5 money mistakes that you, yourself might be committing

However, not all OFWs are able to manage their finances well. In reality, some are able to handle their finances well, and some are not able to grow their savings. This leaves us the question, why? Here are 5 money mistakes that you, yourself might be committing.

1. Not making a budget plan
   FIlipinos choose to work overseas mainly because they want to earn money in order to pay their bills, and other household expenses. However, not establishing a concrete budget plan will result in spending your money for unnecessary expenses. The purpose of a budget plan is to be able to get hold of your monthly expenses so you can properly allocate your salary to the needs of the family and be able to put some into your savings. Make sure to create a budget plan for your monthly expenses and don’t forget to set aside emergency funds, just in case some unforeseen circumstances arise.
2. Overspending
   Not all OFWs give so much thought on the amount that they send to their families as it is their way of providing for their families. It is their own family, after all and who can resist family, right? However, they tend to send so much that they forget to put some into their savings. As an OFW, you have to consider that there are financial challenges that might come in your way too, so make sure to leave a little for yourself. How to correct this? Make a budget plan and strictly stick with it. You can also talk to whoever you are sending the money–it can be your parents, your wife or someone who you know you can trust with money. That way, they can handle your remittances wisely, while you are working overseas.
3. Impulse buying
   Now that you are earning more than your salary before you worked overseas, you can now buy the things that you couldn’t afford before. The shift in lifestyle will be influenced by your salary, and it is going to be hard to control as you develop a mindset that it is okay to treat yourself every once in a while, which will eventually turn into a habit. How to correct this? Don’t fall for it, it’s a trap. Keep in mind that long-term investments are way better than impulse buys. Make a clear distinction on your wants and needs. Every time you feel the urge to buy something, ask yourself whether you want it or need it. By doing so, you will be able to handle your finances well.
4. Showing off
   The thing about being an OFW or balikbayan is that people in your home country automatically think that you are rich, which puts pressure on OFWs who are working real hard to earn money. Whenever OFWs take a vacation in the Philippines, relatives and loved ones expect pasalubongs, such as chocolates and luxurious stuff– branded shirts, wallets, bags, shoes. Aside from this, most of the time, balikbayans shoulder the expense of parties or road trips to catch up with relatives and also, as a well-off family member. But, is it really necessary to do this? There is nothing wrong with going out and spending money for your loved ones. However, grand celebrations and endless blow outs are not necessary. Keep in mind that no matter how big you spend on them, it won’t make up for the lost time. It is better to spend a huge amount of money in investments so you can guarantee financial stability in the future for your family.
5. Not preparing for retirement
   You have to keep in mind that you are not going to be an OFW forever. Part of your savings should be allocated for your retirement plan, even though you still have plenty of years to spare. Think ahead, and plan for the future, so when that time comes, you will be able to enjoy the fruits of all those years you worked overseas, away from your family.

So, how many of these 5 common mistakes have you been committing?

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A multi-award-winning blogger and advocate for OFWs and investment literacy; recipient of the Mass Media Advocacy Award, Philippine Expat Blog Award, and Most Outstanding Balikbayan Award. Her first book, The Global Filipino Bloggers OFW Edition, was launched at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. A certified Registered Financial Planner of the Philippines specializing in the Stock Market. A recognized author of the National Book Development Board of the Philippines. Co-founder of Teachers Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK). An international member of writing and poetry. Published more than 10 books.  Read more: About DiaryNiGracia