Money Matters With Zoren

“Basta may trabaho, okay na ’yan.”

That line may sound comforting, but behind it hides a dangerous mindset that could be quietly draining your financial future.

Many Filipinos unknowingly follow money myths passed down from one generation to the next — beliefs that feel familiar, but are keeping us from building real wealth. Today, we’re busting these common Pinoy money myths so you can take charge of your financial life, once and for all.

1. “Okay lang mangutang basta may pambayad.”

The Myth:
As long as you can pay the monthly dues, utang is not a problem.

The Reality:
Debt can be a useful tool if you use it strategically (like business loans or mortgages). But constant reliance on debt, especially for wants, creates a cycle that’s hard to break — and you end up paying more because of interest.

The Trap:
Only paying the minimum on your credit card? That “₱500” becomes ₱1,000+ over time.

What to Do Instead:

• Build an emergency fund (start with 1–3 months of expenses).
• Track and limit high-interest debts.
• Use cash or debit for everyday purchases.

2. “Ipasa-Diyos mo na lang ‘yan.”

The Myth:
God will provide — no need to stress over money.

The Reality:
Faith is powerful, but it’s not a substitute for action. Financial stewardship is part of being responsible. Planning, budgeting, and saving are not signs of doubt — they’re acts of wisdom.

The Trap:
Relying solely on divine intervention to pay for emergencies or your child’s college.

What to Do Instead:

• Combine prayer with a practical plan.
• Learn how to budget and set SMART financial goals.
• Prepare so you can give generously and live peacefully.

3. “Saka na ang ipon, bata pa naman ako.”

The Myth:
You don’t need to save or invest until you’re older.

The Reality:
Your greatest financial advantage is TIME. The earlier you start saving or investing, the more your money grows through compound interest.

Example:
₱2,000/month starting at age 25 can grow to over ₱2 million by age 60.
Start at 35? You’ll need to save double to catch up.

What to Do Instead:

• Start small: save ₱500–₱1,000 a month.
• Explore easy investment options like VULs, UITFs or MP2.
• Automate your savings to build the habit.

4. “Pag may bonus, reward muna bago ipon.”

The Myth:
Bonuses and windfalls are for treating yourself — you deserve it!

The Reality:
You do deserve to celebrate — but without a plan, you’ll have nothing left to show for it. Many Filipinos spend their entire 13th-month pay in a week and regret it in January.

What to Do Instead:
Apply the 50-30-20 Rule to bonuses:

• 50% for needs (bills, debt)
• 30% for wants (rewards, gifts)
• 20% for savings/investments

Pro tip: Treat saving as your first reward — not your last priority.

5. “Insurance? Hindi ko pa kailangan ‘yan. Bata pa ako at malusog.”

The Myth:
Only old or sick people need insurance.

The Reality:
Insurance is cheapest and most accessible when you’re young and healthy. Waiting until something bad happens can disqualify you or make it more expensive.

The Trap:
Getting diagnosed with an illness before getting coverage — leading to huge out-of-pocket costs or financial stress for your family.

What to Do Instead:

• Get life insurance early (even as low as ₱1,500/month).
• Consider VUL plans that combine protection and investment.
• Protect your income, your dreams, and your family’s future.

6. “Mag-invest ako kapag mayaman na ako.”

The Myth:
Investing is only for rich people.

The Reality:
Most rich people became wealthy because they invested early and consistently. You don’t need a fortune to start — just discipline and time.

The Trap:
Waiting for a big break that may never come, while inflation eats away at your savings.

What to Do Instead:

• Start with what you have: even ₱1,000/month.
• Explore low-entry investments like UITFs, Pag-IBIG MP2, or FutureBoost VUL.
• Focus on consistency, not perfection.

✨ Final Thoughts: Break the Cycle

Money myths are deeply rooted — but you have the power to challenge them.
Your financial freedom doesn’t start with a big salary or jackpot. It begins with shifting your mindset.

✅ Start small.
✅ Learn often.
✅ Take action, even if it’s imperfect.

Which of these myths did you grow up believing?
Comment below and let’s break the cycle, together.

📅 Ready to Break Free from Money Myths?

Don’t let outdated beliefs hold you back from the life you deserve. Whether you want to build savings, get insured, or start investing — we can help you create a plan that fits your budget and goals.

🎯 Book a FREE Financial Planning Session Today

Let’s talk about your goals and design a strategy that works for YOU.

✅ No pressure
✅ No jargon
✅ Just real, practical advice

👉 Click here to book your appointment and take the first step toward financial freedom.

Your future self will thank you.