December does something strange to the human brain. It bends reality.
Not in a sci-fi way—in a “we’ll definitely have enough money for the holidays” way. Risk looks smaller, time feels slower, and that same geyser you’ve been ignoring all year suddenly becomes a January problem.
It’s the Year-End Mirage: a shimmer on the horizon that convinces us everything will somehow work out because we’ve crossed into the festive season.
You see it everywhere. Colleagues who’ve been punctual since March now reply, “Will look at it… next year.” People take out holiday cover the day after they leave for the coast. Clients sign for new assets on the 20th and remember to insure them on the 27th—usually after a polite nudge.
And debit orders? In December, they simply feel less real. Until January taps you on the shoulder with a spreadsheet.
The Mirage whispers three lies:
- “There’s still time.”
There isn’t. December is the shortest month of the year. Even February looks long next to it.
Admin compresses. Response times stretch. Approvals slow to a crawl.
In insurance, procrastination has a price tag. - “Nothing bad happens in December.”
Ask any claims department — December is an Olympic sport.
Hailstorms, break-ins, bumper-bashings, burst pipes, and that brave uncle who tries to tow a caravan with a car that retired in 2011.
Risk doesn’t take leave. If anything, it works overtime. - “January will sort itself out.”
January is the most responsible month of the year—because it has no choice. It arrives with school fees, renewals, maintenance, medical aid increases, Eskom surprises, and that sinking feeling when holiday spending lands. Come January, you always wish you had been a bit more sensible in December.
That’s where brokers earn their keep. We’re not here to spoil the party—we’re here to keep clients from wandering into the desert without water. A quick cover review now saves three headaches later. A conversation about budgets now prevents panic in the new year.
The Mirage fades the moment reality sets in. Our job—and our privilege — is to help clients see clearly before the haze blinds them.
So, as we slide into the final days of 2025, enjoy the sunshine, the braais, and the family time.
Just don’t let the shimmer fool you.
Because Janu-worry is coming—and it’s very, very real.
