#funonfleek

It was thrilling to win a talk pass to the Filed #FunOnFleek planner launch. I have admired the brand since its early days, and I have already purchased their Scribble planner before. I submitted an entry on their Facebook competition, where I said that I wanted to amp up my creative journaling with the inspiration I will get from the talks. Before I knew it, I already had a pass in my inbox and I was good to go!

It was held at Century City Mall, which happens to be a specialty mall I like. Attending the event was a no-brainer, as I also wanted a planner for 2018. I was welcomed by a room full of like-minded ladies and true to its #FunOnFleek theme, a ball pit! I dove right into it and took a few selfies which was show how happy I was to feel like a kid again for a few minutes. 

Rizza Lana made time management doable in her life! 

The first speaker, Rizza Lana, shared her insights on Time Management. She owns three businesses: Whim Manila, Le Cat Coffee Shop, and Lana Skincare. Here were the key points from her talk:

Time Management Hacks

1. Prioritize
2. Write, write, write
3. Know what motivates you
4. Break down your goals into tasks (yearly, monthly, weekly)
5. Delegate tasks
6. Celebrate small wins
7. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just start

• Align your yearly, monthly, and weekly goals
• Deadlines help
• Stick your to-do list behind your phone or make it your wallpaper
• Set alarms for using social media
• Reward yourself whenever you achieve something

I find it admirable that at twenty-seven years of age, she already found a Time Management system that works for her. This takes commitment, and I will surely try setting an alarm when I go on Facebook (which eats up a lot of my time).  

Rhea Bue inspired me with her story. 

I also enjoyed Rhea Bue’s talk on blogging and PR. I may not be a vlogger yet, but I learned how tedious the process is from Rhea. She said that it is better to review products on blogs, but vlogs can work for a single makeup product. If there are a group of products being reviewed, a blog entry will offer a more detailed overview. It would help if the product and swatch photos are unfiltered. Also, personal thoughts will enrich your entries. So whether you blog or vlog, it is important to make each review personal. 

The same goes with events. A blog entry will cover more information, and it will allow you to include more photos, quotes from key people, and important details. A vlog can only cover the highlights of an event. A video can work as a teaser, but a blog is your main entry.  

For travels, she prefers to blog because she shares her itinerary, photos, and tips on budget and survival tips. Travel blog entries can also provide your readers with personal interest stories. For instance, if you are a bibliophile, you can write on a trip to a bookstore or a local library. If you like coffee shop culture, you might want to try a cult third-wave cafe. It will make your entry stand out amidst the sea of travel blogs.  

My key takeaway from her talk was that at the end of the day, a blog should be a form of storytelling. Blogging is a venue to share your life and answer potential questions from your readers. And by injecting your personal style, you get to develop your own voice and remain consistent.

Maan and Roma Agsalud of Common Room  

Another talk that resonated with me was the Passion Talk by sisters Roma and Maan Agsalud. They are the duo behind Common Room, which is a shop that sells handmade items. I visited their store several times already, as I also support handmade because they are objects with a story. They shared how a passion for crafting led to their first brand, PopJunkLove, which sells cute plushies. They have since incorporated their first brand into Common Room, where they host other handmade merchants’ items along with their own.

While I am not a businesswoman, I was triggered by their talk primarily because their passion resonated with me. I learned that taking action to pursue your dreams is the secret behind realizing them to fruition. Lack of money should never stop you from making it happen, as there are free venues on social media where you can test your brand (or your blog). Lastly, you should never make excuses for your dreams, because there are concrete actionable steps to start making them grow. And as Roma has emphasized, growth takes time, so you might as well start small and build on your dream.

My new planner sleeve and Keepsake journal 📓  

A cute planner for a sleek 2018! 

Of course, my #FunOnFleek experience will not be complete without a Filed Planner! I purchased a Keepsake Planner and personalised sleeve to help me manage my time and ideas in the coming year. While I am passionate about my blog, I still prefer to outline and plan my posts using pen and paper. I am happy that this local planner brand makes me excited to plan ahead and get my dreams from paper to reality. 

I enjoyed my time, as it was really a lot of fun. Those were only three talks I enjoyed, but there were other speakers as well. I chose these three because they have inspired me the most. If they can do it, then I can be a better version of myself too!  

Sustaining Inspiration

Start your day with positivity ➕ 

Breakfast at the caf

Networking coffee

How do you sustain inspiration? For me, it simply means that I have to continue acquiring knowledge. I continuously read books and magazines, attend seminars, and participate in conferences such as the 2nd Asia Finance Forum, which ended yesterday. I shared how the talks have inspired me to seek opportunities that far outweigh the risks. I felt inspired because I was a Risk Management practitioner. The challenge lies in finding these opportunities and to ensure that they develop in a sustainable manner. 

 My Rags 2 Riches bag at the ADB Library

I think the answer lies in innovation. 

It is my goal to continuously innovate. I write about achieving wellness through mindfulness, and doing so entails a healthy lifestyle. I enjoy working out and eating a balanced diet, but I also incorporate mindfulness so that living with meaning becomes a conscious process. Yes, I thrive in routine, but I amp things up by including my passions for reading, writing, music, art, film, and food in my life. By making my blog an extension of my life, I am inspiring myself to carry on. And it is in this inspiration that I am constantly practicing innovation.

I can always settle for being a lifestyle blogger, but I want to be more than that. By attending this conference, I have learned that taking risks is the beginning of infinite possibilities.

Coffee break snacks

Technology can thrive along with Finance. The world is more connected now more than ever. And by taking a risk with blogging, I am embracing opportunities in communication, meaningful pursuits, and a balanced life. 

Happy to have A with me today! 

I am thankful that I was able to join this conference. It warms my heart that institutions like the ADB organize events for the public, and I look forward to joining more conferences to enrich my life. I am excited for new beginnings, and I am definitely giving myself the chance to innovate both online and offline.

Inside the ADB Archives Gallery

Inside the ADB Archives Gallery 

Lessons on FinTech

I always have a photo taken by the auditorium  

Legit pass! 

Simple breakfast at the cafeteria 🍳 

But first, coffee ☕️  

I have shared yesterday about the novelty of joining a conference online for the first time. I had quite an information overload on the first day of the 2nd Asia Finance Forum, yet I was eager to livestream the second day of the conference. So imagine my surprise when I received an email that my registration has been confirmed for days two and three. I was floored because while I did appeal for a chance to join the conference in person, I was not expecting any outcome because I was aware of the large delegation for this year’s forum. I was happy to be given this rare chance to be a visitor of the Asian Development Bank, and if there is anything that I have learned even before signing up at the reception area, it would be the value of asking. I asked for a chance to attend the conference even if I was told that I could only livestream it, and I was granted a seat for the rest of the conference. There is value in asking for another chance, because it is where possibilities and opportunities are realized. 

Being here is a dream come true

Let the light in 💡  

I have learned from yesterday’s sessions that the opportunities far outweigh the risks.  

Hanging out at the ADB Library

FinTech is highly vulnerable to security risks, but the transformative power it has enables companies to take a leap of faith. Balancing risk and innovation is essential to ensure that development is sustainable.

In FinTech and in life, it is important to assess the risks involved and to keep on going, as long as the possibilities outweigh the hurdles along the way. 

It is important to innovate, but it should be partnered with empathy every step of the way. Design thinking should be applied to solve problems, especially when it comes to including the unbanked in FinTech progress. To be people-centric involves research and in-depth community immersion. Without knowing the needs of the people it aims to serve, FinTech companies cannot say that they innovate in a sustainable and inclusive manner.  

Another surprising turn was a lunchtime talk at the library which featured news anchor and public speaking coach Steve Dawson. He spoke on Storytelling for Presenters. I have learned the following from his insightful talk:  

1. Nerves are good! Being nervous is an indication of focus. Just do not let your nerves distract or rattle you.  
2. Storytelling is about digression. Explore your topic by including related details that could add humor and spice to your subject. For example, Steve spoke about his daughter’s triumph over dyslexia, and the astounding fact that she is now on her way to Australia for university. While speaking about his daughter, he became emotional and his feelings as a father became evident. It added interest to his story though, and it hooked his audience on his daughter’s journey from struggle to graduation. 
3. Know your audience. Never underestimate the power of research when it comes to understanding who your listeners are.  
4. Storytelling is about sharing. It is the art of connecting with your audience that makes you an effective speaker. Simplify complex information to make it easier for you to share. Make it entertaining too so your story could resonate with your listeners. 

I had a productive day and I was able to appreciate how innovation could personally motivate me to assess risks and seek opportunities. I also got inspired to communicate better by adopting a storytelling approach. I look forward to tomorrow’s talks with an open mind that is ready to innovate. 

The auditorium  

Matcha muffin and quiche for morning coffee snacks

Sketching helps me absorb information

Lunch

Lunchtime learning at the library! 

Chocolate bread pudding with vanilla sauce

Cocktail food

Cocktail food

Cocktail food 

Cocktail food 

Cocktail food

Online Conferencing

Yesterday was the first day of the 2nd Asia Finance Forum at the Asian Development Bank. Due to the overwhelmingly large amount of participants, some delegates from the private sector were given a livestream link to become an online participant. I was skeptical at first, because I never experienced being an online conference delegate before. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I was able to remotely follow all the plenary talks and learn from them in the process. 

Being a remote delegate while I was still in pajamas was a novel experience. I was able to sip my morning coffee while learning on FinTech trends and how they can support Sustainable Development Goals  (SDGs). While I do have a background in finance, I am still fascinated with how different leaders simplify finance for the digital consumer. To hear them speak and share their latest innovations uplifts me because in this age where security risks do challenge developers, the world is becoming more convenient and inclusive for all consumers, even for those with limited access to standard payment platforms. 

While I still prefer being physically present in a conference, it was fascinating to follow talks on my iPad because I was able to do so in the comfort of my own home. Conferences open up my mind and provide me with new perspectives on relevant matters. This will definitely not be the last time I will be joining one.  

I am optimistic with how FinTech is currently changing the lives of many people in the developing world. With the help of institutions like the ADB, the developing world can keep up with the speed of technology and the convenience of digital finance. I am grateful to be part of this conference, and I look forward to the remaining two days of talks and innovative learning.  

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

Jay the BFF

They say that you cannot choose family but you can choose your friends. Jay chose me as one of the pioneer members of his public speaking organization, iMic, in 2005. I was a sophomore in UA&P, and I was exhausted from my study load back then. I needed an extracurricular activity that could balance my life, as schoolwork was taking its toll on me. Public speaking turned out to be the perfect option, as I was an extemporaneous speaker and debated in high school. I knew that it was where I belonged right away. 

I was part of the video that would introduce iMic to students, and I remember having fun during the shoot. I eventually became part of the speech activities, parties, and debates. Sadly, the relationship I had with one of the org’s members did not last long. However, I still took part in various activities because they were enjoyable and memorable.  

Jay chose me for his org, but I was surprised that we eventually became good friends too. After graduating from university, I kept in touch with him. He visited me in my offices, met me for dinner, and listened to all my adventures over coffee. He made me proud with his achievements, especially when he moved to his current university. He was a loyal friend through and through, even if sometimes I wondered why he would even give a damn for my misadventures in life and love. He was there to cheer me on when I would have some high moments in my life. He recommended books for me to read, and I would suggest handmade artisans for him to check out. We had an unusual friendship, one that was based on trust and respect, even if he is older than me. He was the unexpected source of cool in my life, while I would like to think that I became the keeper of his stories. He never held back in terms of reality checks and tough love. In time, he became my best friend, and I chose him more than all the others who were not there for me for the right reasons. 

Last night, we belatedly celebrated his birthday. He may be an important scientist, but to me, he will always be my BFF. He has always treated me as a lady, and I am thankful to have this man in my life. 

I hope that he will be blessed with more years ahead. After all, he is a Mensa-certified genius, and I will always be his cheerleader.  

Solo Enjoyment

I have written about solo dining in Manila, which only shows how much I believe in the empowering effect of going out alone. I have always enjoyed my own company, and this is practically a given as I am an only child. I think exploring places alone is a joyful experience. I was never scared to walk on my own, even in malls or restuarants where couples and groups are the norm. This is why even if I am in a happy relationship, I still find time to go out alone. 

Are you afraid to spend time alone? Or are you just looking for activities you can enjoy by yourself? Here are a few regular things I do alone.  

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

After a chair Zumba class

With little Ella

1. Watch a movie. You might think that movies are best enjoyed with a date. I do watch movies with A, but there are times when I am compelled to spend time appreciating film alone. This applies to indie films and other movies which are not as conventional. Yesterday, I watched Loving Vincent. It broke my heart. It was so sad! But it was a visually stunning film as it is completely hand painted. “Starry starry night...” 
2. Workout. I join Zumba classes at a local park. I am not even naturally coordinated, but Zumba gives me life! I enjoy dancing to Latin music and forgetting about my worries along the way. It is healthy to burn calories, and really, working out is unbeatable when it comes to bringing out the best in you. My best ideas come to me while I am exercising, and most of them are for my blog. So why not try a workout today and you might even be inspired to write, draw, or create! 
3. Visit a pet cafe. Manila is now home to numerous dog and cat cafes. I frequent Barkin Blends because the dogs are trained to be playful with humans, even those who are not used to living with dogs. The staff are also helpful and efficient, so I always get a peaceful couple of hours with my favorite dog Ella, who is a chiweenie. I personally feel destressed after each visit. Cuddling a dog (or cat, if that’s more your thing) can give you a semblance of calmness, especially if the said dog snores on your lap! Not to mention, pet cafes serve coffee, so you can also get your caffeine fix while hugging your furry friend. 

These are just three examples of activities I enjoy alone. You should try at least one of them, as going out alone is therapeutic. Who knows, you might even learn more about yourself along the way. It should never be terrifying or lonely to be solo. As long as you are comfortable with your own company, you will definitely feel the incomparable joy of exploring the city by yourself.  

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

Solo Dining in Manila

There is something oddly romantic about dining alone in Manila.  

It is uncommon to find a woman dining alone in our city. The esteemed writer Jessica Zafra has written  -and shared in her lectures at the Ayala Museum- about her experiences when enjoying a meal by her lonesome. She gets judgemental stares, condescending questions from dining staff, and odd commentary from other diners who think that their whispers are beyond her hearing. I have observed the same whenever I would venture into a restaurant without a companion. You see, I am an only child, and whether I am in a relationship or not, dining alone is definitely part of my routine. Both of my parents have their own lives and I prefer to eat healthful meals. Whenever I have the time to savor a leisurely lunch, I prefer to go to Maginhawa Street, where there are various indie restaurants to inspire my inner foodie. And yes, I never saw the stigma attached with women eating out without a companion until I have been doing so regularly. 

What I cannot accept are the questions from everyone. The staff usually asks me before, during, and after my meal whether I am still waiting for someone. I do hear comments from other people in the restaurants I have eaten in that I must be lonely, poor, or worse, left alone by a date. There was even a time when I was still single and someone from another table asked me if I am too single. I ignored the question, because why should I even bother, right? But as I was happily single then, I realized that women without companions in Manila are seen as a threat by some. It only stems from our patriarchal society, and by the collective perception by women in our society that it is “sad” to eat out alone.  

I have observed in my previous workplaces that eating alone even in the pantry is seen as “sad” or even “wrong”. I have turned down invites to join others for lunch when a book awaited my eager eyes. I have also spent many a lunch break with friends so I am not exactly a loner. However, I am also comfortable to eat alone. It is more than okay for me. It is also liberating, because I have already learned to be oblivious to the stares, the comments, the questions from seemingly Type A diners, and the condescending remarks from people who should not even bother.

There are more important matters to discuss rather than a woman dining alone in Manila. It is already 2017. I think Manila should leave the solo lady diner alone.  

I can finish the rice bowl I order in restaurants whenever I eat out alone, thank you very much. The latte I enjoy with my novel is best shared with the protagonist on the pages I read. My best ideas haunt me while working out, but I learn to love myself more whenever I dine alone. In the cruel and unforgiving world of Manila to women who are comfortable being out alone, I have learned to appreciate my guts and forgive myself. I have learned to delight in my own company. And yes, I have learned to find my voice for this blog, during the endless cups of coffee I would sip while planning my next solo food trip.  

Whether you are in a relationship or not, make sure to eat out by yourself. I guarantee you that it will make you stronger, empowered, and dare I say happier. Just ask the next solo female diner you see in the corner. Or better yet, don’t. She’s probably too engrossed in her own company to even care. 

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

Buying Local

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!

Empower Yourself

Taken during trip my to the kikki.K store in ION Orchard, Singapore

I was inspired by my kikki.K store trip during our family vacation last September. I remember purchasing my kikki.K planner online, so it was surreal to purchase my notebook in person. While it was was natural for me to freak out due to all the cute stuff surrounding me at my dream store, I was drawn to their sample desk setup, and what was written above it. Imagine, a stationery shop boldly declares that they “...inspire and empower people the world over to live their best life every day.” If a designer paper brand can have that vision, then I am sure that we are all capable of having a purpose as well. 

I have previously written about my purpose, which is pursuing wellness through mindfulness. Having a purpose and applying it has kept me thriving during difficult times. Yes, I have also written about my struggle with job hunting, but I never lost sight of my purpose. There may have been setbacks, challenges, and bad days, but my purpose has assured me to never give up because I am mindful of how my life is supposed to be lived. 

You might think having a purpose is too lofty especially when you are dealing with “adulting”, but it is just as real-world as paying your bills. Personally, having a purpose has centered me whenever I was thrown out of my comfort zone. It is easy to forget and just dwell on the negativity, but I chose to focus on my purpose instead.

One of my ways of aligining with my purpose is throgh this blog. I have always expressed my intention to write everyday, and I am lucky to have this website where I can freely share my thoughts and learn from them in the future. If you do not feel like blogging, there are other ways to empower yourself by aligning with your purpose. You can journal, take up photography, paint, draw, or even volunteer. The possibilities are endless. 

Purpose is what propels you to do great things even when your circumstances are not always fabulous. I personally believe that purpose empowers me to be mindful of my actions and to live meaningfully. It is my hope that you can find your purpose so you can empower yourself. Remember, you are never alone and you can always count on your loved ones to cheer you on. 

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

Purposefully Centered

​I realized that taking a break from work is all I need at this point. While it is daunting to start all over again when it comes to my career path, it is priceless to be able to focus on myself. 

I was able to write during my time off. This blog is a testament to my daily commitment to write an entry everyday. It sounds challenging, but really, it is all about knowing what my purpose is. I realized that my purpose is to pursue a meaningful life through mindfulness. If I am constantly hungry for new ideas, I will never run out of knowledge to have a more mindful existence. As a result of this pursuit for purpose, I have been reading more, eating better (as evidenced by the smoked salmon sandwich from Italianni’s), working out, and having more time to reflect.  

I choose to have purpose because it lets me discern better as to what my next actions are supposed to be. For instance, if I will focus on not having an income during my unemployment, then I will inevitably be depressed. Whereas if I will focus on my battlecry, which is wellness through mindfulness, then I will find ways to incorporate exercise, proper nutrition, positive thinking, and yes, better job options into my routine. 

I have learned as well that this is the best time to know what makes me feel fulfilled. I have realized that at the end of the day, a good book and a peaceful slumber are two important factors to my well-being. I plan to balance my life in my next job so I can have more restful time to read and unwind. That way, I can focus better on things that matter when I am at work.  

I am thankful that there are people who look after me and ask me how I am. I am also lucky to have enough resources to focus on my purpose. I will see to it though that on my next job, I will save more money and be more selective with my purchases. That way, I can be more prepared for the factors that I cannot anticipate.  

I hope that you are also conscious of your own purpose. If you are still looking for that, maybe you should listen to mindfulness podcasts or read books on the finding your purpose. There are even workbooks which will let you interact with yourself and the results might positively change your life. 

Always remember that your purpose will let you remain centered in times of adversity. Whenever you feel doubtful of yourself, always go back to your purpose. That way, you will never get lost again.  

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

For Diane

Dear Diane, 

I am typing this letter on an app. That’s short for application, which are basically functions that a smartphone can have in its operating system. You download apps depending on your needs. Some cannot live without games. In my case, I tend to write on the go, so it is appropriate to have some KB in my phone dedicated to blogging. 

You might remember my blog, which I simultaneously posted on Vox and Multiply. I remember you liking my posts there. Both blogging platforms are no longer existent. Just like you. Although both you and my old blogs have given me wonderful memories. I must admit that some of them were embarrassing, but aren’t we all entitled to making fools of ourselves in uni? Well, I have since moved on from free blog platforms and I now have a paid website. A paid one! So adult, you might be thinking, but I just had to. Having a paid blog gives me a sense of obligation to actually post something every single day. If that makes me more adult, then so be it.  

I do recall you telling me before that you loved my email address. speakoutsam@gmail.com was appealing to you during the early aughts. At that time, I mostly wanted an email address that could motivate me to speak out, per se. So you can just imagine when I decided to name my website www.speakoutsam.com. I was willing myself to speak out online. This time, I am keeping true to my word. I am actually doing it! 

So how’s life beyond Earth as we know it? I am currently unemployed. I think you know what happened, and I already shared it to you during my previous visits. Please help me find a job. I really need money for Christmas. Also, I need to pay my sponsored child’s annual fees. I hope you can help me out on that department. Just pray for me, okay? 

I miss you. I remember when we pierced our ears together in high school. I still keep my second piercings to this day. I am currently wearing hoops on those piercings. What are you wearing now? I hope you still got to keep your piercings in Heaven. 

What are you currently reading? I’m in the middle of The Prague Sonata by Brandon Morrow. It’s interesting because there is so much WWII and musical history going on in that novel. I think you would have enjoyed it. Okay if you need a comparison, I would say it reminds me of The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. 

The beauty of blogging on my phone and not on a laptop (besides, I don’t own one anymore) is that I can still feel connected to you somehow. You obviously don’t have a cellphone anymore. But just so you know, I still have your number here. No matter how many times I change phones or cellphone numbers, your number is always part of my phone book. Of course, someone else owns it now. But for me, it will always be yours  

Whenever I am unsure of myself or in need of prayers, I always find my way back to you. I visit your vault because it gives me the peace that I need. It gives me the impression that someone is listening. I know you are, and I hope you don’t mind if I will drop by just to catch up on things.  

It hurts that we cannot take selfies anymore. I’ve had a pixie cut for the last year and a half. It is very easy to maintain, but I have a feeling you prefer my long hair. I hope you’ll somehow approve of my pixie. It provides me with the convenience of not having to worry about my hair while working out and commuting. Oh, and speaking of working out, I exercise everyday. Yes to commitment! 

Remember A? You met him during my nineteenth birthday party. We are still together. Please shine some light over him as well, okay? 

I wish I could tell you that things will get better. But I am worried, D. I really do need things to get better. Please pray for me, okay? 

I miss you all the time. I wish you’re still alive. But since I still am, I promise you that I won’t give up. I will keep on fighting until I am still breathing. 

There is a job out there for me. There is this blog. And of course, there will always be you.  

I’ll visit you again soon, okay? 

Love,

Sam

In loving memory of Ruth Diane Ferrer, who passed away on November 1, 2008.  R.I.P. 

Blind Inspo

Having a good brekkie is also part of self-care. Naked longganisa from Oinkster.  

Yesterday, I went to one of those affordable blind spas and got myself a one-hour acupressure foot massage. I workout everyday, so it is natural to have painful feet every now and then. I usually go to have Thai foot massage, but I have been frequenting the blind spa of late because I am inspired by the blind therapists who treat me. 

They are all talented, and I never had an unpleasant experience with a blind masseuse. They never felt entitled to more tips just because of their condition. In fact, I feel cared for whenever I am in a blind spa, and the therapists instinctively know where it hurts, where I need extra pressure, and how to relieve my lower back pain due to my scoliosis. If I am only getting a foot massage at a blind spa, they go straight to my tired feet. It is admirable that they do not use tools such as the wooden sticks which are used in Thai or Chinese foot spas. They merely use their hands, and the pressure (hard for me) is maximized on certain zones that need TLC. I am amazed that they always know where it hurts. It is a talent that sighted therapists in other spas will never have. 

I am inspired because these blind therapists earn a decent living and they never make their condition as an excuse. If they can work and support their families, then I am certain that I can also find the right job for me. I am not saying that hypothyroidism is similar to blindness, but my condition does limit me to jobs within reasonable commuting distance from my home, and with manageable stress. Whenever I am massaged by a blind therapist, I have a renewed faith in humanity, and even in myself. 

I hope I can find the means to earn a living so that I can support myself and visit the blind spa again. 

Lessons from Unemployment

I have been unemployed for three months now. I have chosen to be as positive as I can be in these trying times, but I also realized that I should be authentic here on my blog. I feel negative on some days, and I know that there are people out there who might learn a thing or two from my ordeal.

I have been working out everyday in order to be the healthiest that I can be. I owe it to myself to be in shape. The endorphins keep me centered and calm. Also, my best ideas usually occur while I am doing cardio. As I was working out today, I realized that I should share with you some lessons that I have learned from unemployment. Here they are:

Keep on praying! 

1. Haters are everywhere.  There will always be those negative people who will put you down. Don’t listen to them. You should know by now who to trust.
2. If someone makes you feel instinctively bad, stay away from that person.  Chances are, your instinct is correct. There will always be people who have hidden agenda for their personal gain. They will use your vulnerability as a reason for you to comply. If someone makes you feel iffy, stop seeing that person and move on.
3. Prayer is faith in action. Now is the best time to offer prayers. If possible, go to church. The mere act of kneeling down in front of an altar already demonstrates your resolve to improve your condition and overcome unemployment.
4. Nothing beats self-care. Find your routine to relax and unwind. Job hunting can be stressful, so learn how to take care of yourself so you can bounce back with fierceness. I have a budget for toiletries, and I have rituals like scrubbing, applying face masks, and cooling lotion. These are little luxuries that can go a long way in maintaining your confidence and overall well-being.
5. Update your CV. Attend seminars, conferences, trainings, workshops, and even online courses. Any form of learning can boost your chances of getting hired. List them down on your CV and keep your online employment profiles up to date. 
6. Listen to those who love you. They know what is best for you.  

This cup of Sagada coffee from Papa Diddi’s soothed my soul while awakening my weary body. 

If you are losing hope right now, I suggest that you take a step back and examine the bigger picture. Is there anything you can do right now to improve your circumstances? It could be a workout, a shower, a hot meal, or a cup of coffee. Now is the best time to reflect and take care of yourself. Unemployment is not a permanent status. It is a short break, so make sure that you relax, keep fighting, and continue job hunting.

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

Working on Getting Work

A and I ate fish balls near my house. It was a memorable snack, and it was cheap! 

I am actively job hunting at the moment. It is not easy, and I have received rejections for most of my applications. I am not the easiest person to be with these days, as I am usually on my phone applying for jobs or reading to calm myself down after receiving a rejection email.

Due to the demands of an increasingly digital workforce, I was forced to have interviews via phone or even chat. It was difficult to describe my experiences through these mediums. It was impersonal, and it was not possible for interviewers to see my gestures. As a result, I got rejected for asking “too many questions”, being “too inquisitive”, and “sounding too authoritative” on the phone. These were exact words from interviews I have spoken to. 

To overcome the anxiety that comes with jobhunting, I have resorted to asking my family and closest friends for feedback. I realized that yes, I do sound authoritative so I have learned to tone down my speech and modulate my voice. I have also been told that in recent HR training, questions from applicants are sometimes unwelcome because HR professionals these days are busy with countless recruitment interviews. They cannot even hold it in the office due to budget constraints. As a naturally inquisitive person, this is a pain to deal with. I am curious about the company culture, which is challenging to decipher if I am only speaking to a recruiter, or worse, being interviewed via chat. After many rejections, I have crowdsourced for job leads. I am thankful that I have friends who have sent links to openings and even possible career options which I have previously not considered. Hopefully, I will get callbacks this week, as I need the resources to survive the upcoming holiday season. 

To live without an income is not easy, but I am getting by with the help of motivational podcasts, books, and my loved ones. I have been experiencing insomnia because all of the financial challenges have been haunting me at night. My family has raised me to live within my means, and I live mostly on my meager savings. My savings account is close to empty, as I have spent almost all of my allocated funds for my supposedly brief unemployment. It has been three months. I have acne due to sleepless nights worrying about the next few weeks.  

I need a job. I hope I can be interviewed in person soon. I believe in myself, and I will get through this. 

If you are also struggling like me with the unemployment game, remember to NEVER GIVE UP. There is a bright future ahead. Just live within your means. Try looking for meaningful ways to spend time with loved ones, just like the fish balls date I had with A yesterday. It was a cheap date, but the food was delicious and I was with the one I love the most. Even in my joblessness, I am loved. Find the silver lining and treasure what you have. 

Keep on fighting! 

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

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***