FINANCIAL experts emphasize the importance of discipline in saving money. However, for many Filipinos, the challenge lies not in knowing how to save but in actually applying it to daily life. The first step to successful saving is to condition your mindset: 'I need to save.' Once you are fully committed to this goal, you can start making small but significant changes to your daily spending habits. Simple decisions can go a long way in cutting unnecessary expenses and increasing savings.

One of the easiest ways to save is by bringing your own food to work or school. Eating out regularly, especially in fast-food restaurants or coffee shops, can add up over time. Preparing homemade meals instead of buying lunch every day could save you thousands of pesos annually. Planning your meals in advance ensures that groceries are efficiently used and reduces food waste.