Let’s be real: one of the adulting lessons you might have to learn the hardest way is how you’ll manage your money. Deep down, we still have that inner child who wants to buy all the things we couldn’t afford before. But being financially mindful doesn’t have to be restrictive or overwhelming. On an afternoon in December, we found ourselves in a cozy cafe in the heart of Makati with our friends from Metrobank, where we learned financial lessons that we wish we had learned in school: 

Small but frequent purchases really add up

If you’re someone who easily gives in to your wants, I have bad news for you. You aren’t the best at handling your money, and chances are you’re always chasing the next paycheck. It’s okay to give in from time to time, but you must learn to control unplanned, impulse purchases. That coffee or sweet treat you purchase every time you need a pick-me-up (sometimes a couple of times a day)? You will feel their weight the next time you compute your expenses. 

Track your spending and stick to a budget

One step towards being financially responsible is knowing where your money goes. Aside from recurring bills like rent, electricity, and groceries, identify other areas in your life where you spend the most.

Start tracking your spending by listing it down on your phone’s notes app, or you can easily download applications to do the math for you. This way, you can set a budget and try to stick to it. Take this as a sign to start this habit, so you won’t be clueless about why you’re always out of money. 

Try the Japanese Kakeibo method

Speaking of tracking your spending, here’s a new concept we learned during Metrobank’s cafe takeover. One effective way to track your money is the Japanese Kakeibo Method, which asks you to create a detailed budget at the beginning of each month based on your spending and income. You can easily follow it in three steps: 

1. Write it down: Make a list of your needs, wants, and the amount of savings that you want 
2. Reflect: Ask yourself these questions: Can I live without this? What are my priorities?  
3. Act: Stick to the plan and make adjustments if needed 

The Kakeibo Method asks you to do this manually, so prepare a notebook or journal. You can get creative with it, too, by adding stickers, washi tape, and stamps.

Do a monthly financial check

With new financial habits in tow, it’s also important to set a day at the end of the month to check and assess if you’re on track with your financial goals. When you do it, ask yourself these questions: What worked? What’s one improvement for next month? And when you’re not consistent yet, remember it’s okay if you can’t stick to your initial plans immediately, since it’s a habit you’re still getting familiar with. 

You can also let your friends know about this new habit (or get them involved), so you’re not alone. Accountability goes a long way, and it’s easier to stick to new goals when there are people who remind you of them.

Don’t let peer pressure derail your finances

At the heart of the session, we learned the concept of financial mindfulness – of being intentional, deliberate, and aware of your money choices. In the age where it’s easy to share your achievements in life online, from travels to the latest gadgets – you might feel the pressure to keep up with this lifestyle, too. But always take a pause and ask: do you really need that purchase, or do you just want other people to see that you can afford it? 

Our biggest takeaway? Consistently check your spending habits, reflect on your choices, and make intentional decisions that align with your goals. That’s the move your future self will thank you for.

Use these prompts to stay financially mindful

During Metrobank’s cafe takeover, we were given prompts that helped us set our financial goals and assess how we handle our money. These are good questions to ask at the beginning of the year and at the start of each month: 

• What money habits am I proud of? 
• What financial choices do I want to improve? 
• What does financial stability mean to me? 
• What’s my current relationship with money? 
• What quotes or affirmations inspire me to save? 
• What images represent my “future self”? 

Prompts are very helpful for getting started with a financial journal and goal-setting! 

Make reaching your goals easier with a Metrobank eSavings account

When you receive your paycheck, one of the first things to do is pay yourself, and that’ll be easier when you have a Metrobank eSavings account. Set an amount you will automatically transfer to another account, which you can set as funds for emergencies, a travel fund, or for investments. 

With a Metrobank eSavings account, you’ll uncover a world of benefits, such as: 

• Up to 4x a month of InstaPay Rebates 
• Free AXA Life Insurance if you open an eSavings account by December 31, 2025 (T&Cs apply) 
• Access of up to 4.5% interest rate p.a. with Online Time Deposit 
• An eGift of up to PHP10,000 

Know more about Metrobank eSavings and other requirements here. 

Here’s how you can apply for an eSavings account

Ready to make smarter financial moves in 2026? Opening a new Metrobank eSavings account is just a few taps on your phone. Here’s how to do it: 

1. Download the Metrobank App from Google Play, Apple App Store, or Huawei App Gallery 
2. On the login page, click “Open An Account” and follow the instructions. 

You only need to maintain PHP2,000 in your eSavings account to start earning interest once your balance hits PHP10,000. Get fully verified in as fast as 1-2 days and enjoy complete eSavings features with no limits! It is designed for anyone looking for a simple, convenient way to start saving and growing their money with Metrobank.

Make mindful money decisions your future self will thank you for. Get started by visiting Metrobank’s official website and opening an account today. 

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