Yesterday, I submitted my application for an international research trip. While being accepted is a long shot, I still joined the competition. It is important for me to challenge myself every once in a while. At the same time, I also learned to present my career in less than three hundred words! How's that for Braver Goals?
Day 59: Miracle Baby
Sixteen years ago, a miracle happened to me. My eyes became clear. My eye prescription was 650/700, so you can just imagine how bad my vision was without glasses or contact lenses. After a family trip to Lourdes, France, I woke up one morning being able to read the time on the clock across my bedroom.
The miracle became too much to handle. Of course, I could not believe that it was happening to me. I even tried wearing my glasses a few days after that fateful morning. The weird thing was I could still see clearly with my prescription glasses on. But the best part was seeing everything with clarity without my specs on.
Until now, when I try my old glasses on, I can still see clearly with them. But really, I am eternally thankful for my miracle and that my eyesight is still 20/20 today. I occasionally wear glasses with transition lenses to protect my eyes when I am working in front of my PC. However, nothing makes life more meaningful than reflecting on my amazing miracle which I still enjoy at the present time.
I went to mass today and said the rosary at my university's oratory. There are days when my miracle feels so real, and this morning, I was extra thankful to see everything in HD. I said thank you and prayed for clarity not just with my eyesight, but in all aspects of my life. After all, a well-lived life can only be experienced when perceived with wisdom and guidance.
Day 58: There has to be a word
1. There has to be a word for remembering to be thankful even when your day is not going so well.
2. There has to be a word for sticking to one's diet even when you feel tired and entitled to a cheat meal
3. There has to be a word for the oppression that you feel when commuting options are limited and traffic makes you late.
4. There has to be a word for the anxiety that you feel when you are stuck in a bus that is not moving due to bumper-to-bumper traffic.
5. There has to be a word for the realization that you love your job enough to brave through roads and a clogged thoroughfare for it.
Day 57: Life After Diet Delivery
I am currently enjoying regular food after three years of diet delivery subscription. My drivers for this decision to eat normally but within diet portions are:
1) Budget- Food subscriptions are expensive! Especially now that my salary has been downgraded since working in the academe.
2) Convenience- As my food provider grew its reach, their delivery times became erratic. I work in a company that has strict security, so it will not be easy for the rider to bring my food up to my office.
3) Adaptability- I cannot be dependent on a food provider for life. After three years with them, it is time to let go.
I am fortunate that our cafeteria has vegetables, the half cup of rice option, and fresh fruit shakes. It has been a fortnight and I am already eating healthful meals. I get to enjoy guilty pleasures such as shawarma rice and sausage muffins, but only if I eat vegetables and half rice for lunch. It is about compromise and balance.
I am addicted to kebab rice meals.
Vegetables with half rice from our cafeteria
Portion-controlled snack at a work event
Yummy way to begin the day
Day 56: Stretch
6:30am, MRT platform
I woke up this morning to do my workout. I raised my heart rate during cardio, flexed my muscles, and brought everything back to normal during the cool down stage. I realized that stretching is something that I cannot always perfect. I am not naturally flexible, plus I also have scoliosis. I can only do my best, but I cannot force it all the way.
The same goes with life. Right now I am upscaling my skills through classes, coaching, and mindful writing. There are limiting factors such as the fact that I am employed full-time, the difficult commute I have everyday, and hypothyroidism. However, I realized that I owe this to myself. I may not reach my toes but I can build my abs, so to speak. I even found my niche through my rallying cry, which is "wellness through mindfulness".
I hope that you can join me in stretching myself while being careful in observing my limiting factors. It is not about fear, it is about prudence. Balance is key to achieving my goals this year, and I know it is possible to continue realizing my purpose through everyday mindfulness and blogging.
Day 55: My Work Journey
My name is Sam. I have worked in an Australian BPO for five years as a Senior Risk Officer and Sales Support Officer. I have also handled PR and newsletter publication. Wearing different hats was challenging, but it has thickened my skin and sparked the idea that I could be more than just a typical BPO worker. When my employer underwent a change in management which was not pro-people, I resigned and gave myself a break.
BPO's are notorious for not providing adequate leave credits to their employees. I only had ten leave credits a year. Ten. My lunch and washroom breaks were also strictly regulated by our online system, so I was not able to do much during my employment. Resigning felt like freedom, and I was determined to never work for a BPO again.
Job hunting proved to be challenging. I was receiving calls from mostly BPO's because I was in demand for that industry. I must admit that I was tempted to accept some invitations. In fact, I even went to some interviews, but I did not like what I experienced because I was given a lot of uncertain terms like "shifting", "rotation", "bond", and "contractual". I did not care if the company seemed well-known or multinational. I was determined to brave uncharted territory, reject BPO's and contractual positions, and wait it out. While doing so, I worked out everyday, which was not easy because I have hypothyroidism. I regained my energy which was lost in the daily grind of handling other people's complaints and arrears. I read voraciously and ate healthfully. In time, I found employment in my alma mater.
Working in my university as a Program Officer is not easy, as I have major adjustments to make. I am an independent worker, as I have handled a senior role for half a decade. Working within a small department is not always easy because their work ethic is different. After two months of working there, I have somehow adapted. Since my job comes with significant free time and internet access, I have decided to improve my circumstances by immersing myself in knowledge. I have enrolled in online courses to improve my writing. After finishing two classes, I was able to put up this blog on my own. I met friends in the interwebs with similar interests, and I was able to see the status quo as a journey and not the end. I am enjoying it so much that I have enrolled in a purposeful branding e-course which is going to run until September 2017. I am turning thirty-one in August, so this is the best gift I could give to myself. I am learning so much and I know that my skills in project management, risk management, branding, and writing can help my community.
I am also passionate about social entrepreneurship and supporting local and handmade. When I am not writing on my blog, I eat out with A, practice creative journaling, and workout. I am also living a healthy life as hypothyroidism is already a constant variable.
I hope that I will also hear your stories soon. Let us support each other!
Day 54: Rising Above Failure
I have a passion for rising from failure. This has stemmed from my exposure to risk management, which was quite early in my life as my father worked in the industry all my life. I think it is beautiful that major corporations and institutions value failure and document them to calculate future probabilities. On a personal level, I believe that taking risks is crucial for growth. Whether it is our skin, our immune system, and our major organs, we all have cellular foundations that work hard to facilitate growth in all aspects to achieve optimal health. When it comes to our lives, growth only happens when we get rejected, when we fail, and when we experience pain. Failure is important because they can teach us to see what went wrong as stepping stones to achieve success in the next attempt.
Zero turnout. Immeasurable personal growth.
Recently, I have seen this at work. We hosted an event wherein nobody showed up. It was a rainy night and in Manila, and we all know that this means insane traffic, a surge in ride sharing prices, and close to impossible public transport options. I was initially hurt, because I hustled to get this approved, organized, and marketed. But after eating the catered dinner and receiving a hug from A, I realized that I did not do anything wrong. It was simply a series of uncontrollable circumstances which led to zero turnout.
I have learned that often times, we blame ourselves for things which are not even our fault. We should focus more on what we really did wrong instead and reflect on how we can improve in the future. In this day and age where social media is prevalent, it is easier to gain support and resources online to better ourselves. In fact, I am currently taking a Purporse-Driven Branding Workshop online with Arriane Serafico to develop the way I carry myself both on the interwebs and in real life. I think it is important to be coherent with our personal branding in order to realize our full potential and grow as effective individuals. It is important to channel the lessons we have gained from failure to propel ourselves forward.
Indeed, it is essential to rewind before we can move forward. What failures have inspired you to be who you are today? Use the lessons you have gained to inspire you to grow and realize your full potential. It is never too late to be your best YOU.
Day 53: My Rallying Cry
I blog to show that it is possible to achieve wellness through mindful living.
Day 52: Small Wins
Cardio warrior 🏃🏻♀️
I have read that celebrating small wins is important. You may think that it is shallow to list down the little victories that get us through the day. I must admit that I was skeptical at first. However, I listed down my small wins anyway and I was determined to see positive results. After more than a month of doing so, I have observed that I was more focused. I was resourceful in completing tasks such as commuting and eating healthful meals. I thought out of the box and became more creative.
All because I celebrated the small wins.
My P2P ride this morning
I wrote down each time I worked out. I listed down each healthy meal. I diarized those times I drank a fresh fruit shake. I wrote about successful dates and quiet times with A. It was relaxing and meditative.
In time, I looked forward to completing my tasks. I saw consistency even when my hypothyroidism was wearing me out. I exercised even when I was tired. I observed my diet even when I felt like doing the opposite. And I realized how short life truly is so I have to make the most out of it.
My classmate Marvi passed away the other day. Back in grade school, she wore a headband everyday. I thought that was so badass of her and her style still inspires me today. I still wear headbands at present.
I was heartbroken to hear about her passing due to aneurysm. I am wearing a headband today in her memory, and hopefully to pass her cheerful personality on even if she is no longer with us.
Day 51: Coconut Mornings
I just realized that living with hypothyroidism can lead to so much negativity. It may seem that I cannot have the best of everything. I have to workout even when I am tired. I have to take the stairs to burn more calories and wake myself up. It has recently led to resentment, because my thyroxine dosage has been reduced. I found myself dozing off on my desk. Three cups of coffee did not always wake me up. I felt sluggish in the morning, in the afternoon, and at night. I was forgetful, because of the so-called "brain cloud" which people with hypothyroidism often experience.
At some point, A just said that enough is enough.
After an insightful conversation with him yesterday, I have decided to alter my thinking instead of resenting that I have been shortchanged in this life. I should think that I have a complete life. It may not be perfect, but I am trying hard to manage so that should suffice.
I started this morning by thinking that I could enjoy the little things that I am allowed to have. I had a whole coconut earlier after parking my car. I bought it fresh and had the meat and water transferred to a bag to go. It was refreshing, filling, and the perfect energy drink to keep me going during my commute. Upon arriving at my office, I was determined to have a healthy breakfast. I had tortang talong, half cup of fried rice, and banana ketchup. I also had coffee, because I need all the caffeine I could get.
Havinf proper nutrition and a shift in thinking has helped me this morning. I am determined to maximize my day by focusing on what makes me complete instead on dwelling on what I cannot enjoy in my condition. I know that it is easier said than done, but it would not hurt to give it a try.
Day 50: Shift
I have already been eating regular food for more than a week now, and I can say that I am coping well. I have been consuming only a half cup of rice per meal, and I make sure to incorporate fruits and vegetables into my diet. Take this morning for example. I had salted egg, tomato, a half cup of garlic rice and a fresh coconut (not pictured). It was filling, healthful, and still tasty. I alternate salted egg with regular sunny side up, and the protein keeps me energized until lunch. The carbs are essential to keep me going. I do not deprive myself or skip meals. Rather, I just observe proper portions and nutrition.
The same goes with my life. I used to complain a lot but now I am more free-flowing and chill. I realized that complaining can increase my stress levels and just make me more resentful. By being more placid and cool, I can think clearer and plan carefully. The shift in thinking is not easy, so mindfulness is a key ingredient in this journey. All I have to do is to focus on the goal to be more chill and just slide into the day. The journey remains the same, but my attitude makes it better.
Day 49: I Could Get Used To
I could get used to thinking of you the minute I wake up
I could get used to the skip in my step because I know that you love me
I could get used to eating healthy because I know that you are also doing the same thing
I could get used to listening to music during my commute because the songs remind me of you
I could get used to hanging out with a steaming hot cuppa, because it reminds me of simple times
I could get used to driving and feeling independent, because I know that you keep me grounded
I could get used to half cups of rice, veggie subs, and taking the stairs, because I will eventually enjoy my cheat days with you
I could get used to reading and writing in the morning, because I know these could help me converse with you
I could get used to having you in my life, because after ten years, it would be us after all
I could get used to all your messages, because eventually we will never have to say goodbye at the end of each day.
DAY 48: FAMILY
I had an eventful Father's Day as my parents invited A to have lunch with us. We had hearty meals at Cafe Adriatico while having light conversation. I appreciate the fact that they invited him to have lunch with us.
As an only child, my family has always been reserved regarding the people I would introduce to them. The fact that they have invited A is truly remarkable. I would like to think that they appreciate his care and concern towards me, especially in times that are beyond my control.
Just when I thought that I could not ask for anything more, I had dinner with A and his family for his baby sister's 18th birthday and Father's Day. I was grateful for his invitation, and to my family for finally allowing me to meet his side. They are strict with letting me spend time with my significant's other's family so I appreciate that they are gradually letting me get to know them.
I had the best Father's Day ever and I look forward to spending more holidays with my favorite people.
DAY 47: ROSARY THINKING
I just finished praying the rosary. It was a calming ritual after working out and eating my breakfast. I enjoyed the silence of the process. The repetitive prayers kept me on my toes, while the beads made me aware of how far along I am along with it. I must admit that somewhere in between, I would yawn and feel sleepy, especially since it is a Sunday and it is only past nine in the morning. However, I realized that mindful prayer should continue amidst the fatigue and weariness I am feeling. Prayer should be as real as it gets. It can never be a genuine conversation with a Higher Power if I quit only because I feel like snoozing for a few minutes. Picking myself up and carrying on with the prayers are part of the process. I can never give up now that I am meditating on the mysteries which are more than what I could comprehend, but can never lose faith in. Perhaps, if things get tough, I should also continue hustling instead of taking naps. It is in the process that I see wisdom at work, and it is also in the process that I find my way back to the sign that I have reached my goal for now. In the rosary's case, it is the sign of the cross.
Amen. I have just begun my day.
Day 46: Rodic's Tapsilog
Please visit today's entry here.
DAY 45: ORTIGAS TO CUBAO
Last night, I walked from Ortigas to Cubao. The MRT is experiencing technical problems, leading to intermittent operations. Naturally, buses were overcrowded. The P2P had an unreasonably long queue. Grab and Uber had busy drivers, and at some point, Grab was even down. I was a ranting mess to A until I realized that nothing will happen if I do not start walking. So I did, and I walked all the way to Cubao.
Our city lacks proper urban planning. Sidewalks and bus stops are too crowded and narrow.
P2P Queue
P2P queue
Ortigas station
Robinsons Galleria bus stop
Having said that, our city still has lovely places, such as the People Power Monument. May this remind us all that amidst the oppressive realities around us, we are still innately powerful and free.
DAY 44: FREEDOM
It is my first day without my diet delivery service, and I feel free. I have been with them for three years. I can say that I have already gotten used to the proper portions for my needs, and I can easily replicate it in real life. I may not cook, but I can be resourceful in buying my food.
Hypohyroidism has taught me to think out of the box. I understand that I have to observe self-control in order to have a better quality of life, and it is always easier said than done. Working out at 4:30am everyday is not a walk in the park, but I do it anyway. When it comes to food, eating a single egg and half cup of rice for breakfast may not be satisfying, but it works. A sandwich may not be the most exciting thing to look forward to, but I make it an event by incorporating my reading during my break. That way, my meals do not become a chore which will make me cheat on my diet.
Self-control also applies in my interests. I no longer go out that much because alcohol makes me hyperacidic (and since I have hypothyroidism, alcohol makes me bloated). I read inspiring books because life is too short for questionable material. I listen to music that moves me because I want my playlist to wake me up, especially now that my reduced thyroxine dosage is driving me insanely sleepy. I no longer succumb to endeavors without a purpose. Mindfulness is a must for my condition. Luckily, it is something that transcends my health and also stabilizes other factors in my life.
I may be free from my diet service, but I am responsible now for my own food. I have to observe mindful eating in order to achieve optimal health and hopefully, to improve my thyroid blood test results. I look forward to easing my way to better health through mindful and purposeful living.
DAY 43: CHANGED DOSAGE
The weirdest thing that happens to me every time my thyroxine dosage is reduced is fatigue. I feel tired, sluggish, and drowsy all day long. Of course, I have to work. I remedy the situation by drinking copious cups of coffee. I workout in the morning, and I make sure to incorporate meditation into my day. My favorite form of mindful silence is the rosary. I spend fifteen to twenty minutes in the comfortable silence of the chapel, and venerate the Blessed Sacrament while reflecting on the mysteries of the rosary. It surprisingly calms me down while reducing the sleepiness, because I need to focus on the next prayer, the next bead, and the next mystery.
We all have to do what we ought to do, I am overcoming the fatigue by getting up each morning, by keeping fit, eating healthy, and praying mindfully. I also read and write during my downtime, so my mind is always busy. I have learned that randomly browsing through social media keeps me sleepy, so I do that on the minimum and instead turn to books to amuse me during my commute and breaks.
There are plenty of ways to overcome my changed dosage. The good news is that this is only for a month. I cannot wait to revert back to my normal dosage. In the meantime, my changed dosage is changing me for the better, and I look forward to continuing this lifestyle beyond this medication.
DAY 42: AESTHETIC INTERVENTION
It is the first workday of the week, as yesterday was Independence Day here in the Philippines. I enjoyed the long weekend, particularly due to the yummy food I had and the exceptional company I enjoyed. It is already back to normal for me, and for the majority of the corporate workforce. I woke up with a headache which did not go away after my workout and cup of coffee. I laid my P2P seat flat and snoozed all the way to Ortigas, but the headache stayed on. I have then decided that it was time to wear the Php50 headband I bought last night. I got it from a sidewalk vendor, and I was impressed because her headbands look classier than the usual roadside merchandise. I got this turquoise number and a blush one. I wore the turquoise one this morning just as my headache was at its peak, and I must say that it has reduced the pain. It seems that a little aesthetic difference can boost my mood and keep headaches at bay. Interestingly, I did not have to spend much to achieve change. Creativity goes a long way to remedy aches and pains. I am sure it could also work in other situations as well.
Day 41: Faith and Fitness
It has been my ritual to offer eggs at St. Clare Monastery as often as I can. I try to go there weekly, and it has been helping me find my center since I have decided to let her intercede on my behalf. I have hypothyroidism, so I am dependent on keeping fit in order to have ideal blood test results. Praying at the monastery has given me hope and renewed my faith. My ideal time to visit would be after my weekend Zumba class, when traffic is nonexistent and my drive is as leisurely as it could get. The endorphins I have released post-workout also triggers my belief in a Higher Power. I offer eggs because it is my only tangible gift to an unseen intercessor. This bridges my prayers from this world to the next, and I hope that my offerings are appreciated in heaven.
Keeping fit physically and spiritually is possible. I am dependent on rituals, and this is my personal one. It has helped me especially during those times when my faith is challenged. I also go there to give thanks. Every prayer ends with an amen , and the promise of a better day ahead.