Grace`s Open Book: Notes during Quarantine

Hello, everyone! 

Grace`s Open Book: Notes during Quarantine

How are you holding up? For most people, the days during the enhanced community lock down were some of the hardest. I can`t say otherwise because not being able to work the way I used to was specially saddening for me. I`ve always tried my best to work hard and work smart and when I`m presented with some limitations to be able to do that, it becomes a real challenge. The positive side of being locked down or in quarantine was that I was able to take notes of significant changes I ought to apply in my life.

As my readers, I would love to share with you basic yet life-changing notes I wrote while facing the financial, emotional and spiritual challenges during a lock down: 

Note #1: Finances

Thankfully, doing those viral challenges for saving up like Peso Sense Ipon Challenge, and Mr. Chinkee Tan`s Ipon Challenge has helped me tremendously when I needed funds the most though it`s not much. This lock down is genuinely an eye opener how significant every cent is. 

I remember reading Mr. Robert Sy Tan`s "What Would You Do? If This Was Your Last Day On Earth", Mr. Don Soriano`s "Break Free" and many books about budgeting, attending a financial seminar, and discussing with my older sister about money management. All these books and effort would be wasted if not put into action. 

A simple daily expense of buying milk tea or having food delivered can make a huge impact in my savings if I don`t spend these money. 

If I were to spend at least Php 100 - Php 150 a day on snacks, milk tea, food deliveries and other things that I can actually go about my day without, that would be Php 3,000 - 4,500/month or Php 36,000 - 54,000/year of savings. This money can be used to get health or life insurance to be paid on an annual basis. 

I`ve had so many realizations about finances which you may read here as well: 5 Wise Financial Learnings during the Covid-19 Lockdown

Note #2: Cleanliness

Regular cleaning of the house and my belongings, and carrying alcohol, wipes and tissue with me almost anywhere I go has been a habit of mine. The uncertainties that wraps around the cure for the Covid-19 are very much present which is why I committed to a more thorough cleaning schedule. 

Note #3: Prioritize Mental and Physical Health

Health has never been more important. Though young, I've witnessed several people who had an abundance of financial opportunities but didn't prioritize their health. In the end, they went to where we are all headed in the end. 

Getting a premium health insurance is very important but prevention of sicknesses and diseases is equally important.

A healthy and tipid tip: I've been trying to cook and learn more recipes which is why having the ingredients listed in a journal or planner will be extremely useful whenever I do grocery shopping. Make sure that you give yourself allowance when doing budgeting. Meat, fishes, vegetables, fruits and other necessities tend to change prices quite fast. Strictly stick to your budget but make sure that it`s realistic. 

Being financially wise, organized and thoroughly clean, and achieving a healthier lifestyle has never been more applicable than today. The lock down has put a pause on a lot of our plans but please be encouraged that this is only an obstacle we must overcome. Our dreams and goals are only paused but not yet stopped. 

Have a blessed and beautiful day, everyone! Please stay safe.