You can make it work. (note to self)

"It might not work." 

"They might not like it."

"Nobody might show up."

Do you only try when you're most likely to succeed? Or do you apply faith to create your chances? 

Take wise risks. Take a stand. Be willing to do what others aren't willing to do. 

"Will this ever work?" isn't the question to ask. It's "How quickly can I make this work?"

[Photo Credit]

Read More...

"Yes, but..." : How to use the word 'BUT' (20sec read)

'BUT' is a word we use to contrast something.

"That's good, but..." (reason why it's not)
"Yes, but..." (no)
"I believe, but..." (I doubt it)

Many times when a period would suffice, we can't help it, we still say 'but'.

Leave out the negative 'buts'. Mainly the ones that pull down good ideas, zealous spirits or 'aha' moments.

Instead, put it to good use.

"It's a stretch, but it's possible"
"I'm tired, but it's going to be worth it"
"Life is hard, but God is good."

Read More...

MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT OR 5-SECONDS OF FAME?

In a crowded Starbucks, I nudged a tray and accidentally dropped a plate off my table. Just like in the movies, I saw the plate fell in slow motion. As soon as it crashed the floor, silence entered the room and all eyes zoomed at me.

I can still hear the sound of the espresso machine hiccuped.

I froze for a second – quickly thinking how to react. I smiled, made an 'Ooops!' facial expression, and pretended as if it wasn't me.

Then one by one, they all looked away.

It could have been my most embarrassing moment, but I chose to look at it differently...

It's my 5-seconds of fame!

My realization – The way we look at our circumstances matter a lot.

Read More...

Think Less. Thank More.

A small peek into your "I-don't-have-list" can instantly ruin your day. It doesn't take much effort to be anxious.


While to live with thankfulness is a decision, a wiser alternative. Even the little things deserve an appreciation. We can avoid too much thinking, when we ought to be 'living'.




[Photo Credit]

Read More...

SHOULD I DO MY BEST TO PLEASE MY BOSS? (30sec read)

No, don't do it for him, you won't last long. 'Approval' is a flimsy motivator.

Put out your best work not to impress people. Do it as if you were doing it for the Lord. (Col 3:7) He gave you your abilities in the first place. You have his approval – even before you asked.

As you do this, watch how your work add value to your organization. And if you do well, your boss might become happy as an end result.

Photo Credit

Read More...

DON'T AMBUSH. CONNECT INSTEAD. #smartselling

You were walking around the mall on a Sunday to unwind, relax or take a break. From afar, you see a booth, but you don't have a clue what it's about.

"Sir, my name is Bobby. I'd just like to take two minutes of your time" a well-dressed rep respectfully asks you.

You have three options – look sideways and turn a blind ear, say yes and endure what he has to say, or offer a sincere "I'm sorry, I need to be somewhere" excuse.

Two minutes is short. Why do people say NO?

Here's why – People hate being ambushed. (No matter how sincere you are or the cause is.)

They want to feel good about a contribution, a donation or a purchase. 'Disruption' won't do the trick.

How to fix it?  

Connect, even without saying words. Make the 'booth' interesting enough to strike a conversation with strangers. Bring a real panda or a sea turtle if you have to. Emotional connection enable ideas to spread. (You want me to feel for those creatures right? And it will cost P12,000/24 months?)

Make it "their idea" or "own initiative" to approach you. This way, you won't need to ask. Chances are, they'll give you more than the two minutes you were asking for!

What do you think?

* * *

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

Read More...

MAKE SOMEONE HAPPY.

Making one person smile is big. Yet, they chose to make three people happy.

After watching this Coke Video, you'll realize that even an organization as big as Coca-cola can possibly have a heart.

For sure, they've touched their families. They've inspired us many. Kudos to you– Coke Philippines.

Read More...

Say Thank You.

Gift giving. To some, it's a pleasure. For most, it's a pressure.

"What could I get for him that isn't too cheap?" 

"What does she really need?" 

"Every year we receive gifts from them, we should give 'em too."

You can worry... 

Or you can just show gratitude and say a sincere "THANK YOU."

Read More...

WHERE TO PUT YOUR TIME THIS DECEMBER

1. Take the time to Thank God...

...not just for the 13th month pay! Yey.

Thank Him for the life that you have. It may not be perfect, but I'm sure you are thankful for many things.

"Thank you Jesus night" is a Christmas tradition that we do every December. My wife and I along with our kids, block off a night to count our blessings. We write it down.

It's a simple activity. Cut the paper into small pieces. On each piece, write one thing you're thanking God for. Do this for 10-15 minutes. Then take turns and share with each other what you wrote. After reading one, put the piece of paper in the box.

"Thank you Jesus for _________." You will be surprised with what your kids will remember.

When you're done, seal the box and keep it as a family treasure. As of this date, we have records up to 2003. Play music and serve hot chocolate. Enjoy!




2. Live as if it's your last 30 days on earth.

The holidays prompt us Pinoys to eat this way – as if it's our last days on earth. With all the exquisite food in front of you, how could you say no? No wonder, "to lose weight" is #1 in the new year's resolutions list.

It's fun to attend parties, but don't forget the essentials – the people you love, the work you're called to do and your quiet time/rest. Make time, don't find time.



3. Plan for year 2012.

Ready or not, the year will start. Be prepared to hear someone say, "Ambilis 2012 na!"

Start the year with a clear direction, an action plan and with the confidence that comes with preparation.

Some questions ...

• What are the changes that you want to implement in your life or business this coming year? 
• What are new things you're considering to pursue?
• What's one thing that you've been putting off for the last few years? 

4. Start going to Church this December.

If you haven't been to one, there are many Christian churches you can attend to. I go to Victory Alabang.

I go to church for three reasons:

First, to hear from God. Faith comes from hearing the Word. It's how I know God's will for my life.

Second, to spend time with God's people. Somehow, our destinies are intertwined. I get to learn from others. We help and build up each other. Our kids grow together. We share lives.

Third, to worship the Lord. It's the only thing I can give to God. Everything else is for my benefit.

I know. The first time I attended a Christian Church, I didn't get it too. I thought people were singing and dancing to entertain themselves.

Now I understand. It's to give honor and praise to God.

Just like what the Magi did after traveling from afar. As soon as they arrived the place where Jesus was born, the first thing they did was to bow down and worship him. Likewise, let's use our time this season, to honor our LORD and Savior, Jesus.

Read More...

KAYA MO!

Are you thinking of doing something that's very ambitious?

Wait for a few seconds. 

You'll hear a voice in your head saying... "Hindi mo kaya yan." Four ordinary words, but when you put it together, it's deadly. It will instantly kill your idea. Negativity will follow.

"You don't have enough experience."

"Nobody will back you up."

"No one will like your work."

"Hindi ka marunong mag-english."

"Wala ka namang kilala."

"Baka mapahiya ka lang."

There's a long list of reasons why shouldn't act on your dream. 

Some are valid concerns, though many are just fears. 

You end up dismissing the idea or you proceed with caution, fear or worry – paranoid that you're bound to fail.

How do you move forward?

1. Face the valid concerns.

If you're feeling inadequate, then take the time to equip yourself. Acquire whatever 'skill' or 'know-how' that you'll need. Set a month or two to learn. If that's not enough, set aside more time or find someone who can help you.

Operate in your God-given strengths. You've been given this gift for a purpose. Align your gift with work or pursuits that are worth doing.

Ask questions. Even what appears to be a stupid question can bring out a revelation or an insight only if you'll ask. Figure out how things work. Experiment. Poke around.

Laziness will tell you 'bahala na', but preparation will make things easier for you. 

Always find out the worst case scenario. If all else fails, what can you do to recover? Do your homework. 

Proper planning will not only minimize your risks, but it will also maximize your success.


2. Conquer your fears.

Let's admit it. Nobody wants to fail.

"Nakakahiya pumalpak." You may be thinking, "What will they think of me?" or "What if nobody likes my work?"

That's how I felt the first time I asked my friends to read the draft of my book, Productive Pinoy. Later on, I realized that I have more to gain than to lose.

The uneasiness is temporary. It's what you do with the feedback or criticism that matters. Use it to make your work better.


3. Start trying.

Sashimi.

The first time my mom offered it to me, I didn't know what to say. 

Why in the world will I eat raw fish?

I tried anyway. If I didn't, I'd be missing a lot of good food today.

You've got to start trying. Even if it's just a small bite. Trying allows you to discover things for yourself. Remember when Peter asked Jesus if he could also walk on water? Well, Peter did. He was the only person to be able to do so in human history.

Who knows?

You'll probably know what to do once you get started. Along the way, you'll probably meet the people who'd be willing to help you. Most likely, you'll achieve more than you've hoped for.

Not trying is as good as failing. Give yourself the chance to succeed.

Instead of believing that discouraging voice that's stopping you, tell yourself... "Kaya to."

Instead of putting down a friend, tell her ... "Kaya mo."

Instead of feeling inadequate, let's tell ourselves... "Kaya natin."

When you're tired, shout it out loud... "Kaya pa."

When you feel hopeless, look up, maniwala ka, "Kaya nya."

~

Yeng Remulla will be one of the speakers in the upcoming event "JUMPSTART YOUR SUCCESS!" @The FORT BGC this November 30, 2013. To register or to get more info, visit: http://tinyurl.com/jumpstartevent

Read More...

THE SECRET TO SUCCESS

Walk into a bookstore aisle, you'll see hundreds of books with a title that reads something like "The Secret to Success."

It comes in different forms, sizes, colors – written by different authors from diverse industries. Every book attempts to unfold 'the secret' to building wealth. From attracting good 'vibes' to 'no money down' deals, you won't know which book to pick up first. You'll end up more confused.

There are many techniques, know-how or life skills one can learn. There are many stories that can inspire, motivate or move us toward our dreams.

But the question remains, "What is success to us?"

No doubt, more money in the bank, isn't. You've seen rich men die broke and empty. Even power, fame and fortune is a boring story you don't want to watch in the cinema nowadays.

Instead, most of us picture success as 'the good life.' Yes, the families you see in the insurance brochures, corned beef TV commercials and housing billboards. To some, it's about owning their own time and being able to do their own thing.

We've gone a step smarter. Now, we are not just after the money, but we are looking for freedom, healthy relationships, security, significance and meaning.

All of which we have the tendency to try to attain on our own.

No matter how smart, sincere or persevering we are, the day when "nothing seems to be working" comes. We try harder, but that seems to make things worst.

Don't quit.

Yes, a life of abundance is waiting for you, but you need to look in the right direction. You may need to take a u-turn. Go back to where you're supposed to be.

You may have forgotten that you were never alone. He has always been with you. He has witnessed your challenges. He felt your heartaches. He understands your situation.

There's no secret to success. It's been there for you to know all along. Stop looking in the wrong places.

"He who pursues righteousness (close & right relationship with God) and love, finds life, prosperity, and honor."  – Proverbs 21:21

Take a fresh look. Renew your pursuit.

Love God. Love your neighbors. Move within His favor.

Pursue Him.

Life, prosperity and honor will follow.

Read More...

10 WAYS TO IMPROVE NAIA 1 – RENEWING THE AIRPORT EXPERIENCE

Traveled abroad during the long weekend? You may have seen the real condition of NAIA Terminal–1. Witnessing it being labeled as "the worst airport in the world" has led me to write this blog post.



10 WAYS TO IMPROVE NAIA TERMINAL–1

1. Renovate and Improve.
Instead of just watching from the sidelines, Kenneth Cobonque, Budji Layug and Royal Pineda took the initiative. They made a pro-bono design proposal on how we can renovate NAIA 1. If you haven't seen their proposal, watch this video.

Renovation is a doable option. Yes, it's a good idea to use the airport in Clark for international flights, but this doesn't mean we shouldn't improve NAIA–1. A fresh, renewed, positive atmosphere will definitely make travelers feel more at ease or comfortable.

If our local malls are able to provide hotel-like restrooms, why can't our own airport?  You'll probably find the answer in #2.


2. Reinvest the Terminal Fees / Airport Taxes.
It's about time to review the budget and ask, "Where is the money leaking?"

The fees collected must go back into maintaining, improving or expanding the airport facility.    


3. Make More Money
If the revenues aren't enough to maintain the airport, then we should find more ways to make money.

If you've been to Singapore's airport, you may have seen how they've built a commercial area filled with specialty stores and food concessionaires. It's a great bonding place for the family and collecting rental income is one easy way to build revenues.


4. Highlight the Filipino Hospitality
We Filipinos are known to be hospitable in our own homes. We never fail to say "kain tayo" whenever a visitor drops by during meals. Why not practice the same Filipino hospitality in our airports whenever someone arrives or departs?

Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

It starts with having a clean, decent and functional airport, but what will set us apart is the Filipino warmth, smile and genuine care for others. Let's make them feel wanting to come back.


5. Quality Service for Travelers
Unlike Filipino Hospitality in which we freely give, providing quality service goes with the job description - we are paid and expected to do it.

Quality service goes beyond the "good morning – good evening" courtesies similar to what we get in a typical fast-food chain, but instead, it should address the specific needs of travelers.

• Reliable Help Desk – There's a first time for everybody. Many first-time travelers or visitors may not have an idea what to do or where to go. Provide friendly assistance.
• Lost Baggage? Stop pointing them to the wrong direction instead, assign people who will offer sincere help. 
• Baggage Handling – The handlers behind the conveyor belt should do their jobs with extra care. Wag po sana basta ibalibag ang luggage sa conveyor belt!
• Get rid of "I'm not paid to do that" attitude – Helping travelers find their way is the right thing to do – even if it means not getting any tip. Every airport representative should put this to heart.
• Airport website – Don't stop with a FAQ page, but use this website to suggest ways on how the traveler can make his stay in the airport smooth, fun and pleasurable.

6. Continuously aim to shorten lines. Streamline the process.

Shorter Lines
Management should commit to continuously manage the 'waiting-in-line time' of passengers. The best way to do this is to define a standard – "A traveler should only fall in line for a maximum of (X) minutes." Then design the procedure and flow based on the defined standard.

Streamline the Process
Forget opening the trunk of my car if you won't check it properly – Don't do it just for compliance. Make every stop purposeful. If there's a way to combine stops or checks, please do it. This will save a lot of time for both the traveler and the airport personnel.

Side note: Some Filipinos should learn how to fall in line properly.
Here's what happened to us at the check-in counter – A group of five people were in line ahead of us. Suddenly, three people show up with their luggage, apparently, they are a part of that "group", so they joined them. Then, another three came along.

All of a sudden, we found ourselves at the end of a longer line.


7. The small details matter. It will add up and create the "Airport Experience"

• Provide better trolleys. Yes, it's a small detail, but it matters. "Yung walang kabig po pag pinatakbo." Much time and energy inside the airport is spent pushing trolleys. Why not make it pleasurable for everyone?
• Airport Map – No one will get lost. No one will be late. And no one can say "I wasn't informed!" Include a step-by-step guide for smooth travel.
• Signages – Make it big, clear and easy to understand. 
• Baggage Storage – a place where you can leave your stuff while going around the airport.
• Baggage Conveyor Belt –  To eliminate overcrowding, build longer conveyor belts. Make it clean and dry, so my luggage won't get oily.
• Comfy Seats – you'll spend most of your time seating. Why not make it comfortable? Kenneth Cobonpue is a world-class industrial designer known for the popular furniture pieces he makes for Hollywood celebrities. We should ask him how we can make this happen.
• Communication area – Charging Station, Internet and a reliable WIFI connection isn't a bonus anymore, it's the new standard. 
• Best Filipino Food – Whenever we travel abroad, I look forward tasting the 'authentic food' while at the airport. Foreigners or visitors probably would like to do the same. 
• Provide a corner where we can promote the best of the Philippines – The airport is a gateway. It's the best place to "sell" what the Philippines has to offer. Let's pitch the best places to visit, food to taste, cultural shows to watch and fun activities to do – all in one corner. 

8. Security & Safety
Here's the funny thing. Most of those who complained about the lack of security and safety weren't referring to terrorist activities or bomb threats.

They were referring to pickpockets and rude airport security officers.

Airport Security – Your goal is not only to control and provide physical security, but also to provide emotional security or peace of mind. Your job includes making everyone feel safe. Consider your approach, your tone of voice and attitude while on the job. Allow these reviews to bring out the best out of you.


9. Better Hiring Decisions
"You are the company" is a popular marketing phrase. It implies that any frontline personnel should act as an ambassador of the organization.

When qualifying applicants, we should ask, "Would I like this person to represent the Philippines?"

Hire people who are ...

• competent, but friendly
• fun, yet professional
• strong in Filipino values
• willing to contribute and influence positive change

After getting the right people on board, it's essential to provide an on-going training program. Not only will this serve the public better, but it will also enrich their capabilities.


10. Make it Fun.
A huge percentage of passengers travel for fun. Even those who are visiting for business make it a point to include leisure in their itinerary. Who said airports can't be fun and professional at the same time?


After reading this, don't hesitate to add your ideas by leaving a comment below.

Like it! – if you can relate.

Read More...

HOW TO SELL YOUR IDEAS

There are many good ideas out there.

But not all ideas will go into implementation, practice or production. Even the really good ones won't get enough attention it deserves.


The ideas that get noticed, discussed and put into action are not the "logical ones" but the ones that create an "emotional" connection.

Ideas that resonate with people.

Joe Rohde is a veteran executive who worked for Disney as an Imagineer. He told the management that he wanted to design and build an animal-based theme park. But somehow, he can't persuade the Disney management.

Did he stop pitching his idea?

No, he didn't.

On the next corporate meeting, he brought a 400-pound Bengal Tiger with him.

Now, say hello to Animal Kingdom – one of the largest Disney theme park in the world.

How to sell your ideas? Don't just give out more information. Find a way to move people.

***

Learn how to start the work that you've been thinking of. Attend a FREE PRODUCTIVE PINOY talk this October. Register HERE. 

Read More...

6 Things Pinoys Can Learn From Steve Jobs

1. Make things that are simple, fun and useful
If it wasn't for Steve, every gadget today would have more buttons, more wires or more menus – giving us more complications.

Make things simpler. The complex isn't impressive.

2. Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.
It's not about coming up with something that is 'mas mura' or 'mas maganda'. It's not just about building a better mousetrap.

People buy Apple products not because it's cheaper or technically more superior, because it 'feels' better and is designed to work better.

3. Find the work you love. Don't just settle.
Avoid the "ganyan talaga ang buhay" pity parties. Watch this video.

4. Think differently.
"Iba mag-isip" is a phrase we negatively say. But it can also be something that we can flip positively. We don't need to do what other people (in our field) are doing. We Pinoys don't need to think alike. We can complement each other by thinking differently.

5. Don't waste your time living someone else's life. 
You are gifted to do something remarkable. Discover that gifting. 

Honor your parents, but you don't need to live the same lives or bring closure to their frustrations.

6. You can make a dent in the universe. 
Nobody expects you to change the world, but you can at least make a dent in your field or in the work that you do. Not everyone will, but you can be one who chooses to.

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...

Productive Things To Do When You're Stuck at Home

1. Read – It's the perfect excuse to finish what you started reading months ago.

2. Finish the report – You can't run. You can't hide. Face it, you have no where to go.

3. Skype Meeting – The bad, you still have to wear business clothes. The good, you get to wear shorts and slippers with it without looking unprofessional!

4. Plan with Spouse – Sit down, serve coffee, play serene music then plan or set goals. You can ...

• Plan family vacations
• Plan new ventures
• Talk about your aspirations in life

If you prefer an interesting or exciting conversation, talk about money. If you want to avoid this, proceed to number 5.

5. De clutter your computer. 10 ways to do it – click here.

6. Arrange your files at home – Categorize, Color-code, Arrange alphabetically by height? :P [Tips]

7. Redecorate the house – You've been planning to rearrange your furniture the whole year, this is a good time. Get inspiration here.

8. Balance your checkbook – You're awake, but will still get a nightmare.

9. Ask yourself, "What do I want to be when I grow up?". If you're all grown up, ask yourself, "What was I thinking?"

10. Give yourself a haircut – productive, but usually a bad idea.

11. Call or chat with old friends – They might think you're creepy? Maybe, but it might be the only time for you to reconnect.

12. Learn something new – Why is this a good idea? Read here.

13. Play with your kids – Play monopoly, scrabble, pictionary or boggle. Be the cool parent they always wanted you to be.

14. Take a break. Rest is the secret of the prolific.

Please feel free to add to the list by leaving a comment below! :)

Photo credit : Original by Jdhancock, Remixed by Productive Pinoy.

Read More...