“Life Insurance? I Thought I Was Too Young to Care…”
I get it. When I first heard someone pitch life insurance to me, I smiled politely… and mentally tuned out. I was in my 20s, full of energy and dreams. Death? Sickness? It felt far away—like something I didn’t have to think about yet.
But then life happened.
I saw friends lose parents without plans. I saw young breadwinners pass away, leaving their families scrambling. I saw it in my own family. And I realized something important:
Life insurance isn’t about dying—it’s about loving.
It’s not about fear. It’s about future-proofing your love.
I used to think life insurance was just about death. Just another reminder of something none of us want to talk about. But over the years, I’ve realized it’s not really about dying at all. It’s about loving deeply, intentionally, and responsibly.
It’s about asking yourself one simple question:
“If something happened to me, would the people I love be okay?”
For me, that question changed everything.
You see, love isn’t just hugs, gifts, or sweet words. Love is preparing. Love is protecting. Love is providing—even when you’re no longer around. And that’s exactly what life insurance does. It steps in when you can’t. It carries your love forward.
It’s not about fear.
I didn’t get life insurance because I was scared of dying. I got it because I didn’t want my wife and sons to carry the weight of my absence unprepared. I didn’t want my love for them to stop with my heartbeat. I wanted it to be something they could still feel—something that cushions them, supports them, and reminds them, “Dad thought of this.”
It’s about future-proofing your love.
Life insurance says: “I love you so much that I made sure you’ll be okay—emotionally, spiritually, and yes, financially—no matter what.” It’s a love letter written in planning and protection. A quiet promise that even in loss, your family won’t have to face everything alone.
So if you’ve ever dismissed life insurance as something “not for now,” I hear you. I felt the same way. But I challenge you to see it differently. See it as a radical act of love. A way to protect your dreams for your family—even if you’re not there to see them come true.
Because love plans ahead.
Love prepares.
Love protects.
That’s what life insurance is all about.
Why Young People Should Care About Life Insurance
If you're a millennial or Gen Z, chances are you're juggling a lot—student loans, building a career, maybe even starting a family. Life insurance might feel like something you’ll “get to later.”
But here’s why that mindset could cost you more than money.
-
You’re young = lower premiums.
The younger and healthier you are, the cheaper your policy is. Locking in a policy now can save you thousands over time. -
You’re building a life = higher responsibility.
Whether you’re supporting parents, siblings, or future kids, life insurance is a way to protect the people you love from unexpected financial burdens. -
You’re investing in peace of mind.
It's not just about death. Some policies help you save, grow your money, and even plan for retirement.
What You Should Do Before Buying Life Insurance
Let me walk you through the steps I took—and what I now advise others to do before jumping into a policy.
1. Assess Your Financial Situation Honestly
Start by taking stock of your income, debts, expenses, and assets. Do you have dependents? Are you supporting anyone financially? What would happen if your income suddenly stopped?
I had to sit down and look at my budget with clear eyes. That reality check helped me figure out how much I could actually afford for monthly premiums—and how much coverage I realistically needed.
Pro tip: If you’re eyeing a Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) policy, treat it like an investment. It’s not a quick “get-rich” scheme—it’s a long-term plan.
2. Clarify Your Life Insurance Needs
Ask yourself:
How much coverage would my family need if something happened to me?
What are my long-term goals—buying a home, starting a business, retiring early?
Do I want insurance purely for protection, or do I want to build cash value over time?
When I first started, I thought life insurance was just a payout when you die. Turns out, it can be a powerful financial tool if structured properly.
3. Know Your Options (Don’t Just Pick the First Policy Offered)
There’s more than one kind of life insurance. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Term life insurance – affordable, simple, and great for short-term needs.
Whole life insurance – lifetime coverage with savings built-in.Variable/Universal life insurance – flexible premiums and investment growth potential.
When I compared them, I realized that term insurance was great for starting out, while a VUL offered both protection and potential long-term gains.
4. Shop Around—You Deserve the Best Deal
Don’t say yes to the first quote you get. Reach out to different providers or talk to an independent financial advisor (like me!) who can give you unbiased options.
Look at:
Premium prices
Policy terms
Inclusions and riders
Company credibility and claim history
You’ll be surprised how much policies can vary. A little research could save you a lot.
5. Be Honest on Your Application
Once you choose a policy, it’s time to apply. This may involve answering questions about your health, lifestyle, and maybe even taking a medical exam.
Please, don’t hide anything. If the insurer discovers false information during a claim, your loved ones might not get the benefit they deserve.
6. Review Your Policy Regularly
Life changes. So should your life insurance.
Got married? Had a baby? Switched careers? These milestones may require you to increase or update your coverage.
I personally review mine once a year—it’s part of my annual “financial checkup.” And every time I do, I’m reminded of why I got it in the first place: my family.
Real Talk: Life Insurance Is Not Just About You
Here’s the truth no one told me when I was younger:
Life insurance is a love letter you write today, for the people you might not be able to hold tomorrow.
It’s a way of saying, “Even if I’m not here, I’ve still got your back.”
If you care about your parents, future spouse, or even your future kids—life insurance is one of the most responsible and loving things you can do right now.
Your Next Step: Start Where You Are
You don’t need to know everything. You just need to start.
Here’s what you can do today:
🧮 Calculate how much coverage you might need.
📞 Talk to a trusted financial advisor.
🔎 Read up on policies that match your goals.
💬 Ask me your questions—DM me or email papajackph@gmail.com
Final Word: You’re Young, But You’re Not Too Young to Care
You’re already building your future. Don’t wait for a crisis to realize how important protection is.
Let your love for the people who matter show in your planning.
Let your youth be an advantage, not an excuse.
And remember—getting life insurance is not preparing for death, it’s preparing your love to last.
Jack speaks at conferences across the Philippines on topics such as family finances, and personal and professional growth.
You can contact Jack Marbida through his social media accounts or 📩 email him at papajackph@gmail.com.
Cheers!
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