Fun things to do this Friday that won’t break the bank
The Black Friday mania has already started, with many retailers already slashing prices or sending out emails to entice buyers for the big day but…
The Black Friday phenomenon has grown faster in South Africa than any other country in the world, according to online shopping statistics. PayPal has predicted that South Africans will shell out over R53 billion on e-shopping by the end of 2018, up by a staggering near R16 billion from R37.1 billion in 2017.
This focus on consumer goods is without a doubt a social challenge for South Africans, especially given already high levels of debt. So, instead of getting caught up in all the Black Friday hype, South Africans could use the day in a much better way. Here are some alternatives you could consider doing on Black Friday that doesn’t involve buying goods you may not actually need.
Read a book!
Local author (and another good guy) Mike Sharman has launched www.bookfriday.co.za to get South Africans reading again… Sharman launched the idea earlier this week asking consumers to get reading, and empowering their minds instead of just buying “stuff” stuff they might not need.
Have a wine tasting at home
Hosting a wine tasting at home is a great way to spend the day with your besties and, more importantly, forget about the Black Friday craze. You’ll have the chance to test your palate with some delicious wines that you love (or that you’ve never tried before). The best part is, you don’t have to spend ridiculous amounts of money, just gather your friends and make a bottle of wine the entry fee. You’ll then be able to sip away in your comfort zone.
Christmas movie marathon
Whether it’s with a couple of friends and family or just you and your blanket, curl up on the couch and enjoy the thrills of a full-on schmaltzy Christmas movie festival in the comfort of your home. Relax and experience the cheesiness of one of the most popular movie genres ever created. Your mind will be too occupied to be thinking about Black Friday.
Declutter your mind in nature
Get away from the internet and get outdoors away from the crowds of Black Friday. Whether it’s the beach, a local park or an abandoned bridge, experience it! Meet up with your friends at Cape Point Nature Reserve and enjoy a slow walk along the scenic routes while looking over the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll also be able to take some killer selfies to add to your collection of memories! You’ll get health benefits, mental benefits and the great feeling of being outdoors and moving (as opposed to stopped in traffic or circling parking lots looking for spots).
Get a massage
Go into the festive season by doing something just for you with a massage. Whether you splurge for the spa or find an alternative home massage solution, you’ll definitely be more relaxed at the end of the day than frantic Black Friday shoppers will. Forget the running, sore feet and legs and sore backs from hauling bags and the stress of Black Friday traffic. Opt for something that treats you, relaxes you and keeps you away from the fray.
#GivingTuesday
Following Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there is also #GivingTuesdaySA to think about which will take place on November 27th and will kick off the giving season by inspiring people to collaborate and give back.
Laura Parker, Executive Director for Boys & Girls Clubs of South Africa, and the Global Lead for #GivingTuesdaySA, shared “I volunteered to get involved in the movement as it’s a pervasive idea that brings the social sector together towards a common goal. Not only does it speak to what non-profits really need, which is funding to support their critical, ongoing operations, but it also celebrates and recognizes organizations and individuals who already give.”
On Nov 27, join the #GivingTuesdaySA movement and give – whether it’s your time, a gift or the power of your voice. It’s a simple idea. $300M was raised globally in 2017, and whether you come together with your family, your community, or your company, find a way to give back and then share your idea.
Laura Parker, Executive Director for Boys & Girls Clubs of South Africa, and the Global Lead for #GivingTuesdaySA joins Brent Lindeque in studio for this week’s Good Things Guy Jacpod.