Turning a Tough Day Around: Gratitude and Support

Hello, friends. It’s me again.

Today, I’m reflecting on something I learned back in 2019 while working at my old company. I used to believe this: “Whatever you feel on Monday will most likely set the tone for your emotions for the rest of the week.” That belief has stuck with me over the years, and sometimes, it feels all too accurate.

Yesterday’s anxiety lingered into today. I woke up feeling stuck in a functional freeze. My energy was nonexistent, and I completely forgot about my usual morning routine. The idea of staying in bed all day felt tempting, and I avoided conversations because I didn’t trust myself to respond calmly.

But here’s the thing: even on days like this, there’s room for gratitude. And today, I’m especially thankful for two wonderful people who turned things around for me:

Paolo, My College Classmate
Paolo has always been a good friend, and today he proved it once again. Out of the blue, he reached out about a job opening at his company and encouraged me to send him my CV. His thoughtfulness and effort to help lifted my spirits in a way words can’t fully capture.

Hannah, My Amazing Judy
If you read my post yesterday, you’ll know I mentioned Hannah. She’s been an incredible support, going so far as to share a story on her social media to help me find a job. Thanks to her kindness, someone reached out, and I’ve already sent my CV. Her genuine care and proactive support have been a beacon of light.

These gestures from Paolo and Hannah reminded me that even on days when I feel at my lowest, there’s always something to be thankful for. Their kindness made me realize that today wasn’t so bad after all.

So, if you’re reading this and struggling, I encourage you to pause and reflect on the small blessings in your life. They might not solve everything, but they’re often enough to help you take that next step forward.

Here’s to finding gratitude, even on the tough days.

Lavender Calm and Life’s Chaos

As I sit here typing, the soothing scent of lavender fills the room, courtesy of a new purifier my cousin gifted us this past Christmas. It’s funny how no one else wanted to use it—so I claimed it for myself. And honestly, it’s a welcome companion after the roller coaster that was today.

The day started with an unexpected alarm: my dad’s voice. He was gearing up for a trip to the driving range, rekindling his long-lost love for golf. But before he left, he decided to rope me into a project. Apparently, my brother’s room—a chaos of old stuff, some of which migrated from my own space—needed fixing. Why? Because, according to him, my brother, who hasn’t lived here since getting married, might want to turn it into a "resting place" someday.

While the morning was far from ideal, there was one bright spot in my day. I reconnected with a college friend who also happened to be my very first workmate. She gave me my first job 10 years ago, and today, she reached out saying she was in the area and invited me to catch up—her treat. We spent hours reminiscing about college life, old classmates, shared work experiences, and even our favorite Drag Race queens. What made the reunion even sweeter was her hinting at a potential job opportunity. It was a refreshing reminder of how life comes full circle in unexpected ways.

And then came dinner. Out of nowhere, my dad asked if I could double my financial contribution for this month and hand it over by the 15th.

Now, let me be real for a second. I don’t have that kind of money. I’m still job hunting, trying to find a way to stabilize my life. The pressure? It’s overwhelming, and it’s not just about finances—it’s everything. I feel like I’m in survival mode every single day, and honestly, it’s draining.

But here’s what I’ve learned: even when life feels impossible, there are moments—like catching up with an old friend—that remind me why I keep going. For now, I’ll breathe in the lavender, hold onto those good moments, and try to keep moving forward.

2025 paandars

 Okay, since first few days na tayo in 2025 - might as well ilatag ko na plans ko for this year.

Unang una sa lahat, magkaroon ng work. Ito talaga ang priority natin since redundant tayo last year. At this point, wala akong specific work na hinahanap. I just want to keep the income ball rolling kasi medyo nakakahiya naman na wala akong ambag sa bahay, I believe it's about time.

Since we've been manifesting, dapat hindi lang manifest- may bargaining na eksena. Sinabi ko sa sarili ko na once magkaroon ako ng trabaho, magiging "kasal" muna ako sa work ko. Isa-sacrifice ko na lang yung social life ko (e.g. baklaan and family gatherings, unless may travel).

Another plan is to put myself first, sabi nga ni Cookie Lyon sa Empire. I think wala naman masama sa pagdadamot ano, hindi niyo naman ako hinihingi. For the longest time na rin, I've always been too available for people, kaya naman yung binibigay ko sa iba, dapat binibigay ko sa sarili ko. So I guess start na ng ghost mode ko - mawawala until mag-comeback na hindi na ako kilala.

Eto pa so far. SANA TALAGA MA-ACHIEVE. Gusto ko ng pera and peace of mind. Please lang.

Been a while

Literally been a while since I last posted here. Almost three years? That's wild, but here I am trying to brush up on my writing skills.

What has happened since my one and only post here.. Hmm..

For starters, I'm currently unemployed. I was made redundant mid-April last year. Long story, but I just started to look for a job nine months later. 

I guess this was the first time I made decision for myself - accept the severance package and enjoy myself for a bit. I mean hey, I was employed non-stop for 10 years and wouldn't it be nice to have a little down time for myself?

I guess reality is starting to kick in and I need a job now. As of now, I'm not looking for a role based from my previous one; let alone one with a high raise. I need one to keep the income ball rolling.

I also made an ultimatum once I starting looking for a job: If I get employed, I will be "married" to my job for a year (at least). I will be prioritizing my dues and the mandatory contributions. The cost of my re-employment will be my social life-- be it family gatherings or catch-ups with friends. I'm totally fine with the cost because the bar I used to go to is now closed.

So yeah, help me Universe, God, all the deities.