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7 Things You Should Absolutely Buy for Yourself

As Miley Cyrus sings in her song “Flowers,” “I can buy myself flowers, write my name in the sand, talk to myself for hours…” Let’s be real! Like her, you probably have a long list of things you want to buy for yourself, and there’s no reason to feel guilty about it.

Here are some of the best gifts to treat yourself with, including some of my personal favorites and a few items on my wish list.

#1: ORAL-B ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH

Investing in your oral health is always a smart decision. My husband swears by his electric toothbrush because it cleans so much better.

Priced at S$269 at Watsons, the Oral-B iO Series 5 Limited rechargeable electric toothbrush is an excellent choice. This toothbrush offers five cleaning modes—daily clean, intense clean, sensitive, super-sensitive, and whitening. It also features a two-minute timer, three brush heads, a travel case, and an AI-powered app to track your brushing habits. This powerful toothbrush will make you feel like you’ve just left the dentist every time you brush!

#2: AIRPODS MAX

Experience audio excellence with the AirPods Max, priced at S$813.90 in Apple’s website. These high-fidelity headphones deliver an unparalleled listening experience with their advanced noise cancellation and immersive sound quality.

Whether you’re commuting, working out, or just relaxing at home, the AirPods Max will enhance your audio experience.

#3: PIQUE KIMONO BATHROBE

Lounge in ultimate comfort with the Pique Kimono Bathrobe from H by Frette, a brand known for supplying linens and towels to the world’s top hotels since 1899.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Priced at S$135 on hbyfrette.com, this robe brings the luxurious feeling of hotel robes into your home. Perfect for those who believe that loungewear is overrated, this bathrobe is an indulgence worth every penny.

#4: AESOP RESSURECTION AROMATIQUE HAND SOAP

Treat your hands to the luxurious Resurrection Aromatique Hand Soap for S$55 at Tangs. Known for its delightful fragrance and gentle cleansing properties, this hand soap is a perfect addition to your self-care routine.

It’s an everyday luxury that adds a touch of elegance to your home.

#5: DYSON V15 ABSOLUTE CORDLESS VACUUM

Unless specifically requested, gifting someone a vacuum can be misinterpreted. However, if you still don’t own the Dyson V15 Absolute Cordless Vacuum after your holiday haul, it’s time to gift it to yourself.

Priced at S$1,299 at Harvey Norman, this vacuum offers powerful suction, advanced filtration, and intelligent optimization, making cleaning effortless and efficient.

#6: FITBIT INSPIRE 2

If your 2025 New Year’s resolution is to get healthier, consider investing in a Fitbit Inspire 2. Priced at S$150 on Amazon, it features everything you need to track your health and fitness goals.

With a 24/7 heart rate monitor, activity tracking, sleep tracking, and a daily readiness score, this water-resistant device helps you stay on track without constantly needing to charge it as it has a 10-day battery life.

#7: DIOR ADDICT LIP MAXIMIZER

I recently received a compliment on this lip gloss at an optical store, with someone saying it looked so natural. I couldn’t agree more!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The Dior Addict Lip Maximizer provides genuine hydrating and plumping care for your lips. Infused with cherry oil and hyaluronic acid, its formula is composed of 90% natural-origin ingredients. Priced at S$61 at Dior, this gloss is my absolute favorite, with its pigmentation and smooth application making it a must-have in any beauty routine.

5 Sneaky Tactics Retailers Use to Boost Your Spending

Ever walked into a store or surfed through an online retailer with a shopping list, thinking it’s a simple pick, pay, and go scenario? The reality is, the retail world is a maze of cunning strategies designed to nudge you towards making those unplanned purchases.

Before you begin your shopping spree, whether at the mall or behind the screen, it’s crucial to be savvy to the sly tricks crafted to part you from your hard-earned cash.

COLOR PSYCHOLOGY

Shopping is more than just choosing items, it’s a journey through a kaleidoscope of colors strategically picked to sway your behavior. The color of a product or its display has the power to evoke specific emotions. Take red, for instance – often associated with sales because it triggers action and stimulates interest. Even the sales staff, dressed in attention-grabbing hues like red, can influence your choices.

Watch out for falling in love with a product just because it looks pleasing and make sure it genuinely aligns with your needs.

POWER OF TOUCH

Ever wondered why some items are placed just where you can’t resist picking them up? It’s not a coincidence, as it’s a strategy. Research shows that the act of touching an item increases the likelihood of buying it.

Stores carefully position products in areas where customers are likely to reach out. Think about your experiences – faced with neatly folded items, there’s a hesitation to disrupt the arrangement. You’ll feel a different way shifting thru the clearance rack.

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Remember, the more time an item spends in your hands, the more likely you are to add it to your cart. Be choosy about what you touch, focusing only on items you genuinely plan to take home.

PLAY ON YOUR SENSES

Stores aren’t just selling products…they’re selling experiences. From enticing scents to free tastings and the overall feel of the environment, retailers play with your senses to make you stay longer and spend more.

Stay on guard and, if needed, bring a shopping buddy to help you navigate these sensory tricks consciously.

POTENCY OF FREE SHIPPING

Online retailers have a powerful weapon in their arsenal – the word “free.” The promise of free shipping can be a tempting bait, leading you to throw more items into your cart just to meet the threshold. In most cases, those extras aren’t really necessary.

So, remind yourself that the allure of free shipping shouldn’t dictate your purchases. Stick to your needs and resist the urge to overspend just for the sake of free shipping.

PRODUCT PLACEMENT

Supermarkets are like chessboards where the pieces are more expensive items strategically placed at eye level, creating an illusion of value. They might even position pricey items right at the store’s entrance, making everything else inside seem like a bargain.

Watch out for the “add-on” tactic near cash registers – seemingly cheap items that can tempt tired shoppers standing in line. Stay aware and resist the impulse to make last-minute, unnecessary purchases.

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Now that you’re armed with this insider knowledge, navigate the shopping landscape with a mindful approach. Avoid falling prey to the subtle manipulations that retailers use to boost your spending. Your wallet will thank you!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

Asia’s Largest Nike Haven Opens in Singapore

As a Christmas present, I gifted my father a sleek black shirt with the iconic Nike logo, a choice that perfectly aligned with his unwavering brand loyalty. If, like my dad, you take comfort in the quality of Nike’s fitness wear, there’s exciting news awaiting you. The latest Nike store on Orchard Road isn’t merely Singapore’s largest as it proudly claims the title of the grandest in all of Asia, besides its counterparts in China.

Welcome to Nike Orchard Road, a retail haven nestled between Apple Orchard Road and The Heeren, officially opening its doors last January 19. This three-story store spans an impressive 28,000 square feet, seamlessly integrating shopping, immersive experiences, and a celebration of athleticism. Connecting the levels is a LED screen that illuminates with popular running routes across Singapore, encapsulating the spirit of movement and vitality.

The store goes beyond the conventional retail experience as it offers fitness and creativity workshops alongside customization services.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Catering to men, women, and children, Nike Orchard Road is a playground for enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of style and functionality. The first floor is a haven for women and kids, featuring the latest footwear, bras like the Nike Alate, leggings such as the Nike Zenvy, and collections like Nike Motiva and Nike Versair. Ascend to the second floor for a display of men’s apparel and shoe collections, while the third floor is dedicated to Jordan aficionados, showcasing an array of kicks and basketball apparel. Stay tuned for the Jordan Lunar New Year drops, which are coming soon.

A unique feature of this Nike flagship is the Swoosh Studio on the first floor—an interactive space hosting fitness classes led by Nike coaches, creativity workshops with local artists, and wellness sessions with experts.

Image Credits: www.nike.com/sg

What’s more? The first two levels house Nike Service Hubs, offering a seamless transition from online to offline services. From order pickups to expert sessions, these hubs provide a holistic Nike experience.

OPPORTUNITY TO CUSTOMIZE

For those seeking exclusivity, the third floor unveils the Nike By You customization station. Here, you can transform selected caps, apparel, and footwear into one-of-a-kind pieces, adorned with city-exclusive graphics and accessories.

To mark the store’s inauguration, Singaporean artists Ella Zheng, Zi Xi Tan, and Natasha Hassan lend their creativity to exclusive Nike designs, capturing the dynamic spirit of sporting culture and the inspiring narratives of Singaporean athletes.

From three stories of Nike apparel to fitness classes at the Swoosh Studio and customization opportunities, Asia’s largest Nike store captivates fans on Orchard Road, Singapore. What are you waiting for? Step into a world where passion meets performance at the latest Nike store.
Nike Orchard Road awaits you at 268 Orchard Road. It opens daily from 10 am to 10 pm.

Sources: 1 & 2

How to Steer Away from Scammers this Yuletide Season

I got scammed! I must admit, I recently fell victim to a scam. In my quest to purchase a luxury item for my mother as a Christmas gift to reward her hard work, I opted for a seemingly reputable online seller complete with video reviews and customer proof. Little did I know, everything was just a facade. After stumbling upon a Reddit thread, I discovered that the owner had successfully victimized numerous people this year, and they are collectively exploring legal avenues for recourse.

As we embrace the festive spirit of the Yuletide season, it is crucial to remain vigilant against potential scammers seeking to exploit the joyous atmosphere. With the heightened hustle and bustle during this time of year, individuals like the online shop scammer may become more prevalent.

This article aims to provide you with valuable insights on how to steer clear of scammers and safeguard yourself and your loved ones.

STAY INFORMED

Knowledge is your first line of defense against scammers. Stay informed about common scams circulating during this time. Scammers often adapt their tactics to match current events or holiday trends.

Be wary of phishing emails, fake charity solicitations, and fraudulent online shopping websites. Familiarize yourself with the latest scams to better recognize and avoid potential threats.

SECURE YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE

Online shopping has become increasingly popular, making it a prime target for scammers. Ensure your online accounts are secure by using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication when available.

Verify the legitimacy of websites before making purchases, and only provide personal information on encrypted and trusted platforms.

MONITOR YOUR BANK STATEMENTS

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. You can also review your transactions via your banking app. Regularly review transactions to detect any unauthorized or suspicious activities promptly.

Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately to minimize potential losses and prevent further unauthorized access.

VERIFY CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

The Yuletide season often inspires charitable giving, but scammers may exploit this generosity. Before making any donations, research the legitimacy of the charity or organization

Use reputable platforms to contribute and be cautious of unsolicited donation requests. Legitimate charities will provide transparency about their mission and purpose, use of funds, and contact information.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Learn from my mistake. As you embrace the joy of the Yuletide season, prioritize your safety and security. Safeguarding yourself from scams ensures that the season remains a time of celebration, generosity, and peace.

Smart Money Hacks for 2024

As we step into the final weeks of 2023, it’s time to break free from old financial habits and embrace money-saving strategies that can boost your income and savings.

ALWAYS HAVE A SHOPPING LIST

Heading into a grocery store without a plan can be a recipe for overspending. We’ve all been there, wandering aimlessly and ending up with a cart full of things we didn’t really need. Avoid this by always carrying a shopping list with you. Having a clear plan in place will help you stick to your budget and make wiser purchasing decisions.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

SEPARATE YOUR SAVINGS ACCOUNT

If impulse shopping has been an issue for you in the past, it’s essential to protect your savings from unnecessary spending. Keep your savings in a separate account, entirely distinct from your day-to-day spending. By creating this barrier, you make it more difficult to dip into your savings impulsively, promoting a healthier financial discipline.

MONITOR YOUR EXPENSES

Stay in control of your finances by cultivating a habit of tracking your expenses. Whenever you receive a paycheck, record it in your budget’s income category. Likewise, make sure to log every expenditure, whether it’s filling up your gas tank or treating yourself to a delightful charcuterie night. By keeping a close eye on your spending, you’ll be able to identify areas where you can save and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

DELETE SHOPPING APPS

Did you know that 4 out of 5 Singaporeans give in to impulse purchases? With 54% of consumers admitting that shopping on mobile devices has led to increased spending, it’s time to take control. Cut down on impulsive buying by removing those shopping apps from your phone. Instead, opt for online shopping from your laptop or desktop where you can be more intentional with your purchases.

PRACTICE MINDFUL BUYING

Before you hit that “buy” button, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself, “Is this the right time to make this purchase?” Give yourself some space between the desire to buy and actually making the purchase. Set a specific timeframe for consideration; for instance, commit to not checking out for 24 hours or even a few days after adding items to your cart. This simple money hack can be truly game-changing.

REGULAR BUDGET CHECK-INS

Whether you have ambitious financial goals as a family or just want to stay on top of your finances, communication is key. Schedule regular budget check-ins, either on a weekly or monthly basis, and involve everyone responsible for the family’s finances. By doing so, you can make informed decisions, track your progress, and work together towards achieving your financial objectives. Effective communication about family finances is vital, regardless of your specific goals.

CREATE A MINI-BUDGET FOR UNEXPECTED EXPENSES

No matter how well you manage your finances, there will inevitably be times when unexpected expenses arise. Rather than panicking and derailing your entire budget, it’s best to have a plan in place to handle these situations.

Consider creating a microbudget specifically for handling short-term unexpected expenses. Set aside a portion of your savings to serve as an emergency fund. This way, when unexpected costs arise, you can dip into this fund without disrupting your regular budget or long-term financial goals.

AVOID FREQUENT PHONE UPGRADES

Resist the temptation to constantly upgrade your mobile phone just to keep up with others. Telecommunication companies may entice you with appealing upgrade offers, but remember that you’ll end up paying for that phone through your monthly contract. Instead, focus on choosing a phone that meets your needs and holds its value over time, allowing you to save money in the long run.

REMOVE STORED CREDIT CARD INFORMATION

Increase your mindfulness and avoid impulsive online shopping by refraining from storing your credit card details on websites. When you have to enter your credit card information each time you make a purchase, it provides an essential pause to consider if the expense is necessary.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Additionally, by not saving your details, you reduce the risk of potential hacking and unauthorized access to your accounts. Keep your online shopping experiences deliberate and secure.

Sources: 1,2 , 3, & 4

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