For many, money is not just a financial issue—it’s an emotional one. We spend, save, or avoid dealing with money based on feelings more than logic. According to Registered Financial Planner Christopher Cervantes, understanding your mindset is just as important as understanding your budget.
“Personal finance is not just about the numbers,” Cervantes told Financial Adviser PH. “It’s also about how we feel about money—our habits, triggers, and how we were raised to think about it.”
Cervantes shared the story of a client who seemed to have it all: a good income, stable job, and no major debts. But she still felt anxious every month, wondering why she couldn’t seem to save or invest consistently. She described a pattern of online shopping and food deliveries that made her feel temporarily happy but later filled her with guilt.
“We looked at her spending patterns and saw that many of her purchases were emotional,” Cervantes explained. “She was using spending as a way to cope with stress and low self-worth.”
Together, they worked on two things: tracking her expenses and identifying the emotional triggers behind them. Instead of relying only on budgeting apps, Cervantes encouraged her to use a journal to note not just what she spent, but also how she felt before and after.
“Once she became aware of the emotional side of her spending, she started making better choices—not because she was forced to, but because she understood herself better,” Cervantes said.
Building a healthy relationship with money means practicing both discipline and self-compassion. You’re not just cutting costs—you’re uncovering what really matters to you.
“Money should be a tool, not a source of stress,” Cervantes shared. “When you take time to understand your money behavior, you don’t just fix your finances—you heal your mindset.”
In the end, financial health is not just about spreadsheets. It’s about clarity, intention, and learning to treat your money—and yourself—with respect.
