I grew up in a hardworking Filipino household, raised by parents who did everything they could to give us a better life. And they succeeded. I carry with me so many of their values: perseverance, gratitude, and the ability to make do with what you have.

But as I got older, I started noticing a few money patterns that didn’t quite match the kind of financial life I wanted to build.

I say this with nothing but love and respect. My parents did the best they could with what they had, and I’ve learned far more good things from them than bad. Still, some habits made an impression on me, and over time, I chose to take a different path.

Here are the money habits I observed growing up, and what I’m choosing to do differently:

1. Saving Things “For Later” and Missing Out

I noticed we often bought nice things, only to store them away “for a special occasion.” Clothes, towels, kitchenware—they were kept unused because “sayang” (what a waste!) if they got ruined too soon.

But what I’ve realized is that not using something when it’s meant to be enjoyed can be its own kind of waste. You’re not just saving money, you’re postponing joy.

Now, I try to use the “good stuff” in everyday life. Life doesn’t always wait for special occasions. Sometimes, today is the moment worth celebrating.

2. Insurance and Investments = Scam

I grew up hearing that insurance and investments were scams. That they were confusing, risky, or only benefited the people selling them.

Ironically, as my parents got older and started spending more time online, they became more vulnerable to actual scams—shady investment offers, questionable online “gurus,” and get-rich-quick schemes.

What I’ve learned is that insurance and investing aren’t the problem. A lack of clear, trustworthy information is. When we understand how these tools work and use them wisely, they can actually protect and grow what we work so hard for.

3. No Clear Budgeting System

My parents were excellent at stretching every peso. But formal budgeting, like tracking income, listing expenses, and adjusting plans monthly, wasn’t something I saw growing up.

It was often a “bahala na” mindset when it came to bills, emergencies, or even bigger goals. And while that kind of flexibility was sometimes necessary, it left very little room for long-term planning.

Now, I see budgeting as one of the most empowering tools I’ve ever learned. It’s about clarity and peace of mind, not restriction.

4. Cash Over Everything

For many in our parents’ generation, cash was king. Savings meant keeping money in the bank, ideally in a passbook account, with no risk involved.

There’s comfort in that kind of security. But as I started learning more, I realized that relying only on savings accounts can actually hurt you over time. Inflation eats away at your money’s value, slowly but surely.

I’ve learned that investing is a way to outpace inflation and grow wealth, even in small amounts.

5. Financial Help Without Boundaries

One thing I’ve always admired is my parents’ generosity. They (my mom especially) would help even extended members whenever they could, even if it meant sacrificing their comfort.

But over time, I saw how this took a toll on their savings, health, and peace of mind. The lesson I learned? It’s okay to set boundaries. You can support others while still protecting your own well-being. In fact, you’ll be in a better position to help long-term if you take care of yourself first.

6. Money Was Always Tied to Stress

Growing up, I rarely heard people talk about money in a positive way. It was usually discussed in whispers, with anxiety, or during emergencies.

Money felt like something you had to survive, not something you could use intentionally.

Now, I’m learning to shift that mindset. Money can be a tool for freedom, generosity, creativity, and peace. And talking about it openly doesn’t mean you’re bragging. It means you’re learning.

7. No Talk About Retirement

I don’t remember my parents ever sitting down to talk about retirement goals, long-term care, or estate planning. It wasn’t part of our conversations, and I don’t blame them. Life was busy, and they were focused on making it through the present.

But watching them navigate retirement now has shown me the importance of planning ahead. And it’s one of the most loving things you can do for your future self and your family.

8. Relying on Hard Work Alone

Lastly, one thing I noticed deeply: hard work was the main strategy. And to be fair, it was often the only option available.

But as I’ve built my freelance life, I’ve learned that hard work alone isn’t always enough. You need systems, boundaries, rest, and smart money decisions too.

I still believe in working hard, but I also believe in working wisely.

I’m Grateful for the Foundation

This isn’t about blaming or shaming. I love my parents, and I’m proud of the way they raised us.

They gave me everything they could, and more. Their sacrifices are the reason I have the freedom to explore different choices today. I’ll always be grateful for that.

At the same time, this is about awareness. About learning, evolving, and doing better with the opportunities they helped make possible.

We’re not starting from scratch. We’re starting from love.

And I will always be grateful to my parents for the life they’ve given me. Every opportunity I have today exists because of them.

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