The message I received in my Facebook inbox was not like the usual one that asks if I wanted to purchase a life insurance. It was from one of my business contacts, asking me if I would be interested to work for Pru Life UK. I didn’t realize that a year after that I would write about the story of how I became a Financial Advisor.

The Skills I Needed

I am one of those who left a corporate job to pursue my passion. I didn’t see myself pursuing other careers, or attaching a new job title under my name.

While I believe I can do great things and friends believe that I could create an empire 😮 (seriously, I have the best set of friends!), I already made peace with myself and decided to not chase the wrong things. I am living a minimalist lifestyle.

I don’t always say yes, but I saw his invitation as an opportunity to grow. Just like how I enjoy my travels , I am still open to new things and going outside of my comfort zone.

I had to do a quick scan of my outdated resume for previous sales experience.

• I remember my first job working as a barista, our manager would assign me (and my friend, #T!) at the cashier station to sell and push for slow-moving items. We did well and helped manage the store inventory and wastage.
• As a blogger and creator, I know friends and readers who bought high-value items based on my recommendations.
• Currently, I apply my client management and project management skills for my business.
• More importantly, I am a policyholder of Pru Life UK. I am already a believer of the product/brand.

When we had our first meeting, I met the wonderful team of the Lazurite Gold Life Insurance Agency. They presented to me all the things I needed to know and how much money I could earn.

It was funny when my Unit Manager told me that he was quite surprised that I didn’t look impressed with the weekly salary breakdown that he showed me. We were talking about exponential earnings.

I told him that at this age, I already know what I value the most – my time and freedom. But who doesn’t want and need more money?

The question is, would I be willing to give up my time?

I committed to working as a part-time agent.

The Challenges

The team welcomed me and ensured a smooth preparation for my onboarding. I have the most supportive and patient managers.

I took the exam for the Traditional and Variable Life Insurance Licensure. I was so nervous because it has been years since the last time I took a real examination. I passed and got coded last May 2021.

But I didn’t perform as expected.

I was too focused on things I really love – things that bring me peace, money, and joy every day.
I battled with myself asking my “why?”. The BIG WHY.

Why am I in this industry?

Every morning, I see motivational quotes that they send to the group chats, but I only read those as just words and phrases.

I always know how to motivate myself, but I was at the point of letting it go. Then, I thought of the people who trusted me to be in this job.

When I commit to something, I always give my 100%. I always give my heart (and all of my organs). 😂😂😂

I felt the need to deliver and produce to be able to contribute to the team.

My first presentation and closing felt like a first job interview, while I prayed hard as if I were applying for a travel visa.

Rejections are normal, but I am happy to know that most of the people in my network are financially literate to have insurance protection. I want my friends to win in life, too.

At that point, I know that I have to stay committed to and for my clients.

The Perks

At the end of my first year as a Financial Advisor, I was awarded as one of the National Achievers Club awardees. The National Achievers Club only consists of the top 10% of financial advisors in the Philippines.

My “corporate photo” on file was just randomly taken at home to complete my onboarding requirement. 😂

with BM Daryl, AUM Kian, and UM JC

I am thankful for the trust of my family and clients, and the support of my mentors.

I am continuously growing and enjoying this journey as a Financial Advisor while enjoying the perks of being one- from weekly salary, incentives, training, mentoring programs, recognitions, and free travel.

Monthly recognition for top performers 🏆

Some of the gifts and incentives I received. 🎁 It is nice to be able to contribute to the team’s success.

An opportunity to share my learnings and experiences. 💖

Just like you, I once told myself that I didn’t need insurance (because I was young and healthy) and that I didn’t need to worry about retirement. But, it is my good relationship with money that pushed me to get one. I remember asking my Financial Advisor friend, Ely to meet me as I wanted to get insurance and start investing. You too can plan for your financial goals and request a quote here.

Just like you, I am not inspired and motivated everyday. There is no motivational quote from Pinterest that could push you to take action. But knowing your “big why” will always help you re-focus.

I always say that I am building a lifestyle,

not a career.

A rare moment when I dressed up for an awarding; but on normal days, I am just home in my pajamas, enjoying coffee and securing lives. ☕

I am happy to be writing about this little adventure in this blog.

Aside from travel stories, please expect articles about Personal Finance and ways to have a more meaningful life. 💜

If you want to work as a part-time Financial Advisor (and have the time and freedom to do the things you love like I do!), you can message me on Instagram @ruthilicious, or send me an email [email protected].