A frugal wanderer. Agriculturist. Lover of life and people. Adventure seeker. A typical human being who tries to live a healthy life and is occasionally lost in time and space.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by emotions. However, it’s essential to recognize that our thoughts often precede our feelings. Understanding this connection can empower us to take charge of our emotional landscape.
When we experience a strong emotion, it’s typically rooted in our thoughts—our interpretations, beliefs, and narratives about a situation. For example, if you think, “I’ll never succeed,” that thought can evoke feelings of despair and inadequacy. Conversely, if you shift that narrative to, “I am capable and learning from my experiences,” you’ll likely feel more hopeful and motivated.
This shift isn’t always easy, but it is possible. Start by becoming aware of your thoughts. Journaling can be a powerful tool—write down your thoughts and examine how they influence your emotions. Are they constructive or destructive? Challenge any negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations that inspire confidence and resilience.
Remember, thoughts are not facts. They are simply perceptions that can be reshaped. By consciously choosing empowering thoughts, you can foster positive emotions that lead to action and growth.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself: What am I thinking right now? Reframe those thoughts, and watch as your feelings transform.
You hold the power to create the mindset that fuels your dreams. Choose wisely, and let your thoughts pave the way to a more fulfilling emotional journey.
Life is a series of ups and downs, victories and setbacks. In a society that often celebrates success, it’s easy to feel ashamed when you find yourself labeled as a “loser.” But what if I told you that it’s not only okay to feel this way at times, but it’s also a vital part of growth? Here’s why embracing those moments can be transformative.
1. Redefining Success
The first step in accepting your “loser” moments is to redefine what success means to you. Society often equates success with wealth, status, and constant achievement. However, success is subjective. It can mean personal growth, learning from failure, or simply having the courage to try something new. Acknowledging that it’s okay to struggle can free you from the relentless pressure to perform.
2. Learning Through Failure
Every setback is a lesson in disguise. When you fail, you’re presented with an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses. Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Each “failure” can guide you toward eventual success by highlighting areas for improvement and prompting reflection.
3. Building Resilience
Experiencing loss or failure teaches resilience. Life isn’t always about winning; it’s about how you respond to challenges. Embracing your moments of defeat helps you build mental fortitude, preparing you for future obstacles. Resilience is like a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it becomes.
4. Creating Authentic Connections
When you’re open about your struggles, you allow others to do the same. Sharing your “loser” moments can foster deep, authentic connections with those around you. Vulnerability breeds empathy, and you may find that many people have faced similar challenges. This sense of community can provide support and remind you that you’re not alone.
5. Redirection and Reinvention
Sometimes, being a “loser” can lead you to paths you never considered. When you face setbacks, it can be an opportunity to reassess your goals and passions. Perhaps what you initially aimed for wasn’t truly aligned with who you are. These moments can serve as a catalyst for reinvention, leading you to discover new passions and directions in life.
6. Challenging Societal Norms
Finally, it’s essential to challenge the stigma around failure and the label of being a “loser.” By embracing your experiences and sharing them with others, you contribute to a culture that values authenticity over perfection. Every successful person has faced setbacks; the difference is often in how they respond to them.
In a world that often values success over struggle, it’s crucial to remember that it’s perfectly okay to be a “loser” at some point in your life. These moments are not the end of the road; they’re stepping stones toward growth, learning, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of yourself. Embrace your journey, imperfections and all, and remember: every setback is just a setup for a comeback.
In today’s digital age, words hold immense power. They are the bridge connecting thoughts, ideas, and emotions across the vast landscape of the internet. If only I could touch every word that has ever been spoken, written, or searched for! If I could reach out and touch those words, I would uncover the heartbeats of countless stories, from the mundane to the extraordinary.
The Magic of Words
Words are more than just tools for communication; they are vessels of emotion, intent, and creativity. Each word carries a weight, a history, and a myriad of interpretations. If I could touch every word, I would feel the echoes of countless stories and experiences. People search for advice, seek solutions to problems, or simply look for inspiration. If I could delve deeper into each word, I would unearth the hidden motivations and feelings behind them.
The Stories Behind the Searches
Whenever someone types a query into a search engine, they reveal a piece of their soul. Are they seeking help with a problem? Searching for inspiration? Or simply looking to escape into a world ideal for them? If I could access those hidden layers behind each search term, I would gain insight into the collective human experience. I would understand the hopes and fears, the triumphs and struggles, that drive people to who they are becoming.
CraftingMeaningfulContent
As a writer, I dream of crafting content that resonates. If I could truly touch every word, I would know exactly what people need to hear. I could weave together narratives that speak to their hearts, providing solace, inspiration, and motivation. The ability to connect deeply with the audience through the right words would elevate storytelling to new heights.
Listening to the Digital Echoes
In essence, the internet is a vast echo chamber of human thought. Every search, every click, sends ripples through the digital realm. If I could grasp those echoes, I would like to listen closely to the dialogues occurring around the world. This understanding could lead to a more compassionate and informed society.
The Future of Words
As we move into an increasingly digital future, our relationship with words continues to evolve. From text messages to social media, the way we express ourselves is changing. If I could touch every word, I would engage with the evolving language of our times, understanding the nuances of communication in the digital age. I would embrace new forms of expression while honoring the timeless power of language.
I am feeling extra guilty today for overspending this month. T.T
I also overprocrastinated, trying to avoid something important to gain control over my life again.
September hasn’t ended and yet I overspent $400 this month alone, which is equivalent to PhP 22,000! And I am not proud of it. T.T
I wasted 24 hrs to escape from the task I need my focus and attention the most.
These two things I am not proud of and feel very guilty about, especially today. So, I am challenging myself for a month of no spending except for healthy food. Also, of using my time wisely.
But, let me identify first why I am doing these two bad habits knowing that they are bad habits?
1. I am overwhelmed about writing my dissertation and scared of looking at the revisions. My inner soul is so freaked out it diverts itself to instant gratification, such as buying stuff or doing other things like cooking or sleeping instead of facing my fear.
Then, identify what has been done and what can be done?
I already bought them, and that’s done. I can eventually sell or give away some of my stuff that does not spark joy anymore and STOP accumulating more stuff starting today. Any amount you are thinking of spending, put them in stocks. Invest your money in your retirement and future – something that can still be done.
I already spent my time doom scrolling and doing other stuff instead of the important things, and that’s done. Time is our most precious asset use it wisely. I can start being more organize and face my fear instead of running away from it. Any second I am thinking of scrolling or doing unnecessary stuff, grab a research article and read it thoroughly. Invest your time in your growth: read, write, meditate, run, learn stock trading, learn a new language, learn how to create digital product, or learn how to become a part-time content creator. Allocate a couple of minutes to focus and give your attention at the task at hand.
Small efforts that consistently done everyday will accumulate towards a better you. Let’s do two things everyday:
The first watch I remember having was a pink Baby-G that my mom gave me when I was 7 yo but lost in a typhoon. And, I guess that when I started liking wearing one. It took me some years before I finally had money from my own pocket to buy a decent one. Can you guess which one?
Above is the image with all my watches. I do not have a high-end watch yet because I cannot afford one. LOL. They are all below $200, and the most expensive and treasured one in this collection is the big automatic SEIKO. Let me list from the one closest to my hand down my arm:
1. Citizen Women’s Watch
I could not find the model number. LOL. But this is originally my mom’s. She bought one for me and one for her. Mine had already broken, and then she gave me hers. To date this has been with us since 2008.
Years with me: 16
Size: 20 mm
Pros: Durability. Versatility. No battery needed.
Cons: Not waterproof. You have to wear it often so you keep it running well.
Price (in Ebay): $100-200
2. Timex Indiglo
The second-hand second mid-brand watch I bought with my own money. I love the leather wristband that makes it versatile in a formal or casual outfit. Bought this a year after I graduated from my undergrad online for $35.
Years with me: 10
Size: 21 mm
Pros: Versatility. Light feature of Indiglo when you are in a very dark place.
Cons: Not easy to find leather band. Not waterproof. Needs battery every 3-5 yrs.
Price (in Ebay): $22-50
3. Seiko Women (SWR053)
My recent buy. Got this one month ago because of the Cartier Tank that slapped me in the face that I cannot afford it. HAHA. This is the perfect alternative, and it costs only a fraction of the Cartier. So elegant and classy. You can wear it in a dress or even in jeans.
Month/s with me: 1
Size: 18 mm
Pros: Versatility. Very light weight. Dupe of Cartier Tank without breaking the bank.
Cons: Needs break-in for the leather part. Requires battery.
Price (in Jomashop): $109
4. Fossil (f2)
My most used and had the highest ROI. My first watch to buy with my own money before graduating from my undergrad. I used this everyday. Got this wet while washing the dishes and I even accidentally wet this in the shower and in the beach but still working perfectly fine!
Years with me: 12
Size: 19 mm
Pros: Versatility. Duarability.
Cons: Needs battery. The gold tone will fade if it always gets wet.
This is my favorite and treasured watch in my budget-friendly collection, you are right! It is given to me by my late father. Very versatile boyfriend watch from casual to dressing up!
Years with me: 7
Size: 38 mm
Pros: Does not need a battery. Versatile. Water resistant.
Cons: If you are not using it for some time, you have to wind it a bit again to make it work again.
Price (in Jomashop): $129
6. Casio BGD140-1A Women’s Baby-G Black
Because I miss my Baby G watch I had when I was a kid and I lost my Timex IRONMAN (which I highly recommend because it is very durable and not very big for the wrist compared to this Baby-G), I had an excuse tp buy this one. Used it in all the harsh weather locations.
Year/s with me: 1
Size: 42 mm
Pros: Very durable in the snowy, hot, and rainy conditions. Has light for dark settings.
Cons: Very dark dial so it is difficult to see the time. Difficult to clean. Needs battery.
Price: $70-100
7. Daniel Wellington Classic Sheffield
There was a year that this watch was very popular and as a bandwagoner, I had to get one. LOL. It was a good buy. Brought this in my very first trip abroad in 2018 and it served me well in all my outfits.
Years with me: 6
Size: 36 mm
Pros: Durable. Versatile with different outfits despite the size.
Cons: Leather band needs breaking in. Needs battery every 3-4 yrs.
Price (on the site): $199
8. (Not in the photo) Apple Watch Series 3 38 mm
I am not a big fan of digital watch and was not planning to get one til I found this one with the perfect size and did not break my bank (bought this second hand for $87). It helped me get back to my exercise habit but still I will not buy this brand new unless gifted to me. LOL.
Years with me: 2.5
Size:38 mm
Pros: Water resistant. Easy to charge. Reduces time to use phone.
Cons: Needs charging everyday.
That’s it! Over the years, I had several other watches, midbrands, unbranded ones, and a Swatch that was gifted to me and lasted for 3 years. I learned that investing in a quality watch pays in the long run, especially if you wear a watch everyday. A quality watch does not always equate to breaking the bank. Yes, I cannot afford a ten grand watch but each mid-brand watch I have had served me well for years, and most of them are still serving me during formal or casual days.
My most viewed entry in my blog has always been the scientific names in the song “Bahay Kubo.” Recently, a new segment on Showtime, “Throwbox”, asked for the English name of sigarilyas, which I agree is difficult, especially for vegetables we do not commonly consume. So, here is my entry to learn the English name/s of the vegetables in the song Bahay Kubo.
Lyrics
Bahay-kubo, kahit munti Ang halaman doon ay sari-sari Singkamas (Jícama, Mexican yam bean, Mexican turnip, or Spanish jícama) at talong (Eggplant, aubergine) Sigarilyas (Winged bean) at mani (Peanut) Sitaw (String bean), bataw (Hyacinth beans), patani (Lima beans)
Kundol (Wax gourd, white gourd, winter gourd, winter melon), patola (Sponge gourd, silk squash), upo’t (Bottle gourd) kalabasa (Pumpkin, squash) At tsaka mayro’n pang Labanos (Radish), mustasa (Mustard leaves) Sibuyas (Onion), kamatis (Tomato), bawang (Garlic) at luya (Ginger) Sa paligid-ligid ay puno ng linga (Sesame)
——
The vegetables in the lyrics are rich in nutrients, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties. Eat veggies to strengthen your immune system.
I just had yummy jalapeño poppers from Pal’s brewery and my friend’s dad’s house. But back in the Philippines, we do not usually cook this, so I looked into recipes. The easiest recipe I found involved stuffing the jalapeño with cream cheese, wrapping it in bacon, and baking it. And as a self-acclaimed innovator, I did mine with a little twist. Can you guess what I did differently?
I love bacon, but it is not very healthy, so I vowed not to eat it unless it was free or part of a recipe from a restaurant’s menu. So, my jalapeño poppers had spam instead (free from the university pantry), plus I added ground meat and topped it with shredded cheese.
Ingredients:
1 bar of cream cheese
6 pcs jalapeño
1 cup ground meat sauteed in 1 tbsp oil with 1 tbsp garlic and a quarter of onion (optional)
12 thin strips of spam
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Procedure:
1. Pre-heat the oven to 425F.
2. Slice each jalapeño into half, giving you 12 halves of it. Remove the middle part and all the seeds.
3. Fill the middle part of each half jalapeño with cream cheese and ground meat (optional).
4. Top it with cheddar cheese and a thin slice of spam.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
Note: if you do not like it very spicy, you can opt to use small bell peppers instead of jalapeño.
#1 What if a multiverse is HERE? On this very planet that we live in. What if it is in the context of the lives of different people? Maybe each of us is a world, and the collection of us is the multiverse. And, what if the life you have imagined for yourself from another Earth is just a life being lived by someone else here? What if each of us is a universe and together we create the multiverse?
#2 You are not lucky. You are kind. It is not easy to be kind. The world is cruel, but the world knows how to reward people’s kindness. If respect begets respect, I guess kindness begets goodness in life. When things go easily your way, we feel like we are lucky, but this luck is a gift for your kind soul. Always choose to be kind. It will later be rewarded, and if not, being kind is something you will never regret choosing.
#3 When your heart desires something, do not stop it. Do not forget it. Let it scream what it wants. Do what is now, but never brush off your heart’s desires. Keep it. Work for it. The universe does not only hear. It listens carefully. The universe does not only see. It keenly observes. So, when you suddenly have something that seems impossible to achieve, write it and plant it in your heart until it reaches your soul. It will be exuded out. It will create a way to meet and ask the universe. And when the generous universe meets it, know that it will granted. Be more specific when asking something. Get the details on paper, and engraved in your heart and soul.
#4 Just keep working on your goals and give your best. If you are hurting now it is ok. Keep going. We can cry, feel, and grieve later. But we should not stop putting our life on hold. The clock is ticking. It will not stop for you. Keep the faith. You have been in this situation before and we will survive this again stronger and wiser.
#5 To the girl who owns this page: you fell in love with science in highschool specifically plant science. Look at you, still doing it even when you are always in doubt whether you are on the right track. I hope you find your way of getting to your full potential deeply happy and sacrificing knowing that bigger rewards await.
If you ever came across with one of my posts about how I always break my habit of learning a new language through Duolingo after 90 days of streak, then, I am glad to say that I am on my 420-day streak! Woohoo! *insert confetti here* it was not easy but I am seeing a strategy of how I can build new good habits through what that platform is doing.
Here are some strategies that I would like test with:
1. No more than 2-days of not doing the habit.
In Duolingo, you usually have two freeze power for any two days you did not do the lesson for some reason that you usually made *ouch* and I am guilty with that. This is about that principle of not doing any habit for more than 2 days will cause you to lose that habit. So, I will try not to idle my habit for 2 days.
2. Allocating even 2 minutes of your time on doing that habit.
Each lesson in Duolingo if you chose the correct level of your literacy will not take more than 2 minutes of your time. It looks like the combination of the 2-minute rule and accumulation of small things consistently resulting to greater achievement. Because, usually, the most difficult thing about building a good habit is starting it and being consistent on doing that specific habit.
3. Do the habit everyday before midnight as much as possible.
We all have 24 hours in our day. Imagine that you are Cinderella trying to beat that 12mn deadline for that habit but the difference would be Cinderella’s stuff go back to their original form but you will not if you will allocate some time before you sleep for that habit. In Duolingo, you have until midnight to do the lesson everyday so why not do it in that new habit?
4. Find a way to see your progress.
It is easy to imagine that you have been doing the habit for 10 consecutive days but tracking it will hit differently. Duolingo will shade the days that you did your lessons and notify you of your streak which for me was rewarding. Writing your progress is empowering so whether it is weekly, or yearly in digital or physical form, track it. Document your progress and be empowered.
5. It is now or never, stop making excuses.
When you start your journey of learning a language in Duolingo, in the first few days your brain will trick you by telling you to go back to your old habit by telling you several excuses like ‘I am too busy to get a lesson today’ or ‘I will just restart tomorrow but then again, 2-3 minutes of your time will not take your half day and tomorrow is not promised.
6. If you lose your streak, go back and prove that you are worthy to pick up where you left off.
Before I got into my 420-day streak in Duolingo, I went through #5 – making up excuses or always telling myself that I will do it later until I get to several days of not doing a lesson and losing my 200+ days streak but the app allowed me to get back that streak by doing a long lesson which I did but I do not recommend getting to this point especially with habits.
7. Repeat 1-5 and try your best to not go back to #6.
Once you get the boat starting, you will just keep sailing. At this point, it is easy for me to get my phone and do a lesson in Duolingo everyday and feels like something is missing in my day if I do not. Building a habit is like getting out of an addiction. It takes blood and sweat. It does not happen overnight. It is a result of a cumulative and consistent effort going back and forth from tactic #1 to #5.
I have visited Omaha Zoo thrice and it still amazes me how beautiful and diverse the animals in this zoo – from reptiles to nocturnal animals from across the world will leave you in awe.
The cost of the ticket for adults (ages 12 and above) is $31.95. Because I grew up in a low-cost country, this price is too expensive for a zoo entrance fee. But, then, remember that this is in the US, particularly in Nebraska so it is for me relatively cheaper if compared to other high-cost of living states. If you visit Omaha, Nebraska by any chance and have a day or even half of a day, you will need to go to this zoo!
The best part of the zoo for me is the aquarium and butterfly house. But, then, I love the ocean and butterflies so this is bias. LOL. You can also get to touch the stingrays by paying an extra $5.
If you do not like the heat, although you will see more animals, do not go during the peak of summer season because it may be very very hot. But if you do not mind, you will get to witness more animals especially those that like heat. But, I will highly recommend early spring or early autumn. The chilly weather makes it enjoyable to walk around. Close to Christmas time, although very cold, they have this light shows at night that is very entertaining (but you have to buy a different ticket for this).
I do not want to spoil you if you bumped into this post but below are glimpses of the zoo:
Say hi to Patrick star!
Fly! Fly! Fly! Like a butterfly!
Flamin’ flamingo.
You can bring food and drinks inside. There are also stalls that sell food and ice cream that get very very busy during lunch time and you will have to wait in line for 10-20 minutes so make sure to plan your day well.
larswrites 