Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year? July is in full swing and it feels like time is flying by!
I still remember this day last year when I was eagerly waiting for my second baby to arrive. Around this time, I also started my journey as a columnist for The Manila Times, writing for their Money Talks section.
Looking back, it’s kind of funny how anxious I was while writing my first article about mid-year financial check-ins. I spent days worrying about what feedback the editor would give me.
But here we are, a year later, and I’m filled with gratitude for the blessings in my life. I want to give a big thank you to Sir Henry Ong, the very humble and supportive President of RFP Philippines, for giving me this amazing opportunity to contribute to a local newspaper.
Time truly passes in the blink of an eye. My little boy is about to turn one, and I recently celebrated my anniversary as a Manila Times columnist. Life is full of these incredible moments that never cease to amaze me.
As we step into the second half of 2023, it’s time to pause, breathe, and take stock of our financial journey. Welcome to your mid-year financial check-in! This pivotal moment serves as a perfect pitstop for all Filipinos aiming to steer their monetary voyage towards a future of financial stability and prosperity.
In this ever-changing world, adapting is key. Your financial strategy at the start of the year may need adjustments to continue being effective in the current economic climate. Whether you’re an OFW sending remittances home, a young professional investing in stocks, or a retiree managing a pension, a mid-year review can help ensure your financial plan remains aligned with your evolving life goals.
From optimizing your investments and fine-tuning your insurance coverage to bolstering your emergency funds, this mid-year check-in provides a chance to rebalance your financial strategy. It allows you to reflect on your spending habits, reassess your savings goals, and re-evaluate your investment portfolio.
And remember, every peso counts. Even small tweaks to your personal finance strategy can have significant impacts on your overall financial health. So, let’s buckle up and navigate the remaining months of 2023 with renewed determination and a finely-tuned financial plan. The journey towards financial fitness continues, and together, we’ll make every peso work for us!
Now, let’s delve into some specific steps you can take during this mid-year financial check-in.
Step 1: Review Your Budget
Start by looking at your budget. Are you sticking to it? Are there areas where you’re consistently overspending or underspending? This is the time to make adjustments. Remember, your budget should be flexible and adapt to your current circumstances. If you’ve received a pay increase, consider allocating a portion of it towards your savings or investment. Conversely, if you’ve experienced a decrease in income, look for non-essential expenses you can cut back on.
Step 2: Assess Your Savings
Next, evaluate your savings. Have you reached your mid-year savings goal? If not, don’t despair. Look for ways to boost your savings in the second half of the year. You could consider taking on a side gig, selling items you no longer need, or finding creative ways to save on everyday expenses.
Step 3: Check Your Investments
Take a look at your investment portfolio. The performance of investments can fluctuate due to various factors including market conditions and economic events. If certain investments are not performing as expected, it may be time to consider other options. Always diversify your investments to spread the risk.
READ: Best Investments in the Philippines for 2023
Step 4: Evaluate Your Insurance Needs
Life changes, such as getting married, having a child, or buying a new home, can affect your insurance needs. Make sure your coverage matches your current situation. If you don’t have insurance yet, now would be a good time to consider getting one. Insurance serves as a safety net that can protect you and your family from financial hardships caused by unforeseen events.
Step 5: Update Your Financial Goals
Lastly, revisit your financial goals. Are they still relevant? Have your priorities shifted? Don’t hesitate to amend your goals to reflect any changes in your life. It’s crucial that your financial plan aligns with what you want to achieve.
In conclusion, a mid-year financial check-in is an essential practice for maintaining financial fitness. It allows you to course-correct if needed, ensuring your personal finance strategy remains effective and aligned with your life goals. Remember, the journey to financial stability is not a sprint, but a marathon. With regular check-ins and adjustments, you’ll be well on your way to reaching your financial goals. So here’s to a financially fit second half of 2023!