Here We Go Again…

If you’re in sales and you know that August is near—yes, it’s literally August 1 tomorrow in the Philippines—then you’ve probably heard it before: “August is Ghost Month.”

In many Asian cultures, particularly among Chinese communities, the seventh month of the lunar calendar is known as the Ghost Month. This year, it runs from August 4 to September 2, 2025. According to traditional Chinese beliefs, this is the time when the “gates of the underworld” open, allowing spirits to roam the earth. Because of this, people are often discouraged from making major decisions—whether it’s buying property, launching a business, or even getting married. The practice is deeply rooted in Taoist and Buddhist traditions, particularly the Hungry Ghost Festival, which peaks on the 15th night of the month (Source: Time Magazine).

Sadly, this belief has crept into the business world. Even today, some CEOs and business owners—especially in real estate, insurance, and investment—still avoid launching campaigns or closing deals in August. I know companies that delay property launches or cancel client meetings just because it’s “Ghost Month.”

To offset the slowdown, others resort to gimmicks: big discounts, extended payment terms, “Beat the Ghost Month” flash sales. It’s all a way to work around the fear.

But fear is a terrible business partner.

Yes, fear is a natural emotion. It warns, protects, and helps us stay cautious. But when fear begins to control our decisions, it becomes unhealthy. Especially when that fear is based on superstition.

As the Bible reminds us:

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

Fear is not from God. He gives us wisdom, not worry. Courage, not cowardice. Strategy, not superstition.

And here’s something personal: some of my best sales months happened in August—from life insurance to real estate to HMO. When others paused, I pressed forward. When they waited for “better timing,” I served the clients who needed help now.

That’s why I no longer see August as “Ghost Month.”

I see it as GOD’S MONTH.

✅ A time to plant seeds when others hesitate.
✅ A time to be present while others disappear.
✅ A time to build momentum when others expect none.

So if you’re in sales—whether you’re new or seasoned—don’t let tradition, fear, or superstition paralyze you.

Let’s not ghost our goals this August.
Let’s show up. Let’s move in faith.
Let’s go for it. 🙌