Choice A

With the man I choose everyday. 

Yesterday, A and I celebrated a year and seven months of being together. We have been through a lot, but we have chosen to remain together amidst all the challenges being thrown our way. I have experienced plenty of personal setbacks during the span of our relationship, but I always chose A.

I realized that love is firstly a selfish process. I choose to love because it allows me to share the love that I have for myself to other people. By loving A, I am offering my self-love and practicing self-respect as I support him in his own endeavours. 

Love in itself is a noble principle. It is the core of every healthy relationship, because it means that both parties have enough love for themselves in order to share it with each other. While it is a selfish process, it is also unselfishly shared. The paradox of love never ceases to puzzle me, but it also fascinates me because even when there are bad days, I still choose to love the one I am with.  

Now that A and I are already in our thirties, we cannot afford to waste any more time. We no longer have the luxury of youthful complacency. We are both job hunting, living our own lives, and concerned about our families. He has his social dancing like salsa and the Argentinian tango, while I have Zumba and my blog. He lives in Makati, while I am deeply rooted in Quezon City. The traffic, unpredictable weather, and economic uncertainty may threaten our relationship, but we have remained each other’s choice. And for that, I am grateful.

There are days when I am genuinely worried about my future. By this time, several of my friends are getting engaged. When will A and I reach that level? Will we have the financial stability to start our own life together? Will we grow as partners in a world where it is easier to live apart? But when I think of a future without A, I am left with an empty, hollow feeling. I know that my self-love will never falter, but I love A, so my world will be happier when I can share this love to him. 

I used to pray for more months and years with A. Of course I still ask for those from the Lord, but now, I pray that we will be the right persons for each other. There are many ways to break up, but only one way to stay together. We must choose each other everyday, because love is a choice that serves us both as individuals and as the partners we strive to be. 

Have a Little Faith

Lately, I have been facing some tough times. I had to leave two jobs within a year due to circumstances beyond my control. However, I realized that I have full control of what I feel, act, and do. So, I have resolved to carry on with blogging, job hunting, and my weekly routine, which includes visiting a place of worship each week.

I have already visited St. Clare’s monastery last Thursday, but I have decided to make this week a little extra by swinging by the National Shrine of St. Jude in Mendiola, Manila. It is his feast day today, and I could not let this week go by without thanking him for his constant intercession. I also have many favors to pray for, so it was an easy decision to make.

To go there, I simply ride the MRT to Cubao then transfer to the LRT going to Legarda. From there, it is a leisurely walk to St. Jude.

I offer candles, which cost Php2.00 each right beside the church. Prayer cards such as those for exams and for job seekers are sold by street vendors surrounding the church. I also visit the other statues there, such as Padre Pio. It is a one-stop shrine for all your desperate needs.

St. Jude is after all the patron of hopeless cases, and I have experienced his unwavering support. In 2016, he granted me a huge favor around the time of his feast day. And now, I have returned, a year later and stronger from all the challenges I have endured.

It is also admirable to witness faith in person. I am inspired to pray when there are multitudes of faithful churchgoers around me. I feel that having a little faith is not a solo endeavour after all. It is also prayer in action, as the trip to St. Jude is not easy, considering that public transportation in Metro Manila is not efficient. But it is a trip I have made whenever I can, and it is a blessing to be with St. Jude during his fiesta time.

I pray that A and I will soon find the right jobs for us. I pray that we will always be in excellent health. I pray that our families will always be blessed. And I pray that my blog will continue to inspire me to live a life of wellness through mindfulness, so that I can lead others by example. 

What are you praying for? Let me know if you want me to pray for your special intentions when I get to visit a church again. Let us continue praying for each other!

 ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

One Week at a Time

It has been three months since I resigned from my last job and I am still actively looking for work. I live my life one day at a time, but I have noticed that I also thrive when I have an established weekly routine.  

For jobseekers like myself, it is important to be your own cheerleader. Your weekly habits must push you to succeed and look at things in a positive light. Here are some of my weekly to-do stuff to inspire you to establish your own routine. 

I try to visit Sta. Clara every week 💒 

1.  Visit a place of worship. You do not have to be religious to have a go-to place to pray and reflect. It could even be a library if that makes you think more. Make sure that your place of worship is quiet, conducive for reflecting and meditating, and of course, free from distractions. You need to pray, or for those who have other beliefs, to plot your next course of action. That way, you get to be guided with your decisions thanks to your belief in yourself and in a Power greater than you could ever imagine.
2. Have at least one leisurely breakfast by yourself in a week. There is something about enjoying the first meal of the day by yourself. Do this weekly, with a book, a journal, or simply your thoughts. You will be surprised by the depth of your realizations as you munch on toast or sip that second cup of joe.
3. Finish at least one book a week. I have always believed that reading is a powerful weapon against intellectual decline and negativity. There is no such thing as being too busy for a book. There are new releases each month, and ebooks usually cost lower if you prefer that format. I prefer ebooks because I get to read them while I am on the stationary bike. It really is a matter of preference, so choose the literary format and genre that works best for you. 

It’s not that difficult to cultivate new habits, as long as you are determined to improve your outlook and circumstances. Always be true to yourself. Weekly routines are there to help you move forward, so make the most out of them. Discover new things that enrich your life as well, and before you know it, you are already a better version of yourself. 

 ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Personal Prosperity Perspective

Try saying my post’s title in succession ten times. It’s quite a tongue twister, isn’t it? 

Like the way our speech gets confused whenever we attempt to say tongue twisters in succession, I have noticed that we have an innate tendency to dwell on what we lack. We tend to notice that we lack confidence, intelligence, schooling, privilege...the list goes on. 

But what if we can rewire our minds to naturally veer towards prosperity? 

I have candidly blogged about my unemployment. Not so long ago, my posts sounded pleading and almost defeatist. However, I applied design thinking into my personal development. Empathy is a key factor in this thought process. I felt that I was doing myself a disservice whenever I blogged about being unemployed, struggling with money, and running out of hope. 

I downloaded some podcasts, such as The Lavendaire Lifestyle and Pursuit with Purpose.  I spent the weekend listening to these insightful lessons and I learned that I lean towards negativity.

In order to create opportunities for myself, I have to have a Prosperity Perspective. 

Surrounding yourself with love helps too! 

It may sound unthinkable to imbibe a personal mindset that I am experiencing blessings during a time of emptiness. However, that is exactly why we should rethink how we view prosperity. It does not just happen to those who are already employed, successful, and living the life. In fact, prosperity belongs to everyone. It is just a matter of making it personal in order to enjoy the benefits firsthand.

Let me give you a couple of examples when the mindset that I am broke caused me to miss a couple of opportunities. I was at a museum in Singapore to view a popular exhibit, but I was told by the guide that I needed to donate a small amount of money. My disappointment took over and I told him that I was sorry because I was broke. I had missed the chance to view this exhibit because I felt that I did not have enough funds to do so, when in fact, I could have just donated money to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime art experience. I ended up being sad because I missed that opportunity, and you would think that I have already learned my lesson, right?

Well, it took a second missed opportunity for me to grasp the meaning of having a prosperity perspective. A legendary cultural figure was invited by the government agency which was conducting a trade fair last week. I have successfully registered for a conference beside the said trade fair, and I was attending to represent my blog in various creativity workshops. Because I was concerned about being broke, I told the secretariat (who offered me a paid ticket to the said trade fair upon discovering that I was a delegate to the conference next door) that I could not afford it. Upon seeing the finished output of the legendary artist, I felt disappointed with myself. I could have paid the entrance fee with my savings in order to experience another once-in-a-lifetime artistic experience! The conference was insightful, but the opportunity to meet a living legend does not happen everyday. Besides, I could have returned to my seat at the conference anytime. It was a wasted chance, all because I was focused on being broke.

If I had my personal prosperity perspective in order, I could have seen the value of the opportunities being presented to me.  I could have said yes instead of missing out on these chances to broaden my artistic point of view. I could have enriched my life, but I chose to be conveniently broke.

From now on, I will no longer let the broke mentality blind me from the value of opportunities. My prosperity perspective will be personal in such a way that I will make it my own truth. In turn, I will eagerly await opportunities to come my way, and this time I will say yes!

You can try saying personal prosperity perspective  again and again, but the message is best understood by practicing this mindset. Shift towards prosperity and abandon your broke mentality today! Do it one day at a time, and tell me how it goes. I’d love to hear your stories.

 ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Ramen x Ice Cream with Friends

With Adam, Charlotte, and Allan

Last night, A and I got to have dinner with our Canadian friend Adam. He’s actually the boyfriend of my cousin Abby, but he has become our friend too so it was nice to catch up. He brought his colleague Charlotte with him, and she’s actually here for a few months for work. It’s always lovely to catch up with friends, especially if it’s over yummy food! 

Ajitama Tonkotsu from Ikkoryu  

We had ramen at Ikkoryu, which is one of my go-to ramen places. It was my first time at their High Street branch, and I must say I like their interior design here. I had the Ajitama Tonkotsu, which is one of my comfort foods! A good bowl of ramen is magical for me. It removes bad vibes, inspires easy conversation, and just tastes delicious. 

Ketchup x mayo ice cream from Freezer Burn 

I finally got to try the ice cream at Freezer Burn. In the spirit of getting out of my comfort zone, I tried their ketchup x mayo flavor and it was weirdly delicious. I would definitely recommend it if you’re into chilled ketchup. ​

Stylish tags from n/a stock 

We also got tags from Adam’s startup n/a stock. It made me giddy because it reminded me of that scene from Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, wherein a patch with the Canadian flag was given to Anna because it will make her more likable to the French. It was definitely a YA moment for me, only it happened in BGC and not Paris haha!

It’s always a great time with people who can make us laugh out loud as we try old and new foodie favorites. Last night was good for the soul. 

How to Turn Unemployment Into an Opportunity

Strive to be positive even when you don’t feel like it.  

I’m sure most of us have gone through unemployment. The worst part about being in between jobs is not knowing what’s next. It is agonizing to wake up each morning without a fixed schedule. However, there is another way to view this period in our lives.  

What if you could turn unemployment into a time of opportunity and positive change?

There was a time not so long ago when I had no purpose and zero direction. I was worried about having insufficient resources. I was pessimistic about what’s next. 

Until I realized that unemployment could be an important time of self-development!  

I then made an inventory of what’s readily available to me. I started with this blog, and I vowed to myself to write more positive content. I motivated myself to apply to seminars and conferences, using my blog as my brand and company to represent.  

I prayed, but I also took action. I went online to apply for jobs.  

I worked out each day. I never missed the chance to experience my daily endorphins.  

I downloaded podcasts that focused on mindfulness and creating opportunities for yourself. They helped keep me on the right track, especially when I felt like giving up. 

I shared my website whenever I was in seminars. I learned that it was the perfect icebreaker! It also helped me overcome my shyness whenever I was in a room of professionals. 

Before long, I have noticed that I no longer dreaded waking up each day. I learned how to bullet journal, so that gave me a tangible connection to the rolling of days and errands to accomplish. I listened to music and I realized that I am a creature of habit. So I cultivated new habits such as blogging each day and sharing them online. Producing output on a daily basis reinforced my belief in myself. My blog became my work, while I am still looking for the right job for me. 

I do recommend blogging if you are unemployed. Research on topics that interest you and write about your expertise. Stick to a writing schedule and commit to it! And while I advocate using paid blogging platforms, you may begin with a free one  while you are still starting. Get the feel of writing for yourself, and before you know it, you already have enough confidence to purchase a domain name, website package, and set up your own little space on the interwebs. 

I also recommend working out! There are plenty of free workout videos on YouTube. Utilize them. Learn which types of exercise work for you and commit to working out thirty minutes a day. It will do wonders to your health and well-being.  

Most of all, believe in yourself. You should never give up on your ability to turn emptiness to something great. Use your free time in between jobs for self-improvement! By the time you get employed, your boss and colleagues will be lucky to have you, because you have built your own brand and surpassed the negative vibes that tend to cloud your mind when you don’t know what’s next. 

***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Be An Advocate Today!

Listen to the In Good Company  podcast today! It is about social enterprise, and it is hosted by Tom Graham and Reese Fernandez-Ruiz. I won their Season 1 giveaway and I am so happy! (Photo from In Good Company)

When I started blogging last May 2017, I was already supporting advocacies that I personally believe in. I have previously written about my World Vision journey here on my blog, and I am grateful that I started sponsoring a child even when I was only dependent on a student’s allowance. I learned how to allocate funds for my kid (I used to pay monthly). I used to spend majority of my money on food and academic readings, so a monthly obligation to educate a child was a big responsibility. It gave me a sense of purpose that was beyond my duty to report to my classes. It ultimately gave me hope, that as I was approaching graduation, I was also contributing to a child’s future.

I carried on with child sponsorship. Adulting proved to be challenging. There were months of unemployment, when I would depend on my meager savings. This did not stop me from contributing to World Vision. I have learned that paying annually makes the responsibility easier to bear. Worrying about a monthly contribution is reduced to a once-a-year payment, and as I have previously shared, the brain does not perceive the difference between what is imagined and what is real. I have learned to perceive that the yearly contribution, albeit being a higher amount of money, is easier to bear as it is not a monthly priority and I have imagined it to be a bigger source of joy as there is no greater time to share my blessings than the Christmas season (when I usually send my annual offering).

Now that I am already thirty-one years old, my advocacies have increased. I shop for toiletries and personal needs at Human Nature because I believe in a brand that provides jobs to those who need them most. I still sponsor a kid with World Vision, and I have recently celebrated my tenth year anniversary with them. I also volunteer from time to time, with my most recent one for Rise Against Hunger Philippines. The meal packing event put my worries as a jobseeker in perspective. Indeed, my worries are nothing compared to what the hungry go through every single day.

The same goes with my pledge to support social enterprises like Human Nature. My being unemployed is nothing compared to being part of a marginalized community where opportunities are limited. To have businesses finally providing them with a decent livelihood is wonderful, because it also allows consumers like me to cheer them on with every purchase I make.

My blog may be primarily about my life with hypothyroidism, but my battlecry is wellness through mindfulness. I would never have achieved wellness without the enrichment and fulfillment I have experienced while supporting causes bigger than my challenges. I hope that you will also find an advocacy to share your blessings with. Before you know it, you will be blessed tenfold in return.

***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Why I Blog Now

Blogging has made me open to more experiences, even simple joys like checking out a Mini Cooper exhibit! 

Most people ask me why I still blog. I guess it is surprising to see that I am still writing a blog entry each day. I have enjoyed the process of telling my story, and this has led to a daily habit of writing something on my blog. It is noteworthy that I am not usually blogging on big events or monumental happenings. When I am asked what my blog is all about, I was never shy to admit that it is mostly about my daily journey with hypothyroidism. I am proud that I have learned how to defy my condition and managed to live a meaningful life, but that it not the only reason why I blog. I have decided to dedicate today’s entry on why I blog now, and maybe it could also inspire you to start your own blogging journey. 

Last night’s Word of Mouth event at BGC High Street

1. Blogging has become my job. I have learned that it is not healthy to describe myself as jobless. Through listening to mindfulness podcasts, I have realized that the brain does not know the difference between imagination and reality. If I will imagine myself as being employed now, then I will believe that I am fulfilled. Now, I am not hallucinating here. I am not thinking that I am employed because I am not- yet! However, I have a blog, which I have committed to write to every single day. Thus, it has become my duty to myself to compose a short essay, even when I do not necessarily feel like sharing my thoughts. And yes, it has become a...
2. Habit. Blogging has become my habit! And it is a healthy one at that. I realized that even the mere act of powering up my Squarespace app has motivated me to put my thoughts on the Internet. Writing has led me to explore more, even when I have limitations such as budget. Having my blog has blurred these limitations. I got invited to some awesome events, such as Word of Mouth. Speaking of awesome events...
3. Blogging has earned me access to conferences. Seminars and conferences sponsored by prestigious institutions are usually inaccessible, but thanks to my blog, I have been qualified to become a delegate to these educational events. I have motivated myself to attend seminars to educate myself and enhance my content with the knowledge I will gain. With conferences hosted by the DTI, Asian Institute of Management, and Philippine Business for the Environment, I was able to listen to industry insights and trends in creativity and innovation. If you want to qualify for these events, make sure that your blog has quality content, with no offensive topics. Organizers do screen blog and website content in advance to ensure the quality of their delegation. And once you do qualify, by all means, attend as many as you can! Network, connect, and learn while you are there.
4. Blogging has affirmed my belief in myself. One of the reasons why I write everyday is that my subscription to my website package (URL, web hosting, design) is PAID. Back when I was still employed, I have prioritized in building this website. Since I am aware that my hard work is powering this blog, I am affirming my labor by writing my story, one entry at a time. I believe in my ability to keep this website up and running, while updating my content and checking on the quality of my posts. I do believe in the power of having a paid service, as this makes me appreciate what I have built more, and in my capacity as a writer and my own brand. 
5. Blogging has created an opportunity for myself. I have learned from my conferences that it is up to me to create my own opportunities. Of course, it is natural to feel down because I am still looking for a job. However, since I have treated my blog as my work, I have also created a medium for me to present my writing to the world. This has opened doors for me, may it be to conferences, events, and even job leads. When I get employed, I plan to continue blogging as this has already helped me build my identity, which is separate from any job I will ever have. 

I am happy to have invested in myself with this blog. It is a journey I choose to continue everyday. There are no bad days for blogging because each day is an opportunity to start afresh and to renew my commitment to myself. After all, I can only be a great worker if I have already found myself. I can say that I have found myself in writing, and by the time I do get employed, I will be a better worker because I am my own person. 

 ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Day 30: #30GratefulDays | Create Philippines Conference

I was fortunate to attend the Create Philippines Confernce yesterday at the HallOne, ITC Center, Pasay City. You might be wondering why I attend conferences whenever I can. As a job seeker, I believe that I have to continue learning. Now is the best time to focus on self-improvement, as I have plenty of time to do so. I have committed myself to learning whenever I can, through books, periodicals, websites, blogs, and podcasts. I am lucky that I have access to knowledge even when I am at home.

Conferences are valuable because I am exposed to industry expertise and trends. I also get to network and experience going out of my comfort zone in introducing myself and my blog. I have learned from design thinking that empathy is valuable in finding solutions to foster sustainable development. Thus, by listening to talks on creativity, I am enriching myself with inspiring ideas in order to empathize more with everyone I encounter. Given that I am now at the crossroads of my personal life and my career (yes, jobhunting is a career), I can utilize my creativity to diversify myself, my professional trajectory, and blog journey. Hopefully, my commitment to creativity can improve my chances of getting a wonderful career and enhance my website’s content in the long run. 

I am excited to innovate in the long run and of course, to keep up with the times. My blog is an example of my personal development while I am looking for work. I enjoy blogging so much, that I am now doing it on a daily basis. I plan to continue blogging even when I am already employed. That way, I continue to enrich myself through experiences that I can blog about, which can be separate from my job.  

I have experienced a lot of positivity when I started this blog this May, and I think it is timely that my 30th day in my Grateful Days Project ends in a conference on creativity. I am challenged to carry on with my blog as a more innovative thinker. I hope that you will also attend conferences so you can learn, network, and share your ideas. Who knows, you may also get inspired and even begin a passion project, just like how I started this blog.

To quote Mr. Eric. Cruz of AKQA Shanghai, create your own opportunity.  By blogging everyday and having the discipline to tell my story on a regular basis, I am diversifying myself, teaching myself creativity, and training myself on how to truly live. And that is bravery in action, because it takes courage to share my thoughts even I would rather hide behind the covers. 

Ms. Lucille Tenazas from Parsons talked about cultural ambiguity and how Filipino creatives can capitalize from it. 

To stay relevant, be creative! 

Mr. Eric Cruz on saving us from boredom  

Yes! 🙌🏼 

College classmate Peepo David of AKQA Shanghai presented his humbling journey from struggling to get hired to being one of the best in his field. 

Day 29: #30GratefulDays | Cookie Cake

I had this warm cookie cake at Cool Beans Cafe  and it was a glorious experience. The chewy cake was moist and gooey, just the way it is supposed to be. It was a warm treat to remind me of simple childhood weekends spent in front of the TV, while a Disney video is playing on the VHS player.

I used to munch on Chips Ahoy! while watching movies. This cookie cake brought me back in time. I was reminded of how lucky I was to have simple childhood memories, and how I am still fortunate to be able to have treats to savor every now and then. I may not have much, but when I do indulge in delicious food, I appreciate what I have more.

There is something magical about food that gives me a sense of wonder, of being fortunate, and optimistic. I look forward to more epicurean delights soon, as I remain positive amidst all the uncertainty. 

Day 28: #30GratefulDays | Prayer and Breakfast

I am thankful to have spent a morning with St. Clare. I randomly visited her after my workout. It was refreshing to say my prayers at her monastery, since it gives me a sense of peace and renewal whenever I am there. I know that action is what gets me forward, but I also believe in the power of prayer. I do not have a set day of the week to visit her. However, I try to drop by weekly to offer eggs and pray. 

Prayer in itself is therapeutic for me. When it is coupled with the practice of visiting a monastery or a shrine, there is a tangible connection for me to behold. It may not sound right for some people, but it is important for me to have a physical presence of my intercessors. That way, I am able to pray in front of their respective images, and I practice my faith in a way that involves action and commitment. 

I usually have breakfast after my morning visits to St. Clare, and as it has been more than a month since our family trip to Singapore, I have decided to have some kaya toast, soft boiled eggs, and kopi. Having a hearty breakfast in a lovely cafe has helped me put things into perspective. I was able to reminisce about a happy vacation, savor delicious food, and drown all my negativity in piping hot coffee.

Knowing that I began my day with prayer and breakfast was motivating, and I was able to continue with the rest of the day with positive vibes and determination with blogging, job hunting, and enjoying my free time. 

I look forward to more productive mornings and breakfasts. For now, I am treasuring my leisurely moments and I am sure that with positive action comes rewarding results! 

Day 28: #30GratefulDays | What Makes Me Amazing

Finding my place under the sun isn’t easy, but I’m 100% committed.  

Yesterday, I had a chat with an industry leader about my job hunting journey. The question I was asked struck me.

I was asked why I am amazing.

I immediately recited my job experiences, the responsibilities I have fulfilled and those which I still handle now, my ability to compartmentalize different factors of my life, and of course, I shared my blog. However, I was told that those things do not describe why I am amazing. I was advised to package myself better by reflecting on this question. I sat down with myself, and after careful thought, I decided that the best way to answer this question would be to blog about it. So, without further ado, here are the reasons why I am amazing. 

1. I work within office hours and I do not believe in overtime. I have learned how to prioritize tasks over the years, and I care about the time I spend in the office. I do not go beyond the time prescribed to me, as I intend to maximize my work hours and commit 100% of myself to my job when I am in the office. 
2. I am battling hypothyroidism but I do not let it get in the way of my life. I refuse to let my condition drag me down. I have managed my weight, my moods, and I continue to do so by giving myself the best conditions to live a healthy lifestyle. 
3. I am committed to applying design thinking in my blog, work, and lifestyle. I think problem solving will be improved when there is empathy in each creative ideation.  
4. My blog has challenged me to tell my story to the world. Now, it is my turn to help convey my potential employer’s story through my work.  
5. I believe in lifelong learning, and I am always on the lookout for opportunities to improve myself. While experience is the best teacher, I believe that I cannot rely solely on what the daily grind can teach me. I am a fan of books, talks, podcasts, conferences, seminars, and symposiums.  
6. I always support an advocacy. I can never live without helping a community, a social enterprise, or my World Vision sponsored child. Supporting these causes bring a more dynamic perspective into my view of work and concept of love. 
7. I believe that it is important to motivate myself first before I can lead others. By being the best version of myself, it will be easier to lead by example and spark conversations on causes that matter to me, such as feminism, civility, and innovation. 

I must admit that this is only the beginning. I was taken aback when I was asked what makes me amazing, and I still need to dig deeper into myself. For now, I am happy to have started this conversation with myself. That way, I can package myself better moving forward.  

Day 27: #30GratefulDays | Rise Against Hunger

I joined the Rise Against Hunger meal packing event at Conrad Manila yesterday because I wanted to help our brothers and sisters in Lanao del Sur. While I do not have much to contribute, I knew that my time and voice online would help somehow. I knew very little about this organization, as I just stumbled upon their events on Facebook. However, I was impressed with the way they engage the public by holding meal packing shifts that anyone could join. I eventually signed up for their meal packing event and I was excited to be a volunteer for a day. 

Now that I am unemployed, there is a tendency for me to feel overwhelmed with the endless job hunting and limitations I am facing. This meal packing event reminded me of how fortunate I am to eat thrice a day. I am getting sufficient nourishment, while there are so many who are starving. I must admit that I felt ashamed of how pessimistic I could be. Packing these rice-soy bags made me appreciate what I have, and what I still could be. 

While I was ranting about not earning an income, there are Filipinos who are hungry. While I am job hunting, there are those who sleep at night with an empty stomach. I hope that there will be more initiatives to feed the hungry and provide assistance to those who lack access to their basic needs.  

I encourage you to join their upcoming events. You won’t regret a few hours of doing good. 

Photo from Rise Against Hunger Philippines  

Day 26: #30GratefulDays | Thriving in Limbo

As you may know by now, I am in a transition period. Career-wise, I am still on the lookout for the perfect role to fit my qualifications and circumstances. Personally, the past few months have been a period of significant growth. Want to know how I managed to thrive in uncertainty? Read on my five tips on being a better person amidst the vacuum of not knowing what’s next.

Eating moderately is also therapeutic! Here’s the yummy tinapa pasta from Ka Tunying’s Cafe

1. Visit museums. Art makes me realize that negative experiences can be a catalyst for  beautiful output. While you are there, read captions and the stories behind these artworks and their artists. You may also ask for help from the tour guides or curators. Reflect on the pieces that have moved you and why they have affected you.
2. Read. Now is the best time to educate yourself. Books are inexpensive yet valuable sources of knowledge. Balance the self-help with fiction. Also, read magazines and keep up with the news. The more you know! 
3. Workout. An endorphin rush can do wonders to your health and overall mood. Start with cardio and stick to a schedule that is ideal for you.
4. Listen to music. If Top 40 hits can make you smile, then by all means, listen to pop! 
5. Listen to podcasts. They’re free and insightful. Plus, they foster learning while in transit- or while job hunting!  My favorites are In Good Company and How I Built This.

I will be sharing more in the coming days and I hope that my blog journey is somehow helping you too.  Whether you are facing uncertainty or stuck somewhere, always remember to thrive. You are never alone, and there is never a better time to improve yourself than the present.

***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Day 25: #30GratefulDays | What I Did Wrong

Skye from Barkin Blends says 😋

I have been blogging everyday since speakoutsam.com went live in May. I had some doubts in the beginning, because I never had the discipline to write an entry on a daily basis. However, I surprised myself and managed to write a blog entry every single day. I had both good and bad days, and of course, my blog is far from perfect. I committed mistakes which propelled me forward. Looking back, these errors sparked my best plans of attack without pulling me backwards. So without further ado, here’s a comprehensive list of What I Did Wrong...and what I have learned so far.

1. Do not sound desperate. I have always advocated being real on my blog, but sounding too desperate during tough times will turn your readers off. Do keep in mind that your primary reader is yourself, so when you feel overwhelmed, take a step back and assess how to be real with blogging about your challenges without sounding helpless. 
2. Help yourself first.  Blogging is first and foremost, a personal journey. You have to help yourself first before extending a hand to other people. Make sure that your priorities are addressed before tackling other issues. That way, your content will still shine without sounding like a plea for help.
3. Never assume that you are alone. Blogging is a creative outlet, and believe it or not, you have readers out there. Never assume that you are all alone in this journey. Ask for advice from fellow bloggers, readers, and even recruit some friends to edit your blog. You will be surprised with your eventual growth once you realise that you are not alone.
4. Keep on trying. Your blog is entirely yours. If you get negative feedback, do not be discouraged! Take them constructively, and keep on trying. A new day = another chance to start over.
5. Writer’s block is a myth. There is no such thing as spacing out when you are trying to write. You just have to be consistent with churning out quality content. Personally, I am productive when I am on the go, so I blog using the Squarespace blog app. Develop a writing system that works for you and stop judging yourself.  

Someday, your blog will be your legacy. You can have a good laugh while reading your blog entries from difficult times. The only way to learn from your mistakes is to keep on going with the wisdom behind each error guiding you to do better. Focus on your story and tell the world about it. But before telling the world, tell it to yourself first. You are your primary reader. Blog for yourself, and never let what went wrong prevent you from blogging. Tomorrow is another chance to write better.

  ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Day 24: #30GratefulDays | Keeping Fit

The past few months may have been challenging, but I never gave up on my workout routine. Want to know my secret to motivating myself? Here are some tips:

1. Always follow a schedule. I am a morning person, so I like burning calories first thing in the AM. It also establishes routine and builds up an exercise habit. It also makes it easier to get it out of the way since you know what schedule works for you. 
2. Put your workout in your planner/diary/journaling app. Set an alarm if necessary to avoid forgetting your workout schedule. 
3. Plan ahead. Do not schedule your workout too close to a lunch out or meeting. You might just decide to prepare for your event and skip working out altogether. Make sure that your workout schedule does not interfere with your other priorities because working out should be one of your main events. 
4. Do not be a workout slave. We only need 30 minutes of exercise each day to keep ourselves healthy. 
5. Add variety to your workouts. I may be loyal to Zumba, but I also enjoy doing HIIT and walk n’ tone workouts. Having different workouts makes the process exciting and balanced, 

While I do workout each day to live a healthier lifestyle with my hypothyroidism, it is important to take note that exercise is for everyone. Keeping fit should not be a luxury. It should be a lifestyle choice. Make it a part of your daily schedule and you will definitely surprise yourself with how working out can make you feel better.

Day 23 | #30GratefulDays: Here For Me

I would like to thank my family for being here for me in this time of my life. The past few months have been exhausting, but they never left my side. To my friends who sent me links, messaged me, asked me how I am, advised me on blogging, work, prayer, and even books, I would like to say thank you! And of course, I am thankful to have A in my life, because he chooses to love me every single day, even when I am not loveable.  

I am grateful that I received love and light when I needed it most. I am happy that my blog helps me connect to those who pushed me forward. Now, let me assure you that I am never giving up, and that following your advice, I am moving onward. 

To you dear reader, thank you for dropping by my home here on the interwebs. Thank you for reading my story. This is just a beginning, and there will be more plot twists to watch out for.  

The whole point of life is to live according to what we think will make us happy. For now, blogging keeps me happy and connected to myself. My eyes have never left my goals, but my heart continues to beat to the rhythm of the present. I will never give up. Happiness is indeed a choice, which I have decided to fight for every single day.  

I hope that you too will fight for your dreams. They are valid, but if you experience setbacks, never lose hope. Just ask for help, and you will be surprised that there will always be people who will be there for you.  

Day 22: #30GratefulDays | Competition Policy for Shared Prosperity

I was fortunate to attend the Competition Policy for Shared Prosperity: Developing SMEs and Maximizing the Digital Economy Conference yesterday at the Discovery Primea. It was organized by the Asian Institute of Management. I attended the conference because I wanted to be aware of how technology could be used to further business in today’s competitive environment. As a blogger and jobseeker, it is important to be at the forefront of today’s trends in commerce, fintech, and economics. I am pleased that there are plenty of opportunities like this event to be exposed to industry leaders. I enjoy listening to what they can share, as this could help me shape my career trajectory. I am fascinated with how all this knowledge could contribute to my growth. It is my hope that I could use this to help in my personal development and enhance the content I write.

I used to work in a BPO for five years as a Senior Risk Officer. My employer used technology to outsource the back office operations of mortgage management. The Philippines is already a leader in outsourcing because we are proficient in English and we have a highly educated workforce. My experience in the company was enriching because I was exposed to Australian culture, business, and attitude towards money. Now that I have decided to move on to another employer, I am determined to select a company that has a desire to grow their reach by maximizing technology. Not only that, I am also looking for a company that supports an advocacy. It is not enough to just focus on the bottom line. I am keen on looking for a balance between business, employee support, effective communication, and social conscience. 

As a design thinking enthusiast, I am excited that the Competition Law is promoting innovation in the industry. The growth of business today means that there is a need for companies to be creative and continue to improve. It would mean constant streamlining of processes and updating of products. In terms of job creation, companies are now engaging potential employees in their hiring process by digitizing testing, and HR procedures. Social media accounts and blogs are also perused to determine if applicants are perfect for the roles they are applying for. It entices the applicants because they are in control of the digital procedures in their hiring, and in the end, they feel that the companies are involving them more in their employment. On the other hand, those who are unemployed who do not feel like joining the workforce are forced to innovate by putting up their own businesses or developing their own brands, often starting with an app or a website.

It is noteworthy that our economy is continuously developing and is enjoying the fruits of foreign remittances from overseas Filipino workers. We also have a highly digital market, as we have a young population who mostly engages in online shopping, learning, and social media. As a part of this demographic, I am on the lookout for practices which go against competitiveness. I also support companies which continuously innovate along with the demands of the market. As a jobseeker, I am aware that choosing the right career is more than just a personal choice. It is also a commitment to innovation and problem solving in this digital age. And it is up to me to evolve and improve myself in this highly competitive workforce.

My goal is to have a stable and innovative career. I cannot afford to be tied down to a job wherein my boss refuses to embrace technology and on the other side of the spectrum, with a boss who perceives me as a mere machine (and refuses to give me time to take vacations and take restroom breaks). I realize that a dynamic career fosters sustainable growth for both me and my employer. If this is achieved somehow, then I can say that a culture of competition is already imbibed in me. Of course, I do know that my primary competition is myself, and I should always surpass my last achievement. 

As I continues jobhunting and blogging, I am preparing myself to shine in the workforce by educating myself. During lunch, I overheard an AIM professor saying that the number one skill right now is learning how to learn. I am now at the crossroads of my life, my career, and my online niche. It is up to me to learn how to absorb, process, and utilize the knowledge presented to me.

Day 21: #30GratefulDays | Work with Sam Page

I have created a page here on my website to make it easier for potential employers to view my credentials and download my CV. 

My Work with Sam page will be regularly updated as I attend trainings, conferences, and workshops. It will also have social media links to my Instagram, LinkedIn, and email.

This will also facilitate a more efficient screening process for my potential employers. I am thankful to have received positive feedback for my blog, so I am utilizing it to store my updated CV with a link for downloading. It is also possible to view my CV using mobile. This will integrate my blog, qualifications, and work experience.

I am thankful that my website's platform, Squarespace, allows this function within my blog. I have used my free time to read on how-to articles on the process, and I was able to put up my career page with ease. I hope that this will foster more job options for me. I also look forward to a more comprehensive way of introducing myself to potential employers and collaborators. 

 ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***

Day 20: #30GratefulDays | Free Time

My boyfriend drove me to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima last Sunday. The experience was a refreshing change from my routine of working out, reading, and jobhunting. I prayed for a miracle with my career. Having no job has left me frantic because my savings for my unemployment period is almost empty. Being in a holy place has given me hope for better things. It has also encouraged me to carry on with my routine. 

I am working out and eating healthful food because I want to be he healthiest version of myself. I do not want to be a slob. I still wake up early (around 5AM everyday) to exercise. By following my morning routine, my body clock is still used to my work schedule. That way, I am ready to continue with my dayshift once I get a job. 

My free time may give me the license to be lazy, but I choose not to. I am constantly on the lookout for conferences and seminars for free. I want to sharpen the saw without spending, and I am thankful that events are now posted on Facebook. I only spend on transportation and parking. I aim to learn as much as I can, get useful content for my blog, and network on the side. I am also fascinated with central business districts, so attending conferences gives me the feel of being in an office complex. I love the energy and it inspires me to dream big even when I barely have anything left. 

I am also reading! Thank God for Amazon which allows me to preview books first before buying those that I like. Ebooks are cheaper than paperbacks, and I get to read them even when I am trying to fall asleep. I am happy to free my mind from the pressure of jobhunting while exploring a protagonist’s journey through life.  

I am thankful too for the radio. I bought a radio/MP3 player before I resigned, so I just plug my earphones and listen to 99.5 PlayFM for Top40 hits, 98.7DZFE for classical music, and Jam 88.3 for my alternative soundtrip. Getting free music keeps me upbeat while going about my day. Pop music is part of my routine because it keeps me young and motivated to dance to the beat!

While my financial limitations has kept me at home most of the time, I am thankful that social media is now prevalent. It allows me to keep up with my friends and relatives. I also go jobhunting online using apps. While I used to do it almost the whole day, now I just limit it to an hour in the morning and another hour at night. I realized that jobhunting all day is unhealthy. By limiting myself, I get to economize on time and really applying during the time I set for myself and not checking Facebook while doing so. Once the time is up, I focus on reading and my other priorities.  

I am thankful for the support I have received during this difficult time. I am grateful for the direct messages, texts, and job leads I have received since I posted my blog entry on unemployment yesterday. I hope to finally land a job soon so I can have a better life and a merrier Christmas! 

 ***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***