Asia’s Interesting Superstitions Surrounding Money

Proud of its value for racial harmony, Singapore is a country that fuses people from different nationalities. Each nationality has formed a culture built on their own set of practices, rituals, and beliefs. Said beliefs do not have to be logical all the time as superstitions exist. Some of the superstitions surround heavy issues like money.

If you are interested to learn more about the Asian diversity in financial superstitions, continue reading this article.

IN JAPAN

The eccentric country of Japan is known for many things. One of which is their ability to morph paper figures – the art of Origami. To attract good fortune or wealth, you will need to put an Origami frog inside your wallet. The word “frog” in their language (“kaeru”) is a homonym for the phrase “to return”. Hence, putting an origami frog in your wallet entails the continued circulation of money.

IN CHINA

As the age-old saying goes: “a purse on the floor is money out the door”. Putting your purse or handbag on the floor famously symbolizes your detachment from wealth. On the bright side, keeping your belongings at close proximity lessens the chances of object misplacement or theft.

IN KOREA

Whether you are shaking your nerves away or acting on an automatic response, you must avoid fidgeting your legs in Korea. This common mannerism is frowned upon as it is believed that you are literally shaking off your good luck or wealth.

IN PHILIPPINES

Have you been experiencing an annoying itch in your palm? Do not forget to put this “itchy palm” in your pocket immediately. What may seem like a product of insect bites is deemed to mean incoming wealth. Regardless of the origin of the itch, Filipinos believe that you must expect to receive money in the next couple of days.

IN SINGAPORE

One of Singapore’s superstition roots from the Chinese beliefs about the numbers eight and four. They believe that number eight is fortunate and number four is unfortunate. These meanings were associated based on the Chinese language. You see, these words are homophones for the words “prosperity” and “death” respectively.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Try negotiating a discount if your apartment or condominium unit ends with number four. Research showed that it will work in your favor!

Sources: 1,  2, 3, 4, & 5

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Irrational Financial Beliefs That Most People Have

Let me start by defining what irrationality and irrational beliefs are. Irrationality is thinking or acting through emotional distress, insufficient use of reason, or cognitive deficiency. Thus irrational beliefs are the baseless opinions, attitudes, and values you possess that are beyond what the world really is. Particularly, your irrational beliefs about money shape how you spend.

Start by recognizing your irrationality with the 4 Irrational Financial Beliefs That Most People Have…

1. MONEY CAN BUY ME LOVE AND ATTENTION

If you believe that you can gain the affection and attention of others by earning enough money then, you are on the wrong track! Even if you are the shiniest dollar in the bank, you can’t please everybody.

When you put earning money as your top priority instead of valuing your family and friends, your self-worth will shrink once you lose your wealth. It is better to focus on the things that you can control – loving yourself and paying attention to others.

2. YOU CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH MONEY

Irrationality happens when you are not dealing with the truth of what really is and what you would like it to be. Your high expectations affect what you consider as “enough” money. Most people tend to accumulate debt by trying to reach this point of “enough”.

Instead of believing in this irrationality, live within your means by fulfilling your needs. Begin with the basic needs such as survival and security. Then allocate a portion of your money for your wants. Reach the lifestyle you desire by smart money management and not by debt.

3. MONEY CAN BUY HAPPINESS

I am sure you know people who believe that money is the quintessential source of their happiness. However, according to the words of Dr. Kathleen Gurney (CEO of Financial Psychology Corporation): “It’s not money that makes you happy…it’s how you use it.”

Studies show that you will get more satisfaction if you spend your cash towards memorable experiences such as vacations than towards material things such as a new table. Likewise, lending out possessions can help you enjoy the material things that your money bought.

4. MANAGING YOUR FINANCES TAKES LITTLE EFFORT

If you are one of those people who merely go by what the bank says and do cannot seem to organize your financial affairs then, you might be in trouble. Your bills and loans will not just go away on its own! It takes valued time and consistent effort to get your finances straight. Avoiding your responsibilities may make you happier in the short run but it will haunt you long after. So invest on real commitments and pay attention to details. If you are married, it is good to consult your spouse for all things related to money.

Image Credits: Chi King via Flickr

Image Credits: Chi King via Flickr

Sources: 1, 2, 3

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