It’s heartwarming to reflect on how much we’ve grown. Yet, there’s a bittersweet realization that we often appreciate our growth only when time feels limited. Perhaps that’s how life is designed—always with a touch of irony. In previous years, I was hyper-focused and energized, always setting ambitious goals. I felt fired up, unstoppable even. But this past year hit differently. I’m not sure if it was the weight of failures, pain, losses, or simply the exhaustion from always “trying.” I’ve always been someone who kept moving—nonstop planning, thinking, and striving for improvement. While it was rewarding in many ways, it...
2024: My Year of Bravery
Brave – Because I Had to Continue Living Without My Papang This year, bravery took on a new meaning for me. I had to move forward in life without my Papang—a father who was not just a parent but a steadfast supporter, always so proud and expressive about my achievements. His pride gave me strength and reminded me that I was doing something worthy. Now, without him, I’ve had to learn how to be strong on my own. But it hurts. It feels like I haven’t mourned enough, like my grief is still raw beneath the surface of my busy...
The Manager’s Dilemma: Choosing Respect Over Popularity
In the world of leadership, there’s a common misconception that being liked is the hallmark of a good manager. While it’s natural to want harmonious relationships with your team, the reality is that effective management often requires prioritizing respect over popularity. A respected leader drives accountability, fosters growth, and ensures the organization stays aligned with its goals—even if it occasionally ruffles feathers. Respect, Not Popularity, Builds Authority The core of effective management lies in having authority that is both constructive and meaningful. This doesn’t come from being everyone’s friend but from establishing boundaries and enforcing them consistently. Without clear expectations,...
The Beauty of Miracles and Divine Timing
Life is a tapestry of moments woven together by challenges, triumphs, and seemingly unanswered prayers. Often, when we find ourselves on our knees, we pour our hearts out to God, pleading for His intervention within our preferred timeline. Yet, there are moments when heaven seems silent, and doubt creeps in. But the truth is, divine timing is always at work, orchestrating miracles far beyond what we could imagine. When God doesn’t immediately answer your prayers, it’s not because He’s forgotten you. It’s because He’s aligning everything according to His perfect will. While our perspective is often limited to the immediate,...
Toxic People in the Workplace: Strategies for Managing and Protecting Yourself Identifying and Dealing with Negative Behaviors
In today’s workplace, it’s inevitable to encounter toxic people. These individuals can create a hostile and stressful environment, making it difficult to focus on your work and maintain your mental well-being. If you’re dealing with a toxic person at work, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and manage the situation effectively. Recognizing the Signs of a Toxic Person: Negative attitude and behavior: Toxic people often display negativity, such as complaining, gossiping, or criticizing others. They may also engage in aggressive or passive-aggressive behavior, such as yelling, interrupting, or taking credit for others’ work. Disruptive and manipulative: They may...
5 Quick Tips for a Smooth Family Trip Abroad: Minimize Stress, Maximize Fun!
Traveling with family is an adventure filled with laughter, shared memories, and the occasional (hopefully minor) hiccup. To ensure your overseas escapade is more joyride than bumpy road, here are five quick tips to keep in mind: The Money Talk: KKB or Not?Before you even pack your bags, have an honest conversation about finances. Will it be a “KKB” (Kanya Kanyang Bayad) setup, where everyone pays their way? Or is someone generously footing the bill for certain expenses? Clarity on this front prevents awkward moments and arguments later on. Decide on a budget, track expenses, and stick to the plan....
The Power of Effective Criticism: Fueling Personal and Professional Growth
We often recoil from the word “criticism.” It conjures images of negativity and judgment. Yet, when delivered with skill and good intentions, criticism can be a powerful catalyst for growth. It’s like a mirror reflecting areas we might not see on our own, highlighting opportunities for improvement. Whether in the workplace, a classroom, or personal relationships, constructive criticism has the potential to transform our skills, mindsets, and overall well-being. It’s a tool for refining our talents, expanding our knowledge, and fostering stronger connections with others. 5 Tips for Delivering Criticism Effectively Focus on the behavior, not the person. Instead of...
You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup
For quite some time, I’ve been repeating the phrase “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” Initially, I grasped its meaning intellectually, processing its implications. However, recently, it resonated with me on a deeper level. I found myself grappling with both mental and emotional struggles, feeling caught in the midst of overwhelming dilemmas. The pressure to uphold a persona of the “better person” weighed heavily on me during a profound emotional turmoil. Perhaps, initially, I hesitated to question this notion, but ultimately, taking a stand and holding people accountable liberated me from the burdens I could no longer bear. I...
The Path to Professionalism: Nurturing Courteous, Accountable, and Positive Attitudes in the Workplace
In today’s fast-paced and competitive work environment, professionalism is a quality that can set you apart and open doors to success. One of the essential aspects of professionalism is the ability to be courteous to your boss, take accountability for your actions, and maintain the right attitude. These qualities not only enhance your professional image but also contribute to a harmonious and productive workplace. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of professionalism and provide tips on how to cultivate courteous behavior, accountability, and a positive attitude in your professional life. The Significance of Professionalism Professionalism is the...