Ella Pangilinan Shares Dad Anthony’s Strategy For Raising Financially Independent Kids

It’s quite easy to get caught up in Ella Pangilinan’s videos featuring her wedding details, trips with her new husband, get ready with me sessions, and even cooking preps. And here’s another video that made us fans of her content even more–a video featuring her father, Anthony Pangilinan, sharing how he raised financially independent kids like Ella and her siblings.

Ella and Anthony met up at their family-owned gasoline station, where Ella revealed that both she and her sister, Hannah, have food franchises. Upon sitting down, she then asked her dad about financial literacy.

Anthony’s advice to his children revolves around the acronym F-I-R-S-T, which stands for putting “First things first,” Investing in character, Repent of bad ways and keep improving, Stewarding resources, and Teaching by example. Parents can use the same approach for their kids to emphasize not only financial awareness, but also highlight the importance of character and spiritual values in achieving true independence and success.

First things first: Follow God’s lead

“First things first, F-I-R-S-T. Follow God’s lead even when it comes to acquiring or spending. Lot chose the more beautiful part of the desert where there were lots of trees and palm trees and it was prosperous. Abraham said, ‘Lord, let him choose but you choose for me. Whatever he takes, that's his, I’ll take whatever’s left.’ He trusted God and God led him to the desert but that’s where he was prosperous.

“It’s not really where do I get the most money. Of course you have to make some computations, but where is the spirit leading you?”

Anthony starts with the spiritual aspect of financial decision-making, encouraging his children to prioritize their faith and inner guidance over more profit-making. This principle is about alignment with one’s deeper values and convictions, ensuring that financial endeavors are not just successful but also fulfilling and purpose-driven.

Invest in character over looks

“We spend most of our time looking at our values. Why are you investing in that place? Why are you buying that? Is that really needed? Because the inside is more than sight. Sight sometimes deceives. But inside from the heart, that’s where wisdom comes from. So the character is more important because when you have problems in business or when you have challenges with your money, [you know this again,] if your inner character is not strong enough, then you will fold very quickly. And that’s from someone who’s been in business for 40 years.”

Highlighting the significance of integrity and strong moral values, Anthony points out that character forms the foundation upon which lasting success is built. This perspective is vital in a world where appearances can be deceiving, and genuine success comes from what’s within.

Repent of bad ways and keep improving

“We have failed many times, but I love the book of John Maxwell Falling Forward, you have to repent, that’s it. Failure is not fatal in business. We’ve had a lot of debate and discussions about money. And kapag alam mo na mali ka, harapin mo na.”

Anthony then emphasizes the importance of acknowledging mistakes, learning from them, and continuously seeking to improve. It’s grounded in the belief that failure isn’t the end but an essential step in the journey toward success, especially in business and financial endeavors.

He also references John Maxwell's concept of "Falling Forward" to illustrate that failures and setbacks should be viewed as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. The idea of repentance here goes beyond its religious connotations, encompassing a secular and practical approach to personal and professional development.

Steward resources wisely

“S is steward resources that God has given you. And that means you know where it came from, so the first principle is you give back. You give at least 10% of the money. That was tough… Pag iyan na yung 10% ng kinita mo, labas mo na agad yan, take it out…You put it first because all things come from Him. And if you are faithful in the small things, you tithe on your first 10 pesos, then you will tithe on your first million very easily.”

Here, Anthony teaches the importance of tithing and managing resources responsibly, acknowledging their source as divine providence. This lesson instills gratitude and a sense of responsibility towards wealth, fostering a habit of giving back as part of financial management.

Teach by example

“I don’t know how many kids have co-invested with their parents…But three of you have invested your own money to do business with us because I think that you saw that we live by example. We lead by example, which means we’re not perfect, but if we make mistakes, we admit it.”

Anthony emphasizes the power of leading by example, sharing how his children chose to invest their own money in their family businesses. This approach not only teaches financial literacy but also instills confidence and a sense of ownership, essential traits for financial independence.

Anthony and Ella’s video provides a compelling blueprint for parents who aim to teach and raise their children to be financially independent. By integrating spiritual values, character development, responsible stewardship, and practical involvement in business, Anthony has laid the foundation for his children that goes beyond mere financial literacy. This holistic approach not only prepares them for the challenges of business and personal finance but also ensures they grow into well-rounded, value-driven individuals.

In essence, Anthony’s teachings are a testament to the idea that financial independence is not just about making money but making wise, value-aligned decisions that lead to a prosperous and fulfilling life.

@ellapangilinanx How we learned how to become finanically independent ft my dad @Anthony Pangilinan ? original sound  - ella pangilinan

Read here for tried and tested lessons to teach your kids to be money smart.