Tired of staring at your classmates with their fancy sneakers and wishing you had some extra cash?
Do you feel like you’re constantly broke while your barkada is out enjoying themselves?
Look, everyone wants extra money in high school, but not everyone’s willing to put in the work.
Good news is, it’s not rocket science. It’s about understanding what NOT to do, and then taking ACTION.
Let’s break it down, kabayan style.
1. Stop Thinking Like a Bata, Start Thinking Like an Entrepreneur
Problem: You think money magically appears from your parents’ wallets.
Solution: Time to ditch the dependent mindset. High school is your training ground for the real world.
Think of yourself as a mini-entrepreneur.
How to actually do it:
- Identify your skills: Are you the art whiz? The tech guru? Figure out what you’re good at.
- Monetize your talents:
- Tutor classmates who struggle with subjects you ace.
- Design posters or logos for school events or local businesses.
- Repair gadgets for teachers or your Tito who can never figure out his new phone.
- Think outside the schoolyard: Mow lawns, walk dogs, or offer babysitting services in your village.
Remember: Every peso you earn is a step towards financial independence.
2. Stop Blowing Your Allowance on Chichirya and Softdrinks
Problem: Your baon disappears faster than your crush when you walk by.
Solution: You need a budget, my friend. It’s not about depriving yourself, it’s about spending smart and making your money work harder than you do in your TLE class.
Here’s the plan:
- Track your spending: For a week, write down every single peso you spend. You’ll be surprised (or maybe horrified) where your money is going.
- Identify your “money leaks”: That daily soft drink and bag of chips add up.
- Find cheaper alternatives: Bring packed baon from home, drink water (it’s free!), and find cheaper alternatives for your guilty pleasures.
- Set savings goals: Having a target – new phone, cool shoes, concert tickets – will motivate you to save.
Pro Tip: The “50-30-20” rule can be your best friend:
- 50% of your money goes to needs (transport, school supplies)
- 30% goes to wants (snacks, entertainment)
- 20% goes straight to savings
3. Stop Thinking “Aral” is Everything
Problem: You’re drowning in textbooks, but your wallet is emptier than your stomach after a long day at school.
Solution: Relax, I’m not saying ditch your studies! But high school is about more than just grades. It’s about developing valuable skills that can actually make you money.
Here’s how to balance the books and your bank account:
- Explore side hustles: Start a small online business, freelance on the side (writing, graphic design, social media management are all in-demand skills).
- Turn hobbies into income: Are you a photography enthusiast? Offer portrait sessions to classmates or families in your neighborhood. Love baking? Sell your goodies at school events or online.
- Learn marketable skills: Take online courses in coding, digital marketing, or graphic design. These skills are in high demand and can open up doors to freelancing or part-time online jobs.
Remember: The skills you develop now can become your side hustle today and your main gig tomorrow.
4. Stop Being Mahiyain, Start Networking
Problem: You’re too shy to talk to people about potential opportunities, or worse, you think asking for help is “pambata.”
Solution: “Hiya” won’t put food on your plate or the latest gadget in your hand. Networking is key.
Here’s how to ditch the shyness and start connecting:
- Talk to your network: Tell your family and friends you’re looking for ways to earn extra money. They might have leads or know someone who needs help.
- Attend school events: Career fairs, workshops, even school clubs are great places to meet people, learn about opportunities, and build your network.
- Use social media wisely: Follow entrepreneurs you admire, join groups related to your interests, and don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions.
Remember: Your network is your net worth. The more people you connect with, the more opportunities will come your way.
5. Stop Saying “Mamaya Na,” Start Now!
Problem: You have grand plans to make money, but you’re always waiting for the “right time.”
Solution: Newsflash – there’s no perfect time! The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is NOW.
Here’s how to stop procrastinating and start earning:
- Start small: You don’t need a groundbreaking business idea to start making money. Offer simple services, sell handmade crafts, or find part-time gigs.
- Take action, even if it’s imperfect: Done is better than perfect. Don’t wait for everything to be “just right.” Start somewhere, learn as you go, and adjust along the way.
- Celebrate your wins: Every peso earned, every skill learned, every connection made is a victory. Acknowledge your progress and use it as fuel to keep pushing forward.
Remember: The only difference between you and those classmates with the latest gadgets and trendy clothes is that they decided to START.
Making money in high school isn’t a pipe dream. It’s about adopting an entrepreneurial mindset, being resourceful, and taking action.
So, go out there, hustler. Your future self will thank you for it.