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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WHAT I'VE LEARNED OFFSTAGE FROM FRANCIS KONG, ALEX LACSON & LOIS YASAY

A few days ago, I spoke at the "iCHANGE: Winning Disciplines for Change" event in Bacolod featuring Francis Kong with Alex Lacson, Lois Yasay and Me. 

It's inspiring to hear Francis, Alex and Lois speak on stage, but to be in the same room or to share a meal with them is another learning experience I'd remember.

THREE LESSONS I'VE LEARNED OFFSTAGE

Francis Kong is the most sought-after speaker in the country. He has authored 10 books. He has a newspaper column and a radio show. He has received numerous awards. He has been invited to speak in the US, in Europe and all over Asia. On top of that, he is also a business owner. 

And yet, Francis would open the door for us, would take the back seat in the car, (even though we insisted that he take the front seat) order the same food, or even laugh and tolerate our (not-so-funny) jokes. Francis doesn't expect any kind of special treatment.

Me and Francis Kong

It's his 232nd time to speak this year. Over Inasal, I asked him "Do you still get intimidated as a public speaker?" He replied with "Oh, yes" and told me stories. You have no idea how comforting it feels to hear that. 

My Takeaway:  No matter how successful you are – remain humble and be of service to others. The purpose of "Success" is not entitlement or personal gratification, but it's to serve more people.

Us eating at Nena's – Manukan Country

* * *

Just like Francis, Atty. Alex Lacson is also down-to-earth. (a bit surprising for a lawyer) He is the author of the best-selling book "12 Little Things You Can Do For Your Country." 

Atty. Alex sees the good in the Filipino. Listening to him has increased my appreciation for our country. 

Lei Patalinghog of One Awesome Company, Alex Lacson & Me

What most people don't know –– the income from his books is used to fund the schooling of 38 scholars. 

On stage or off-stage, Alex would say the same thing, even when nobody else is listening – there's something you can do for your country – even a small change can make a big difference.

My Takeaway: Instead of complaining, do something... even if it's a small thing. 

* * *

Lois Yasay is the co-founder of the award-winning travel blog "We are Sole Sisters." She's into traveling, surfing, and speaking. And while working, she's able to do all three. [see here]

Lois Yasay danced the "Americano" with 3,000 people 

We were already on the plane going to Bacolod when we first met Lois. My wife and I immediately felt comfortable with her. Somehow, she has a way of asking the right questions. (She's like Oprah stationed on a plane)

By disembarkation, she already knew the story behind my book, how I became a speaker, or even my wife's future travel plans.

While we were in Bacolod, Lois randomly met Jose Mari Chan, and somehow was able to chat with him (interview) about his passion as well. (See here)

Six months, six cities, three countries. Lois was passionate enough to quit her day job to travel the world – something people won't even dare do.  

Now I understand why Lois travels a lot. Lois is curious. She's a passionate learner. And I believe that makes her not only an effective speaker, but also an interesting one. 

My Takeaway: Learn from the people you meet, the place you are in, or the experiences that you go through. Live Curious. 

iCHANGE Speakers and Organizers

Alex Lacson, Francis Kong, Lois Yasay, David & Emily Go Villanueva (awesome organizers!)  Mimi Chua & Me. 

Me speaking to at least 2,500 people. "Start Something!"

Special Thanks to Lei & Russel Patalinghog of One Awesome Company (They are really awesome)

* * *

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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3 WAYS TO BE POSITIVELY UNFORGETTABLE

1. Do something epic.

Whether the result is an epic fail or an epic win, those who are willing to take risks are the ones that will realize their full "potential." They become unforgettable by maximizing their talents or abilities to benefit others. 

Put out your best work. Go for an epic win. 

2. Make other people feel good about themselves.

An insecure leader will make the people around him... insecure.

An unforgettable leader will do the opposite, he makes himself relatable. Through his work, he makes the people around him feel good about themselves. 

3. Inspire laughter.

Laughter is the same in any language. Regardless of where you're from, laughter connects people. Unforgettable leaders know that people should laugh more often than needed. Progress almost always happens when it's interesting and fun!

Thank you Dolphy, the King of Comedy, (a.k.a Mang Kevin Cosme) for modeling the above three. 

* * *

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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TWO THINGS MANNY PACQUIAO WON

Photo Credit: Yahoo  / Marsh Starks – Reuters

In his fight with Tim Bradley, Manny Pacquiao may have deserved that belt, but he gained more.

After watching how Manny accepted the judges' decision with grace and self-control, he has earned our respect and admiration.

1. RESPECT

Manny says, "Let's give credit to Bradley. He did well tonight, I respect him, and that's the decision. I respect the officials. … It's part of the game, I give thanks to the Lord."

Manny knew he should've won and yet, he chose to be a gentleman. He could've been mad at the judges or could have blamed someone else. Instead, he gave Bradley his "time to shine" (it didn't last long though) For that, Manny, you've earned our respect. 

2. ADMIRATION

As a Christian, it's easy to question God and say, "Why God?!?" Yet, you see a man who is humble before the Lord. Even after a questionable defeat he says, "I give thanks to the Lord." 

It's easy to thank God when you're winning. But to thank the Lord at all times? (in this case, losing) That's always easier said than done! 

And yet, he did.  

I believe that his renewed faith gave him security. He knows that he is not just a title holder – there's more into his identity.

I'm excited to see what's next in the life of this champion.

* * *

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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Attend a Free PRODUCTIVE PINOY talk!

I'll be in Fully Booked, Bonifacio High Street, The Fort this June 8, Friday to give a short talk entitled, "Start Something!" 

Whether you're planning to write a book, start a business, shift careers, or put out your art, I hope this event will help you jumpstart the work that you've been dreaming of.

The registration is free! If you wish to join us, simply fill-out the form below.

If you know someone who might benefit from this, I'd appreciate it if you would 'share, tweet or like' this post. (Better yet, bring your friends along with you.) Thank you so much! Hope to meet you there!

By the way, my friend Malvin Dinlasan, social media strategist and blogger of BroTalks, Cornel Bongco, also known as the Yoyo Gospel Man, and Ms. Rochelle Chua, the blogger behind Hearty's Haven, will join me as guest speakers. I'm excited to hear from them!

One minute registration below!

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BE A PRODUCTIVE PINOY! at FULLY BOOKED

Free Registration.
The Forum. Fully Booked BGC.
June 8, 2012, 1–4pm.

REGISTRATION FORM

• Name:
• Company:
• Position:
• Contact Number:
• Email:
• Check any of the following:
  I own a copy of Productive Pinoy

  I usually read the blog

  I follow on Facebook

  I'm representing my company

  I'm bringing my friends / co-workers
• Is there anything you want to be discussed in the seminar?
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GETTING THE RIGHT WORK

After years of studying, it's tempting to go PMA. (Pahinga-Muna-Anak)

Before taking that long awaited break you've been dreaming of, allow me to offer some "unconventional" advice that you may want to consider.

1. When choosing a career or putting up a business – find the "Sweet Spot."

Note: You won't know which work will be 'enjoyable' for you until you give it a try. I thought entrepreneurship wasn't for me. (I loved music. I played for a band. I thought I just wanted to become a rockstar.) But when my first store opened its door for business, the entrepreneur in me was awakened.

2. To succeed, it's not just about what you know anymore.

You did well in school? Good for you! That may help. 

Just keep in mind that the world is constantly changing. And so does how businesses are built or how jobs are designed.

Now that information is readily available online, it's not just about what you know anymore. What will set you apart is how you use or translate these information into 'something of value'. 

3. Think long-term.

You may have short-term needs, but it's best to decide by weighing the long-term effect.

Sooner or later, you'll meet a boss that you won't like. Is it a cue for you to quit your job? The situation may vary, but it's better to stick with an uptight boss whom you can learn from, than a boss who acts like a peer and just wants to "hang out." 

Your choices today will affect your future.

4. Instead of racing to get ahead, be a person of value.

Nobody can succeed on their own anymore. We live in an 'era of collaboration'. Those who work well with others are now the most sought after. (even more valuable than superstars)

Whenever a valuable player joins a game, people instantly see the difference. Everybody on that team wins. 

A person of value is a game changer. Be that kind of player.

* * *

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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IN THE BUSINESS OF BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN PEOPLE...

Putting up a business is exciting. One of the keys to success is to find something you can do that help others in a big way.

Entrepreneurship is rarely about what you can get as an entrepreneur. The rewards pour in when you see others benefit from what you give or deliver.

After 15 years in business, several talks and consulting work around the country, it is my privilege to partner with Ryan Peralta and Bob Barcebal.  

Ryan is the founder of Drumstart, the only certified drum circle facilitator/trainer in the country, and currently the drummer of Rivermaya. While Bob is a dynamic sales coach, facilitator of the 'Pinoy Sales Champ' workshop, and maybe the only person left on earth who think 'sales' is fun!

Together, we form SPARK CONSULTANCY. A training/learning firm geared to improve productivity, inspire creativity and help you increase sales.

*Official Website coming soon. For now, you may get in touch with my (self-proclaimed) good looking business partner…  

Bob Barcebal

Email: sparktrainingph@gmail.com 

Mobile: 0926–7242109 

Landline: 9046371

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BE YOUR BEST SELF.

John Wooden said, "Your reputation is who people think you are, your character is who you really are."

You may not care how people perceive you, but [still] it determines [makes or breaks] the influence you have in the lives of others.

While it's ideal to protect your reputation, it's even wiser to work on your character. Nowadays, a good name is rare. Yet, it remains esteemed and valuable.

Be your best self even when no one is looking.

* * *

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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