2025 Resolutions That Are Practically Doable

It is important that our resolutions follow the SMART criteria, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (do this for 30 days and see what happens). Here are some sample resolutions that can be considered this year:

1. Practice digital abstinence by avoiding browsing one hour before you sleep. This helps improve sleep quality and mental relaxation.

2. Avoid wasting food by purchasing only what you can consume. This not only reduces waste but also promotes mindful consumption and financial savings.

3. When shopping, steer clear of the "Buy Now, Pay Later" promotions offered by banks. Avoid using future income to purchase non-essential items. Instead, buy them once you have the available funds, ensuring financial stability.

4. Prepare meals at home instead of eating at fast food restaurants. This encourages healthier eating habits and can lead to significant cost savings over time.

5. Avoid foods that contain artificial sugars, such as cakes, donuts, and sugary drinks. Reducing intake of added sugars can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

These resolutions, aligned with the SMART framework, can lead to a healthier and more financially responsible lifestyle.

2025 Top 3 Investment in the Philippines

As we look towards 2025, the landscape of passive income opportunities in the Philippines is evolving with technological advancements and shifting economic trends. One of the top avenues is investing in real estate through Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). These allow individuals to invest in real estate properties without the need to purchase or manage them directly, offering dividends and capital appreciation as the property market grows. With the Philippine government's infrastructure push, REITs are poised for significant growth.

Another promising area is digital content creation and monetization. With the rise of social media and online platforms, Filipinos can create content such as blogs, YouTube channels, or podcasts. By building a substantial following, they can earn through ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. This requires an initial investment of time and creativity, but once established, it can generate income with minimal ongoing effort.

Lastly, peer-to-peer lending platforms are gaining traction in the Philippines. These platforms connect investors with borrowers, allowing individuals to earn interest on the money they lend. As financial technology advances and more Filipinos gain access to digital financial services, peer-to-peer lending presents a viable passive income stream while also contributing to financial inclusion in the country.

Saving Money by Preparing Your Own Food At Home

With the rising costs of medical expenses incurred when we fall ill, it is both prudent and relevant to invest in food choices that promote better health. One of the first steps to achieving this is to avoid purchasing and consuming food from fast food outlets, as well as limiting intake of foods with preservatives. By preparing meals at home, not only can you save time and money, but you also gain control over the ingredients you consume.

Here are some healthy options to consider:

1. Brew your own coffee at home and take it with you to the office. This can reduce your exposure to sugary and calorie-laden coffee shop drinks.

2. Opt for water over sugary juices or sodas, as staying hydrated with water supports numerous bodily functions and reduces unnecessary calorie intake.

3. Choose whole wheat bread instead of white bread, as whole grains are linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

4. Maintain a balanced diet by including protein, fresh vegetables, and fruits in your meals. When preparing meat dishes, season them yourself to control the amount of salt, sugar, and other additives, thereby enhancing both flavor and nutritional value.

Research supports that making these dietary changes can contribute significantly to long-term health benefits and aid in the prevention of various illnesses.

Four Convincing Reasons to Purchase Life Insurance in Your 20s

At age 20, life insurance might not seem like a priority, but there are several compelling reasons to consider it. 

1. Purchasing life insurance at a young age often means lower premiums, as insurers view younger individuals as lower risk. This can lead to significant savings over the life of the policy.

2.  Life insurance provides a financial safety net for your dependents or loved ones in case of an unexpected event. Even if you don't have dependents now, life circumstances can change, and securing a policy early ensures that your future family is protected. 

3. Some life insurance policies accumulate cash value over time, offering a potential source of savings or investment for the future.

4. Having life insurance can help cover any debts or final expenses, ensuring they don't become a burden to your family. 

Overall, life insurance at age 20 is about planning ahead and securing peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.

Make it Simple : Making the Most of Your Paycheck

Saving money from the very first day you start earning is a disciplined habit that can lead to significant financial security over time. Here are five top strategies to help you save effectively:

Pay Yourself First (10% of your income): This strategy involves treating your savings as the most important "bill" that you pay each month.  You have to save at least 10% of your gross income on a regular basis. Put it to a savings account before you pay any other bills or expenses. Automating this process can be beneficial, as it removes the temptation to spend the money elsewhere. This method ensures you consistently save, making it a priority rather than an afterthought.

Create a Budget and Stick to It (90% of your income): Start by listing all your sources of income and then categorize your expenses into fixed (like rent, utilities, insurance premiums, etc) and variable costs (such as entertainment and dining out). Tools like budgeting apps can automate this process, helping you track your spending and stay within limits. By adhering to a budget, you not only ensure you’re saving but also gain control over your finances, preventing unnecessary expenditures.

By implementing these strategies from the very beginning of your earning journey, you set the groundwork for financial stability and growth. Developing these habits early can lead to a more secure and prosperous financial future, giving you the confidence to navigate life’s financial challenges with ease. Remember, the key to successful saving is consistency, discipline, and a proactive approach to managing your finances.