A Wake-Up Call from 80,000 Pesos

In just six weeks, I spent nearly 80,000 pesos.

During that time, I acted as if my savings were endless. I didn’t think twice about the money going out, not until today, when I finally checked my balance and realized I was close to emptying it.

I spent around 20,000 pesos at home, treating friends, buying food, and helping fund our short films. I even donated 5,000+ pesos to an organization, money that came from a repayment by one of my aunts. Another 20,000 went to new clothes and a travel trolley for my trip to Malaysia. The biggest chunk? 30,000 pesos for the plane ticket.

Looking back, it felt like freedom. I didn’t worry. I treated my loved ones. I did what I wanted without overthinking — and yes, it was satisfying. But I also came to realize that this kind of lifestyle isn’t sustainable. I don’t have passive income yet, and I stopped investing during that period.

These weren’t exactly impulsive decisions. I saw them as ways to live, to give, and to enjoy life while I could. A part of me also wanted to give back. But now, with that chapter behind me, it’s time to reset.

Starting next month, I’m returning to saving. I’m choosing to live frugally again, to be more mindful with my spending, and to build toward financial independence, the kind they call “F-you money.”

Because real freedom isn’t just about spending freely — it’s about being able to choose how you live, without fear of running out.

This month I'm set to spend atleast 30k in Malaysia. After that, I reset.