How to Start Investing in Your Future

Everyone knows the feeling: when you’re young, you’re on top of the world. You can do anything, be anyone, and go anywhere. But that feeling doesn’t last forever, and it’s important to start investing in your own future as early as now. Last June, The Macho Mom talked about making investments in properties and the stock market. And while that’s certainly important, Rappler reports that more and more millennials and women in general are choosing to invest in the stock market, for example— that’s not the only way to invest in your future. Here are five more things you can do to ensure a better, brighter future for yourself and your family.

 

Eat Healthier

According to a recent report by the Philippine Star, 1 in 5 Filipinos are diabetic or pre-diabetic. The traditional Filipino diet is high in sugars thanks to the staple white rice, and without changes in your diet you may be at risk for hyperglycemia or other lifestyle diseases. By eating healthier and being more mindful of the food you consume, you can reduce the risks of contracting diabetes or other diseases, and end up with an overall healthier outlook on life.

 

Start Working Out

A survey found that 61% of mid-income Filipinos don’t exercise regularly, tying with Thailand and Malaysia for the highest number of citizens who lack exercise. While the survey found that Filipinos were still optimistic about their health, it’s still not a bad idea to find the time to work out. The benefits of exercise include increased endorphins, stronger bones and muscle mass, and reduced chance of lifestyle diseases, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t start working out today.

 

Invest in Insurance

Health insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it’s one that’ll save you and your family money in the future. Filipinos have some of the highest out-of-pocket health expenditures in Asia, and that number has only been climbing in recent years. Avoid falling into the trap of getting hospitalized without health insurance. If you’re not sure where to start, Paramount Direct has a guide on how to get the best family health insurance in the Philippines. It includes answers to questions you may have regarding pricing, coverage, and the like, as well as information about the HealthCare Cash Plan, which includes coverage for you, your spouse, and your children.

 

Start a Savings Fund

There’s no downside to putting together a savings fund; it’s a smart financial decision and safety net that will allow you to rest easy. The Manulife Investor Sentiment Index (Misi) from 2018 found that most Filipinos are unable to retire at 60 due to a lack of personal income set aside for retirement. While retirement may seem like a ways off for you, there’s no better time than the present to start preparing for it.

 

Further Education

While it might seem like the days of college and institutional education are far behind you, the truth is that learning never stops. Do a little shopping around online and you’ll find you can take a few classes in coding, investing, or entrepreneurship for a minimal price— sometimes even for free! Take advantage of your sharp mind and invest in extra classes that may help you in your work or in the future.