5 Financial Life Skills You Should Start Practicing Today

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Money isn't everything, but it is undeniable how necessary it is for everyday life. As early as you can, whether that’s while you’re still a student or while you’re in the starting stages of your career, you’ll want to master some necessary financial life skills so that money-related worries won’t always be on your mind. 

It mostly boils down to learning how to budget, save, and invest in ways that set you up for a secure and fulfilling future. But, like with anything else you want to do well, it takes practice. 

The good news is that developing good money habits is easy if you start small and stay consistent. To that end, here are seven financial life skills you can start practicing to take control of the money you have. There is a learning curve, but it will set you up for long-term success.

1) Budget Like a Pro

Most people spend money as soon as they make it and sometimes spend more than they can afford. Solid budgeting skills will help you avoid money issues and give you a better shot at financial stability. 

In principle, budgeting is relatively simple. You track your income and expenses to see if you're spending money you haven't earned yet. But there's more to it than that if you want your budgeting efforts to be effective—you need a plan. 

The first thing you need to do is prioritize your spending based on your income. Set aside what you need for essentials like food, rent, financial obligations like a personal loan Philippines monthly payment, and utilities. Food and utilities are variable, so make sure you have a little wiggle room. 

Next, find a way to make your finances more visible and easier to account for. Even a simple spreadsheet can make you better at budgeting. And if your bank offers this option, set up automatic payments for utility and credit card bills to save time and to avoid late fees. Automation reduces the temptation to spend money meant for savings and cultivates the habit of paying yourself first.

When you have all the essentials covered, you can allocate funds for other financial goals, like building up your savings or an emergency fund. Whatever you have left is discretionary spending, meaning you don’t need, but want these things. An example would be going out to dinner or to the movies every week or two weeks. That’s not to say you shouldn’t spend on those things, but make sure you have the money for them. 

2) Save for the Future

It should also be like second nature to you to allocate a percentage of your income to savings. Many people don't think they have the bandwidth to do that, especially if they have children or are supporting other people. But remember that you might not always make the same money as you do now, so having something to fall back on during hard times is essential.

You can get into the habit of saving by putting it in the essentials bucket of your budget. Start small, say, 5 percent of your income, and build up to 20 percent as you get more control over your spending. 

Cut back on things you don't need, like a phone plan with unlimited data when you work from home or a gym membership you never use. Clawing back these small amounts can add up to a fair amount of money, and the more you observe the habit, the better you’ll be at the skill of saving for harder times.

3) Set SMART Financial Goals

Writer and philosopher Thomas Carlyle once said, "A man without a goal is like a ship without a rudder." That makes sense for life in general, but more so when it comes to money management. Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound or SMART goals will give your financial journey direction. 

For example, instead of saying, “I want to save more money,” which sounds very abstract, set a goal like, “I will save PHP 10,000 for a holiday by the end of next year.” That might seem like a lot in one go, but breaking your large goals into smaller, manageable steps will make them feel more attainable. You could save PHP 1000 a month for 10 months just for the purpose of your holiday, for instance. 

You can keep yourself on track by opening a separate account for these goals. That way, you can watch the money grow and avoid the temptation of spending it on something else. In that respect, goal setting will be one of the most important financial skills you can start practicing now. 

4) Track Spending

The only way you can curb unnecessary spending is to figure out your spending patterns. Tracking your expenses can help you understand your habits a little better. 

Do you buy most of the stuff you don’t need online, for example? If that’s the case, it might be time to delete those shopping apps. Knowing where your money goes can help you identify areas where you can cut back.

A budgeting app can help you see exactly where you're spending your money. Some even offer tools to analyze your behavior. You might be shocked at how much of your money is going to non-essentials. Over time, you'll develop a clearer picture of your financial habits, and then you can then apply the practice of adjusting your habits to better align with your goals.

5) Build Credit Responsibly

Cashless transactions are now the norm, and it’s much easier to use credit or debit cards than before. The catch is that you can go overboard with your spending because you don't feel it going out. That makes it incredibly easy to overspend, especially with a credit card. The problem is, you’ll only get the bill at the end of the month.

Using a credit card or two can help you build your credit, which can in turn increase your eligibility for certain loans or help you land certain jobs. But you need to be smart about it, too—paying your credit card late or with only the minimum balance will have the opposite effect on your credit history. 

Pay your bills on time, avoid maxing out your limit, and only charge what you can afford to repay. These habits will keep your credit score healthy, your debt manageable, and your attitude better poised towards practicing good financial discipline.

Take Charge of Your Financial Future

Building an arsenal of strong financial life skills won't happen overnight, but small steps can lead to huge changes over time. These five skills, if practiced diligently, can do a lot to help you take control of your finances and achieve your dream life. Every little bit counts, and again, the sooner you begin, the brighter your financial future can be.

Valentine’s Day: Celebrate Love in All Its Forms

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Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love in all its glorious manifestations, from the fiery rush of a new romance to the enduring warmth of a long-lasting partnership. Whether you're in the arms of someone special, surrounded by friends and family, or embracing a fulfilling solo journey, today is a reminder to cherish love in all its shapes and sizes. But as much as we focus on celebrating the love we share with others, there’s an equally important love that often gets overlooked—the love we give ourselves. This Valentine’s Day, why not take a moment to honor that?

Celebrating New Love: The Heartbeat of Valentine's Day

For those who have just embarked on a new romantic journey, Valentine’s Day is a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation. From the first butterflies to the joyous discovery of shared moments, this is the time to savor every flirtatious glance, every gentle touch, and the innocent thrill of getting to know someone new. The spotlight is on affection, connection, and the promise of what the future holds. But new love isn't just about exchanging gifts and flowers—it’s about building a foundation that celebrates trust, vulnerability, and the unique bond that only you and your partner can create.

Lasting Love: Honoring Relationships Built on Time and Trust

For those in relationships that have stood the test of time, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of enduring commitment. It’s a day to look back on the years spent together, the challenges overcome, and the countless moments that have made the partnership stronger. But beyond the sweet gestures, what makes a lasting relationship truly special is the depth of understanding, the respect, and the unwavering support for each other’s dreams and aspirations. Lasting love isn’t just about shared memories—it’s about continuously growing together, supporting each other’s personal growth, and learning to embrace each other in all your evolving forms.

Valentine’s Day for the Single Soul: Reclaiming Your Power

And then, for those who find themselves flying solo this year, Valentine’s Day can still be a powerful occasion. It’s a reminder that the most essential relationship you’ll ever have is the one you build with yourself. Rather than focusing on what you may be lacking, why not use this day to reconnect with the person who has always been there for you—YOU? Celebrate the unique, independent soul that is constantly evolving and growing. Take this opportunity to indulge in self-care and treat yourself to moments that nurture your body, mind, and spirit.

5 Empowering Self-Care Tips to Honor Yourself This Valentine's Day

Start Your Day with a Wholesome Breakfast: There’s no better way to show yourself some love than by nourishing your body. A hearty, nutritious breakfast not only fuels you for the day ahead but also sets a positive tone. Whether it’s a bowl of fresh fruit, eggs, or a smoothie, treat your body to the fuel it deserves.

Dive Into Your Favorite Hobbies: Take time to reconnect with the activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s painting, reading, cooking, or dancing, spending time in the company of things you love will recharge your spirit and help you rediscover passions that may have been sidelined.

Connect with Nature: There’s something profoundly healing about being outdoors. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or simply sitting by the ocean, nature has the power to calm your mind and bring clarity. Let the beauty of the natural world remind you of your own resilience and strength.

Hang Out with Friends: Relationships aren’t just about romantic love—they also thrive in the company of friends. Whether you’re going out for coffee, catching a movie, or sharing a meal, time spent with friends can uplift your spirit and help remind you of the love and support you have in your circle.

Revive an Old Passion: Is there an old hobby, class, or passion you once loved but have let fall by the wayside? Today is the perfect time to revisit it. Rekindle that spark, whether it’s through learning a new skill or diving back into something you’ve missed. You deserve the joy that comes from rediscovering something you once cherished.

The Ripple Effect of Love: How Celebrating Yourself Makes a Difference

In a world that often demands we put others first, Valentine’s Day is a chance to turn that energy inward. As you celebrate love in all its forms—whether with a partner, friends, or family—don’t forget to take the time to nurture the relationship with yourself. Because when you love yourself, it becomes easier to love others with authenticity and depth. Your self-care doesn’t just benefit you; it has a ripple effect on the world around you. The more you invest in your well-being, the more vibrant and compassionate you become, spreading positivity wherever you go.

A Final Thought: Love That Transcends All

Valentine’s Day is not just a celebration of romantic love—it’s a celebration of all the forms that love can take. Whether you’re enjoying a new relationship, cherishing a longtime partner, celebrating friendship, or simply savoring the freedom of self-love, remember that love is not confined to a single definition. It’s something that flows, grows, and evolves. And the most important love of all? The one that starts with you.

So, here’s to celebrating love in all its magnificence. May your Valentine’s Day be filled with connection, joy, and most importantly, love—for yourself and for everyone who crosses your path. Happy Valentine’s Day!

The Proper Channels: Are They a Path to Change or a Path to Stagnation?

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The statement “use the proper channels to change things” has been a widely accepted mantra in societies around the world, one often repeated by those in positions of power or control. But what does it really mean? Who decides what those “proper channels” are, and do they always serve the best interests of the people? This complex issue touches on democracy, power dynamics, public trust, and the fragile balance between order and disruption.

The Comfort of Control

One key reason people insist on using the “proper channels” to address grievances or seek change is that they control these channels. They understand that when issues are funneled through these established systems, they are more likely to be diluted, delayed, or even ignored, which allows those in power to maintain the status quo. The repetitive phrases—“I’ll answer that in the proper venue” or “Go ahead and file the proper charges”—are often used by those who know they hold the keys to the venues and the courts, aware that they can make sure it doesn’t result in anything meaningful.

The truth is that while this stance may reflect how things operate for many, it’s not an ironclad rule. It’s situational. In some cases, the so-called “proper channels” may indeed offer a way to seek justice, resolve conflicts, or create change. But this system is not foolproof, nor does it always deliver outcomes that serve the greater good. In fact, it often works in favor of the powerful, maintaining the inequality it was designed to uphold.

The Disillusionment with Institutions

Why do so many people across the political spectrum harbor such disdain for our institutions? It’s because, despite their stated mission to serve the people, these institutions often function in a way that only benefits the powerful. Many individuals can easily spot the glaring contradictions: every time a regular citizen benefits from these systems, it is typically in spite of its design, not because of it.

The constant reinforcement of "proper channels" encourages a mindset that can be likened to Plato's allegory of the cave. Society is encouraged to follow the rules without questioning the validity of those rules or understanding the forces behind them. Many people remain trapped in this metaphorical cave, watching the shadows on the wall—rules and institutions presented to them as truths—without ever questioning whether they reflect reality or serve real justice.

Institutions and processes, such as the courts, elections, and government bodies, exist because they were created to prevent chaos. However, the current state of these systems often feels like a product of manipulation rather than a genuine attempt to reflect the will of the people. Many of these systems were born out of crises, past abuses, and failures, but they have evolved into structures that serve the interests of the powerful, not the common person.

The Failure of the System or the Failure of Society?

When people argue that the “proper channels” should fail, they are often expressing frustration with a system that seems to perpetuate inequality. The frustration lies in the fact that these “channels” are supposed to ensure fairness, but they frequently fail to deliver justice, instead serving the interests of those who are already in power. The idea of “of the people, by the people” seems more like rhetoric than reality.

However, the proper channels, as flawed as they are, also represent the rule of law—a critical aspect of a functioning democracy. These channels offer a way for everyone, regardless of their position in society, to have their grievances heard and addressed through legal and structured processes. This is the principle behind elections, laws, and governance: to ensure that no one is ruled by the whims of an individual or a violent authority.

The truth is that while "improper channels" may appear to offer a quicker route to change, they come with significant risks—chief among them the abandonment of the rule of law. If individuals or groups ignore these systems, they invite the possibility of strongmen taking charge. Without legal protections, those without power would have no recourse, leading to a society ruled not by fairness, but by force. History offers a chilling reminder of what happens when this happens: chaos, tyranny, and suffering for those who are most vulnerable.

The Necessity of Disruption

But when has real change ever occurred through proper channels? The history of social movements tells a different story. Major shifts in society—be it civil rights movements, labor reforms, or gender equality struggles—have often been sparked by disruption. In many cases, those advocating for change had to push against or even break the system to force it to evolve.

The truth is, sometimes proper channels simply don’t work. They are slow, they are often designed to maintain stability, and they can be manipulated to favor the interests of the powerful. In these cases, disruption becomes necessary. Public perception shifts, marches, protests, and even radical action can be the spark for change when the established systems are unwilling or unable to address real grievances.

However, disruption is a double-edged sword. While it can indeed bring about change, it also has unintended consequences. History shows us that when change is pursued through improper channels, it often leads to more harm than good. For instance, uprisings may lead to the downfall of corrupt regimes, but they may also open the door to authoritarian control. The same improper channels that allow ordinary people to protest can be turned against them, leading to the rise of new despots who claim to be the solution to the old problems.

The Balance of Power and Protection

The conversation around proper and improper channels is not just about whether the system works. It’s also about the relationship between power and protection. In an ideal world, the rule of law protects everyone, ensuring that the less powerful have a voice and that justice is not subject to the whims of the powerful. If that fails, society runs the risk of descending into anarchy, where the strong hold all the power and the weak have no protections.

That’s why the “proper channels” aren’t just about bureaucracy; they represent a safeguard for everyone, ensuring that power doesn’t concentrate in the hands of the few. The process may seem cumbersome and flawed, but it’s better than the alternative—rule by force and lawlessness.

Conclusion: The Proper Channels or Something More?

Ultimately, the debate about proper channels versus improper ones is a question of balance. We cannot simply accept the system as it is or allow it to go unchallenged. While proper channels can be slow and ineffective, they also protect against the dangers of chaos and authoritarianism. But they must be held accountable, reformed, and made more accessible to the people they are meant to serve.

If we truly want to change things, we must recognize that sometimes disruption is necessary. But this must be done with a clear understanding of its potential consequences and a commitment to protecting the core values of fairness, equality, and justice that the proper channels are meant to represent. Change cannot come at the cost of law and order, but it also cannot come without challenging the systems that need to evolve. The future lies in finding that balance.