There’s a stark difference between earning money and building wealth. One comes from a paycheck; the other comes from discipline, mindset, and action. Chinkee Tan—Philippines’ Wealth Coach—has lived both realities. He didn’t just study success; he clawed his way toward it. His story isn’t about shortcuts but about finding purpose in the hustle.
If you’re tired of being stuck, of paycheck-to-paycheck living, Chinkee Tan’s story offers more than inspiration. It’s a roadmap.
Why Most People Struggle
Here’s the truth: money isn’t the problem.
The real issue? Mindset. It’s not about what you earn; it’s about what you do with what you earn. In the Philippines, malls are massive, consumerism is rampant, and yet, financial literacy remains painfully low. Chinkee Tan observes:
“Many earn well, but they let lifestyle inflation consume their gains. The moment you’re chasing wants instead of needs, you’re trapped.”
The cycle? Earn, spend, repeat—and for OFWs, it’s even more heartbreaking. They give everything for their families but rarely build anything for themselves.
The Lessons Begin at Home
Chinkee Tan didn’t grow up with wealth. His family scraped by in Tondo, where “success” wasn’t handed out; it was earned. His mother’s wisdom became his compass:
- Sacrifice today for a better tomorrow.
- Save, invest, and let time do its magic.
- Don’t borrow what you can’t repay.
At 12, he sold toilet paper to classmates and learned the art of sales. By reinvesting his profits, he didn’t just make money—he built the discipline that would define his success.
Wealth Isn’t About Luck; It’s About Choices
Every peso is a seed. Eat it now, and that’s the end of it. Plant it, nurture it, and watch it grow.
Chinkee Tan doesn’t believe in quick fixes or windfalls. His formula is simple:
- Master saving before investing. Wealth starts with managing what you have.
- Understand the “Bawas-Dagdag” principle. Reduce unnecessary expenses before trying to increase income.
- Delay gratification. Skip the short-term thrills for long-term gains.
Sales: The Non-Negotiable Skill for Success
Why is sales so critical? Because it’s the foundation of every business. If you can’t sell an idea, product, or vision, you’re stuck.
“Your capital is your knowledge and your words. If you run out of energy, take a sip of water. Then keep going.”
Sales isn’t about being pushy; it’s about solving problems and connecting. Chinkee Tan challenges the stigma of sales, encouraging everyone—from students to professionals—to embrace it. After all, it’s not about selling napkins or shirts; it’s about mastering the art of influence.
Why YOLO is Dangerous for Your Wallet
Chinkee Tan respects the “You Only Live Once” mentality—but he also warns against it.
“Enjoy today, but don’t mortgage tomorrow to pay for it. Financial freedom comes when you balance needs, wants, and savings.”
The problem isn’t splurging occasionally; it’s living without a plan. For Chinkee Tan, the solution is clear: treat every financial decision as a building block for the future.
What’s Holding You Back?
Fear.
It’s the fear of failing, of wasting money, of looking foolish. But here’s the paradox: the people who fear starting often stay stuck. Chinkee Tan’s advice? Start small.
Sell street food. Buy and resell. Test your ideas.
“The scariest thing isn’t losing money. It’s staying exactly where you are, watching opportunities pass you by.”
Boss Idol: Helping Dreams Take Off
To extend his mission, Chinkee Tan is collaborating with RDR for “Boss Idol.” This program equips Filipinos with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to start their own businesses—even with minimal capital. It’s not just about money; it’s about mindset and mentorship.
How to Change Your Story
Chinkee Tan’s lessons go beyond pesos and cents. They’re about character. It’s not the size of your wallet that changes your life—it’s the strength of your discipline.
His story proves that wealth isn’t inherited; it’s built. Starting small isn’t failure—it’s a foundation.
Watch the full story on YouTube channel.
