Rules for the Newly Grads

Congratulations! You just surpassed college. As you enter a new chapter of your life, there are a few things I would like to share with you about work. Most of these are based from personal experiences.

1. Do not expect your genius and hardwork to be appreciated. Less expectations, less disappointments. Your work life will be much simpler that way.
2. Your loyalty should be to your work and not to your employer. Learn new things. Acquire new skills. Expand your network. These will determine your success. Do not place it on somebody else's hands.
3. Come to work at 8, leave at 5. Your family and friends are far more valuable.
4. Never love your work. Love is too strong of an emotion to be attached to something very temporary.
5. Know the difference between a colleague and a friend. Trust carefully.
6. Learn to separate your work life from your personal life. And let it be well known to everyone around you.
7. Speak up. Be assertive. Let your voice be heard, but do it with tact.
8. Know your rights. It pays to read policies and procedures (and the law). 
9. Rejections happen. Sleep on it. Wake up, and move on.
10. Some people will bend and tweak the truth. If it's no longer healthy, leave.
11. Likewise, don't lose yourself. Stick to your principles. If something feels wrong, it is most likely wrong.
12. Never accept that last item on your job description that says " and other tasks that may be assigned from time to time". Demand for specifics, no matter how long they are.

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The SEA Games Experience

In my short stay here I'd say there's not much to see in Jakarta. Tall buildings, terrible traffic and hot weather are perhaps the best things I will remember. Well, I was sent here to work; I had to watch over our sponsored players during the SEA Games.

My first time to watch a SEA Games tourney live.

But life, really, has its twists. I wasn't here only to supervise the golfers. Fate brought me to be reminded of life's crucial lessons.


Accept trials with open arms
There will come a time when we will be given great responsibilities. This tasks, as I've come to realize, are not meant to punish us. They are actually opportunities to make us better, challenges to bring out the best of our abilities. 


Be grateful
These golfers are provided with everything they need. They have food, lodging, uniforms and all other stuff. Quite frankly, I think a few of them need to be reminded of how fortunate they are that someone is so willing to spend millions for them. I observed that these few are not in their best conditions at all times; they could have done better during the game. There actions yesterday reminded me that I should be thankful to have been blessed with people who provide me with the things I need, and in return do my best constantly. It's a simple way of showing thank you.


Magnanimous in victory, gracious in defeat
I'm a sore loser but the athletes' actions kind of rebuked me.. Yesterday's champions were proud of themselves yet they were modest about it. Meanwhile, those of us who did not make it to the top were humble enough to accept our loss but are more determined to do better the next time. As I told our men's team, "Charge it to experience. We lost today, but moments like these make champions."






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Will the odds be in its favor?

I can very much remember how hooked up I was last year with The Hunger Games trilogy. At first I ignored the books 'cause I thought it might just be another Twilight saga. But my curiosity got into me and I finally grabbed a copy.

Every page was full of excitement. Every chapter made me want to read more. I could not close the book even if my eyes already did. The story in general was violent and cruel. But the drama, the action and the suspense drew me close that I bought the second book on the same day I finished the first.

This novel moved me; it stirred all sorts of emotions in me: hope, grief, triumph, despair, courage, frustration, success, hatred, joy. Katniss' care for her younger sister was one thing I can very much relate to. We, in some ways, share the same sentiments, beliefs and nature. I have to say that among all characters I met, she is the most realistic, the "most human" and the only one I ever had connection with.

Right after I finished the saga I knew that Hollywood producers will make an effort to turn it into a blockbuster movie. So I wasn't really surprised when news came out early this year about the casts. What I am anticipating is really the movie itself, and if the adaptation will be as exciting as the master copy. (Of course I know they are two different forms of arts!) And thanks to social networking sites, I found one of its promotional venues. I signed up at The Capitol weeks ago to receive updates about the film. I honestly like the gimmick of getting your personal Panem ID, which really makes you feel part of the Hunger Games.

I owe it to my beloved District 7 that I was able to right away see the official trailer of one of the most anticipated movies of 2012. I watched it last night. And I watched it again several times before I slept. I just couldn't contain myself of the excitement! It was that same level of anticipation when I saw the sneak peak of the last Harry Potter movie. I thought the actors were rightfully selected for the roles, the costumes were apt and the setting was true to the narratives of the book. But..

It was only a trailer. It was intentionally made to entice an audience so that they would draw closer to watching the whole thing. It was like an amuse-bouche that the decision of serving it lies not to the patron but to the head of the kitchen. Similarly, we were only given the best scenes  in that two-and-a-half-minute preview chosen by no less than the director, and that the only way to determine the success of the production is to wait for 128 days.

I am hoping that The Hunger Games movie will not fall to the category of those who fail to deliver exceptional story line and good performances from its lead casts. Though I've seen several films make appealing trailers but fall short on the entirety of the masterpiece, I am optimistic that The Hunger Games movie will bring the same height of thrill and adventure everybody loved of the tale.

Photo taken from the official Facebook page

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Dead or Alive

It's a Filipino tradition to commemorate the death of a loved one. Oftentimes people visit the grave of a lost family member, a friend or even a renowned personality during the first day of November (Quite ironic, I think, as the day is actually to celebrate the saints of the Catholic Church). My family is no different to this.

I grew up not knowing most of my grandparents. My lolo Rodrigo passed away years before I was born. It has been a practice that we visit his tomb yearly. So despite the scorching heat of the sun, my mother, siblings and I brought flowers and candles to South Cemetery in Makati last Tuesday.

About fifteen minutes after we settled, my mom led us in prayer of the rosary (which I have stopped believing in since high school). I was expecting that we would leave afterwards but she said, “Maya-maya na anak. Minsan lang natin bisitahin ang lolo mo.”

But how does he know we're here? He’s dead. And I honestly don't think our presence here matters. Neither is the effort of million others who are out of their homes right now. 

Those were my thoughts as I try to deeply understand the observance of Undas in the country. I don't know when and how it started but obviously it's been embedded in me. 

Many say it's the opportune time to pay respect to someone we lost and a chance to reunite with relatives and friends. I'm not sure if I still believe that. What I know is that the best time to show love for someone is when they are still alive, when they can still see, hear and feel us. While a dead person's body remains here on Earth, I say he is no longer part of this world. As the ones left behind, we can only reminisce of the good memories we have of that person.

Likewise, any day could be an option for a family reunion. There's Christmas, New Year's Eve and birthdays. Any where could be a place to celebrate, but a mausoleum? It's quite inappropriate to have merriment in a supposed to be solemn place actually. 

Close ties is perhaps the best explanation for this tradition. Filipinos are family-oriented; we care so much for our kin that it's hard for us to let go of them even if they are already gone. As for me, I'd rather focus on the present, on my loved ones, so I won't have to regret anything someday.

Every day is crucial. We should make the most out of it.

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One Word

I heard a knock on a glass panel near me but I ignored it. The same sound was repeated and this time I realized someone was standing by my station. I turned around.

“I need a copy of the annual report from 2006 to2010, “ the French man from the next office said.  “I came here last week and took copies of 2006 to 2010 annual report. I need one copy each from those years again”. His voice was calm yet imperative.

I assured him I’ll ask my colleague for copies since she files all documents. “Once I complete them I’ll bring them to your office,” I added.

“Hard copies. I need hard copies of 2006 to 2010 annual reports,” he repeated like I didn’t understand his first sentence. (Paulit-ulit?!)

I replied, “Yeah. I’ll bring them to your office, Sir.”

“Okay. Thanks.” Then he left.

He left forgetting something, which I think is, important. He forgot to ask.

Please - a one syllable word that without a doubt can be said effortlessly.

But why did this person fail to ask politely? Was it his culture? His nationality? Or perhaps his position, a manager needing something from a staff?

I was once taught to always use the magic words in a conversation: thank you, I’m sorry, may I and please. These simple yet colorful words mean so much that one can actually create the mood of a discussion. Imagine someone asking you to do him a favor and use these phrases. 

“I’m sorry to bother you but may I ask for annual reports from 2006 to 2010? Please give me hard copies.” 

What a difference will it make! For one, you will feel valued because the person acknowledges that you have the ability to aid him. You’d, likewise, understand the importance of his need and would want to help enthusiastically.

Sadly this is not the case more often than not. I observed that most working people are always pressed for time; rushing to get things done, ignoring small, valuable things around them. But if you look at it, it’s not hard at all. One only needs to be sensitive of his environment, learn to care for other people’s feelings and recognize their potential contributions.

Saying “please” is as easy as counting 1, 2, 3. It’s a simple word that shows a thousand meaning; one word that may define someone’s character.

Is it really that hard to ask politely? Please tell me.

Photo taken from Google Images.

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The Master of Fate

I had a rational conversation with a colleague this evening.  The facts presented to me were logical and pragmatic. The subject of our discussion – earning a master’s degree.

Right after graduation from college I planned to enroll in a graduate school. I wanted to earn another degree thinking that this will help me become better and more successful in my chosen profession, not to mention earning big salary and gaining respect and credibility in the field.  But admittedly, my views were, by some means, changed.

Attending and listening to a classroom lecture adds knowledge. Picking up the brain of professors, and perhaps fellow practitioners, widens perspective on certain issues and interests. But I’ve come to realize that these do not guarantee success. What we do outside the classroom determines the path of our career.

Accomplishments speak of skills. Attitude determines professionalism.  Passion brings out dedication. I’ve personally come in contact with people who have and have not earned a master’s degree program.

One of my college professors earned her degree by the time I graduated. What I know is that it took her about ten years to finish it. During the time when she was studying she was a dedicated teacher (And she still is). She tried her best to attend to every student’s need - she worked overtime, listened to student complaints, advised several organizations, worked out issues, stayed overnight in school to support activities, bridged gaps, defended students rights and so much more. She didn’t earn extra compensation nor received a promotion (until lately). She gained nothing but respect from every single student of the college. She became not only a teacher but also a friend, a coach, a mentor, and a mother. Everyone believes in her.

On the other hand, there were those who appear to know so much. They are either those who have received a second diploma or are working on one. But what they teach can be read and easily understood in manuscripts. Their familiarity of the course is shallow. Some present themselves with so much confidence yet lack integrity.

At work, I am dealing with someone who cannot even right a decent paragraph. Yet this person is about to finish a master’s degree in communication. But one person in the department carries with him fine writing ability developed by years of practice. He is our second in command.

I'd like to think that success is not found in the classroom. Likewise, books can only tell us the what’s and how’s and why’s. Sure we can earn a graduate school program. But the world around us, the people we interact with and even the mistakes we commit are, for me, the better teachers to gain knowledge from. Have a full grasp of these learnings and with passion and positive outlook, surely then, you can go places.

Mouth off

(Late posting)

I've always known that the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.  Yet I was reminded of it today after learning that somebody cursed in public.

This person was reprimanded by a superior and, perhaps out of rage, uttered the ever popular Filipino vulgar word putangina in front of several staffers. I felt pity more than shame for what he did. Not only did he create a negative impression for the team, he also revealed his level of professionalism and temperament. Yet, admittedly, he prompted me to be more careful with my actions and cautious with my words.

What we say is not only about what we feel towards something or someone.  I’ve come to understand that what comes out of our mouth is more of a reflection of our personality. It is an extension of our character, of what we are capable of doing, of our intelligence and ability to adapt in different circumstances. Truly, words are powerful. And once it’s said, it cannot be taken back. Words can build friendship but it can also create enemies.  Words boost morale yet can discourage a spirit.

Today’s incident was a learning experience for me. It is important to consider our words well. Sure, we can joke around and yell and say sentiments out loud.  But before we do that, we might want to consider the people around us and think of the possible consequences.

24

I've been working on this article for my new blog site.  It’s supposed to come out on my birthday. The thing is, I couldn’t finish it. Probably because I’m trying too much, thinking I’d gain people’s attention by writing impressively.  But long ago I’ve been taught that writing is a way to communicate; an opportunity to express one’s self and not to impress others.

So here I am now being true to myself.  Scribbling the letters with all faithfulness to what I really feel and to what I truly want to say.  It’s just simple. In my twenty-four years of existence, I can say that I have matured.  And I’m continuously working to be a better person.

My life experiences may not be as complicated or as challenging as those of other people.  But just like anybody else, I had my ups and downs, sweet and bitter moments, laughter and tears, peace and anxiety.  I’ve been insecure of other people’s talents.  Uncertainties have scared the hell out of me. And, lately, I’ve been so awfully anxious about a lot of stuff going on around me. Likewise, I've fallen a hundred times and hurt many people. I lied. I cheated. I refused to help. I cursed. I judged. I took advantage. I cried. But life goes on.  

I’ve had some regrets, yes.  Yet I know I cannot live a life full of guilt.  Moving on is the only way. Part of it is to accept who I am, what I can and cannot do, embrace my gifts and be thankful for all the blessings I receive.  Actually, if I take a careful account of my fortune, I could brag on my most valuable treasures: I have a stable job that lets me do things I like, a healthy and loving family, few but true friends who never fall short in fulfilling their duties as my ate’s and kuya’s (that is because they are more mature than me), an affectionate dog who makes me smile every single day, a vigorous and fit body that can finish a 10-kilometer run *ehem*, and so on.

I guess all I’m trying to say is, I’ve somehow come to know myself. In some ways I’ve accepted my weaknesses and used well my strengths to be the best person that I can be. When something is not meant for me, I’m learning to let go.  Yet if I badly want to earn or win something, I realize I have to work hard for it.

There are thousands of things I still need to learn and discover.  But I am more confident now. I am ready to confront the challenges that lie ahead. With patience, tolerance and understanding, I know I can.