What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?




"What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?"

As the new year begins, many experts, teachers or gurus will try to challenge you by asking that question.

Thinking that you couldn't fail is pretty inspiring. And the emotional high might just compel you to take a leap of faith.

But here's the thing, the reality, the spoiler, sooner or later, YOU WILL FAIL. One way or the other.

There's no such thing as a "sure win."

If you believe otherwise, then you are missing the point.

Yes, taking a step of faith is a risk, but it's a risk worth taking.

The real question should be, "After you fail, what do you intend to do?"

Will you find something (or someone) to blame? Will you learn from your mistakes? Or will you quit or try again?

Every detour or set back has its purpose. You may not understand it for a while, but when you look back, it will all make sense.

Be faithful. Follow through. Be willing to make changes.

Time for a better question...

"Will you start even if you know you could fail?"

Read More...

The First Thing To Do This Christmas




"When they saw the star, they were overjoyed” – Mathew 2:10


My sister used to live in Baguio. We'd drive there about six times a year just to visit them.

Every time that we travel, the boredom of long drive sets in. "Are we there yet?" My kids at the back of the car would ask in 30 minutes interval.

For me, the STAR logo of Caltex in NLEX (or Shell Select) reminds me of the same STAR the Magi saw. Joy sets in knowing that I can stop and relax for a bit to buy chocolate, chips, siopao, chicharon, atbp.

After another 3 hours of driving, I see another star……STARbucks! (Sta. Lucia) Now, I am not only happy, but also awake and revived.

The Magi traveled from a far place but when they saw the star, they were OVERJOYED.

First thing I do from travel is to unload the baggage, freshen up, and then drink coffee.

The first thing the Magi did when they reached the place where Jesus was staying was to BOW down and WORSHIP Him. And then they presented their gifts to Him afterwards.

Let this be a time or a season of joy, praise and worship. This is not the time to be pressured with hectic schedules, never-ending parties or gift giving.

Let's pause for a moment and thank Jesus. He freely gave us a gift, not even one of us deserved. He loved us first even when we were incapable of loving. He deserves our attention, our adoration, and our praises.

All honor belongs to Him.

Read More...

Living Your Second Wind


Last Saturday, we concluded our "Jumpstart Your Success" Workshop @ The FORT BGC.

After the learning session, I had the privilege to meet Cathy. She asked me to sign her copy of my book and was thanking us, the speakers, for the inspiring event.

She said that she wrote something down that she would like to read to me.

"You have awakened my soul… 
My passions... 
Adrenalin rush is pumping...
I want to live more and I don't want to lose my second wind…
To act…
To implement…
To be in the now…"


And then she smiled and told me, "I'm 7 years old." (which I didn't understand immediately)

Until she told me that she is a cancer survivor. She stayed for a while and shared to us her story.

I left the venue that night touched and more inspired by her.

Thank you Ms. Cathy for showing us how to be courageous and for reminding us to live fully.

Speaker Ardy Abello, Ms. Cathy Altonaga, Ptr,. Ariel Marquez, and Productive Pinoy Author Yeng Remulla (me) 

Read More...

37 Lessons I've Learned So Far




Original: Nov 28, 2013
Updated: Nov 28, 2015


Turned 37 yesterday.

Here are 37 lessons I've learned so far:

1. Spend time with your family as much as you can. They are irreplaceable and your time is limited.

2. When you honor your father and your mother, things will go well with you.

3. Do something for someone. Generosity is more about giving of yourself.

4. God's way is way way better than your way. You already know that, but don't try to show otherwise.

5. Be best friends with your wife. She deserves your best self.

6. Every morning, tell your wife how pretty she is. Everybody happy!

7. Obey first, you can ask God later. 

8. A selfie-a-day will keep your friends away.

9. People can change … by the grace of God.

10. Your kids will follow what you do, not just what you say.

11. It takes the same effort to inspire people and to lecture people. You might as well inspire them.

12. Teach your kids to choose their friends well. Don't just impart knowledge, but also discernment.

13. The husband or the father is the spiritual leader of the family. Yes, you are.

14. Value friendships. Be the kind of friend who sticks closer than a brother.

15. Sometimes the smartest person in the room isn't the loudest one, but the quiet one. Listen more, speak less. 

16. Develop one talent, skill or ability at a time. And then when you are great at it, you can learn another one. 

17. Just be you. You don't need to be "the next ____________" of the industry.

18. Be "easy to work with." But to be able to do that, it will take a lot of effort on your part.

19. Surround yourself with people who will help you overcome your self doubts. People who aren't afraid to say "this could work."

20. There's a big connection between what you learn and what you earn. To earn more, learn how to do the challenging or the stuff other people aren't willing to figure out.

21. Set aside a part of your income – even before you get it.

22. If you are going to be working everyday for the rest of your life, you might as well choose the people you work with. 

23. The best idea doesn't always win. People don't just buy ideas. First, they will buy into the people behind the idea. 

24. Fail early. It's better to close a business while you are 25 than to lose everything when you are 60.

25. Don't be driven by hype. Always do the math.

26. Don't borrow money (you can't pay) to put up a business you haven't tested.

27. Start small, get better. It's the series of progress the you accumulate over time that leads to breakthroughs.

28. Everybody wants more time and money, but not everyone knows what to do with it when they get it.

29. Always be on time. If not, be early.

30. Plan and then Do. Most people get stuck with planning.

31. We can wait out of fear or out of faith. If we wait, even when we know it's time to act, then maybe we are just afraid to fail. But if we wait, convinced and trust that God will be the first to move, then our wait will not be vain.

32. You are where you are for a reason. Don't try to go on your own, let the Lord direct your steps.

33. The target is always moving. Don't ever think you've "nailed" it.

34. Preach what you practice.

35. Try to say "I'm sorry, I was wrong" more often. You'll skip the parts you might just regret.

36. Don't ever believe that you're not in any position to help. It may be little, but there's always something that you can do.

37. Honor the LORD in everything that you do. Your success is not your own doing, but a result of His favor.

YENG REMULLA is the author of the books, Productive Pinoy & Start Something. Read the book reviews HERE.




Read More...

Bibilib ka sa Pinoy





While in Tacloban, one of our teammates overheard an interview between a reporter and a tricycle driver.


Reporter: "Di po ba kayo aalis ng Tacloban?"

Tricyicle Driver: "Kung nung bago dumating ang bagyo ay hindi kami umalis, ngayon pa na tapos na ang bagyo?"

I agree – the Filipino Spirit is stronger than any typhoon.


Read More...

What I've Learned from the Man I Met on the Plane Going to Tacloban





Day 9 after Yolanda. 

On the plane going to Tacloban, I was sitting beside a man in his late 30s. You can see worry in his face. He was bothered, a bit tense.

He asked me, "Are you from Tacloban?" I said I'm from Manila and going to Tacloban to deliver relief goods and equipments for our church there.

So I asked him, "Ikaw sir?" 

"I work in Australia. My family is in a nearby town in Leyte. They're safe, but we lost everything." 

At that moment, I didn't know what to say. All I can do was to listen and share the moment with him. 

He then told me that he was only able to contact his family on the 4th day after Yolanda. I can't imagine how he must have felt waiting that long to get their call.

When the plane was about to land, he looked outside the window. You can see how eager he was to see his family. At the same time, he was in disbelief.

And then he told me something I won't forget. He said, "Thank you for coming to Leyte. Thank you for taking the time off your busy schedule to help out your kababayans. We will need it. God bless you."

Wala pa kong ginagawa pinapasalamatan nya na ko. I felt humbled.

We were spared from this disaster. That could have been you or me. 

There is a big opportunity for us today. We have a window to show our love for our brothers and sisters in Visayas. We have to tell them and remind them that God has not forgotten them. 

Include them in your prayers. Continue to bless them. In your social media post, continue to share their stories and how people can be of help.  

It may take time, it will be challenging, and it seems impossible, but one thing is for sure, I know that God will bring healing and restoration in their city.


Read More...

Why You Can't "Bag" a Client





"I just bagged another client." Whenever I hear this phrase, I can't help but smile. No client wouldn't want to hear you say that.

The truth is that you can't "bag" a client. In fact, you only have a business, a sale or a deal, because your client said yes.

The client picked you.

Things will go sour the moment you think you're a sales superstar, a money making machine, or a serial closer.

Treat your clients with respect. Work with them like they are your partners. Appreciate their business. It's when you do that you are more likely to serve them well.


YENG REMULLA is the author of the bestselling books, PRODUCTIVE PINOY & START SOMETHING. Hear him speak at the upcoming "JUMPSTART YOUR SUCCESS" Seminar this November 30 @ The FORT BGC! See details here: www.startlearningph.com



Read More...

Forgive Quickly





I intentionally didn't write "forgive easily", but instead I wrote, forgive quickly.

It's not easy to forgive specially when you've been mistreated or have been offended.

But to forgive is not just for your offender's benefit, but also for your own.

To overlook an offense is a choice. And when you do, it's to your credit. You're giving yourself a chance to start all over, to move on, or to push forward.

Instead of getting stuck in the past, you get to focus on the good things ahead.

You have a God who forgave you quickly. No matter what wrong you've done.

Show the same kindness or graciousness. It's not only the best way to respond, but it can also be one of the best decisions that you can make.




YENG REMULLA is the author of the bestselling books, PRODUCTIVE PINOY & START SOMETHING. Hear him speak at the upcoming "JUMPSTART YOUR SUCCESS" Seminar this November 30 @ The FORT BGC! See details here: www.startlearningph.com



Read More...

What's for Breakfast?






I went out of the house extra early this morning to go to McDonalds.

Seated near me were three men in their late 30s to mid 40s. By the way they were speaking, I'm guessing they are in the construction business. They are probably engineers.

What were they having for breakfast?

Politics, natural calamities, corruption, and conspiracy theories about the Marcoses.

Yes, in that order.

This made me realize how important it is to start the day right. 

You can...

Point out a problem or provide a solution.

Doubt or trust.

Complain or have gratitude.

And this morning, I'm proud of myself for choosing what is right -- Sausage, muffins & egg in a platter + Brewed Coffee.

Read More...

What are you aiming for?

Without a goal or a vision, our days will just go to waste. It may sound like a cliche, but yes, life is short.

And what you do now matters. It will all add up. 

Be discerning, but don't be overly cautious. You'll learn more from the (unintentional) mistakes that you'll do.

Don't be driven by fear, but by the purpose that God has given you.

What are you aiming for?


Read More...

The First Social Media Parenting Seminar in Manila

Entrepreneur & Productive Pinoy/Start Something Author, Mr. Yeng Remulla & Wife, Ms. Michelle Remulla


My beautiful wife and I together with our good friend and Social Media Strategist, Mr. Russel Patalinghog, talked at the first ever Social Media Parenting Seminar last Saturday held at Fully Booked BGC. Not only that it was a fun afternoon, but we also learned a lot from each other!

Social Media Strategist Mr. Russel Patalinghog

Thanks to my business partners and co-founders of Start Learning, Mr. Bob Barcebal and Ms. Kat Baylon for organizing this learning session. This is the first "non-business" program or topic we ever did as a company.

Start Learning Founders – Ms. Kat Baylon, Mr. Bob Barcebal & Mr. Yeng Remulla




Social Media has changed the way we all connect and share information. And as parents, we realized the need to prepare our children, not only for their offline life, but also for their ONLINE life. Whatever they do online is important – it's an extension of their "real" life.

Productive Pinoy & Start Something Author Mr. Yeng Remulla












In this learning event, we've given the parents specific tips on what they can teach their children to ensure their safety. And at the same time, we presented how they can use "social media" as a tool to raise productive kids. 

We're so glad to have met parents who were eager to learn. One thing they have in common is their passion to raise their kids well. Truly admirable.



















The world has been changing and we believe that as parents we need to keep on learning too. 

We hope you'll join us next time! 

To find out the next schedule, please feel free to email startlearningph@gmail.com, contact (0917)4647528 or visit www.startlearningph.com

Photo courtesy of Mic Que.

Read More...

Social Media Smart is the New Street Smart




After leaving school, you will notice that the people who succeed are not necessarily the ones who were good in the classroom, but the ones who knows how to find their way on the streets. 

Not just classroom smarts, but street smarts,

Research, networking, closing deals, all used to happen on the streets, face to face. But now Social Media has somehow changed that. 

Today, most of us, we interact, build our connections, and engage online. 

What you do in Social Media is already an extension of what you do in your physical (real) life. 

The "newsfeed" is the new avenue where you can meet new people, create a brand or an impression, or build a strong connection. 

You might as well be smart about it too.


Read More...

Out of The Abundance of the Heart, the Facebook Status Speaks





This Saturday is a special one for me. I'll be sharing the stage with my beautiful wife, Michelle, to talk about Social Media Parenting, together with our good friend and Social Media Expert, Mr. Russel Patalinghog. (Fully Booked BGC from 2pm–5pm)

As parents, we realized the need to prepare our children, not only for their offline life, but also for their ONLINE life. Whatever they do online is as important – it's an extension of their life off the screen.

Our role as parents is to prepare them to use these tools the right way. As I'd always say "Out of the abundance of the heart, the Facebook Status speaks!"

There are many learnings or benefits on being connected, but there are real threats and dangers too. And in this learning session, we hope to be able to equip the parents on how they can use social media to protect their children, and at the same time, raise them with the right heart and the right values.

There are few seats left. Hope you can join us! Visit START LEARNING or http://tinyurl.com/digitalparent to register.

Read More...

Better Decisions For Your Business

The best investment is on people. If you run or own a business, spend time with your team, suppliers & customers.

Real "face time" will always out do 'Facebook' time or any other way of communication. Being there with them will give you a better grasp of what they're thinking and of what's really happening.

You'll make better decisions this way.

Read More...

Do The Hard Part | Entrepreneurship

The fun part in a startup - coming up with ideas, the brainstorming sessions, and the 'dreaming' of endless possibilities.

Many people will spend most of their startup time talking about how cool their ideas are. And yes, in a way, most of them are also seeking for validation.

The discouragement starts when the people they talk to don't share the same excitement. At this point, some will quit without even trying. But that's not even the hard part.

The hard part is doing the real work. It's translating ideas into actual products or services. It's raising or saving enough money for the venture.

Designing a product is fun. Launching a product that people are willing to pay for is another thing.

It's exciting to close your first sale or customer. It's a challenge or a struggle to breakeven or to hit profitability.

Starting a business is an adventure. It's fun, exciting, and yes, it's not easy. If you are starting one, make sure to anticipate and prepare for both sides of the story.

Having great ideas doesn't make you an entrepreneur. Doing the hart part will.

Read More...

There is a Time To Wait




In many situations, you can only control your actions, but not the results. You don't need to push too far. Your job is to hope, to believe, and to do your best. Be faithful with the task at hand. 

God is faithful. He keeps his promises. At the proper time, He will only give His best!

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD. – Psalms 27:13-14: 


Read More...

How to Win the Respect of Others


Your perspective or views will change as you grow old and mature. But your priority should remain the same – to love God and one another. The greatest achievement (or ambition) that you can pursue is to lead others to do the same. 

How to win the respect of others: 

1. Live a quiet life 
2. Mind or take care of your own business 
3. Work with your own hands 
(see 1 Thes 4:9–12)

Read More...

Don't confuse "waiting time" for wasted time.


Don't confuse "waiting time" for wasted time.

If you've been put into a position to wait, you might as well make the most out of it.

Build meaningful relationships. Learn a new skill. Pray for clarity and direction.

Every season has its own purpose. Even if you don't see anything, there's always something happening.

Read More...

We Follow What We See

Most of the time we don't follow other people's advice because what we emulate isn't what they say, but what we see they actually do.

You can lead by example when you preach what you practice.

Read More...

How Not to Frustrate Your Customers

The most frustrating experience as a customer...

Your service provider causes inconvenience because of their inefficiency, but lets you pay for it anyway.

Lesson for entrepreneurs:

1. Own the problem

2. Provide a solution

3. Compensate for the hassle

Many will do #1. But if you're wise enough, you won't stop there.

Read More...

How To Do The Impossible




Many confuse doing the "impossible" with doing it "instantly."

To do the impossible, start with the workable. Win small fights because that will eventually lead you to bigger fights. Celebrate, take what you learn, and then set another goal – a bit bigger than the previous one. Repeat.

In the long run, you'll realize that it's not just about the goal. It's about believing. It's about persevering. It's about the character building.

Great work (careers, businesses or advocacies) takes time to build. And that's fine. The impossible work becomes possible one day at a time.

"Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin…" Zechariah 4:10

YENG REMULLA is the author of the bestselling books, PRODUCTIVE PINOY & START SOMETHING. Hear him speak at the upcoming "JUMPSTART YOUR SUCCESS" Seminar this November 30 @ The FORT BGC! See details here: www.startlearningph.com


Read More...

Best Way To Start Your Saturday Morning

Here's the best way to start your Saturday morning ...

Make your own coffee. 

Re-evaluate your goals in life. 

Identify and eliminate your biggest distractions and time wasters. 

Decide to take action. Write down your To-dos. 

More importantly – Pray and thank God for all the blessings that you've received in life. Your gratitude will positively change your attitude. 


YENG REMULLA is the author of the best-selling books Productive Pinoy & Start Something. An entrepreneur for 15 years, a real estate investor and the founder partner of START LEARNING.


Read More...

Why "Struggling" is Not Always a Bad Thing




Most people will accept their circumstance as it is. 

No, not you. You are struggling. 

You're going against the flow. You're fighting for change. You're breaking free from a restraint. 

Sometimes, you'll try your best but won't succeed. You'll give, but won't receive. You'll go to bed, but won't be able to sleep.

No one said it's going to be easy.

It's a struggle to start, to keep at it, to finish. But keep going. Keep on moving. Keep on praying. 

To realize whatever it is that you want to achieve, (financial freedom, healthy living, spiritual breakthrough) you'll have to keep on believing.

There's an easy way out to stop the struggle – quit, give in or settle for less. 

But you're smarter than that.

We can overcome.

Read More...

From Employee to Entrepreneur

“I’m tired of being an employee. I want to start my own business.”

You may be tired, not necessarily because you're an employee, but because of other possible reasons.

1. You are in the wrong job.
2. You are in the wrong company.
3. You need a new challenge.

Starting your own business can prove to be one of the most rewarding things that you can do, but it can also be tiring if you're not built for it.

It will take a lot of hard work, trial and error and learning to build a sustainable business. But if you’re passionate about it, then go and pursue entrepreneurship.

"What business should I start?" 

"Should I change career?"

"Can I monetize my hobby?"

That I will answer in this upcoming learning event this Sept 14, 2013 at The Crimson Hotel Alabang. Join us! To check out the details, visit http://tinyurl.com/jumpstartevent


Read More...

"Ano bang trend ngayon?"


"Ano bang trend ngayon?"

Many aspiring entrepreneurs start with this question. But they fail to see that a trend may lead in two different directions – the upward trend and the down trend.

Copying a business concept because it's "uso" is one of the riskiest thing you can do. Don't assume that if it worked for them, that it will work for you too.


Look at what the market really needs, take inventory of your competencies, and then ask yourself if this is something you'd be willing to work hard on. 

Take that into consideration and then develop a product, a service or a concept that people (your customers) won't find elsewhere. 


YENG REMULLA is the author of the best-selling books Productive Pinoy & Start Something. An entrepreneur for 15 years, a real estate investor and the founder partner of START LEARNING.




Read More...

"HELP ME"



When a leader says "Help me." It's not weakness, but a sign of maturity. 

Mature leaders know they can't do it by themselves. They are not insecure, but instead, they allow others to fill in, to complement, or even to take charge of tasks they know they can't do themselves.

"Who gets the credit?" 

It doesn't matter. Good leaders are purpose-driven, not popularity-driven. In fact, they are prone to make unpopular choices or decisions all the time.

I'm privileged to have known two men who do this well. They're both leaders in their own field or calling. And this September, it's an honor for me to speak with them. 

If you're free this coming September 14, I hope you could join us too. For sure this will be fun! More details here: http://tinyurl.com/jumpstartevent


Read More...

If I do my best, will God do the rest?



I grew up hearing this popular saying "Do your best and God will do the rest."

That sounds good, maybe even spiritual. And yes, God is pleased with our faith when we do our best.

But some people can take that statement in the wrong context. They'll do what they can, but won't look hard enough to bring out the best in themselves.

Instead, some people believe the opposite: "Do your rest, and God will do the best." 

You'll see them always resting, passively waiting, living on auto-pilot mode, believing everything will just fall into its place when all they did was try a little.

Saying the right words is easy, but real faith will manifest in your action.

Do your best. Your real best. And yes, if your pursuit is aligned to His will for you, God will do the rest.


YENG REMULLA is the author of the best-selling books Productive Pinoy & Start Something. An entrepreneur for 15 years, a real estate investor and the founder partner of START LEARNING.

Read More...

Ang Reklamador


Giving out criticism isn't a good way to spend your time, nor should it be your way of life.

If you need to criticize, make sure it's to build up, to improve or to give new courage to someone. (or else you're just complaining or ranting)

And for you to be able to do that, you need to be a respectable model of what you're talking about. Yes, everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but many times the wisest thing to do is to keep it to yourself, and learn from the situation. (unless you're asked)

It's easy to point out a mistake. We are all good at that, but I would suggest, focus on the solution. Better yet, do something.

Besides, that's what you're there for.

Read More...

DON'T BECOME A WANNABE

Many people lose their money by putting up a business (or betting on something) that turns out to be a fad.

They see a thriving business with a good idea on the street. They take, imitate and improve it a little. And just to make it a little bit more "competitive", they'll even make it cheaper.

This strategy rarely works. You end up becoming a wannabe in a specific category or industry.

You might as well start from the beginning. Be the trend-setter. As an entrepreneur, people are counting on you to innovate, to stretch the limit, to come up with something fresh and interesting. 

Stop keeping up with your neighbor! Get to work and come up with something that will surprise us.

– 


YENG REMULLA is the author of the best-selling books Productive Pinoy & Start Something. An entrepreneur for 15 years, a real estate investor and the founder partner of START LEARNING.








Read More...

THE MONEY, THE WORK & THE REWARD

"Follow your passion and the money will just follow." That's a popular saying, but it doesn't mean it's entirely true.  

There are many things we do passionately in life that might not bring monetary returns. But we do it anyway out of love, out of generosity, or as a response to a greater purpose that we believe in. 

Money is not the best cue or gauge to validate the importance of the work that you do.

There are many people who are earning less that are doing important work and there are many high-paid individuals who we can live without. 

The rewards for great work vary. It's not always money. 

Even better to realize, sometimes, the work is the reward itself. 


YENG REMULLA is the author of the best-selling books Productive Pinoy & Start Something. An entrepreneur for 15 years, a real estate investor and the founder partner of START LEARNING.

Read More...

NAMING YOUR START-UP


When picking a name for your business or venture, it's always an advantage if it's easy to pronounce. 

If your name requires spelling out or is highly dependent on a logo (or a visual) for people to understand it, they'll have a hard time remembering you – it will also be difficult for people to tell their friends about your business.

The key is to make your name sound good even when said aloud.

Combine the word 'serene' and 'tea' and you get Serenitea – a perfect way to describe how you'd feel after drinking their milk tea.

Contrast "rich dad" and "poor dad", you get the best-selling book, Rich Dad Poor Dad. Give it another title, people might not have given the same attention.

The name Google originated from a misspelling of "googol" which refers to the number represented by a 1 followed by one-hundred zeros. The founders chose that name because it fits well with their goal of building a large-scale search engine. Imagine if they named it searcheverything.com instead!


While a good name won't guarantee the success of your venture, it will be much easier for you to get the word out and build a brand with a good sounding name.

– 


YENG REMULLA is the author of the best-selling books Productive Pinoy & Start Something. An entrepreneur for 15 years, a real estate investor and the founder partner of START LEARNING.



Read More...

START-UP FILES: BG HERNANDEZ, STUDIO 5 DESIGNS

















I invited BG for coffee and had the priviledge of learning from him. Read our conversation below.

PROFILE
Name: BG Hernandez, Multi-awarded Creative Director/Graphic Designer
Company: Studio 5 Designs – a pioneer in the graphic design industry
Awards: Almost 200 awards from the following institutions:

Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA)
Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
Public Relations of the Philippines (PRSP)
National Book Awards (Manila Critics Circle)
Gintong Aklat Awards

Legacy: His team designed what the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas calls the "new generation bills" which also won several awards internationally.

Among his current clients are Petron Corporation, Pepsi Philippines, Meralco, PSE, PLDT and The Office of the President (Malacanang).


Yeng: When you were a kid, what was your answer when you were asked, "What do you want to become when you grow up?"

BG: My first impulse was "I wanna be somebody." Kaya lang yung 'somebody' na yon, I needed to think, "Ano ba talaga? Do I want to be a fireman, a lawyer, or a doctor?" Pero pakonti ng pakonti yung choices... 

At that time, I didn't know what my strength was. Maybe  I thought I'd do something in sports or will be an athlete. When I was young, I was more successful in sports and studying. Pero na-trauma ako sa studying! (jokingly)

Yeng: What was the name of your teacher?

BG: Di ko na maalala eh! 

At that time, I didn't believe that school was the only way to gauge success. But most of your teachers and classmates valued you through your grades. So if you had low grades, that meant you're going to be an average person. But I didn't look at it that way.

Di ko naisip na maging designer. Although, I grew up in a design office because my mom would bring us to her office after school to wait for her to finish her work. 

I didn't aspire to become a graphic designer. It was all accidental. 

Yeng: So, how did you become a graphic designer?


BG: My dad was one of the first few who invested in a first gen Apple computer, which was unheard of, because everything was done manually at that time. You have to use your hands to paint, to airbrush or to draw. There wasn't any "photoshop" yet.

But unfortunately, my dad passed away after he bought the computers. It was just kept/stored in the bathroom because nobody knew how to use it.  

I was 17 years old and I saw the computer in the bathroom. I knew there were games in it. I turned it on and looked for the games. 

That made me want to go to the office everyday – just to play Load Runner. I got tired of it eventually so I started exploring the desktop softwares such as Ventura Publisher, Aldus Pagemaker that my dad bought with the computers.

Yeng: Floppy disk?

BG: Yes, imagine installing softwares from a floppy disk?! That was version Beta. Di pa binibili ng Adobe yung Photoshop nun. 

Slowly, I became interested. I thought if learned to use this, I could help the artists in our office. Because everything was done manually, when a client says, "I don't like the color", you'll have do it all over again. Everything had to be perfect the first time.

I was 18 when I started working in Studio 5. Immediately, I introduced the use of the computer in our office and that changed a lot of things including the mindset of the management and its employees.



Yeng: What was your first project? What was it like?

BG: 1989. For my first project, I wasn't even hired. I was just playing around with the computer then. I made the packaging for Ponstan. Di ko pa alam na famous pala yung Ponstan nun. We designed the foil, the box, and the posters. Alam mo yung Caladryl? I was also part of the group who designed that.

Nobody wanted to use the computer. Until I designed and printed the mock-up and gave it to them. That was the turning point. They knew that this is going to change a lot in our business. 

At least once in your lifetime, you'll be given the opportunity to revolutionize something. Go for it.


Yeng: What was the most prestigious project you've done?

BG: We have done a lot of prestigious and/or important projects already but a memorable yet challenging one was designing the Ayala Corporation's annual report. The Annual Report is one of the most important publications a listed company has. It is the face of the chairman, CEO and/or president, on print, to the world. When you win the annual report project for Ayala Corporation, you end up designing all their seven subsidiaries/companies as well.

And you have to be invited. You can't knock on their door to give a proposal. It took us two years to get invited to bid. Pagkatapos nun, we went through the whole bidding process, it was nerve-wracking, because those guys knew the process. 

Ang exciting dun was the presenting of the design concepts. It was on the top floor of their corporate headquarters. Lahat ng CEOs ng Ayala nandun. Including the Presidents of each company. You have the whole communications department of each company too. And it was just the three of us – all from top advertising and graphic design agencies in Manila.

Sabi ko sa boss ko, "We have nothing to lose." Our business was doing so well that time. 

Five minutes into the presentation, Don Jaime, leaned to one of his sons and says, "Porque esto esta…" My boss and I were already swallowing our laway, we were so nervous. 

I was thinking, "Did I say something wrong?" I was in the middle of my presentation. Thirty people were in the room. Dead silence. Ang maririnig mo lang yung ulan sa labas at yung aircon. Everybody was quiet. 

Yeng: So what happened?

BG: My boss asked, "Is there anything wrong?"

"No, sorry we just .. We like the design, but that's not the direction that we discussed about." 

So, we panicked and thought we were wrong. But later on we realized, we were right, because the strategy came from the committee. 

They were gentlemen and told us, "We apologize. Please excuse us for a few minutes." 

We were in the holding room. We were saying words like, "I knew this was a bad idea!" We were already feeling sorry for ourselves. We wanted to go home! 

The committee head came back and told us, "You know there was a miscommunication…We'll call you"

They gave us a chance again and gave us three days to redo everything based on the new direction. "What!?! Three days?"

It took us two days to just feel sorry for ourselves. Di kami makaconcentrate! On the last day, we came up with something. 

Out of frustration, ginawa kong black yung cover. Syempre, you can't do that because clients think it's bad luck for business. It's just a black cover na may square and in it was a photo image sa gitna. Initially, my boss was furious and thought that using black was a bad idea, too. 

But of all the designs that we submitted, yun pa ang na-approve! Don Jaime said "Let's not make it black, ok? I love it. It's fantastic! That's me! But make it a little bit grey."

That annual report won seven awards. After that, we were known as a company that made award-winning reports. Since then, we started working with more Top 100 companies.




















Yeng: That must have been really exciting! Sige, on a lighter note... May I ask what makes your work fun?

BG: In my work, I get to think of so many ideas and solutions. I find that enjoyable. There is a sense of fulfillment when abstract virtual thoughts become realities and impacts people to make decisions.

Yeng: What's your best advice for overcoming procrastination?


BG: Normally, we procrastinate on things we already know and simple enough to do so the tendency to put it aside and deal with it later is paramount. But with 100 other multitasking tasks all at the same time, what we knew is simple builds and builds into a bigger problem coz we didn’t deal with it the first time.

The speed of implementation is the key to remove any chance of procrastination.


Yeng: Where do you get your inspiration?

BG: In my field, it's really interesting. Nasanay na ko na the clients that I work for, they always have a goal, a dream, or a vision. I find it very satisfying that I can be a part of that vision. 

When your client is happy, grateful,  appreciative, and you're able to add value to them, yun ang nakaka-inspire sa akin.

Yeng: How do you stay organized?

BG: Meron bang artist na organized?

Yeng: Good point!

BG: Lahat dapat! 

Yeng: Yeah, that's a misconception. I know creatives or artists that are well organized.

BG: Design is a process thus detailed steps are needed to insure that solutions are well tested and suited for a specific reason. It is easy to splash color and put a pretty picture but if its not making a delightful experience that design proposal didn’t go through the discipline of organization.

As a designer I visualize and speak to myself on a constant rhythm the whole day (awake or asleep). A notebook or a sound recorder puts my feet on the ground and keeps the deadline reminders present.


Yeng: How do you relax at the end of the day?

BG: Food.

Yeng: Pareho tayo.

BG: I'm a fitness buff also. As a triathlete I ride the bike and run always in different routes to get a detox fix. I also play golf to teach me how to calm down. "Anything new" to clear my head and change my mindsets is always cool for me.

Yeng: Me too. I'll go to a restaurant and order "anything new." 

Yeng: Greatest teacher?

BG: [thinking…]

Experience. 

Somebody can just tell you what to do, or give motivation, but unless you have experiences that are nerve-wracking, or when you make a fool of yourself, or when you're so happy, unless na mafeel mo yun, dun ka lang matututo.

Yeng: A mantra to live by?

BG: World peace but pageantry aside…..I’d say “Taste and chew your food…don’t just swallow the whole thing.” I believe that in anything, take time and enjoy the moment.


Yeng: What would you do differently if you were to start all over?

BG: The past is done and you can’t go back anymore and anything can happen in the future. So what is important is making decisions now.

Yeng: What advice would you give to young (starting) graphic designer or to anyone with a similar profession?

BG: My advice? 

There are only a few designers in Manila who are vocal. They'd rather have their design speak for itself.

Yeng: Baka they can't explain it?

BG: Yes, isa na yon. They can't explain it. Kaya lagi kong sinasabi sa kanila "You have to voice out what is inside your heart"

Good or bad, there is power in what you say. 

You have to give me a good reason why you thought about this. Kasi pag sinabi mong "Wala lang, nakita ko lang sa internet. Eh maganda, kaya kinopya ko." I can't say that to my client! 

Kaya I tell the artist, when you're conceptualizing, "Shut off your computer." Go somewhere, under a mango tree. That's where you think. And then paglaban mo yan, paglaban mo sa akin yan.

If somebody shows me something na walang value, di ko yun papansinin, I won't approve it. I'm sure my boss and my client won't approve it, because I don't believe in it.

Pero pag nakita ko na this guy really believes in it, pag pinaglaban nya, there's value in it. Tapos he's willing to improve it or learn some more. Yan ang mga gusto kong ka-trabaho!

Maraming kabataan ngayon, mga new hires, they can't take criticisms. Parang pag sinabihan mong "mali yan" magre-resign na agad! 

I always advice them na "Kailangan teachable ka." They have to accept criticisms. 

If you go to our office, we have close to about 200 trophies or awards. Those are prestigious awards. Kaya lang for me, yes, a trophy is a trophy, pero ang trophy ko actually is the project, the process and the relationship with my client. 

Yeng: Thank you BG for your time. I appreciate it! 

BG: Thanks Yeng!




















PS. If you enjoyed this, please Like or Share it too! Thanks so much!

Read More...