One of the reasons why I am inspired to work again is my advocacy for buying local. I have been supporting local brands since I started working in 2009. My purchasing power is a vote of confidence for Filipino-made products. I do not believe that Filipino-made is inferior to imported products. Rather, I think that it is about time that we support local because we have quality products which are sourced and manufactured here.
Filipino brands cannot thrive without our support. If we can’t help them succeed, then the whole world will think that we are still haunted by our colonial past. We have to show the world that we believe in ourselves and in our country at large. Believe it or not, shopping can be a healthy habit, as long as it is in moderation and it supports a community in return.
One of the brands that I have supported through the years is Human Nature. Yesterday, I did my monthly shopping for my usual toiletries and personal care products. I could easily buy them from the supermarket. However, I make the monthly trip to the brand’s flagship store because I enjoy immersing myself in its core values and beliefs. I find it therapeutic to be surrounded by a brand whose ideals are proudly displayed on its brick and mortar store. It inspires me both as a Filipino and a consumer.
I cannot say that I am proud to be Filipino if I do not support locally-made products. I cannot say that I blog about wellness through mindfulness if I do not use natural products. Human Nature allows me to practice both. I am also pleased that all of their products are affordable. I do not go beyond my budget whenever I buy from Human Nature because all products are fairly priced and of course, fair trade.
If you need to inspire yourself, go buy something local today. You are not only purchasing something useful, you are also supporting a dream. And don’t forget to share your purchase online so more people will be enticed to buy local.
Let’s make buying local exciting and hip again!