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Horrible Financial Habits To Drop This Year

As preconceived habits are harder to break, it takes patience and dedication to break these financial habits:

THE HABIT THAT I DO NOT TOLERATE

If someone asked me to identify a single financial habit that I am irked by the most, I will immediately answer “disorganization”. I appreciate when things are labeled and stacked in order. This is why I make it a habit to file my receipts, keep my cards in one place, and schedule my payments. Is it just me or does your mind work more efficiently in the sight of a clean desk?

Well, tidiness works to my advantage as it helps me to avoid unnecessary expenses. Money spent on interest charges, late fees, unused memberships, and unwanted subscriptions can pile up! Can you guess what binds these expenses together? Disorganization is the answer.

Place conscious effort towards creating a system that will keep your finances in order. Do not fall behind your billing statements, nor shall you let your important documents stack up.

THE HABIT THAT BLOCKS A GOOD DEAL

Say you are a habitué of Money Digest’s Facebook Page. You frequently stumble upon good deals in various categories. As a business owner, you are immensely attracted with the services of a supplier that offers inexpensive prices online. Do not cancel on your current supplier in a snap! Instead, call to negotiate. Carefully analyze the situation and make logical points about the competitors.

If your timing and approach is proper then, your current supplier may quickly match the competitor’s offer. Do not be afraid to negotiate!

THE HABIT THAT MANY POSSESS

Many Singaporeans do not keep track of their spending as they deem it to be time-consuming or unnecessary. However, making money management an habitual regimen is essential for every working adult.

You do not need to adapt an extravagant lifestyle or earn millions to start a financial plan. Simply keep track of your daily spending and examine it each month. Then, accurately plan to meet both your long-term and short-term financial goals.

THE HABIT THAT LIMITS YOU

There is a reason why entertainment websites such as 9GAG and Reddit flourish worldwide. These were especially created for people who have a habit of procrastination. These people push off tasks and decisions as they intend to accomplish it in “later” parts of the day. Have you caught this habit yourself? It is time to break the cycle as you welcome a new year!

Reach your fullest potentials by researching your options on insurance, savings, and investments. Befriend Father Time as he can bestow you the gift of compound interest.

THE HABIT THAT CAN BREAK ONE’S SMILE

Some religious leaders advocated against the idea that more money can bring happiness. Money can immediately bring joy, but only to an extent. Researchers in Princeton released a study in 2010 showing that happiness increases as the income increases until US$75,000. After this point, it plateaus.

Purchasing or owning more items can increase your happiness in the short run. In contrast, spending your money on others can generate more happiness than splurging for yourself. Consider holding a fund raiser or donating your old clothes. A little act of kindness can go a long way!

THE HABIT THAT HARRY POTTER CAN CONQUER

The J.K. Rowling’s fictional book series that blew the world by storm included the dark creatures called the “Dementors“. The lead character named Harry Potter had to vanquish these creatures, which feed upon human happiness. They suck the individuals’ souls out of their bodies. Rowling modeled these creatures to the immensely negative people in her life.

Image Credits: iKobe! via Flickr Creative Commons

Are you a Dementor? Do you create a bubble of negativity above your head? Do you believe that you are constantly overworked and underpaid? Is it your habit to complain about your paycheck? Consider stopping the vicious cycle of negativity. Instead, solve your problems by employing strategies such as negotiating a pay raise or going on a well-deserved vacation.

This year, stop ranting and start doing!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Incredible Saving Tips That You Must Know Before Buying An Engagement Ring

Take A Chance On The Pawn Shops

In a gloomy night in November, my friend proposed to his long-term girlfriend. The surprise does not stop there as they are expecting an adorable edition to their family. Due to the urgency of the situation and his tight budget, he considered purchasing from the pawn shops along the Little India. The varying rates of the rings here are slightly lower than those offered by the chain jewellers. He grabbed this opportunity ferociously!

You see, unlike some Singaporeans, my friend is not superstitious. He does not believe that purchasing a second-hand ring can induce bad luck. It is a surefire way to stretch your dollar if you hold the same perspective as him.

Negotiate With The Craftsman

I cannot deny the fact that going to a commercial jeweler follows a swifter process. You simply have to step inside the likes of “Love & Co.” and “Lee Hwa Jewellery” and purchase a ring right away. However, convenience comes with a hefty price tag. Consider buying personalized rings from local or online craftsman.

Negotiate with the jeweler and ask if he or she is willing to change the settings of your desired ring. Settings include the 4C’s: carat, cut, color, and clarity.

Opt For The Color Yellow

Different hues grace the very essence of the diamond rings. Since colored diamonds are extremely rare, they are priced handsomely. The supply and demand dictates the varying prices of the said fancy colored diamonds. There is still hope for your pocket as the least popular hues are less expensive.

This is why you must go for the most underrated colors such as Grey, Brown, and Orange. Asians shy away from Yellow diamonds due to the common misconception that it does not suit our skin tones. Try out intense and fancy Yellow diamonds first before believing the majority. Do not be too quick to judge!

Use Your Beneficial Card

Subscribing to the “married club” entails costs that exceed thousands of dollars. How often will this happen to you? Well, you better maximize your purchase! Get as many discounts or rebates as possible by charging your engagement ring in your credit card.

For instance, you may use your American Express True Cashback Card. It offers 3% cashback on the first S$5,000 that you spend. And, there is no limit on your earnings. Isn’t that amazing?

Image Credits: pixabay.com

May these tips help you to save enough money to buy your dream engagement ring. The only thing that you may worry about is your ability to gather your guts in order to ask one of the most significant questions in your life.

Sources: 1 & 2

5 Creative Ways To Earn Money This Yuletide Season

This is the season to be jolly. Parties, presents, and all the festivities do not come cheap! You can easily be trapped into months worth of debt if you remain careless. This is why you must find a few creative ways to earn extra money.

1. RECYCLE YOUR STUFF

Your unwanted pile of trash can turn into treasures thru a single environmentally friendly act – recycling. Some individuals, especially in developing countries, make a living by selling scrap. Do something similar by submitting your trash into one of Veolia’s recycling station. Veolia’s Cash-For-Trash Programme started in May 2014. Since then, various stations were set up within the HDB estates.

Papers can earn you about 10 cents per kilogram while, old clothing can earn you about 30 cents per kilogram. Aluminum cans can earn you about 50 cents while, metal tins can earn you about 10 cents. The distinct prices of your items depend on the quantity and material.

2. SPREE FOR FREE

Wouldn’t it be nice if the cost of your holiday shopping was generously covered? I know it sounds counterproductive to make money by spending money, but it is possible!

The people that shop for a living are called Mystery Shoppers. Mystery Shoppers are paid by the company’s marketing department to report about their experiences as they try the said company’s services or buy their goods. Accepting this job will entail getting paid for your time as well as for the items that you bought.

Eager to be one? Check out the current job openings at Gumtree.

3. WORK MORE THAN USUAL

I am going to impart one of the most efficient ways to make more money in the remaining days of December. This is none other than hustling at your current job. Work overtime and take extra projects. You may be tasked to widen the referral system or input hundreds of data. Just take on the task that no one else wants and receive appropriate payment for it.

4. WRAP FOR FEE

As the eldest of three siblings, I experienced wrapping gifts for several friends and family members. It is undeniably a chore that most people do not appreciate. This is why gift wrapping enthusiasts and alike can offer their skills for a fee. Purchase colored papers, festive ribbons, and gift tags in bulk to save more money.

If you can sell your service in a cheaper rate than what the shopping malls are asking then, you can easily hit the jackpot.

5. SELL YOUR SNAPS

Have you ever been attracted to the images attached in the online blogs and other advertisements? Most of these eye-catching features were from the company’s stock images. Stock images consist of photographs that are usually licensed for specific purposes. Companies pay decent amount of cash for these.

If photography is a special part of your talent reservoir, consider selling your masterpiece. Companies are in constant need for images for their websites, brochures, cards, blogs, and other projects. Start by selling your snaps on Shutterstock. Each website works differently so read through the guidelines first before you commit.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Source: INC

Delicious And Affordable Places For Spicy Dishes

Singapore is a melting pot of various cuisines that cater to all sorts of palettes including the burning one. By burn, I am pointing out the dishes that evoke a desired intraoral sensation by putting spices such as chilli (or chili) peppers and curry. Fortunately, satisfying your cravings for spicy food does not have to come with a price tag that is beyond S$40!

NAKHON KITCHEN

Image Credits: AngieKayExplorer via hungrygowhere.com

For people who love Thai food as much as I do, scouting for an affordable yet authentic restaurant can be a hobby. Look no further than the casual experience that Nakhon Kitchen can bring. Most of its dishes are reasonably priced for as low as S$6. However, its seafood dishes range from S$10-12.

Going back to the topic at hand, Nakhon Kitchen’s resident Tom Yam Soup is a reward for the spicy food enthusiasts. The extremely spicy soup is garnished with the generous amount of chicken and seafood. The distinctive aroma of lemongrass and the taste of sourness will win your heart in the first bite alone.

Location: 212 Hougang Street 21 #01-341, Singapore 530212

KKO KKO NA RA KOREAN RESTAURANT

Image Credits: Kko Kko Na Ra via facebook.com

As it turns out, spicy food seems to gravitate toward the laid-back atmosphere. I am referring to the smooth vibe of the Korean Native Language that diners at Kko Kko Na Ra Korean Restaurant can appreciate. What patrons keep coming back to is their version of a tasty fried chicken. The fried chicken has 4 flavors namely: hot & spicy, sweet & spicy, soy garlic sauce, and original. Stretch your dollar by ordering the “combo set” to get an assorted plate that features all the flavors.

Aside from the chicken, take your spicy taste-buds on a joyride as you devour either the Kimchi Chigae and the Spicy Korean Ramen. The prices of the dishes range from S$15-30.

Location: 57 Tras Street, Tanjong Pagar, Singapore 078996

MELLBEN SEAFOOD

Image Credits: Tapanick Akara via facebook.com

Mellben Seafood has grown immensely since its humble days along the Alexandra Road. Spanning with about three outlets in Singapore, Mellben Seafood is known for its delicious chilli crab. You can expect nothing but huge crabs showered with spicy, slightly sweet, and thick chili sauce. You may request to adjust the spiciness to the level that you can easily bear.

Situated at a Kopitiam in one of the HDB estates, Mellben Seafood at Ang Mo Kio is remotely away from the bustling center of the Lion City. Its menu features a wide array of crab meals such as Chilli Crab, Black Pepper Crab, Butter Crab, and Shimmering Sand Crab. The average price per person is approximately S$35. You can save more by sharing a hearty plate.

Location: #01-1222, 232 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 560232

SOUTHWEST TAVERN

Image Credits: southwesttavern.com.sg/menus

Please offer a moment of silence as I usher the spiciest challenge in town – the “Spaghetti from Hell”. Food adventurers and novice alike are familiar with this Southwest Tavern dish. Put your chili tolerance to the test as you chug down a seemingly friendly plate of pasta in under 10 minutes. Come out victorious to win S$100 worth of dining vouchers or other rewards. If you are not eager to participate in this challenge, you may choose the level of spice.

Spaghetti from Hell comes in three forms: the Hell’s Gateway (about S$18), the Halfway There (about S$22), and the Level 18 (about S$26). You may also try their Suicide Wings (S$14-22) to intensify the entire meal.

Location: 8 Boon Lay Way #01-33 Tradehub 21, Singapore 609964

This article has provided your with some of Singapore’s top spicy dishes. May you enjoy the tasty burns ahead! 🙂

Sources: 1 & 2

How To Deal With Difficult Co-Workers

In this day and age, you can choose to create a massive wardrobe. You can choose to befriend the people who inspire you. Oh! You can even handpick the gender of your baby.

However, you usually cannot choose the people whom you will work with.

The fixed structure of the workplace allows you to interact with all sorts of people. Every workplace has toxic workers. It is inevitable! Dealing with these difficult people is challenging, yet very rewarding. Increase your positive coping skills by absorbing these tips:

Rise Above The Negativity

Some people love to create a bubble of negativity above their heads. They complain about almost every topic that exists. They feel overworked and underpaid. They do not like their bosses. Nor do they enjoy their jobs. They think their careers are on the brink of destruction!

If you are surrounded by Negative Steve and Negative Betsy, you have two moves up your sleeves. You can either avoid the negative bond or hear the person out. Avoidance is acceptable in this situation as you do not want to create a parasitic relationship (i.e., where one is dependent on the other). Take in the essence of what Tony Chatman, a corporate relationship professional, once said.

“If you bond with someone on a negative issue, they will feel that they have found a partner in their distress, and they will look for you every time they feel something negative.”

My significant background in Psychology supports these ideas. Once you bond with the negative co-worker and stimulate his or her rants, you act with validation. You make the person feel right and that the behavior is acceptable.

The other path opposes the first strategy as it employs active listening. You can initially listen to the complaints of the negative person. Decide whether these claims are legitimate or not. If so, offer assistance to solve the present problem. Know your limitations when giving advice. Suggest reading credible books, attending informative seminars, and consulting the professionals in the company’s Human Resources Department.

Prevent The Spread Of Infectious Gossip

Do you ever wonder how your every tiny mistake reaches your boss? Or, perhaps you are wondering how your embarrassing pictures reached the company’s Facebook group. Search no further than the Office Gossipmonger. Gossipmongers cannot keep their mouths shut when it comes to bad news. Instead of offering help, they seek to lower your credibility to stay ahead of the workplace hierarchy. They love to blabber about different stories as long as it does not involve them.

To prevent the spread of the infectious rumor, you must hold back on the private things about your life. Do not disclose an information that you do want others to know about. Remember that everything you say may be used against you. Donna Flagg, the author of Surviving Dreaded Conversations, highlighted that you must: “keep a safe distance so as to avoid getting sucked into the toxicity”.

As with anyone, there is a positive side to them. You can use them as a tool to spread an important information. If you want the workplace to act upon a specific issue, relay the “confidential information” to the gossipmonger. I am pretty sure that he or she will not be able to resist the urge to spread the message right away.

Learn How To Handle The Resident Bully

Workplace bullies employ emotional, physical, or sexual attacks toward their co-workers. Examples of wrongful acts include inappropriately criticizing one’s performance and taking credit for other people’s work. Consequences of these acts include dreading to go to work and public humiliation (i.e., due to being shouted or called at).

The upcoming fact took me by surprise! Statistics found that 1 in 4 Singaporeans have suffered from workplace bullying with the top aggressors being their bosses (62%) and their clients (21%). To make matters worse, Singapore was one of the few countries with the highest acceptance of workplace bullying.

If you are one of the unfortunate targets of the resident bully, deal with him or her by reading this article.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sometimes, prized abilities and proper work ethics do not go hand in hand. This is why toxic or difficult people exist at the workplace. You may not control how these people behave, but you can control how you will react to them. Think about this!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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