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

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HOW LEADERS SUCCEED

Why do you see highly skilled individuals who get promoted to a leadership position end up stressed or miserable? (Even worst, fail.) 

And why do you see people who are not as technically proficient succeed in the same position?

Traditional education or schools may have programmed us to be good at doing tasks, but not necessarily good at working well with others. 

The people who are more likely to succeed in their industries are the ones who are good at making "emotional connections." Not only are they able to manage their own emotions when it gets tough, but they're also sensitive enough to consider the feelings of others. 

And we all like working with people or leaders who are considerate!

With that, my partners and I came up with a learning event or a workshop this May 17 to help you become more "emotionally intelligent." 

Featuring one of the top certified EQ coaches in the country, Mr. Bernard Marquez. (under Six Seconds Company) He has done trainings with companies like Citibank, HSBC, Jollibee, Globe, Smart, Unilab, Glaxo and Ayala. 

If you're free on May 17, join us. This is a good investment for your personal development. Better yet, bring your officemates with you. I hope I'll get to meet you there.

It's easy to register. Simply click HERE and fill-out the form. 

LEARNING FEE 

Regular P1,200. 

Early Bird Rate: P1,000 only until April 30, 2013

May 17, 2013, 1pm –5pm

Makati Stocks Exchange – Penthouse Executive Lounge

Limited seats. Register now! 

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Dreaming and Working

"Dreaming" and "Working." 

Many confuse one for the other. Some are just dreaming when they should be working. While others are just working when they should be dreaming!

Nothing great has been done with just a mere pep talk. If you have a big dream, go and work for it. It takes more work (rather than talk) to make things happen.

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TREAT IT AS SERIOUS BUSINESS

Having fun in what you do doesn't mean you're not doing "serious business."

This is true for writers, artists, musicians, athletes or anyone who 'seems' to have a much easier job. 

As a writer, one of the things that I've learned is that you can't just wait for inspiration. It takes a lot of discipline, planning and hard work to produce quality content and to be heard in this noisy world. 

You may have a job that doesn't sound as glamorous, but in whatever you do, have fun, give your best, and treat it as serious business.

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

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SHOULD I PURSUE MY PASSION?

I rarely talk about "passion." Not that I am not passionate.

I am passionate about several things. My passion has led me to achieve major aspirations I never thought I could do. But with the same passion or my immature zealousness, I've also failed miserably in a few things I've done before. (a painful lesson)

What I've learned in life is that 'passion' isn't enough. 

You can't just live on passion. 

You also need wisdom. 

Wisdom is the ability to make the right decision at a given time, context or situation. So, how do you get wisdom?

1. Pray and read the Bible.

The bible says "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom…" (Psalm 111:10) To know what to do, pray and ask Someone who knows what's best for you. He holds the bigger picture. 

2. Ask an adviser. 

Asking for advice isn't a sign of weakness. It won't make you look dumb. In fact, with many advisers, you have a better chance of succeeding in any endeavor. Don't be too shy to ask. 

3. Don't wear yourself out chasing "MORE" money. Instead, show restraint and put your time on living out your "purpose." Do this, and most likely, the money or provision will follow. 

Self-centered pursuits or a get-rich-quick aspiration won't do you any good. The key is to be passionate about the right things. 

4. Learn from your mistakes. 

If you fail, get up again, then apply what you've learned. Don't let a failed business, project or a failed attempt stop you. Don't get stuck living in a "state of failure." You won't learn if you won't move on!

5. Win small victories. 

Even small battles can teach you big lessons. Be faithful even with the little. Small victories will lead to bigger opportunities. 

6. Remain humble. 

Pride often leads to a loss of respect. (see Pr 11:2) Be willing to listen. Consider the point of view of others. Put other people first and be of service to them. 

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MY 14-YEAR OLD SON IS NOW AN ENTREPRENEUR

When Trey was a lot younger, people would ask him "what do you wanna do when you grow up?" With his cute lisp he'd reply, "I yike my dad's work. I yike to be a businessman." That brought joy to me.

Even when Trey was growing up, it was natural for us to talk about business concepts whenever we're together.

Whether it's the food in a restaurant, the feature of a gadget, or the design/flow of a website – Trey and I would always discuss ways on how we can improve a certain product or service. We'd even come up with better ways it can be presented or sold. 

This was an exercise we'd always do for fun. But I didn't realize he was really taking it seriously. (Even I didn't expect that he'd become an entrepreneur this early.)

FUNDING HIS FIRST VENTURE

Every time that Trey would get his allowance or receive gifts from us or from his grand parents, he'd put away some money in the bank. The amount can be as little as P200 and to as much as P1,000. 

He didn't have a plan where to spend his money. At times, I would even suggest, "why don't you buy a PS3 or an XBox with the money that you've saved?" 

Trey would always say "No, it's ok. I'll just wait." 

A few months ago, he came up with a business idea – to print his own statement shirts. Coming from the Twitter generation, he would name his brand #HASHTAG. 

Trey would regularly bounce off his ideas to his very supportive mom and me. It became a trending topic during dinner. 

Until one day, he finally decided to do it.

He told me that he'll use his own money (his savings of P21,000) to fund his business. And at that moment, I knew he was serious.

So he went on to source the raw materials and visited a manufacturer that can bring his designs to life. 

His first factory visit

"Design meeting" with supplier/manufacturer

After a week, Trey received the samples and wore the first Hashtag Shirt. That got him really excited about his new business. 

HASHTAG Clothing Co. Founder Trey Remulla with his First Shirt

As of this writing or update, he has about 7 shirt designs and has sold over 500 shirts in 4 months time. He has more than tripled his capital. He makes more than what a minimum wage worker earns. 

100% Cotton. Eco-Friendly. Lead free. Phthalate free. Eco-friendly paints. Machine washable. EXPORT QUALITY.

Logo at the Back

*Latest Design*  100% Cotton. Lead free. Phthalate free. Eco-friendly paints. Machine washable. EXPORT QUALITY.

#HASHTAG Clothing Co. is now officially online. You can check it out HERE. 

#HASHTAG Clothing Co. website 

Website: www.hashtagclothingco.com

Facebook Page: #Hashtag Clothing Co.

Ever since Trey started his business, he's been asking me a lot of questions. I can see him learning and enjoying it. I'm really proud of him.

Please visit his Online Store, like his Facebook Page or buy a shirt! 

I hope this will also encourage you that you're never too young (or never too old) to "Start Something."

~

Join me this Friday, May 31, 2013, for the START SOMETHING Book Launch in Powerbooks Greenbelt 4, Makati. 5:30pm–8:00pm. I'll be sharing a few tips on how you can start the work that you've been thinking about. 

If you're free to come, simply fill out this FORM. Many thanks!

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4 REASONS WHY YOU HATE MONDAYS

1. You are in the wrong job. 

2. You are in the right job (or type of work) with the wrong people.

3. You are in the right job with the right people, but somehow, possess a negative attitude towards work. (Ouch!)

4. You don't have any work to do and it's making you miserable!

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RICH DAD, BANKRUPTCY, AND A FEW LESSONS LEARNED

Rich Dad Poor Dad best-selling author Robert Kiyosaki filed for Bankruptcy for one of his companies after losing a lawsuit. (By the way, he owns more than ten companies)

And as someone (me) in the real estate business, I thought I'd share my thoughts about this. 

I used to be a Kiyosaki fan in the late 90s. I've read a lot of his books. The ideas presented in his book was 'fresh and revolutionary' at that time. 

"Financial Literacy" quickly became a buzz word those days. Every "business opportunity" presentation can't go without the "cash-flow quadrant" powerpoint!

I kept buying the Rich Dad books. (along with other business books) Until one day, while reading, I realized that he was just saying the same thing over and over again in all of his books. So I took what I could apply in my business and moved on. (people tend to idolize him)

Some of the ideas worked for me. Some didn't. 

As an entrepreneur and a real estate investor, here are a few personal lessons I'd like to share. 

Disclaimer: These are my personal realizations – it may or may not work for you.

1. Invest in the "right property" or real estate. 

Not all properties are good investments. You need to do your homework. 

I own a small real estate company that operates 33 rental units today. Owning these assets has worked for me. I guess collecting money from 'rent' has been a good idea – even before Robert Kiyosaki was born. 

2. Avoid Irresponsible Borrowing. 

You can use fire to cook, to heat or to light. But too much fire can also burn down the house. Irresponsible borrowing is playing with fire. 

Borrowing money for an unproven business is a bad idea. Should you borrow money for your business, make sure it's to expand what's already working for you. Don't speculate if you can't afford it! – a painful lesson I needed to learn first hand. 

The best way to start is to start small. Then find a way to scale up. 

Patience and consistency will take you a lot further. 

3. Like Mr. Kiyosaki, I'm also an author. The royalties/income from book sales here may not be as much, but it's opening new doors for me. So, I guess that's a good idea. 

A well-written book is also something that you can leave behind to your children. 

4. Rich dad says, "your house isn't an asset, but a liability." Well, you have to live somewhere. He can call it whatever he wants, but for me, i'll call it "my home." 

I guess what he simply meant was: Be wise when purchasing a home. Do you really need a big house with a big mortgage? Or would you put your money in a "luxurious car" when you can buy a more practical one and invest the rest somewhere more profitable?

The bible offers the best advice "Finish your outdoor work and get your fields ready; after that, build your house." – Proverbs 24:27

5. A "good name" is still more valuable than riches. 

This is not the first time Mr. Robert Kiyosaki was sued. 

The sad part is that he has been sued by someone close to him (Sharon Lechter) and by someone who has helped him in a big way. (The Learning Annex)

The Takeaway: Be diligent. Be financially literate. Be successful. But don't neglect the most important – your reputation and your character. 

The best gift you can give to your children is 'a good reputation' that they can carry with them. 

The best gift you can give to yourself is knowing in your heart that you tried your best to do what's right – even when no one else was looking, counting or expecting.

* * *

Get P50 off when you buy a PRODUCTIVE PINOY book online. Free delivery nationwide via LBC. To order, simply click HERE.

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LIFE ISN'T A NUMBERS GAME

Life is not about...

...the number of 'stuff' you own. 

...the number of job offers you receive.

...the number of people you meet.

...the number of friends you keep.

…the number of countries you've been to. 

In your eulogy, people won't remember the numbers. 

But what they won't forget is how you made them feel, how you've touched their lives, and the kind of legacy you're about to leave behind. 

Don't just live for 'more'. Live more. 

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Get P50 off when you buy a PRODUCTIVE PINOY book online. Free delivery nationwide via LBC. To order, simply click HERE.

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CAN YOU 'ATTRACT' MONEY?

I don't think you can attract "money." 

You can only attract PEOPLE who'd like to work with you, do business with you, or buy from you because ...

1. You're good at what you do. 

2. You're easy or fun to work with. 

3. You're brand is interesting.

Now, if you want to become (financially) rich, follow the above three and practice good financial management along with it.

Don't ever think that you can 'magnetize' money. Money is earned by delivering something of value – or is a gift out of someone else's generosity. 

Many times, getting "rich" has nothing to do with money, but a lot to do about servanthood, discipline and good stewardship.

* * *

Get P50 off when you buy a PRODUCTIVE PINOY book online. Free delivery nationwide via LBC. To order, simply click HERE.

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WALANG IMPOSIBLE! | QUEST | OPM IS ALIVE

I met Jose Villanueva III a.k.a "Quest" about almost a decade ago. We used to belong in the same music group in Church. We were both young then.

Even before, Quest was already passionate in what he does – making positive music. And even back then, I've seen 'Jose' encourage both young and old thru his music in a big way.

Today, his song "Sige lang" is the official fight song/anthem of Smart Gilas Pilipinas National Basketball Team who recently won the 2012 Williams Jones Cup.

"Sige lang" is also #1 in the MYXph.com charts.

His success is an inspiration for all of us. As the lyrics of the song goes, "Kasangga natin si Bathala. Walang imposible!"



Sige lang, laban pa at bumoto for Quest's "SIGE LANG" which is #1 on the MYX Daily Top Ten!

Just type: Sige Lang - Quest on the MYXph.com Voting Box!

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ROADBLOCKS

There are hundreds of reasons why your project or venture won't work once you start. Many things can (and will) probably go wrong. Rarely will it go according to plan.

But that's not the real problem...

The real problem is 'expecting' it to work the first time you try. 

People tend to quit the first roadblock they see. If you're facing one right now, don't quit. It simply means that you need an alternate route. Even a simple 'trial and error' can help you find a better way.  

As you progress, expect detours.

Remain faithful. You'll get there.

* * *

Get P50 off when you buy a PRODUCTIVE PINOY book online. Free delivery nationwide via LBC. To order, simply click HERE.

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8 LESSONS I'VE LEARNED AS AN ENTREPRENEUR

I was invited by the UP Alliance of Economics and Management Students to give a talk on the subject of 'Entrepreneurship'. Among the speakers were Ms. Janina Saspa (a young entrepreneur) and bestselling author, Mr. Chinkee Tan.

We had an awesome time interacting with the students. That's why I thought I'd share the key points of what I talked about to you.


Here are the 8 Lessons That I've Learned as an Entrepreneur:

1. Entrepreneurship is fun. 
I didn't dream to become an entrepreneur. I grew up thinking it was something only serious people do.

I was surprised to find out later on that it's really fun to be an entrepreneur. It has changed the way I view "work."

It's fun to help your customers. It's fun to provide jobs. It's fun to be able to use your creativity. It's fun to watch your competitors panic when you've come up with something different.


2. You're never too young to start a business. 
I was only 18 when I started my first business. It was a tiny video shop (Remember VHS tapes?) in one corner. I've learned a lot by running that small business. It has played a big part on how I became an entrepreneur.


3. It's not just business, it's personal. 
Did you know that Yahoo offered Mark Zuckerburg to buy Facebook for $1 Billion last 2008? Why didn't he sell?

Here's my guess... For Mark Zuckerburg, it's not just business, it's personal.

Putting up a business requires some (if not, a lot of) money. Not only that, it also takes a lot of time and effort to build a business. (you'll come up with creative ideas you wouldn't have thought of if it wasn't your business)

When you consider all of these, "Business isn't just business." It's personal.


4. Dream Big.
As an entrepreneur, you will realize that the 'opportunities' are limitless. The possibilities are endless.

But you shouldn't grab every opportunity that goes your way. Here's how to find out what to pursue – 7 Steps to a Simple Business Plan.


5. Start Small.
The danger with "dreaming big" is the assumption that you need to "start big" as well. This is why only a few people become entrepreneurs. Throughout history, you will find out that many successful entrepreneurs started small.

Did you know that Steve Jobs started Apple in his own garage? While Michael Dell (15th richest man in America) started assembling and selling computers in his college dorm room?

6. It's not just about you or your product, it's about your customers. Change is happening fast. There are products or services that will become outdated. (Like my VHS tapes rental) Businesses will come and go.

At the end of the day, it's not just about you or your product, it's about your customers. You only have a business as long as you have customers who are willing to pay you.

An entrepreneur should always be in tune with what people 'will' want or need.


7. Think differently.
The best time to do "marketing" is not after launching your product, it's before creating it. You can't compete just by reacting to what your competitors are doing. Instead of just competing with price or with more features, find a way to be interesting.


8. Entrepreneurs can contribute to positive change. 
By creating jobs, by supporting community projects or causes, or by other means, as an entrepreneur, I'm given the chance to give back to my community.

Entrepreneurship is not just about making money, it's also about making a contribution.

–

I'll be giving a talk on Entrepreneurship or "Starting a Business" this August 3, Saturday in Ortigas. If you want to put up or grow your business, this will be an interesting learning session for you.

By the way, the first 30 to register will get a free START SOMETHING Book! 

To register, go to: www.startlearningph.com or email startlearningph@gmail.com

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START SOMETHING! Powered by PRODUCTIVE PINOY

It was almost 1:00pm. Our guests were coming in. 

Ms. Michelle could've won the early bird award if there was one! It was a pleasure to meet her.

More people were coming in...

Meanwhile...

That's me on your left with my partner, Bob Barcebal. (Spark Learning) We were about to launch the "Start Something" campaign. And just like any "Start", we had no idea how it will turn out. (I know we look calm, but deep inside we were nervous.)

We waited for a few minutes for the other participants to arrive. At this time, everyone looked so serious. Remember when you were in high school and you were asked to go to the principal's office? That's how serious they were. 

To break the ice, my partner and host, Bob Barcebal, encouraged everyone to stand up, "Talk to least five people you don't know."

Ms. Aldreanna and Ken

Jay and Mark

Marvin and Ms. Barbie

After the exercise, Bob gave this takeaway, "To succeed in any endeavor, you've got to take the initiative." 

Now, we wanted to make sure that everyone was awake the entire event. The Solution... 

Chocolates!

Coffee. Not just coffee, but good coffee.

....and Humor!

We take FUN seriously. Like you, we hate boring presentations too!

Now, when Bob introduced me, I thought he was introducing another speaker – the person he was describing was a bit too impressive. I guess that's what friends do. They build you up, then leave you alone on stage!

I shared what it means to be a Productive Pinoy. (... and the story how Angry Birds became the #1 game)

Photo Courtesy : Francis Supe

Before that, Mr. Buddy here won a Productive Pinoy book by guessing who quoted this line, "Trabaho lang ito, walang personalan." If you don't know who, be happy, that proves that you're still young. 

Shortly after, I asked the participants to do this simple activity. "What's one thing that you've been putting off?" And in the spirit of Draw Something, I asked them to draw it!

Looks like the guys at Logorama is brewing something...

Ms. Hannah, is that a hotel? Hope you can invite us when it opens. 

Francis, are you sure about this? We will be first in line when you give away that money!

Alright, it's time to tell someone about it. Go ahead, don't be shy!

Jim and Marvin

Kevin and Ms. Barbie

Ms. Hannah and Ms. Carmen

Everyone seems to enjoy what the others have to say. So, I called for volunteers, "Who wants to share what you're about to Start?"

MoneySwap Marketing Manager Ms. May Shelle told us about "Gadgets Unlimited," an exciting project she's working on. (Ma'am discount ha!)

Krizia wants to become a motivational speaker someday. After hearing her, I'm convinced that she will be one ... maybe sooner than she thinks!

Now, before Adrian becomes a best-selling author, I suggest for you to take advantage of his writing now, visit his blog... Seeker's Portal.

The best is yet to come. I asked three of my friends to tell their story on "How they Started Something"

Malvin Dinlasan told us how he is now living the exciting life. (now a social media consultant)

He concluded with this, "The ACHIEVERS created the bags of chips and television that the SETTLERS munch and watch TV shows all day." (Another memorable quote from him would be something related to "Boy Bawang.") Read Malvin's take here.

Rochelle Chua

This proves that you don't have to be a motivational speaker to inspire people. Rochelle, the blogger behind Hearty's Haven told us her story.

She works for a multinational company. Her boss told her that she needs to improve her writing skills. Instead of being discouraged, she took it as a challenge and decided to start a blog to improve her writing.

She didn't even expect people to read it. Today, Rochelle's blog has 60,000 visits per month. Now, she enjoys writing and meeting new people. Rochelle made us realize that even our weaknesses can become our strengths if we are willing to work at it! (read Rochelle's take here)

Gospel Yoyo Man

Cornel Bongco tells his story on how he started using his Yoyo to share a life-changing message. This unique idea has allowed him to speak to different groups of people and has brought him to many places. (local and international) 

We all enjoyed his story, especially when he was talking about the mysterious "kwan!" 

It was a fun afternoon. 

Maybe more fun than you would think...

Even this guy is thinking ... "Hmmm what business should I start?" 

You're never too young or too old to learn!

This young lady told her brother the next day, "Kuya, before you start anything, decide to finish it!" (A point I made during the presentation)

I continued with "How to Achieve Major, Major Goals" and shared the story on how my book idea came to life. "To write a book, learn how to write one page a day."

That's my pretty wife wearing fuchs... What's the spelling again? Ok, pink na lang daw. Alongside our good friends, Kat, Rudyard and Sol, my brother-in-law.

Mr. Buddy wrote a dedication for me. See the left side of the book. 

The next two books I signed was addressed to the two Ronalds of Red Ribbon. To avoid confusion, which book belongs to whom, I wrote the same dedication! (Ayos ba, Nalds?)

Nice to meet you, "Ms. Nyc". Yup, that's her name. 

It was fun working with Cornel, Rochelle and Malvin. Hindi kompleto 'pag walang group shot. (Sorry, we didn't do any jump shot.) 

Me (Yeng Remulla), Cornel Bongco, Rochelle Chua and Malvin Dinlasan

Special thanks to May (my editor) and Ms. Shawie for helping us during the event! Big thank you to Maan Villanueva for taking our photos!

This was held last June 8, 2012. The Forum, 4th Level of FullyBooked Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City. 

We are excited to see our participants start their something. Hope you can join us next time! 

Let's Start Something! 

___

WE ARE DOING IT AGAIN THIS OCTOBER 27! TO JOIN US, SIMPLY CLICK HERE.

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