The Year of the Dog and the Importance of Planning

"The Year of the Dog" is a term used by Eduardo Feldberg on his YouTube channel called Primo Pobre, which humorously teaches people how to pay off their debts.

I can start this blog by saying that my time has come. It couldn't be a better year; it's already been declared! 2026 will be my "Year of the Dog".

After a few slaps in the face listening to excerpts from the famous American billionaire Charlie Munger, I understood the importance of getting out of the "rat race" and achieving financial independence, or the famous "financial freedom."

Right at the beginning of my adult life, I found myself up to my neck in debt. As soon as I got my first international credit card, I started spending money on things I didn't need and, even worse: I bought everything in dollars! 🫠

My money was never enough to last until the end of the month, and my bill kept growing like a baby in its developmental stage. In the blink of an eye, it had already become a pretty big debt. 🥲

If you think that getting older made me wiser and more conscious about my money, the answer is: no! As my adult life unfolded and adult problems hit me hard, I resorted to instant gratification. 🎉

Online shopping, cigarettes, reckless nights out, excessive drinking, expensive clothes, concerts they didn't like, expensive restaurants, etc.

I always resorted to an escape valve to fill that infinite void and lack of belonging. Only later did I understand that it would never truly be filled.

NOTE: If you find yourself in any of these situations, you're in serious trouble! Your future is quite predictable.

"the red pill"

Contemplation, gratitude, and reading.

After spending a fortune at thrift stores and getting into the habit of paying for everything in 12 installments, I finally chose the "red pill".

I couldn't stand working just to pay bills anymore, nor could I stay on Instagram feeling sad and constantly comparing myself to others, a feeling you probably know all too well from watching travel or skincare vlogs.

These days, when I wake up in the morning, I start my day slowly: contemplating simple things, giving thanks for my coffee, and observing the horizon. No social media or unnecessary information overload.

I put on some calming music and turn to literature or any book that brings me pleasure and lightness to my soul and spirit.

Creating good habits is helping me control all this anxiety about having, being, and doing. And if you've made it this far and are still not convinced that you need a "Dog Year," I'll prove it to you with a single video.

I challenge you to listen to the first 10 minutes without crying. 🤭 And don't forget to leave your comment here at the end.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEP5lUnjoGY

CHALLENGE

In this year of 2026, I have a mission! To reach the end of it without any unnecessary installments or purchases. To survive only on what I already own, without excesses. To pay off all my debts, which already amount to more than 40,000, and save the little that remains as "emergency money" to give me that "peace of mind" in case of any unexpected event.

An extra challenge will be this blog, where I intend to continue writing about my journey: events, thoughts, etc.

Thank you for staying until the end. 🤍