Karissa

I just realized that some things are simply meant to be enjoyed.

Growing up, hobbies felt like a luxury. We weren’t financially well-off, so every peso had to have a purpose. Instead of spending on something just because it made you happy, you’d think, “Maypag ipalit nalang ni ug pagkaon.” Survival and necessities always came first.

Maybe that’s why, even now that I’m an adult, earning my own money and finally able to afford the things I enjoy, I still feel guilty whenever I spend on a hobby.

Every time I find something I love, my first instinct is to turn it into a business. “Mamaligya nalang pud ko ani para mabawi nako akong gasto.” I always feel like I need to make the money back, as if enjoying something isn’t enough reason to spend on it.

But then something that was supposed to make me happy starts to feel like work. I pressure myself to sell, earn, and recover what I spent—until eventually, I get burned out from the very thing that was supposed to help me relax.

And now I’m realizing: not everything has to make money.

Not every hobby needs to become a side hustle.
Not everything you spend on needs to give you a financial return.
Sometimes, the return is the joy itself.

Maybe part of healing from growing up with less is learning that you’re allowed to enjoy the life you worked so hard to build.

You’re allowed to buy something simply because it makes you happy. You’re allowed to have hobbies that don’t earn you a single peso.

Some things are not investments for your wallet.

Some things are investments in yourself. 🤍

Thank you, Gabriel Taborin College of Davao Foundation, Inc., for inviting Joy Travel and Tours to be part of your 25th Anniversary Gala Night – Pasalamat 2026. 🖤✨

We’re truly honored to serve as your Hospitality Management and Tourism partner. Special thanks to Sir Lilius Amaya for this wonderful opportunity and for making us part of this meaningful celebration. 🤍

Wedding guest mode: ON 💚✨