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7 Financial Resolutions That You Can Fulfill This 2022

For the lack of a better term, the period between 2020 to 2021 was “rubbish”. People all over the world had to deal with the adverse effects of the pandemic. Unexpected economic and social shifts occurred. Nonetheless, most of us are ready to bid farewell to the yesteryears.

While many Singaporeans are committing to eat healthy and to exercise more, here are seven financial resolutions that you can consider for a more prosperous year.

1. BROADEN YOUR FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE

Books and audiobooks provide opportunities to broaden one’s financial knowledge. You can enter the inner workings of great entrepreneurs and investors by reading though the pages of books such as “The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham, “The Psychology of Money” by Morgan Housel, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki, “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill, “Raising Financially Fit Kids” by Joline Godfrey, and “The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason.

Create an achievable list of all the financial books that you want to finish within the year. Set a realistic goal for the number of pages that you can accomplish each week. Start now!

2. CUT DOWN YOUR WATER CONSUMPTION

Singaporeans do not typically worry about clean and fresh water. However, the global supply of consumable water is getting scarce with each passing year.

Consider reducing your water consumption by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, using less water while gardening, installing a water-saving shower head, and only washing your clothes when necessary. Minimize your expenses and help save the Earth.

3. COOK MORE MEALS AT HOME

Increase your savings by cooking from scratch. Find recipes online or ask your loved ones for their specialties. Cooking more meals at home can reduce your restaurant or take-out expenses.

Calculate your food savings and consider putting the extra cash to your emergency fund or to pay off your debts.

4. BE PROMPT AT ALL TIMES

Time is a valuable resource. There is a reason why it goes hand in hand with money. As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, most companies have minimum tolerance for employee tardiness. Keep your source of livelihood by always being on time.

You do not need to exhaust your resources or skills to remain prompt. Simply set an appropriate alarm and adhere to your organization’s schedule.

5. UPDATE YOUR BENEFICIARIES

With the uncertainties of the modern world, it is important to revisit your beneficiary designations. Adding a beneficiary to your accounts and policies can help ensure that your assets will go to your desired people. Align your will (i.e., last will and testament) to your accounts and insurance policies.

6. SEARCH YOUR HOME FIRST

Search the contents of your home, before committing to a major purchase. There are many ways to use your resources. You just need to be creative and hands-on!

For instance, you may use your old drawer as your baby’s diaper changing table. You can also spruce up your walls by purchasing Very Peri wallpaper online.

7. MAKE THINGS SIMPLER

All of us are drained because of the massive chaos that recent years have brought. Reduce your worries by cancelling or closing the accounts or cards that you no longer use. Then, set up automatic transfers.

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Some financial institutions allow the employer to automate your salary in your bank account. Patronizing this method will lessen the temptation of immediate spending.

Make A Personal Budget In 6 Easy Steps

A personal budget is a financial summary that tracks your income and expenses for a certain period, which is typically a month. The word “budget” is often associated with limited spending, but a budget does not have to be restrictive to be effective.

Having a personal budget that you can review on a regular basis enables you to prevent overspending. Start with these six simple steps.

#1: GATHER ALL YOUR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Get a bird’s-eye view of your financial situation by gathering all your financial statements. Include your bank statements, investment accounts, recent utility bills, credit card statements, receipts from the previous months, loan statements, and other receipts. The more information you can retrieve, the better.

#2: DETERMINE YOUR MONTHLY INCOME

Determine how much you make in a month. If you have a fixed salary, you will find information in your pay slip. If you get paid bi-monthly, you simply need to multiply your pay slip into two.

If you have more than one job or you are self-employed, you must determine your net income differently. Calculate your net income by examining your two most recently filed tax accounts. Add the two figures of your net profit together. Then, divide the total by twenty-four. The definitive answer is your average monthly income.

#3: CREATE A LIST OF YOUR MONTHLY EXPENSES

There are two types of monthly expenses – fixed and variable expenses. Fixed expenses are expenses that you encounter every month such as rent, car payments, and utility bills. While variable expenses change from month to month. Variable expenses include groceries, gifts, and shopping.

Write down a list of all the expenses you expect to have during a month. Do not forget about the childcare, transportation, and entertainment costs.

#4: TOTAL YOUR MONTHLY INCOME AND EXPENSES

Get the total of your monthly income and monthly expenses. If your income is higher than your expenses, you are off to a good start. You will have extra funds that you can put aside for retirement savings or debt repayments.

If your expenses are higher than your income, you need to make some changes. Find out which categories you are overspending on.

#5: EVALUATE YOUR SPENDING HABITS

Add up your total spending per expense category. Which category do you overspend on? You can get the percentages per category to understand how much of your income is going where.

#6: MAKE NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS

After covering steps one to five, you will be able to highlight the spending areas that you need to eliminate or reduce. For instance, you can cancel your gym membership or lower your handphone’s postpaid plan.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Amend your budget and align these changes to your financial goals.

Sources: 1 & 2

Take bae to these lovely restaurants with a view

Is there a better way to enhance your eating experience than to sit in a restaurant that has a breathtaking view?

In a garden city like Singapore, there are lots of opportunities to dine in beautiful surroundings, whether it’s with your favorite group of mates or your significant other. At these eateries, grab a seat by the waters or hop on an elevator to the top for a bird’s eye view of the city skyline.

Here’s a list of restaurants you can take bae to on your next special occasion.

Vue

Location: OUE Bayfront, 50 Collyer Quay Rooftop Level 19, Singapore 049321

VUE, positioned above OUE Bayfront on Collyer Quay, offers a chef-driven menu with binchōtan-grilled specialties at the center of its gourmet offerings, supported by a diverse wine list. It also has our little red dot’s first rooftop spritz bar, which distinguishes it from other diners in the city.

Executive Chef Sam Chin, who has over ten years of expertise specializing in modern European cuisine, is the star of the show at VUE. He takes satisfaction in bringing VUE’s vision of offering a chef-driven menu that highlights the real flavors of quality ingredients while delighting guests with every bite they take.

LeVeL33

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Location: 8 Marina Boulevard, #33-01, Singapore 018981

LeVeL33 is the world’s tallest urban microbrewery and a distinct award-winning rooftop dining experience. The Marina Bay Financial Centre’s penthouse suite offers a breathtaking view of Singapore’s Marina Bay and the skyline.

Freshly brewed beers by resident Brewmaster Gabriel Garcia, the open counter cold kitchen, and the expertly chosen boutique wine selection showing labels with no more than 5,000 cases of production each are all examples of craftsmanship at LeVeL33. Whether it’s a casual weekend lunch, a glass of white wine and fresh oysters at the Raw Bar, or a more dressy feast in the Barons de Rothschild private dining room, there’s something for everyone. The spectacular view and atmosphere will ensure the ideal atmosphere for any function.

Panamericana

Location: 27 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore 099892

Panamericana has a prominent location on Singapore’s most famous golf club, located against the enthralling South China Sea, providing a tranquil and sophisticated environment with mesmerizing ocean views.

It features a full-stocked bar, a delightful and roomy indoor dining area with large windows, and an airy long verandah that’s specially arched to give an unobstructed view of the waters. It is bordered by the beautiful golf course on one corner and tropical greenery on the other, and a perfectly trimmed lawn with expansive outdoor dining space.

Shunjuu Izakaya

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Location: 30 Robertson Quay, #01-15, Riverside View, Singapore 238251

Shunjuu Izakaya is a Japanese restaurant that offers an intriguing menu of casual charcoal-grill Japanese favors. We suggest ordering a variety of dishes and pairing them with their array of Japanese sake on the menu.

The little sanctuary is directly in front of the Singapore River and is set in Robertson Quay, just a stroll away from Clarke Quay. With a riverbank view, diners may savor Japanese cuisine outdoors. You may also request a seat in front of the open kitchen to see the grill in operation, which is frequently chosen by Japanese expats and local residents.

Mykonos on the Bay

Location: 31 Ocean Way, #01-10, Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove, Singapore 098375

Mykonos On The Bay is the brainchild of co-owners Executive Chef Mauro Muroni and General Manager Gerri Sottile’s experiences working in Greek Tavernas in Greece. Their focus as part of the Mangiatutto Group of Restaurants is on traditional Greek food prepared with the freshest produce.

Apart from the main food and drink selection, we like that it also has a kids’ menu! As a result, couples with children may enjoy a meal at the seaside together. Step in and you will be welcomed by their Greek-imported blue and white furniture and decorations, which perfectly fits in right beside the beautiful marina.

Dusk Restaurant & Bar

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Location: Faber Peak Singapore, Level 2, 109 Mount Faber Road, Singapore 099203

Dusk Restaurant & Bar, located 100m above sea level and surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna, is the ideal viewing platform for the beautiful landscapes of HarbourFront and Sentosa Island. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets in this sheltered location while dining on Modern European cuisines, expertly picked wines, and distinct nitro-frosted concoctions.

Executive Chef Kenny Yeo, a culinary professional with over 30 years of expertise in French cuisine, will provide you and your loved one with a memorable gourmet experience. This is one of the best outdoor hangouts for anything from a sweet date to an informal meet-up.

Zafferano Italian Restaurant & Lounge

Location: 10 Collyer Quay, Level 43 Ocean Financial Centre, Singapore 049315

Zafferano, which is located 43 levels above lively Collyer Quay in the core of Singapore’s CBD and tops the Ocean Financial Centre, provides diners with a mesmerizing backdrop and an unparalleled experience of all-around Italian hospitality.

The Terrace Lounge, with its majestic cathedral-like proportions, lush foliage, and panoramic vistas, is a fantastic spot for al fresco socializing with companions over beverages. It has its dedicated bar, stools, and comfy couches where you can chill and soak up the vibe and beautiful scenery of the dazzling Marina Bay skyline while sipping on carefully-curated cocktails and snacking on light bites. Just what you need for a romantic evening!

5 Stay-Home Activity Kits For The Entire Family

While lounging around in the sofa and watching your favorite show can help you pass time, here are six alternative activity kits that you can consider. Order these kits online to add spice to your homebound lives. Whether you want to craft your own jewelry or create your own terrariums, your next do-it-yourself craft is only a couple of clicks away!

#1: CANDLE DIY KIT SET BY SOAP ART SINGAPORE

Have you ever tried making your own candles? Candle making is a delightful activity that you can perform with your friends and loved ones. Go to Soap Art Singapore to check out the Candle DIY Kit Set as well as their online workshops.

Image Credits: soapart.sg

Customize your own candles to ignite your creativity and unleash your inner zen. These candle kits include natural soy wax (150gm), natural essential oil (2ml), 1 choice of color (2ml), 2 wicks (6cm each), 2 glass containers, Candle DIY workshop guide, and an inclusion of local mail delivery fee.

Price: S$32
Location: 183 Jalan Pelikat, #01-70 The Promenade@Pelikat, Singapore 537643
Website: soapart.sg

#2: LEATHER ANIMAL CHARM DIY KIT BY HIDES & THREAD

Strike a balance between luxurious and adorable by making leather animal creatures with the Hides & Thread’s Leather Charm DIY Kit. Start by picking your favorite animal and colored leather. The Saffiano leather comes in four shades namely: black, red, whiskey, and orange. These leather pieces can be used to fashion out an elephant, a hippo, a moose, or a bull.

Children as young as 10 years old can refer to the instructional sheet or the website’s instructional video. Use this scratch and water-resistant leather charm to add bling to your handbag or to add a twist to your TraceTogether token!

Price: S$25
Location: 81 Ubi Ave 4 #06-09, Singapore 408830
Website: hidesandthread.com

#3: CLOSED ORNAMENTAL TERRARIUM DIY KIT BY GREEN CAPSULE

Founded by two plant enthusiasts in 2014, the Green Capsule offers a variety of terrarium kits in Singapore. This terrarium shop aims to provide Singaporeans and its residents with an option of full terrarium customization. For instance, you may purchase the Closed Ornamental Terrarium DIY Kit.

Image Credits: thegreencapsule.com.sg

The kit is inclusive of 1 glass jar, pre-packed soil, pre-packed Lecca, pre-packed pebbles, mini pot of plants (Green and Red Fittonia), pre-packed moss, a stirrer, 1 FREE gift card, 1 FREE figurine, an instructional sheet, and a box carrier. See for yourself!

Price: S$35.00
Location: 107 North Bridge Road, #04-11, Singapore 179105
Website: thegreencapsule.com.sg

#4: FOR THE LOVE KIT BY STUDIO MU/YU

Studio MU/YU got its name from the Chinese characters “木语” and embodies these in their pieces. The For the Love Kit – Valentine includes a pair of earrings and a necklace. It is the perfect gift for your partner who likes to add something special to her jewelry collection.

The For the Love – Valentine Kit consists of Valentine pieces, jewelry findings, pliers, sandpaper, wood oil, wood stain, and upcycled cloth. Watch the tutorial below for your reference.

Price: S$40
Location: 10 Kaki Bukit Avenue 4 #04-61 Singapore, Singapore 415875
Website: muyu.co

#5: TOTE BAG DIY KIT BY MAKE YOUR OWN WORKSHOP CAFE

Whether you want to customize a tote bag by yourself or with the help of a loved one, you can paint it to what your heart desires! Make Your Own Workshop Cafe offers a wide range of DIY kits including the Tote Bag DIY Kit that retails for S$38. It includes a sturdy canvas tote bag that holds most laptops and A4-sized documents.

As a friendly reminder, please avoid machine wash and spot clean only. You can hand wash the tote bag gently if needed and iron it on low heat.

Image Credits: makeyourown.sg

Each Tote Bag DIY Kit consists of the following:

1 canvas tote bag (35cm x 30cm),

1 paper plate palette,

2 sets of acrylic paint in 12 colors,

1 acrylic color chart, and

2 standard soft bristle nylon flat brushes

Price: S$38
Location: Blk 4 Upper Aliunied Lane #01-06, Singapore 360004
Website: makeyourown.sg

Do you know any other DIY kits in Singapore? Please do not hesitate to comment below. Enjoy!

Gift the lady in your life a gem from these chic, local jewelry brands

Jewelry is an extremely personal present that should be given with a little extra thought. By gifting her a piece, you would be making a point about how much you appreciate and are dedicated to her, based on the gems you choose.

But with that said, you don’t have to spend all of your wealth on the most expensive jewelry you see, nor search high and low for it. That’s because we have options for you. Gift the lady in your life a jewel from these chic, local jewelry brands so she can flaunt for Chinese New Year or the upcoming Valentine’s Day.

Bliing

Labradorite Smooth Mini Teardrops, S$148

Bliing was born out of a childhood recollection by Singaporean pair Alex Cheng and GC Lek in 2013 after taking a course at the Gemological Institute of America. The childhood friends decided to sell jewelry that made women feel not just attractive but also empowered.

Customers may construct a variety of earrings by mixing and combining studs and drops to fit their style. Bliing’s studs and drops may be swapped out instantly by connecting the drops to the studs to create a new set of earrings. Sounds magical, isn’t it?

MADLY

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The MADLY experience defies the expectations that consumers have of exquisite jewelry. Their unique eclectic style is defined by bold colors and inventive designs, which challenge expectations of uniformity and put a fresh spin on historical classics.

Only the best 0.1% of gemstones are used in the branding, which is cut by lapidary specialists for optimum brightness. MADLY is known for having the largest selection of quality colored gems on our sunny island, and they’ve gone above and beyond in their commitment to offering the best to their customers.

Pearly Lustre

Wonderland Freshwater Pearl Necklace, from S$88

Pearly Lustre is a pearl-focused brand established in Singapore. They feel that the pearl’s dazzling shine and lustrous brilliance should not be restricted by age or social class, and that it is a valuable jewel that can be sustainably created and made into beautiful, inventive creations to commemorate all of life’s great moments.

The brand is also concerned about the environment at every stage of the process, from pearl procurement to product maintenance, to ensure that the beauty of their fashion pieces is preserved for decades to come. You may anticipate the finest level of craftsmanship as a result of their partnership with the Gemological Institute of America in New York for third-party pearl identification assessment.

By Invite Only

Gold Marquise Blue Jade Studs, S$39

By Invite Only is a Singapore-based company that was launched in 2009. The company was founded on the premise that jewelry is about more than simply gorgeous, gleaming ornaments; it’s about enhancing your individuality and boosting your self-assurance. It’s all about being the greatest version of yourself in every moment.

All of their items are free of nickel, lead, and cadmium, which are known to cause skin problems. No matter the occasion, buy with peace of mind knowing that their items are appropriate for both teens and grown-ups.

State Property

Inversion Bracelet, S$700

State Property is a Singapore-based modern fine jewelry label that has received awards. The company, which was founded by a jeweler and an industrial designer, plays with structured outlines in precious metals contrasted against soft body textures, giving modest yet innovative items for individuals who are all about quality.

State Property, which is now available in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Singapore, is swiftly becoming a popular favorite throughout the world, with supporters including Michelle Obama, Nicole Kidman, and Lady Gaga. Will you join the cult too?

Wanderlust + Co

Moonlit Navy & Gold Hoop Earrings, approx. S$75

The brand’s creative adventure begins with Jenn Low, the company’s creator, and her creative team. The squad draws initially on paper before transferring concepts into digital drawings and 3D models, focusing their attention on new trends, elements, patterns, and potentials.

The Wanderlust + Co jewelry is made of sterling silver and high-quality reclaimed brass that is lead- and nickel-free. Each item is plated with 14K-18K gold and rhodium, as well as e-coating, to extend the gems’ shine. Before a product is rolled-out and presented to its customers, it undergoes a 30-day internal wear test so you can expect only the best.

B.P. de Silva Jewellers

Pocketful of Gems Sapphire Necklace, S$1,400

B.P. de Silva Jewellers is one of Singapore’s oldest luxury brands, having been founded in 1872. The earliest B.P. de Silva Jewellers Atelier opened on the prominent High Street in the 19th century, and the brand’s rich history and reputation can be traced back to that time.

Do you know that the Duke of Connaught was the brand’s first royal commission? It has also been given the tremendous honor of being designated as His Majesty, the King of Siam’s jewelry purveyor. This year, B.P. de Silva Jewellers will commemorate its 150th anniversary. They continue to provide both bespoke and ready-to-wear offerings, demonstrating their commitment to creating exquisite time capsules of the greatest narratives that individuals may carry down for generations to come.

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