When inflation eats away at your purchasing power, the usual advice is to shift your money into assets that can keep up with rising prices—commodities, real estate, or equities with pricing power. But according to Registered Financial Planner Josefino Gomez, there’s one investment that consistently outperforms them all: you.
“Become better by investing in yourself. Develop skills that will be valuable to other people,” Gomez told Financial Adviser PH. “Because no matter what happens, whether you are fixing cars or treating patients—if there is a huge demand for it, you will be very valuable in the long term.”
While market strategies can help protect wealth, Gomez believes that personal growth is the most powerful and resilient inflation hedge. Unlike physical assets, your skills don’t depreciate—and in a rapidly changing world, they may even become more valuable over time.
During inflationary periods, wages don’t always rise fast enough to match costs. But individuals who continuously upskill or reskill are more likely to stay competitive, secure better-paying roles, or start side hustles that generate extra income.
“Keep on improving and acquiring useful skills that solve other people’s problems,” Gomez said. “Having these in-demand skills will be the biggest inflation hedge you can have.”
This mindset turns the focus from external conditions to internal growth. Whether you’re learning a trade, mastering a new technology, or building communication and leadership skills, these investments can lead to more job opportunities, greater financial stability, and long-term independence.
The best part? Investing in yourself often requires less capital than traditional financial assets. Free online courses, mentorship, certifications, or hands-on learning can yield returns far beyond their cost.
Inflation may be out of your control—but your personal value is something you can always build. As Gomez reminds us, “No matter what happens, if you are skilled and valuable, you’ll always have a way to stay ahead.”
