The holidays are a time for reflection

The holidays are an excellent opportunity for reflection on the year that was. Use the opportunity to take stock of your mistakes and pay down debts. Instead of rushing to the mall, take the time to think carefully about the things and people that matter most to you. Even if it has been a good year, avoid the pressure to spend all of your earnings over the holidays.

Now in spite of all this, I’m a realist - that's why they call me Mr. Wonderful! And I know that most of you are already putting together your holiday shopping lists, so to help minimize the financial damage to your bank account, I’ve curated this list of O’Leary approved gifts for everyone in the family—all for less than $30!

Paper Box Pilots Stickers

When my kids were younger, it always baffled me that no matter what shiny, expensive toy I bought them for Christmas, they were always twice as amused by the box it came in!

I wish Paper Box Pilots was around back then, because I know they would have loved using these stickers to turn cardboard boxes into customized jet planes, race cars, and fire engines!

For only $20, you can give “little Jimmy” 3 sticker vehicle kits and hours upon hours of fun. Plus, what better way to take care of that mess of empty boxes left under the tree after everyone finishes unwrapping their presents!

Purchase yours here.

Bottle Breacher 50 cal Bottle Openers

You can bet that half of my Christmas list will be receiving these this year!

These 50 caliber bottle openers are hand crafted by Active Duty service members, Reservists, and Veterans. At $25-$27 for a custom engraved opener, they make the perfect gift for any Dad, brother, grandfather, coworker, or friend!

Due to high demand, Bottle Breacher is unable to ship by Christmas this holiday season. But you can still order and give your loved one a gift receipt to help build the excitement!

Order and print your gift receipt here.

Wicked Good Cupcakes

These 8 oz. jars are jam-packed with some of the best cake and frosting you’ll ever taste.

Wicked Good Cupcakes are made with no preservatives, last up to 10 days without refrigeration, and can be shipped anywhere in the USA making them the perfect gift for that friend or family member who can’t make it home for the holiday season.

Order a custom 4-pack with holiday flavors like Chocolate Gingerbread and Egg Nog, and Chocolate Peppermint here for only $28.95!