Starting your financial planning journey at a young age could be the key to unlocking long-term wealth and financial security. As told to Financial Adviser PH, Rodora Mendoza, a Registered Financial Planner, shares how beginning her financial journey early made a significant impact on her life.
Mendoza’s path to financial success began while she was still in college. “I started learning about personal finance early—attending seminars with experts like Randell Tiongson and Marvin Germo,” she explains. This early exposure to the fundamentals of financial management set the stage for her future investment strategies.
One of Mendoza’s first steps was to secure her financial future with an insurance plan, specifically a Variable Universal Life (VUL) plan. “Protecting my family and building a solid foundation was my first priority,” she says. Mendoza’s decision to prioritize insurance shows how foundational protection is for building wealth. By securing coverage early, she was able to safeguard her financial journey from unexpected setbacks.
But Mendoza didn’t stop there. Over time, she expanded her financial portfolio by exploring investments in stocks, cryptocurrency, and eventually real estate. The key to success, she says, is understanding your risk profile. “Knowing how much risk I was comfortable taking helped me make smarter, more informed decisions,” she adds.
One of Mendoza’s most valuable lessons is the importance of discipline in personal finance. “It’s not about how much money you make—it’s about how you manage, save, and invest wisely,” she explains. Whether it’s building a savings cushion or growing investments, maintaining focus on your long-term financial goals is critical.
For Mendoza, financial planning is not just about numbers; it’s about creating a clear path for the future. “Start now, plan ahead, and be disciplined. Your future self will thank you,” she says.
The sooner you begin your financial journey, the more equipped you’ll be to handle the challenges and opportunities ahead. As Mendoza proves, early financial planning can set you up for a successful future—if you start today.
