(Unlearning Beliefs. Rewriting Our Financial Future.)
“Anak, basta may trabaho ka, okay na ‘yan.”
“Don’t aim too high. Baka madapa ka.”
“Wag mo isipin ang pera, importante masaya.”
Sound familiar?
If you grew up in a Filipino household, chances are you’ve heard at least one of these lines. They were passed down with good intentions—built on resilience, sacrifice, and survival. But times have changed. And if we want to move forward as individuals and as a nation, some of these financial mindsets need to be gently… retired.
Let’s unpack the most common money myths we inherited—and what we can believe instead.
1. “Money is Evil”
This is one of the most persistent myths. Many of us were taught that wanting more is selfish or corrupt. But money is neutral—it’s simply a tool.
When good people have money, they build schools, fund rescue missions, help relatives, and support communities.
👉 Want to start shifting your money mindset?
Read The Soul of Money – a beautiful guide to conscious earning and giving.
2. “Basta May Trabaho, Ayos Na”
Having a job is a blessing—but staying in one that underpays you or drains your health isn’t noble. It’s harmful.
Many Filipinos stick to low-paying jobs for decades out of fear, guilt, or cultural pressure.
Instead, invest in income growth skills like digital freelancing, remote work, or online business.
👉 Start with The 4-Hour Workweek —it flips the script on how we earn and live.
3. “Buy a House ASAP, That’s the Smartest First Investment”
Our parents were obsessed with land and houses—and in their time, it made sense. But today?
Real estate isn’t always the wisest first move—especially if you’re deep in debt or lacking liquid savings.
Focus first on emergency funds, financial literacy, and diversified investments.
👉 Read Rich Dad Poor Dad to understand how the rich truly grow wealth.
4. “It’s Your Duty to Support Everyone in the Family”
We carry utang na loob in our bones. But when your income goes to 6 different relatives and you’re left with zero for yourself, it’s not loyalty—it’s unsustainable.
Healthy boundaries do not erase love.
👉 If you struggle with guilt around saying no, try Set Boundaries, Find Peace — a life-saver for emotional and financial wellness.
5. “Banks Are Safer Than Business”
Banks are safe, yes—but they’re also financially stagnant. A typical savings account earns you less than ₱200 a year on ₱100,000. Inflation eats more than that.
While not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur, learning basic investing or starting a micro-business can do more for your money.
👉 Curious but cautious? Start with The Intelligent Investor for timeless investing advice.
6. “If You’re Still Poor, Kasalanan Mo Na ‘Yan”
We’ve equated poverty with laziness—and that’s both unfair and untrue.
Not everyone starts at the same place. Systemic inequality, education access, job opportunities, and mental health all play massive roles in financial outcomes.
Blaming the poor helps no one. Empowerment does.
👉 Learn how wealth and systems intersect in Why Nations Fail.
7. “Budol Is Life”
The “add to cart” culture isn’t harmless when it’s driven by stress, shame, or social pressure.
Buying to cope is still buying.
Being kuripot isn’t the goal—being conscious is.
👉 Start using a Monthly Budget Planner to enjoy and save. You deserve both.
🌱 Final Thoughts: You Can Break the Cycle
We don’t need to shame our elders for what they taught us. They did what they could with what they had. But now?
We have tools, books, tech, and access to better choices.
Unlearning takes courage.
Healing your relationship with money is a radical act of love—for yourself, for your future family, and for the country.
Let this be your sign: You can start over. You are allowed to dream bigger. And no, it’s not too late.
What’s One Money Belief You’re Working on Unlearning?
Comment below or share this with someone who’s breaking cycles just like you.
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