As the new year begins, consider at least one thing you considered too ‘important’ in the past. What makes it so ‘unimportant’ now? (<500 words)

As we embark on a new year, it's natural to reflect on the things we used to value highly. For me, that would be the world of Mobile Legends, a game that used to be an engrossing escape. I poured countless hours into strategizing, mastering heroes, and climbing the ranks. But more than just time, I also poured a surprising amount of money into the game. Every payday, a chunk of my paycheck would disappear, used to purchase the latest Epic and Legendary skins for my characters.

This dedication to digital fashion might seem trivial now. Life, as they say, has a way of throwing curveballs, and mine came in the form of a double whammy. Typhoon Rai (Odette) wasn't just a disaster on the news; it ripped through my own home, leaving a trail of destruction. Then, to make matters worse, a month-long hospital stay added a mountain of medical bills to the growing pile.

Looking back, it's a stark realization: if I had prioritized saving instead of spending on in-game cosmetics, our situation could have been so different. A sturdier home could have weathered the storm better, and that extra money could have made a dent in the medical bills. The weight of this realization became a turning point. Mobile Legends still holds a place on my phone, but the days of prioritizing pixels over real-life needs are over.

This journey hasn't been easy. The allure of a shiny new skin, the thrill of a rare emote – these still hold a certain temptation. But then I remember the feeling of helplessness during those difficult times. The frustration of not having a buffer, of every peso being accounted for, is a powerful reminder that keeps me focused on my new goals.

If you're struggling with a similar in-game spending habit, you're not alone. Many of us find ourselves drawn into the addictive spending loops that free-to-play games can create. There are countless resources available to help you gain control of your finances. Remember, a video game character might look amazing in a new skin, but true security comes from having a secure foundation in the real world.

This doesn't mean you can never enjoy those little extras again. The key is finding a balance. Perhaps setting aside a small, designated amount for in-game purchases, or rewarding yourself with a skin after achieving a specific real-life goal. It's all about taking control and ensuring that the fun you have in the digital world doesn't negatively impact the real one.