Search This Blog

30 May 2020

Tips To Save Money & Spend Wisely๐Ÿ’ฐ




Do you feel anxious every time you look at your bank account and sometimes wonder, where did the money go? ๐Ÿค”๐Ÿ’ธ

Let's face it! We live in one of the most expensive cities in the world. We all know money is so important. We need money for food, utilities, transports, education, essential stuff and the list goes on.

It doesn't matter how much money you make, if you don't know how to manage your financial and control your spending habits, you'll end up being broke all the time, or worst, heavily in debts! 


The economy is badly affected by the global outbreak, many have lost their jobs and businesses are closing down, there are many uncertainty ahead...Therefore, saving for a rainy day is necessary because you never know when an emergency may strike. A reserved / emergency fund (saving) could comes in handy to tide over the difficult times.

The most common problem that causes debt, is BAD spending habits. Unfortunately, many people spent more than they earn, hence, they fail to save at all when they overspent every month! That is a serious matter and a nasty habit that leads to financial problems.



I'm not a financial expert. I know it's not always easy to save up, especially for those who have lower incomes or doesn't have a fixed salary, but the biggest obstacle is getting started! Yes, it takes some efforts and a good saving strategy, but you need to take the first step and let it roll. Don't stress over how little you save, as long as you start, your saving will grow gradually.


Here are some tips that may help you save money :

1. Limit your spending
Always set a budget on how much money you can spend per month and do NOT exceed the limit. That gives you a guideline on your monthly spending pattern.



2. Don't carry too much cash
Digital payment like PayLah, PayNow, GrabPay and GooglePay are very convenient these days. When you carry too much cash, chances are you may be tempted to spend unnecessarily. 

3. Avoid using credit cards
Stop swiping the credits cards for every purchase. Keep them at home. (Use it only when it's necessary) It's all about self-discipline. Use the ATMs and debit cards instead.

4. Pay all your bills on time
Avoid late/overdue payments and always pay your bills in full. It's easier to track your spending and monthly expenses. This will prevent the outstanding bills to snowball and late fees charges.

5. Keep coin banks
I have a few coin banks around the house, I teach my kids the importance of saving money and it's always better to start saving when you are young. Save the coins and don't underestimate those piggy banks. My last coin deposit credited over $300 worth of coins.


6. Avoid impulsive buying
Maybe you really love that dress, the sneakers or that limited edition watch, but wait for a week or two, you may change your mind. We sometimes buy things that we don't really need or rarely use, and that is a waste of money. Go for values instead of the big brands.

7. Take public buses / trains
You don't need to take a cab every day unless you are rushing for urgent appointments, feeling unwell and carry bulky stuff etc.. Buses and trains still take you from Point A to Point B. It's much cheaper and convenient too.

8. Garage sale
Sell away things you don't need, perhaps an old TV, the golf clubs or a bicycle that is sitting in the store for years. List them on free classified ads or sell them at cash converters, it's a great way to generate some cash and de-clutter the house.

9. Don't try to impress others
Don't go broke trying to look rich! What's the point of driving a posh car with an empty bank account?


10. Take good care of your health
Do some exercise, eat well and stay healthy. That could save you the clinic trips and doctors fees.


*BONUS TIPS* 
Invest carefully and wisely
Before you invest anything, do some homework and market research. Be careful with investment plans or packages that 'promise' rewards/profits/interests that sounds too good to be true. Never sign anything when you have doubts. Online scams and con-artists are everywhere, don't be the next victim and risk all your hard-earned money.

If you need help or advice to manage your debts, check out this link for more information.

Keep in mind that it is never too late to start saving. Money do not save on its own unless you do it! 

Set realistic saving plans/goals. Even if you only manage to save $10 a month, do it anyway because it is still better than saving none. The flowers doesn't bloom overnight, be patient, keep moving and let the saving grow...๐ŸŒฑ



Whether you are saving up to buy a new car, a new house, for college or retirement, etc.. Saving money doesn't mean you have to live a super frugal lifestyle and feel miserable everyday.


You can still enjoy your favorite Ice-creams at Swensen's and your Cappuccinos at Starbucks as long as you manage your financial well, take control of your money and spend within your budget.


The fundamental of saving is to earmark for emergencies, unexpected expenses, financial freedom, staying debt-free and other long-term plans for the future.



Cultivate good habits and motivate yourself to save for a rainy day even when the sun is shining... Start saving today! 


Do you have any personal tips on saving money? Share your comments below.๐Ÿ˜‰



06 May 2020

Lessons I Learned From My Mom๐ŸŒน




Mother's Day is a beautiful occasion to celebrate motherhood, maternal bonds and the contributions of mothers in our society. 

My mother has inspired me to be a better and stronger person today. Kind, loving and generous. She is one of the strongest and toughest woman I ever known. A woman full of strength and courage, she never back down and she is always positive about life in every situation. My mom is someone whom I look up to, an amazing woman I truly respect and admire...



In honor of Mother's Day, this is a blog to express my appreciation and gratitude for her hard work, sacrifices and the valuable life lessons my mom has taught me.

Important Life Lessons From Mom :

Family comes first
Always protect your family and love your children unconditionally. Nothing in the world is more important than family.

Learn to cook
My mom is a great cook! She believes, 
"A way to a man's heart is through his stomach...'' (Oh mom...๐Ÿ˜…) When I was little, she would asked me to help in the kitchen, chopping the onions, garlic, pounding the spices and I would watched her cook everyday. She believes home-cooked meals are the best and much healthier. With the culinary skills today, I enjoy cooking & baking because it's a joy to cook for the family.




Treat everyone the same
Never be arrogant. Whether they are cabbies or the CEOs, everyone deserves respect and to be treated equally.


Be kind and help others
Kindness is a virtue. My mom has a heart of gold. She would help the poor, the needy and the less fortunate. I do volunteer work because I believe in giving back to the society, to offer help and support to our community. The world need more empathy and compassion.


Have more patience
Well, I have to admit this is a tough one...I'm not the most patient person in the world, but I will try my best to work on it! 


Never give up
Like a warrior, my mom is a fighter, she taught me to be brave and strong, to keep trying and never give up hope no matter how hard the situation is! "Where there is life, there is hope..."


Keep some money aside
Save for a rainy day. Ah yes...a wise advice! Always keep some extra cash or a reserved fund, you never know when you need it!

Keep learning and exploring
As a child, my mom would encourage me to follow my passion, interests and to keep learning as much as possible. She never stop me from playing music or joining the singing contests, etc... Even when I didn't do much to make her proud, she never rain on my parade. She is always there to cheer for me and I thank her for believing in me.



Choose your friends wisely
It doesn't matter how big the circle of friends you have, it's the TRUE ones that matters!
Friends can influence your thoughts, actions and behaviors, so be careful who you surround yourself with. Mama is right! 


Live with integrity
My mom live a honest and humble life. She taught me the values of being true and upright, to speak with honesty and act with integrity. I raise my head high, each and every day...



Be thankful
Despite all the storms and difficult times, my mom doesn't complain. She is always grateful about life and counting the blessings...





Life doesn't come with a manual, it comes with a mother. I thank my mom for being there to support and guide me over the years... 

Sometimes, we may not share the same views, beliefs or have different ways of expressing ourselves, but in the end... All mothers have the best interests at heart for the children and the family.

...The combination of the purest love, kindness and patience can never be replaced...๐ŸŒน



What are some lessons your mom have taught you? Share with me and comment below.๐Ÿ˜‰