The Mindful Paycheck: 6 Ways to Maximize Your Salary

Making the most of your salary isn’t just about how much you earn, it’s also about how you work with what you’ve got. The study conducted by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reveals that 63% of Filipino households have no savings, leaving many trapped in the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck.

Budget constraints may stem from various factors. We’ve all been there. But being aware of where your money goes already indicates that you’re on the right path to better financial behaviors. 

Sure, your employer can toss in some help but you’ve got more control than you might think! While receiving a regular paycheck provides comfort, making a conscious effort to maximize your monthly earnings can enhance financial security and open doors to various opportunities. 

To begin, look through your financial situation – evaluate cash flow, savings, investments, and even debt. 

Now, let’s break down some ideas that can give your income a serious charge. It involves a combination of strategies that focus on maximizing your income and managing your expenses effectively:

• Mindful budgeting
  Your salary should be your north star to plan for the month. Create a spending plan by listing your regular expenses - rent or mortgage, bills, groceries - and set aside some funds for leisure and unexpected costs.
  Example: If your monthly salary is ₱30,000, allocate ₱15,000 for essentials, ₱10,000 for savings, and ₱5,000 for entertainment.
• Automated savings
  Saving can be hassle-free! Ensure consistency by arranging automatic transfers to your dedicated savings account. This way, you’ll save regularly without even thinking about it. No need for big transfers – the key is to simply start.
  Example: Set up an automatic transfer of ₱500 from your salary to savings every payday. 
• ‍Smart spending
  Establishing sound spending habits is a daily commitment. If your “why” is crystal clear, you can build favorable money behaviors and unlearn not-so-good spending habits. Use budgeting tools to track your spending, score discounts/promos, and make informed spending decisions. 
  Example: Use an app to track your expenses. If you realize you’re spending too much on dining out, consider cooking more at home.
• Employee benefits
  While your workplace might offer benefits, make sure you’re fully aware of them. They’re part of your compensation package. Take advantage of these perks that can support you in various aspects of your life, from health and wellness to professional development.
  Example: If your company offers health insurance, use it to cover medical expenses instead of paying out of pocket. Maximize learning opportunities like FREE webinars to expand your knowledge.   
• Debt management
  Paying off debts frees up more financial room. Concentrate on one debt at a time – like credit card balance or personal loans – and allot a bit more to clear it faster. 
  Example: If you have a credit card debt of ₱15,000, pay an extra ₱1,000 on top of the minimum payment until it’s cleared.
• ‍Future plans
  Whether it’s saving for a vacation, creating an emergency fund, or investing in your skills, planning helps you move forward. 
  Example: Invest in continuous learning and acquire certifications to boost your earning potential. 

Remember, it’s all about taking control of your financial journey. These tips can help you make the most of your salary and build a more secure future. 

When you’re looking for a financial lift to ease your worries and stay committed to your goals, the SAVii Salary Loan is here for you. Enjoy our budget-friendly interest rates, flexible payment options, and a repayment process that’s designed to keep things stress-free.