Anna Agoncillo is a Psychology honors graduate, a writer, and a Registered Psychometrician. She is also the author of the book entitled Psychology of Love, Money, & Life and the person behind Miss Psychobabble.
Your first job interview is a big step into the world of adulthood and the professional realm. It’s a mix of excitement and nerves as you prepare to face potential employers and prove yourself. The pressure can feel overwhelming, leaving you uncertain about how to handle this new challenge.
One of the toughest aspects of a first job interview is the lack of prior experience. As a fresh graduate or young professional, you may wonder how to effectively showcase your skills and talents without an established work history. It’s easy to feel inadequate in such situations.
To counter this, focus on your transferable skills gained from internships, volunteer work, or academic projects. Employers value enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and adaptability – so make sure to highlight these qualities during the interview.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Navigating the interview process itself can also be confusing. You might be unsure about the questions you’ll face, how to dress appropriately, or how to interact with the interviewers. The fear of making the wrong impression can be quite daunting.
In preparation, familiarize yourself with the company and its values. Take time to research their operations and the specific job you’re applying for. Go to the company’s website and click the “About Us” or “Careers” section to learn more. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
It’s common for self-doubt and imposter syndrome to creep in during first job interviews. You might question your worth and abilities, leading to a lack of confidence.
Remember, the company selected you for an interview because they see potential in you. Don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. Instead, focus on your achievements and the hard work you’ve put in to get to this point. Visualize a successful outcome and turn your nerves into positive energy.
Though a first job interview may seem challenging, remember that everyone faces this hurdle when starting their career journey. Embrace the process as an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve your interview skills.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Practice answering common interview questions with friends or family, and don’t be discouraged by rejections. Each interview experience will contribute to your growth, bringing you closer to that exciting first job opportunity. So, face the challenge head-on and remember that you have the potential to shine brightly in your first job interview.
Let’s face it, kids can be costly. From daily expenses like groceries and clothing to future endeavors like college funds, the financial responsibilities can seem overwhelming. The idea of a family vacation might make you hesitant, but don’t dismiss it just yet.
Traveling together not only strengthens the bond between parents and children but also creates unforgettable memories. After all, what’s the point of working hard if you can’t enjoy life? The good news is, you absolutely deserve and can afford that much-needed vacation. To help you make it happen, here are some practical tips on how to save money while traveling with kids!
TIME YOUR VACATION
If you have young children or are willing to take older kids out of school for a few days, you can score great deals by traveling in the off-season. Avoid peak travel times like Christmas, Thanksgiving, holiday weekends, and summer vacations. Instead, plan your trip for September, October, February, or April. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also encounter fewer crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
MAKE A TRAVEL BUDGET
Before setting off on your family adventure, create a strict budget and commit to sticking to it. Consider making an Excel spreadsheet outlining every expense, including flights, rental cars, accommodations, meals, snacks, entrance fees, and souvenirs. Having a clear overview of your expenditures will prevent any surprises and help you resist impulsive spending during the trip.
OPT FOR EXPERIENCE GIFTS
Consider giving your kids experience gifts instead of material possessions. Initially, they might not fully grasp what to expect, but once they experience the excitement and joy of traveling, they’ll cherish the memories far more than any material gifts. Trips to museums or fun outings like trampoline parks can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.
CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE STAYS
If your vacation involves staying at a destination for an extended period, explore accommodation options like Airbnb or Homestay. These platforms often offer weekly discounts, making them more cost-effective, especially if you’re staying for more than a week. Additionally, choosing a place with a kitchen allows you to save money on meals by preparing some at home.
Alternatively, consider staying at guesthouses or smaller hostels instead of large hotels or chains. Not only will this save you money, but it can also provide a more authentic and immersive experience of the local culture.
EXPLORE ON FOOT
Walking is not only great exercise but also an excellent way to save money while traveling. I don’t know how many times I have heard of horror stories about taxis or tuk-tuk frauds! Instead of relying on tuk-tuks or local buses, explore your destination on foot.
Walking allows you to discover hidden gems, charming side roads, and local sights that you might otherwise miss. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and create unique memories along the way.
RIDE BUDGET AIRLINES
When traveling within Southeast Asia, consider flying with budget airlines like AirAsia, VietJet, or Tigerair. These carriers offer affordable fares, allowing you to save money on air travel. To stretch your savings even further, travel with carry-on luggage only. While checking a bag might be relatively inexpensive in Southeast Asia compared to other regions, the money you save can be better spent on exciting excursions or adventurous motorbike rides.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be a financial burden; it can be a rewarding and memorable experience for everyone involved. So, pack your bags, create unforgettable memories, and cherish the joy of exploring unfamiliar places with your loved ones!
Imagine the sheer delight that washed over our office when we welcomed the arrival of our brand new De’Longhi Coffee Machine. It felt as if it could magically brew joy with every cup. We were a bunch of coffee enthusiasts, and the yearning for top-notch breakfast and artisanal coffee was about to be fulfilled by Singapore’s finest cafes.
From specialty brews and hearty breakfasts to delightful brunch spots tucked away in the city, we present to you a list of Singapore’s most beloved cafes, each brimming with its unique charm and flavors.
MR. HOLMES BAKEHOUSE
As we stepped into Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, it was like stepping into a sweet dream. Have you ever tasted a cruffin, a mouthwatering blend of croissant and muffin? If not, this is the place to try one. These delightful pastries are sugar-dusted and cream-filled to perfection, coming in flavors like lemon meringue and pistachio. And if you’re craving something savory, they’ve introduced new treats like the Tomato & Pesto Melt ($13++) and the Short Rib ($20++) sandwich.
Image Credits: facebook.com/mrholmesbakehousesg
Location: Multiple locations, including Pacific Plaza and MYP Centre
DOUGH
Dough, a Korean-style bakery-cafe nestled in CHJIMES, was a revelation brought to life by the talented creators behind Glyph Supply Co and Runes, two other beloved local cafes. Whether you come here to work, unwind, or brunch with friends, you’ll find an ambiance that suits your mood.
Every item on the menu, from bread and pastries to pastas, is crafted fresh in-house. One standout is the Adzuki Mochi Danish ($5.50++), a delightful blend of textures. Another must-try is their Pistachio Raspberry ($6.50++) croissant cube, filled with luscious pistachio cream.
Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-30, Singapore 187996
FIFTYFIVE COFFEE BAR
Nestled on Neil Road, FiftyFive Coffee Bar is far from ordinary. The space exudes a calming zen vibe, anchored by a sensory garden installation that transports you to a forest retreat. With its stylish 40-seat layout, it offers an array of specialty coffee and tea drinks ($5.50++). Plus, you can savor freshly baked goods and light bites.
Their menu includes quirky blends like the highly acclaimed manuka miso honey latte ($7.50++), a refreshing dirty spiced lemonade ($7.50++), and the whimsical strawberry pipagao latte ($7.50++), which playfully incorporates nostalgic Chinese herbal cough syrup. For those feeling fancy, there’s filter coffee featuring a rotating single-origin selection.
Location: 55A Neil Rd, Singapore 088892
PS.CAFE PALAIS RENAISSANCE
PS.Cafe is synonymous with excellence. You can always count on impeccable food, chic aesthetics, and a fabulous dining experience. If you’re seeking sophistication, the Palais Renaissance outlet is perfect for brunch, boasting iconic high ceilings, classic decor, an outdoor dining area, and ample natural light for those Instagram-worthy shots.
And the food? It’s a feast for the senses, featuring pasta dishes, sandwiches, truffle fries, and decadent chocolate cakes. Gather your brunch companions and indulge in a memorable meal.
If you find yourself in the City Hall area searching for a cafe, The Glasshouse is a beloved choice. Located in CHJIMES, this cafe lives up to its name with its floor-to-ceiling windows and lush plant decor, evoking the ambiance of a botanical greenhouse. It’s the ideal spot for catching up with friends over coffee or grabbing a quick caffeine fix. The coffee here is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, crafted from beans sourced from the homegrown roastery, Apartment Coffee.
Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-03 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996
WILD HONEY
A local gem, Wild Honey is a go-to spot for comforting brunch cuisine. Step inside to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, where you’ll be surrounded by Instagram-worthy interiors and delectable dishes. Signature favorites include Corsican, a classic omelet folded with goat and feta cheese, and Delancey, featuring sliced beef pastrami with poached eggs. Sweet tooths will adore treats like apple crumble, Basque cheesecake, and artisanal ice cream. And don’t forget to explore their selection of coffees and teas. If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by during happy hour from Sundays through Thursdays.
Image Credits: facebook.com/wildhoneysg
Location: Multiple locations, including Mandarin Gallery and Scotts Square
SIMPLE CAFE
Simple Cafe may appear unassuming at first glance, marked only by a plain sign and a chalkboard by the wall. But once you step inside, you’ll be transported to Taiwan, with its humble furniture and a Mandopop playlist setting the mood.
Swing by for their all-day Simple Breakfast ($17++), featuring toast, eggs, sausages, and a side salad. You can also enjoy sweet and savory bagels, all priced under $10.
Managing family finances is an essential skill for young couples to master, especially those who are pregnant and parents for the first time. In fact, financial management not only affects the spousal relationship, but also directly affects the future of the children.
1. Splurging on Children’s Activities
Parents are often thrilled when their children find an activity that they both love and excel in. However, don’t make the mistake of letting your child’s newfound interest turn into your personal identity. While you may relish the role of hockey dad or dance mom, don’t put yourself on financially unstable ground to support your child’s endeavors. It’s one thing to spend thousands of dollars on your kids’ activities, but when you make a late credit card payment because of it or you carry a balance, you can be hit with additional thousands of dollars in interest.
2. Not Creating a New-Baby Budget
One of the most dangerous financial traps parents-to-be can fall into is underestimating the costs of having a baby. That includes the costs incurred before the birth, such as doctor visits and new-baby gear, the costs of the birth and delivery itself, and the expenses that come after, like diapers and baby essentials.
3.Lack of Agreement on Spending Habits and Plans
If a couple does not agree on spending habits and plans, one will always feel “upset” and “frustrated” with the other’s spending. You also can’t save money if your husband is always spending beyond his means. Therefore, the first thing to do is that you two need to agree on your expenses and the family’s savings funds. For example, if you plan to have children, you need to plan an emergency fund specifically set up for them, such as a life insurance package that will accompany your children from the womb to adulthood.
4.Buying Everything New
For some of you, it’s hard to imagine putting your pure, precious newborn into a hand-me-down stroller. But by the time that infant is a few months or years old, you may be kicking yourself for buying new gear.
“I definitely started out buying everything brand-new that I needed,” says Suzanne Brown, author of Mompowerment and a mom of two from Austin, Texas. “Over time I realized I could have borrowed some of the items, like a bouncer or a bathtub to bathe baby, or bought them second-hand. I wish I had started that approach earlier because many items you buy for age 2 and under are used very little.”
5.Thinking You Need Every Baby-related Gadget
Just because a baby item exists doesn’t mean you need it. When you see other parents’ gear, it can be tempting to get your baby the same developmental toy or play mat.
However, your kid really won’t know what they’re missing. While baby blogs and parenting sites may sing the proverbial praises of having a jumper, a play gym, and so on, most little ones are happy chilling on a blanket outdoors or on your living room rug. Save your funds for the toddler years.
6. Failure to Educate Your Children About the Value of Money
Children need to know about the value of money and how to save money from an early age. Depending on your child’s age, you can turn this into a fun game, so that he/she can understand and form the following ideas: Why do I have to save money? How can I save money?
7. Forgoing Available Tax Breaks
Having a child can offer some advantages at tax time for parents who are eligible to claim certain tax credits or deductions. Some of the tax benefits available to new parents include:
If you are a parent, you may be eligible to claim the Parenthood Tax Rebate of $5,000 for your first child, $10,000 for your second child, and $20,000 for your third and subsequent child. The child must be a Singapore Citizen at the time of birth or within 12 months thereafter.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Parents with Singapore Citizen children enrolled in licensed childcare centres can receive a Basic Subsidy of up to $600 per month for full-day infant care, and up to $300 per month for full-day childcare.
Are you itching for some entertainment without denting your wallet? Look no further! September 2023 has an assortment of thrilling events that won’t cost you a cent.
From lively markets and festivals to captivating performances, enlightening talks, and interactive workshops, September is packed with budget-friendly delights.
SINGAPORE RIVER FESTIVAL 2023 (7 SEP – 1 OCT)
Prepare for a sensory feast at the 7th edition of the Singapore River Festival, running from September 7th until the end of the month. This isn’t just about pretty lights along the Singapore River; it’s an immersive adventure. The Singapore River Festival 2023 offers live music, augmented reality (AR) experiences, delectable food workshops, and a series of events celebrating Japanese pop culture.
Explore the full event lineup on the Singapore River Festival website. Make sure to circle September 23rd and 24th on your calendar for a pet-friendly weekend featuring a best-dressed pet competition, a merchandise bazaar, pet health check-ups, and insightful talks by veterinary professionals.
Calling all pet lovers! On September 9th and 10th, 2023, Crane at Joo Chiat invites you to a weekend filled with delectable treats, playful activities, and adorable pet accessories. What’s even better? All the vendors at Pets Weekend are small local businesses, so you can support your community while enjoying quality time with your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.
Nighttime light displays always enchant, and in September, VivoCity’s Skypark combines the magic of light installations with beloved Sanrio characters. Enter the Garden of Lights, a nightly wonderland featuring enchanting light displays with Cinnamoroll, Gudetama, My Melody, and, of course, Hello Kitty.
Don’t forget your camera! The exhibit is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, with the Sanrio Garden wonderland lighting up from 6:30 pm onwards.
Foodies, rejoice! Until September 10th, 2023, Jurong Point is hosting the mouthwatering FEASTival Fair. Featuring 26 food vendors from around the globe, including Japan, Thailand, China, Malaysia, and the USA, this food fair promises a wide array of sweet and savory treats. I look forward to viral Korean cheese coins from 2Ninja 1 Fatty, aromatic cinnamon rolls from Cinnabon, and mouthwatering wagyu skewers from Niku Master.
Location: 1 Jurong West Central 2, Singapore 648886
FAMILIES FOR LIFE (FFL) FAMILY SINGALONG PICNIC (9 SEP)
On September 9th, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, relax with your family at the Families for Life (FFL) Family Singalong Picnic in Gardens by the Bay. Enjoy beloved tunes from timeless animated classics, and don’t forget to sing along! Kids can indulge in free balloon sculpting and snacks, and the first 200 families will receive complimentary picnic mats.
UNIQLO X STUDIO GHIBLI POP-UP: A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE! (till 14 Sep)
The UNIQLO X Studio Ghibli Pop-Up continues to enchant until September 14, 2023. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli with captivating installations featuring iconic scenes and beloved characters. Pose beside Chihiro and No-Face from “Spirited Away” aboard the train, take flight with Kiki from “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” and marvel at the awe-inspiring moving castle from “Howl’s Moving Castle.”
That’s not all – don’t miss the enormous Catbus and Totoro inflatables from “My Neighbor Totoro”! Plus, if luck is on your side, you might even meet the iconic Yubaba, making special appearances at this pop-up extravaganza.
Image Credits: uniqlo.com/sg
As a bonus, all attendees receive an exclusive Studio Ghibli-branded tote bag, complete with a character poster and UTme! vouchers, allowing you to personalize your LifeWear with enchanting Ghibli designs (T&Cs apply). This is a magical experience you won’t want to miss!
Location: Bugis+, Level 2, 201 Victoria St, Singapore 188067
Mark your calendars and savor these thrilling events!
