Confessions of a Personal Finance Blogger

I started SavingsPinay without any expectations at all. I was fresh out of college and adjusting on the professional world which means making a lot of financial decisions here and there. I thought it would be nice to start a blog that focuses on personal finance same with my then beauty blog, IzzaGlino.

At first I was just sharing simple posts like How to Apply for BPI MS Travel Insurance and How to Apply for BPI Express then I published a post that became quiet famous, So I Entered The BPI PIN Wrong Thrice. Today that post has been viewed almost 16,000++ already.

I realized how a single post can give value to people. I received comments thanking me because I helped them resolve a thrice PIN failure. Slowly I widen my knowledge through reading financial books and blogs. From there I started creating better content for SavingsPinay.

Fast forward today, SavingsPinay has been viewed by 130,000++ strangers. It is double the size of the page views on my other blog which I started earlier. I've been blogging about budget, savings, investments and other money matters for almost two years now and so far so good.

But the life of a personal finance blogger is not all about glory. I also screw up. I am a living mess when it comes to my finances. I made a lot of mistakes here and there. And even though I am afraid to confess my flaws---afraid that I'll lose you as my readers, I thought it will be nice to set the story straight.

In today's personal post Monday I want to share with you my readers, my financial buddies and my accountability partners the truth. Below are things I want to confess to you and hope for your kind understanding. Ready?

I don't follow my budget

Yes you've read countless of posts in my blog about budgeting but I will be 100% honest to say that I fail to follow my budget. I always have these things that ruin my budget even I try hard not to. I shop impulsively. I easily get distracted on discounts, buy 1 take 1 and other sale announcement specially on the area of makeup.

READ: How I Still Choose To Love Budgeting Even If Doesn't Love Me Back

I don't meet my saving goals

Due to lack of budgeting on my part I stopped meeting my monthly saving goals. The 52-Week Money Challenge is now on hold and I have to wait for hosting gigs to make it up on my savings. See how bad of a personal finance enthusiasts am I? As much as I want to follow the golden rule of Savings - Income = Expenses I still fell short of my will. I do the exact opposite. 

READ: Learn the Importance of Saving Money Now

I procrastinate a lot

I think this isn't new anymore. I've been very honest that I'm a big procrastinator. My life is summed up in the phrase One Step Forward, Two Steps Back. I have plenty of ideas in mind but I procrastinate on the execution. If only I can be more mindful on what's important.

READ: Finding Mr. Clarity

I am hard on myself

People close to me knows how I can be hard on myself. I don't get contented. I always feel like I have to work harder, I have to achieve more and I have to give more efforts in what I do. It is hard for me to accept compliments from others because I always feel like I don't deserve them. In return I also find it hard to give compliments to people.

READ: A Breakdown of My Financial Goals

I am full of insecurities

People think I so strong, that I am the type who doesn't need any help from others. But inside I am a shattered glass. I have tons of insecurities that I can't mention to anyone. I stumble upon the feeling of jealousy and envious when people's attention are concentrated on a particular person. I always long for people to notice me... to love me. 

I don't know if after the things I said you'll still read this blog. I am working hard to get my personal and financial life in order. It feels awesome to finally say to you how I really feel at the moment.

Thank you for reading.

MORE POSTS TO READ:

1. Do It Yourself Spending Tracker Notebook
2. How I Still Choose to Love Budgeting Even If It Doesn't Love Me Back
3. How Much Money Should You Save Each Month?
4. How to Budget Your Money For The Coming Holidays
5. How to Earn Extra Money Online
6. How to Invest Your 5,000 Pesos
7. How to Make Money with Lazada
8. I'm Just 21 Do I Seriously Need a Life Plan?
9. Managing Your Money: A Beginner's Guide
10. More Proven Ways You Can Diversify Your Income

On Things I Want To Make Time For

Monday is dedicated to personal posts here in SavingsPinay. I know how most of the time this blog get a little serious with all the financial terms and money matters we discuss. And so to lighten up everything I decided to dedicate a day of the week when I let you have a glimpse about me as an ordinary Pinay obsessed in personal finance. 

Today's post is all about the things I want to make time for. Nowadays its very easy to get consumed by technology and let these gadgets, apps and social media sites rule your life. So as a friendly reminder I want to set my intent to live intentionally and create a much fruitful 2016. 

Let's start.

Reading the Bible

On to the top spot on my Personal and Financial Goals 2016 is reading my Bible. I'll be very frank that I sometimes miss doing my devotions because of things happening around. I know there's no excuse with this one but I am guilty beyond reasonable doubt of not focusing my time for God more. I have to redo everything and really prioritize what should be prioritized in my life. I also want to make time for Sunday service and discipleship which I miss gigantically.

Exercise

Though I now run for every Wednesdays and Fridays after work I still want to make time for an easy exercise I could do on a daily basis. My Balik Alindog program was a success until I stopped doing it because I wake up late. I have to work hard to have a flat tummy and I do want abs to be honest.

Pamper Myself

My weekdays as well as weekends are stretched most of the time with work and  blogging activities. I am the type of person who puts so much pressure to myself and not easily satisfied with a success. However, this kind of attitude is making me sick in the inside. I get easily stressed and worn out. I want to make more time in celebrating the little wins of the day or the week. I have to also congratulate myself for being awesome, right?

Earning Extra Income

There are so many things I can do if I really want to earn extra income but I seem to procrastinate a lot. I can promote my hosting more, advertise my wedding coordination service and find online writing gigs to apply for but I sadly I don't. Now I want to act up and really do something to earn extra income. June is a perfect month for weddings so I can't miss the chance to put up some ads and learn to market my hosting skills again. 

Organizing My Inbox

My email is a complete mess and I have to do something about it immediately. I need to make time and unsubscribe to those I don't even open. I also wish to do an Inbox Zero meaning have as little messages as possible in my Inbox and just ruthlessly delete those I don't really need.

I hope this post appeals to you. Happy Monday!

MORE POSTS TO READ:

1. 15 Smart Ways to Earn Extra Income
2. A Special Guide on the New FAMI Investor's Portal
3. All About Banking in the Philippines Part 1
4. All About Banking in the Philippines Part 2
5. How to Achieve Financial Stability in Your 20’s
6. How to Actually be Good in Money
7. How to Correctly Spend Your Money
8. How to Handle Bill Payments like a Boss
9. No More Excuses! 7 Awesome Tips that Will Help You Stop Wasting Your Money
10. Take this Test to Know if You are Financially Fit

My Voting Experience #Halalan2016

Last Monday I exercised my right to vote for the first time. I knew I wanted to make a blog post out of my voting experience I am just torn between publishing it over my personal blog, IzzaGlino or here at SavingsPinay. Well, since you've been reading it in the blog you know what my chose was, right?!

The #Halalan2016 is the social-media election of the century. It trended in almost all platforms. People used their social-media in a lot of ways, some to ridicule other candidate while others led a fair game supporting their own candidate in every way they can.

I did not post anything concerning the Philippine Election 2016 and haven't spoken whom my vote was for. But as someone who's a first-time voter I thought it would be nice to share my experience to everyone. 

Voter Registration | My Experience

I have no idea where I'll start this story time so I thought I just start on How To Register Philippine Election 2016. The registration process was very easy to be honest. Me, my elder sister and sister-in-law were the only left non-registered in the family so we were really into registering for 2016 election.

Requirements: 

First you must be a Filipino citizen, at least 18 years of age on or before Election Day, a Philippine resident for at least 1 year and a resident of the place where you intend to vote for at least six months.

Registration Process:

To cut the process short we decided to get the application form online via www.comelec.gov.ph. Print three (3) copies of the Application Form and fill out.

Tip #1. You can just print and fill out in the local Comelec office if you want to be guided on how the form is answered. 

• Go to you Local Comelec office aka city hall where your biometrics will be taken

• Once your in the local Comele office you will go another step-by-step procedure from taking your photograph, digital signature and fingerprints.

• Don't forget to get your Acknowledgment receipt which will be detached at the bottom part of your application form by the Comelec personnel. 

Campaign Period | My Experience

As said in the beginning I kept my social media out of the whole "politics" during the campaign period. Back then I never even knew whom I will vote for. I became a silent watcher and listener just checking from time to time what's happening.

The Social Media this year made a huge difference for every candidate and the Philippine Election as a whole. The black propaganda done by camps were massive. Funny memes were around my Timeline too. It was chaos. 

The Presidential Debate made a big impact for me. When I'm still not registered to vote I don't mind watching presidential debates. I don't pay attention on the candidate's platform and even their names. Now it's different. I enjoyed watching Presidential Debates and have actually made my decision through it.

My Christian Vote Went To...

We all have our choices and last Monday I did chose mine. In the household we don't pressure each other on who to vote. You decide for your own. 

My Christian Vote went to Rody Duterte and the reasons I voted him were as follows:

• Very genuine. Again watching the Philippine Debate 2016 will make you fall in love with this man. He speaks from the heart.
• Proven Track Record. Davao has always been part of My Places to Visit list and seeing how Duterte led Davao is just pure amazement. 
• Something New. Duterte showed something new...a never before seen side of a President. His flaws make him more makatao. His imperfections make him perfect for presidency.
• Political Will. His strong political will...his courage and how his toughness will make you confident to live in the Philippines. 
• Proud and Pride. Duterte comes from Mindanao and he brings a unity towards Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao with it. I love how he can connect the three areas into one. I also am so proud to say "Presidente ko si Duterte" 

I also voted for Cayetano as Vice President for I adore how he selflessly campaigned for Duterte. I hope he will be given a place in the cabinet by President Duterte. 

My senators were mostly new people but sadly most of them too did not win. It's saddening how the voting process here in our country can be. I thought we already learned our lesson from the past too bad... still shallow and incompetent candidates won as senators. 

Before, During and After Elections | My Experience

Before #Halalan2016

I guess since this is the first time I will be voting I've felt really focused in the whole election process. I keep myself updated from the news. I actually thought this Philippine Election 2016 will be violent as I've witnessed how the campaign period can be too much of black propaganda. 

Our School Plaza During the Halalan. There are spots for Voters Assistance

During #Halalan2016

I felt so tensed waking up for the elections. It actually feels like I am taking an entrance exam once again. Fortunately me and my elder sister as well as sister-in-law were in the same precinct. I was surprised too that the election was peaceful. My experience was far from what I imagined it to be. Everything was surprisingly fast and easy. I double checked my receipt and we all went to Mang Inasal to have our lunch. 

After #Halalan2016

I was full of excitement knowing who will win for the presidency. It was my main concern to be honest. When I heard that Duterte was leading I was full of happiness. I know there are stories that Mar Roxas will cheat but that massive lead prove otherwise. Filipinos just want and need a new leader. I felt a little disappointed that Cayetano and 10 out 12 of my Senators didn't made it. 

Overall

My voting experience during the #Halalan2016 was very ok. There's always a first time for everything and I will never forget this life event. I don't know what will happen in the future but I am excited on President Duterte's first State of the Nation Address. I am also excited on the leadership he will bring to the country. I pray for a better Philippines. I pray that the decision I made last Monday will be worth it. No regrets.

How about you? How's your voting experience?

MORE POSTS TO READ:

1. My #iBlog11 2-Day Blogging Summit Experience
2. My 2015 Blogapalooza Experience
3. My 2nd Year Anniversary Working in Makati
4. My Extra Income Year-End Report
5. My GetGo Lifestyle Rewards Card by Cebu Pacific
6. My Must Do's Before 2015 Ends
7. My New Budget and Spending Tracker Notebook
8. My New Special Project: PinayOnlineRakitera!
9. My Pampanga 2D+1N Itinerary and Expenses
10. My Personal Finance Books Collection

My FAMI-SALEF Investment Update!!!

It's been a long time since I updated you guys about my FAMI-SALEF Mutual Fund Investment. Can't even believe that its been two years already since I started my investing journey through FAMI Mutual Fund. Its a big financial move that I did at 19 and never regretted ever since. 

A Back Story

I invested in a FAMI-Save and Learn Equity Fund last January 2013. FAMI-SALEF is one of the many investment products from First Metro Asset Management Inc. which is part of the Metrobank Group. SEE LINK: http://fami.com.ph/

I battled between investing in a FAMI mutual fund (which is an indirect stock investment) or COL Easy Investment Plan (which is an direct stock investment). After much deliberation between the pros and cons I settled for FAMI and I have stated my reasons in the post, FAMI or COL Financial Beginners Alert! 

I did my first FAMI Update after six months of investing in FAMI-SALEF and still have all the good things to say about my big financial move. After a year of investing I shared the lessons I learned in another post called Things I Realized After My First Investment. 

What's My FAMI-SALEF Investment Strategy?

I have mentioned in the past that I treat my FAMI-SALEF Investment like a savings account. I am doing Peso-Cost Averaging method wherein I invest monthly a fixed amount of 1,000 pesos as a top up. To easily and conveniently pay I enrolled my FAMI-SALEF on my Metrobank Direct and you can click HERE on the step by step process. This way I don't need to go over the counter just to top up my investments.

Tracking My FAMI-SALEF Investments

In every investment I make I receive a Statement of Account via mail on my chosen mailing address. This Statement of Account (SOA) is your proof of purchase that shows you the current NAVPS on the date of your purchase and the Number of Shares you owned. READ: What is NAVPS?

Via email FAMI send a State of Account Quarterly. This is in PDF form that your easily view and/or print for reference. 

Every FAMI investor also receive access to the FAMI Portal which is a platform created to monitor your investments. Last year the FAMI Portal had a major overhaul and I also created a guide on how to use the New FAMI Portal. READ: A Special Guide on the New FAMI Investor's Portal

So How's Your Investment, Izza?

Screnshot from my FAMI Investor Portal

The photo above is a screenshot of my Statement of Account from January 2015 to February 2016. As you may notice I failed to invest on a monthly basis. There are months like February 2015 and September 2015 that I missed paying for my FAMI-SALEF. You can also notice how the NAVPs change every month that affects that number of shares that my money can buy. This proves how unpredictable the economy can be. 

I also am quick to mention that I don't put that much money in my FAMI-SALEF for two reasons:

1. I have other investment/s that I'll reveal in the near future. 
2. I am still young (22) and this FAMI-SALEF is reserved as a Retirement Fund meaning I have zero plans of withdrawing my investment in the next 10-20years. I am really preserving it for future use.

My First Loss in my FAMI-SALEF Investment

Now I must be honest with you that I experienced my first loss in my FAMI-SALEF Investment.

Towards the end of September 2015 I wasn't able to open my FAMI Portal account because I forgot my password. Still I paid via Metrobank as month pass by. Then last March I decided I have to gain access again on my account because I want to know how my fund is performing. Imagine how I felt seeing the red mark. I lost 172.17 pesos!!!

Thankfully the new FAMI Portal gives you a quick breakdown of the NAVPs History on the different FAMI Investment Products. I immediately reviewed the NAVPs on FAMI-SALEF and found the reason why I had an unwanted loss.

See photos below:

By January 2016 the NAVPs suddenly dropped. From 5.0062 of January 10 it became 4.7707 the following day. Now that's a shocking difference. 

This even got worse on January 21 with 4.6414. 

Thankfully by the end of February 2016 the NAVPs closed in 5.005 and it continue to become stronger day after day.

Current NAVPs as of this writing is 5.2988. 

My Thoughts

• Loss is normal. Again there's no guarantee in any investment. It is sad of course but keep the faith. It's fortunate that the NAVPs is fighting really hard though.
• Since I am investing in a long term I am not that worried with this loss. I continue investing in my FAMI-SALEF account hoping (and praying) that the NAVPs will perform better. 
• If you notice, SALEF is still the best performing our of the other Investment Products of FAMI. I firmly believe that in the coming months there will be a big change and I'll start gaining. 

Overall

I must admit that the sudden loss and weak NAVPs performance made me pause a little but thinking of my financial goals made it clear that this phase is pretty much normal. I hope on my next update there will be good news already. 

Do you invest in FAMI-SALEF too? What's your experience so far? Please do share in the comment section below.

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