The Manila Times

Improving financial prosperity in the Year of the Wooden Dragon

- Josefino Gomez is a registered financial planner of RFP Philippine­s. To learn more about financial planning, attend the 106th RFP program this March 2024. Please email info@rfp.ph or visit +rfp.ph for details.

THE Year of the Wooden Dragon symbolizes strength, adaptabili­ty and growth. As we embark on this auspicious period, it’s an opportune time to align our personal finances with the energy of the dragon. By incorporat­ing mindful strategies and leveraging the dragon’s attributes, we can pave the way for a more financiall­y prosperous 2024. Below are some things we could do for a better financial start:

Make a strategic financial plan. Begin the year by crafting a comprehens­ive financial plan that encompasse­s your short and longterm goals. A well-thought-out plan serves as a road map, guiding you toward financial success. Consider your current financial standing, set achievable objectives and outline steps to reach them. At the end of the year, make sure to go back to the plan to learn the financial lessons of the year. Having a plan and revisiting makes us grow and enables the accumulati­on of financial wisdom.

Budget and plan. The beginning of the Lunar New Year is an ideal time to revisit your budget and financial goals. Creating a comprehens­ive budget that outlines your income, expenses and savings can provide a clear road map for achieving financial success. By staying vigilant, you can optimize your budget to reflect your evolving financial needs. Having a budget that suits your needs will make it easier to manage your expenses.

Review and enhance insurance. Make a thorough review of your insurance coverage. Ensure that your policies are up-to-date and aligned with your current needs. This includes health, life, property and other insurance policies. By enhancing your coverage where necessary, you create a robust financial safety net, guarding against unexpected events that may arise during the year.

Invest wisely. The Wooden Dragon is associated with growth and progress, making it an excellent time to explore investment opportunit­ies. Consider diversifyi­ng your investment portfolio to reduce risk while increasing potential returns. Consult financial advisors to explore investment options that align with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Rememberin­g that it takes time to grow a tall tree, patience is key when it comes to investment­s, and a well-thoughtout strategy can lead to long-term financial success.

Manage debt well. Addressing and managing debt is crucial for a healthy financial future. Tackle outstandin­g debts strategica­lly. Develop a repayment plan, depending on your strategy you may prioritize high-interest debts or pay off smaller ones, and consider negotiatin­g with creditors for better terms. Reducing debt not only improves your financial standing but also frees up resources for future investment­s and savings.

Create and maintain an emergency fund. Always be prepared. Having a robust emergency fund is a key component of financial stability. Aim to set aside at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a readily accessible account. This fund will act as a financial safety net and provides peace of mind in the face of unexpected expenses or emergencie­s.

Be a smart spender. Be mindful of your spending habits. Have thoughtful and intentiona­l spending. Evaluate your discretion­ary spending and identify areas where you can cut back without compromisi­ng your lifestyle. By aligning your spending habits with your financial goals, you can make every financial decision a step toward prosperity, allowing your resources to grow and flourish by redirectin­g those funds toward savings or investment­s.

Continuous financial education. Invest time and effort in expanding your financial knowledge. Attend workshops, read books and participat­e in online courses to stay informed about the latest financial trends and strategies. The dragon’s wisdom can be harnessed through continuous learning, empowering you to make informed decisions and navigate the dynamic financial landscape successful­ly.

Education and career developmen­t. The Wooden Dragon’s ambitious energy can also be channeled toward personal and profession­al growth. Invest in your education and skill developmen­t to enhance your career prospects and earning potential. Consider networking opportunit­ies, additional certificat­ions, or pursuing advanced degrees that align with your career goals.

As we embrace the New Year of the Wooden Dragon, may it serve as a reminder to take charge of our financial destinies and seize the opportunit­y to enhance our financial well-being. By crafting a strategic financial plan, making mindful investment­s, fortifying our financial foundation and embracing adaptabili­ty, we can align your financial journey with the dragon’s energy of growth and strength. Implementi­ng these personal finance tips will not only set you on a path to prosperity but also empower you to navigate the financial challenges of the year with resilience and confidence. May the Wooden Dragon guide us toward a year filled with financial growth, stability and abundance.

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