MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

How To Save Money While Online Shopping

Online shopping has been a norm long before pandemic struck! However, its growth was exponential as many of us are forced to adhere to strict social distancing measures. With a myriad of services available at one’s reach, it can be hard to know where to start. Take this list as your guide when you are looking for ways to save money on your virtual cart.

DO NOT MAKE IMPULSE PURCHASES

According to Psychologist Graham Jones, author of Click.ology, making buying decisions when you are drunk, tired, or emotional can lead to regretful purchases. Avoid feeling regret by reserving the item overnight and putting it in your cart. Revisit your cart the next day and contemplate on whether you still need to buy this item. You will be able to make better decisions once you are aware of your online shopping patterns.

BE AN ACTIVE READER OF NEWSLETTERS

Get ready for 4.4 or the Good Friday cyber sales! Signing up for the store’s mailing list makes you a priority customer. This means that you will be the first to know if there are upcoming exclusive discounts or special events. A great example is Lazada Singapore. As a new subscriber to Lazada, you will be welcomed with a gift coupon for your first purchase. You will also be notified when there are free shipping and other main events.

Image credits: unsplash.com

IDENTIFY THE LOCAL WEBSITES

A savvy consumer encourages the habit of comparing prices online. This way, you will be able to get the best deals possible. Say that you are eyeing for a sleek and functional bag for work. ZALORA Singapore comes to my mind whenever I think of workplace suitable bags that create a balance between shape, function, and affordability. It is one of the premier online retailers that sell bags, accessories, shoes, apparel, and beauty products. You may also check out the local brands such as Charles & Keith.

Another option is to look for pre-loved designer bags at websites such as Reebonz. If you are conscious about brands, you can hop to Reebonz as it sells affordable designer bags. From Chanel, YSL, to Louis Vuitton bags – they have it all for a fraction of the original price!

USE YOUR CREDIT CARDS

It is no secret that browsing the pages of an online shop is more convenient than strolling the crowded shopping malls. Not to mention, products are often much cheaper online. This is why many Singaporeans find online shopping hard to resist. Fortunately for you, you can turn to credit cards for attractive rebates. Ask your credit card provider about the rebates and their participating merchants.

For instance, HSBC credit card holders can enjoy the WOW Weekend deals including access to retail therapy and wellness treats to save up to 90%. For more information, please visit: cardpromotions.hsbc.com.sg/rebate.

Image credits: unsplash.com

There are numerous ways to maximize your hard-earned money while shopping virtually. Simply follow these strategies diligently on your next spree!

What to do if you’re a victim of gaslighting

Emotional conversations and confrontations are never easy for people to manage. Whether it be angry partners or challenging parents, often when things get tough, it seems easier to shrink away and accept what the other person is saying even if you know it’s not true.

There’s a name for this type of manipulation, and it’s called gaslighting.

Not sure if you’re a victim of gaslighting? See if you can identify with these phrases:

“You must be imagining things.”
“Why so serious? I was just pulling your leg.”
“You have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“Are you insane? You know that’s not what happened.”

According to The Sociology of Gaslighting, a journal written by the American Sociological Review, gaslighting is defined as a type of psychological abuse aimed at making individuals feel crazy. It forces the victim to doubt their sense of reality and judgment after repeated psychological attacks from the abuser in question.

Responding to gaslighting can be both triggering and exhausting, depending on the intensity of the abuse you’re enduring. The issue has drawn attention across the years and even portrayed in the early years of cinema.

While there is still an ongoing debate on the proper response to gaslighting and how to prevent it, we’ve put together some ways to counter unfair manipulation from a friend, loved one, or even a colleague.

#1: Take a breather

Gaslighting usually brings on extreme emotions from both the abuser and the victim. If you’re suffering from its effects, you might cycle through an entire round of emotions including anger, fear, worry, and pain.

To not let those feelings overwhelm you, focus instead on giving yourself some space to calm down and take a breather. To regain focus at the moment, go ahead and take a short walk. Do whatever it takes to give you the strength to push back against those emotions.

#2: Gather proof along the way

Image Credits: abc.net.au

Collecting records or data of the times and things the person who’s often gaslighting you is a great way to help validate your feelings during and after the experience.

Begin by keeping pictures, screenshots, texts, emails, and even any property your partner damages while they’re with you. Keep a note of your conversations with gaslighters so you can look back as evidence when the situation calls for it.

In severe cases, you may even want to consider using your phone to record them talking so you can have something concrete to back you up where necessary.

#3: Voice your concerns calmly

For the Chinese-educated peeps, we’re sure you’ve come across this phrase – “老虎不发威，你当我是病猫”. It is an apt phrase to demonstrate how gaslighters might step all over you if you don’t speak up.

Voicing your concerns openly and calmly is a great way to let others know that you’re not going to put up with their abuse or disguised insults anymore. Don’t allow such people to confuse you or shake up your confidence.

#4: Trust your memory

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If your partner is labelling you as crazy or unstable for remembering a particular encounter clearly, trust your memory. Misremembering typically involves smaller details, not larger ones. Thus, learn to trust your gut and responses before you trust anyone else.

But it would be wise not to get drawn into the conflict. Instead of saying “I know I’m right” and get whirled up in the argument, say, “It seems like we recalled things differently, but I don’t want to bicker over it.”

#5: Practice self-care

Constantly being in the loop of gaslighting scenarios can significantly affect your nervous system. Give yourself a break by sleeping it off or focusing on overall self-care.

Engage in activities that can help you establish a good routine that prioritises your needs and makes you comfortable, so you can ready yourself to stand up against gaslighting.

Here are some general ways to improve well-being:

Journal down your feelings
Include positive self-talk or daily affirmations
Spend some quality time with your loved ones
Try aromatherapy yoga or attend a meditation session
Do something you enjoy (e.g. ice skating, crossword puzzles etc.)

#6: Talk to someone

Image Credits: unsplash.com

As a victim of non-stop gaslighting, you might be too emotional to view things objectively. As such, it would be wise to seek a second opinion. Talk to someone you trust and seek their insight or input on the situation.

Since they aren’t directly involved in the problem at hand, the chances are that they can offer you an unbiased perspective. Even if they aren’t able to provide any advice, having someone there for you physically or emotionally can help a bunch.

For those facing gaslighting at work, it’s best not to meet with the person alone. If time permits, invite a neutral and trustworthy coworker alongside the meeting to just sit-in and listen to the conversation. Limit your contact with the gaslighter as much as possible.

Final thoughts

Gaslighting can be tough to bear. Don’t face it alone! Besides heeding the above tips to help ease the situation, it’s also advisable that you seek a professional opinion. You can speak to a counsellor or a therapist about your issue and gain insights from the psychologically trained.

All will be well again! Take heart.

Do these 10 things if you want to achieve financial freedom

It is fair to say that most of us want to achieve financial freedom. To have enough savings and solid investments to afford the lifestyle you wish to can sound really attractive. Unfortunately, finding that freedom can be challenging.

Many people hold debt, overspend, or encounter challenges that make financial freedom challenging to achieve. However, all hope is not lost. Develop and maintain these simple financial habits if you want to attain financial freedom.

#1: Set specific goals

A goal like “I am going to be rich one day” is vague. A better way to set targets is to use the SMART technique. They should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-focused.

You should be working towards a SMART aim like “I am going to increase my savings by 1% a month for twelve months.” Write your desire down in a journal, and make it your mantra. Specific goals lead to accurate results, so cut out that fluff thinking.

#2: Write a budget

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Budgeting is essential for wise money management. Instead of squandering money away and realising reason why i’m broke, it’s better to start analysing your spending habits.

Ensure your bills are promptly paid and your savings are funded before allocating money to luxury expenses or feed your lifestyle inflation. Understanding where your money goes each day is the best way to control your urge to splurge.

#3: Clear your debts

With existing debts looming over your life, financial freedom seems like a faraway dream. When you owe financial institutions money, don’t forget that the interests are rolling.

To eliminate debt, you may want to try the pyramid strategy. Pay off your smallest debt first, then allocate that money to your next-smallest bill, and so on until you have paid your debts off altogether.

You may also be interested in reading our recent article on “top tips on how to pay off credit card debt quickly”.

#4: Automate your savings

Image Credits: Medium

We can’t emphasise enough because it’s one of the stablest ways to grow your savings. If you have a direct salary deposit from your employer to your bank account on payday, ensure a percentage of your income goes into savings right away.

It’s easy to set up recurring transfers to send money to a specific saving account every time you get paid, so you shouldn’t be giving any lame excuses. Once the automation is in, the routine will ease you into saving, so resist the urge to withdraw.

#5: Educate yourself on finances

We may be mistaken, but many of us do not have a good understanding of personal finances. Well, we can’t blame ourselves since it’s not taught in schools?

Wrong.

Take ownership to have at least a basic understanding of how money works – be it in the topic of debt or investments. Read books written by experts or consider taking some courses to develop your knowledge of money.

Speaking of which, do you know that Seedly is organising a Personal Finance Festival 2021? The most extensive personal finance event in Singapore is happening on Saturday, 10 April 2021, from 10am to 5pm. Read more about it here.

#6: Invest when you’re ready

Image Credits: Forbes

Investing in the stock market can seem scary, and it’s no wonder why some people have analysis paralysis.

Yes, the market is volatile and can occasionally crash. Unforeseen circumstances can cause even the most robust markets to shrink. But without risk, there is no return. As such, the stock market is one of the greatest ways to grow your wealth.

If you know not where to get started, how about beginning your journey through Robo-advisors? From OCBC RoboInvest to DBS digiPortfolio and Stashaway, there are several local options for Singapore investors.

#7: Monitor your credit scores

Your credit score is the first thing lenders will examine when you wish to make a major purchase, such as a car or a house.

Do you know how to grab hold of your credit report? You can get a copy from the Credit Bureau (Singapore). Each CBS Credit Report is chargeable at S$6.42 (inclusive of GST). Simply make a purchase online, at any SingPost branches, at the Credit Bureau office, or CrimsonLogic Service Bureaus.

Read up more information on credit scores and why they matter here.

#8: Maintain your health and assets

Image Credits: Medium

If you achieve financial freedom but then neglect your health, your hard work could go to waste due to unexpected healthcare costs. Constant exercise, eating right, and avoiding unhealthy lifestyle choices will benefit you in the long run.

While you take of your health, don’t forget to keep an eye on your things. Making sure that they last longer can help you save money.

This is true for everything, from mobile phones to laptops and cars. Keeping them well-maintained is likely to increase their lifespan and save you money on costly repairs or replacements down the road.

#9: Don’t exceed your means

Frugality is frequently on our radar, and you might have read about it in several money-themed blogs too. But you know what? It is an excellent trait for achieving financial freedom, and we’re going to play it like a broken record.

The ideal way to live within your means is to distinguish between things you want and the things you need. Just because you can afford something does not mean you need to buy it. If there’s a cheaper option out there, go for it.

#10: Talk to an expert

Image Credits: Great Eastern

Once you have accumulated some savings, talk to a professional about how to manage your money. Picking the right financial advisor who is legally obligated to act in your best interest instead of theirs is vital.

Final thoughts

While financial freedom may seem like a daunting goal to reach, it is well within your means to achieve it! Taking a disciplined approach and developing the abovementioned habits over time will help you get to your desired state of financial freedom in no time.

5 Unique Japanese Products That Actually Work

The Land of the Rising Sun shines brightly on many things, including unusual and creative products. “Made in Japan” may be a staple on quality electronics, but it is also visible in limited-edition items. This is why people queued up during the opening of the first Japanese dollar store Daiso in Singapore. Moreover, people have been showing their Daiso hauls in YouTube and other social media platforms.

On that note, here are five unique Japanese products that actually work.

#1: REFA FACE ROLLERS AND BODY MASSAGERS

ReFa’s platinum rollers harness microcurrent technology that mimic the natural electric current circulating in your skin and the kneading motions of an esthetician. It is designed to relieve, brighten, and rejuvenate the skin as it helps to reduce fine lines and contours the face naturally. It is cordless and battery-free because it draws power from the indoor solar light.

ReFa was established in Japan in 2009 and has since expanded to Singapore and other Asian countries. One of their bestsellers is the ReFa 4 Carat, which costs around SGD420 on Sephora Singapore. It is said to replicate the “double kneading” action of a skilled masseur. Roll your aches and troubles away by checking out its product offerings.

#2: FRIXION ERASABLE PENS

I remember when I was a university student. I used to have different Pilot Frixion pens on my bag and used it to take down my notes. From the trusty pen brand Pilot come these erasable ballpoint pens that can be erased using friction. It uses special ink that turns invisible when heated. They are available in rainbow of colors, and come in packs of ink refills. Moreover, you can pair your Frixion pens with your Frixion highlighters. Since the ink disappears at high temperatures, do not use it for signing important documents.

A pack of colorful Frixion pens retail for about S$24.60 at Lazada.

#3: TAMAGOTCHI DIGITAL PET

How old were you when you had your first Tamagotchi? A Tamagotchi is a handheld digital pet that was created in Japan by Akihiro Yokoi and Aki Maita. Since its inception, it had different versions such as the Eevee Tamagotchi and the Tamagotchi x PAC-MAN edition. Nurture your Tamagotchi character with the help of PAC-MAN for as low as S$59.99 at toysrus.com.sg.

Image Credits: facebook.com/virtualpet

#4: DAISO BANANA KEEPER

Daiso has a range of over 100,000 unique products and 40% of which are imported goods. Many of these products include household items and kitchenware. One product that caught my eye was the banana keeper. The S$2 banana keeper helps you to retain the shape and quality of your snack. You will never experience having a squished banana at the bottom of your bag ever again!

#5: PURE SMILE CHOOSY LIP GEL MASK

Have you ever felt like your matte or liquid lipsticks are sucking all the moisture out of your lips? Does your lips look chapped all the time? I have a solution for you. Unlike other face masks out there, there is a mask that is solely designed for your lips.

Image Credits: nymag.com

The Pure Smile Choosy Lip Gel Mask sheets allow you to have smoother lips with its ingredients like Vitamin E, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil. You can select the scent that you like most from the available flavors: peach, milk, fruit, herb and honey. Simply leave the mask on for 5 to 30 minutes and say hello to smoother, plumper lips. It is S$1.40 per sheet at Althea.

Here’s how to manage non-stop sibling competition

There comes a time when sibling rivalry becomes too much to handle. Parents and guardians, we feel your pain. Whether it’s screaming, kicking, or fighting, it always comes down to the adults to mitigate these situations.

However annoying it might be, though, sibling competition is a normal part of life. As Jeanine Vivona, a psychology professor at the College of New Jersey, rightly points out, “Competition with siblings is just a fact of life. And we, as people with siblings and people with children, can just try to manage it as best we can.”

In fact, throughout history lie stories of sibling rivalry. If you’ve read the Bible before, you would be familiar with stories of sibling tensions through the relationships of Cain and Abel and Jacob and Esau.

Since sibling rivalry has happened since the beginning of time, are there main reasons behind such strife? Well, they mostly come down to “harm” that one has done to another and jealousy over favouritism. In adults, it could also be due to parents’ legacy and financial resources.

Do you know that studies have shown that sibling aggression can happen as many as eight times an hour? But it’s honestly not a significant cause for concern. The conflict serves a developmental purpose by aiding a child in learning more about their personality and uniqueness through differentiation from their sibling.

And, as time passes and siblings get older, the conflict will most likely wear off. Though more often than not, folks dealing with the issue might find it tough to cope. That’s why we will take a look at some suggestions on how to reduce sibling squabbles.

#1: Examine the trigger

a young child crying in front of her sister

Image Credits: nymetroparents.com

Sally Beville Hunter, a clinical associate professor in child and family studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, urges us to pay attention to what tends to happen before a dispute occurs.

Think about it, and you will probably agree that there’s always a fuel factor before a conflict begins. If you sense that your kids are about to fight, intervene and act on it immediately so you can stop the fight before it escalates.

For example, if your kids always exchange blows at the dinner table, pay attention to their tone, words, and actions to identify if any of them are in combative mode. The faster you intercede, the more you can stop aggression in its tracks.

#2: Guide them to resolve conflicts

Image Credits: blog.sacramento4kids.com

After the steam blows over, you can intervene by teaching them how to resolve conflicts so they can do so on their own in the future.

Try to sit them down for a discussion and give each child a chance to freely talk about their side of the story without blame and accusation. Then, have them come up with a few compromises and solutions by themselves.

Giving them a chance to work with each other will help build their relationship and resolution for years to come. Even if they were to face such issues with their school friends, they would instantly know how to deal with them.

#3: Sing your praises out loud

Image Credits: parentingforbrain.com

When your kids get along well, be sure to praise them and shower them with kind words when one sibling lets the other have their way first. For example, “I love that you’re letting your sister go first!”

However, when you’re trying to criticise a child, do so in private when the other sibling isn’t listening. Otherwise, they may use it as a weapon the next time they get into a fight and make the situation even worse.

#4: Encourage family get-togethers

Image Credits: Best Life

“Try to find common activities that allow everyone to be flexible and to feel connected,” Vivona said.

Even though your kids might have different personalities and interests, the more you can find shared activities that they can enjoy, their relationship will be better.

Maybe you could organise a physical activity or a family movie night? While arguments about what game to play or the right movie to watch can surface, don’t forget that this is a valuable chance for them to learn how to yield.

Don’t be too hard on them (and yourself)

Image Credits: Healthy Kids

With the year-long pandemic still ongoing and everyone’s on high levels of stress, it can be easy to lose your patience. It’s okay to get frustrated when your kids run into rivalry and small fights but don’t let it heighten into a shouting battle.

“I think some of these conflicts can be really solved by telling our kids to go outside and run around the house,” Hunter shared. And of course, not without them wearing their masks before they head outdoors.

Or if you’re worried that they may catch the virus and want to minimise risks, why not create an obstacle course for them using household items? If not, take them on a stroll around the neighbourhood. You could also be doing yourself a favour by taking in some fresh air outdoors at the same time.