“POKÉMON Go” and personal finance? What? How can a mobile game where we catch Pokémon in real time teach us the basics of budgeting and investing? To begin the new year here are three things I’ve learned in “Pokémon Go” to help grow your finances.
When I started playing the game, it was all about catching. But over time, more activities became available such as Pokémon raids, trainer battles and trading. Doing all these with no plan can become overwhelming. Hence, I had to focus on one game mechanic at a time before moving on to the next.
This is the first lesson, to focus on one thing at a time. We cannot focus all our energy on learning how to save, invest or insure all at once. This will overwhelm you! Take your time learning an area you need to focus on. If you’re having a hard time budgeting, learn how to budget. If it’s investing, there are people or online sources we can tap to learn from. Focus your energy on what matters the most and it will be easier to plan your direction in our financial journeys.
Besides the in-game mechanics, “Pokémon Go” is also a social game. The game requires you to find people who are also playing since we have events that need a group. For example, a legendary raid takes around six to 10 people. Doing this raid alone is possible, but your chances of success are lower and more difficult.
Thus, it’s important to find your people. Remember the saying “You are the 5 people you surround yourself with.” Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can inspire you to save and invest. Who knows, these people may become your friends or mentors in your journey. So, find your group to make the journey easier since it will be a difficult one with ups and downs.
Lastly, “Pokémon Go” teaches you to value the small things. In the game, you can only level up Pokémon through candy. And the only way to gain candy is to catch as many of the same Pokémon as you can. The more you catch, the stronger your account will be over time. Sounds familiar?
In personal finance, it will always be about the small things. Saving P50 a day may turn into an emergency fund or saving P2,000 a month may become your dream travel to Japan. Remember that the best investors of our time were once beginners as well. So don’t be afraid to start simple and small because great things take time.
Building your saving and investing habits takes one day at a time. Much like in Pokémon Go, progress in personal finance is achieved through small, consistent efforts that add up over time. By focusing on the essentials and finding your group of like-minded individuals, you’ll be better equipped to value the small steps you take on your financial journey. These small actions, whether saving a few pesos daily or setting aside money for investments, lay the foundation for bigger achievements down the road.
Remember, personal finance is not a sprint but a marathon. There will be ups and downs, but the key is to stay consistent and adaptable. Like a Pokémon trainer who learns from every encounter, you’ll grow stronger with each financial decision and experience. Celebrate the milestones you achieve along the way, no matter how small, because they are proof of your progress and determination.
Lastly, just as the game encourages you to keep catching, battling and growing your team, financial success requires perseverance and a long-term perspective. Even when the journey feels slow, trust that every effort you make today brings you closer to your goals tomorrow. As you step into the new year, remember that wealth and growth are built on patience, discipline and the courage to start, no matter how small. Here’s to 2025 being your year of financial empowerment and success!
Be the first to comment