The 12 Lessons of 2010. The Year that Was.. (Part 3 of 3)

New country, new life, new job, new industry. It has been a dithyrambic journey. I have discovered skills I never thought I had and new opportunities I never thought were available. I have met a few Pinoy clients who were very supportive of me, a technical newbie. I have a boss and teammate who are experts in the field yet always willing to share their knowledge and expertise.

While I terribly miss seeing colors, creative copies, and photoshoots, I am trying to enjoy this newfound career while the scent of flowers still linger.

I thank the Lord for the gift of new friends. I have only known them for a while yet I already consider them my family. Both SE and LOJ played a major role in my decision to take that big leap of faith. Together with my family, they were the key people who prayed for me (and my survival). They also taught me the value of community, of sharing yourself, of being each other’s reinforcement. I believe we have already formed a bond that will last us a few hundred years more.

 

I was once a contrabida and I seriously regret being one. It has been 2 glorious years since sanity took over. The wounds have been healed already and fondest acceptance has been extended to that part of me I used to hate. In an unexplainable way, that experience has molded into someone I will always be proud of. I am that someone whose spirit remained unscathed, no matter how torn I became emotionally.

I am now living my life the way I should have had (sans the unexpected turn). I am happy. Mistakes can be corrected and one can be restored, indeed.

I believe I have transitioned to a different person and this is because, over the course of this year, I have experienced love in so many ways. Divine love, parental love, sibling love, platonic love, and romantic love—I have experienced them all this year (and still experiencing them right this very moment). I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: My love tank is full.

And I intend to continue spreading the grace of love.. because I can give.. because I have.

Year 2010 had been a series of love-hate relationships with people, career, and my own self. I have discovered new strengths, and weaknesses. I thank God for the wisdom to have been able to discern the right path and for the flexibility of being able to journey through it. To end this note, let me post the top seven blessings I am thankful for this year:

1. Family

2. Nikki, Joni, Mia, Cli

3. SE family – sheps and best friends (you guys are too many)

4. LOJ family – Alde family and best friends

5. Arvin and Candy

6. GFS Family – bosses and teammates

7. My current boss and teammate

Looking forward to more blessings this coming year. Love you guys!

The 12 Lessons of 2010. The Year that Was.. (Part 2 of 3)

My sister had her church wedding. And it was also the month when I have officially moved to Singapore. I came here with a one-way ticket, with no guaranteed work, and with just enough money to pay for 3 months worth of rent, transportation, and other basic needs. Despite knowing that my parents are just a call away should I need extra cover, I have placed my hopes on God who never fails to respond on time. Just in time.

And because I have been surrounded by uncertainties, my hope remained firm. I knew I had nothing else but hope.. that I have a BIG God guiding my every move. In a special way, I would like to honor my parents... You guys are the best!

 

This month I received a divine message: “Welcome to the next level.”

The last 3 years seemed to be a struggle to get back on the spiritual track. Level 1 was all about healing and forgiveness and Level 2 is about embracing service wholeheartedly.

Service allowed me to experience the joy of selfless giving in a different way. At that time, I didn’t have extra money to contribute but I had all the time in the world to share what I know and do what I can. Eventually, being penniless in this shopping-inducing country made me appreciate the simple things in life even more.

I am still a fledgling in this area but I am looking forward to greater opportunities to share my time, talent, and treasure not only in my spiritual communities but in all aspects of my life.

On the verge of living in poverty in a new country, I had nothing to hold on to but faith. I badly needed to start working, or else.. I never planned on leaving Singapore, which would have been an easy way out, because deep down, I knew I was where I was supposed to be.

Indeed, everything happens in God’s perfect time. At the right moment, I have received two job offers. So I prayed again for guidance:

“Decide and have faith.”

It was God’s way of reminding me that he gave me the freedom to decide for myself and my future.  And that He trusts my abilities to make a sound decision, and placing this decision in His guiding hands.

 

“What are your priorities?”

It was God who has asked me the same question over and over: in my prayer time, homily of every mass I have heard that week, through facebook application, and dialogues with people.

It was my big 3-0.

 One good thing about celebrating birthdays is that you get to talk to your old friends at least once a year. “At least once” because there are still some who get in touch during Christmas, New Year, and V-day. But the bulk of them remain in oblivion until your well-celebrated natal day. And this year, my good friends practically spent their hard-earned money for an overseas call, while my family flew to Malaysia to be with me. I felt loved. I felt extremely happy.

So I guess the answer to the above question is Relationship. My priority is establishing and maintaining good relationships with God and with people despite living in a faraway place. No doubt, my happiness highly depends on it.

[To be continued..]

The 12 Lessons of 2010. The Year that Was.. (Part 1 of 3)

Now every field is clothed with grass, and every tree with leaves; now the woods put forth their blossoms, and the year assumes its gay attire. ~Virgil

2010. A year of good intentions and its realizations.. The year when I have fully exercised maturity and independence. As I come to the closing hours of this year, I’d like to summarize the lessons of 2010 in 12 words:

I clicked that “register” button one lazy Saturday morning and that was how a mere fraction of a second changed my life forever. I will never forget what my good friend told me about discerning our destiny. He said “there is a grand plan for everyone, but it is up to us to determine the course we will take to get there.”

Moving to another country was just an idea I’d usually toy with when I was stressed. However, I didn’t put much thought into them and I had all the excuses not to. I was living “the life” back home. I have a healthy relationship with family and friends. I was financially stable. And regardless of how stressful work was, it was within my comfort zone. Likewise, I didn’t really know what I wanted. I just wanted to do something different, something grand.

Not knowing what you want usually spells danger. But in this case, it was the driving force that led me to do something I have never done before: Pick one, do it, and think about it later.

Life presents us many options. There are too many good opportunities that greet us each waking day. Once we recognize them, we are either too lazy or too scared to act on them. I am one of those people who often suffer from, what my former GM calls, “analysis paralysis.” I tend to over think things and I seem to have a knack for confusing myself.

For a time I got distracted by too many good alternatives--too good that I was tempted not to pursue the “crazy” idea anymore. But then again, the curiosity for the unknown squeezed its way in. In the end, I was more at peace with “crazy” and “unknown” than “comfort” and “certainty.”

 

There is truth in the saying that “If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it!” I have learned that the innermost desires of our hearts were placed by a powerful force of love (aka God) together with the tools to turn them into reality.

When I offered my decision to move, everything fell into place. Blessings, both big and bigger, came my way even before I asked for them. Indeed, all things are possible with God!

The perfect formula for the success of every decision always includes a cupful of risk. In my GFS despedida, I remember being asked this question: “What do you think are the most important characteristics one must possess to survive GFS?” I answered, “tigas ng mukha and tapang ng lobo.”

I guess this response does not apply only to my former company but to life itself. Too often we avoid a grand decision in favour of security. Being the planner (and control freak) that I am, packing my bags without any concrete plan is something I have always avoided. I have always been ten steps ahead and I have been planning my life ever since I can. But for the first time, I have fully let go because I wanted to be more open to God’s surprises. I have stopped planning my life and just followed my intuition. It frightened the crap out of me but this, I believe, was the best decision I  made this year.

(To be continued..)

Christmas 2010

Family was here to celebrate Christmas with us..

Christmas Eve at the Marina Bay Sands Skypark + Home (to open gifts)

Christmas Dinner at Dempsey Hill

Of course, dessert came first

 ..followed by a yummy Mexican dinner + Margaritas

Indeed, the most wonderful time of this year!

I agree with my sister’s statement: “Sulit ang 2010.”

Last night, I have completed Simbang Gabi. This is the first time I have ever done it and it wasn’t just because of the lack of Christmas parties to attend, but more on the desire to dedicate this all-time favorite season to the One who stood by me throughout my life, especially in this very challenging yet awesome year.

2010 has been my spiritual year and I have never been happier. I have never felt more loved and blessed. And this overwhelming feeling drove me to make this Christmas a spiritual celebration, rather than a commercial one.

I love everything about my life now!

Cheers to a Merry and Wonderful Christmas!!

Three Simbang Gabi's in a Row + Crispy Pata

This is indeed a milestone.. I have already completed 3 consecutive Simbang Gabi's (going 4th today) and simultaneously, I am able to tour the different Catholic Churches here in Singapore.

We were a big group last night for a dear friend's despedida..

That's just half of the group

Afterwards, we trekked the East Coast Road for unhealthy servings of our favorite Pinoy food. Truth be told, I haven't tasted sisig and crispy pata in the last 8 months!!! I felt so much deprived!!! Imagine my delight when these were served:

Off to my 4th Simbang Gabi!!!

Photocredit: Lean Tibia

My First Simbang Gabi in Singapore

Seems like the entire Filipino community in Singapore gathered yesterday night at the Church of the Divine Mercy to celebrate the first Simbang Gabi for this year. This is the first Filipino mass I have attended since I arrived here and honestly speaking, I have missed singing "Papuri sa Diyos" and other Tagalog songs during mass.

Afterwards, a special salu-salo of steaming hot arroz caldo and sandwiches were prepared for the mass attendees. It was a simple fellowship yet really an overwhelming one. I guess this really shows how we Pinoys value Christmas, wherevever we are.

Only the Strong Ones can Forgive

As I grew older, I have surmised that "sorry" isn't just some magic word we utter to make all the hurt disappear. While some wounds heal, unfortunately, some never will. Healing depends on our willingness to muster the courage to accept, let go, and move forward. Because it takes a courageous spirit to endure the tumultuous feat we call forgiveness.

On the First Day of Christmas, My True Love Gave to Me

It’s in the air (thanks to afternoon rains), the cool breeze of December has finally graced the country. As I have mentioned in my other blog over and over, Christmas is my ultimate favourite holiday. I feel extremely happy whenever this time comes. The excitement.. The anticipation.. Everything feels great. I am high! I can't define what brings the bliss but I seem to find good in everything-- even if it means having empty pockets, squeezing through crowded sweaty body masses, and lining up long hours at the cashier. The things I hate eventually become part of the things I love whenever it's Christmas.

However, I am a tad disenchanted to be celebrating the entire Christmas season in Singapore. Because unlike the Philippines (with exception to Orchard Road, the malls, and the main thoroughfares), not all streets of Singapore are covered with colourful displays, dancing lights, and multi-sized Santas prancing to the melody of the Jingle Bell Rock. In my beloved country, I can see the creative efforts of Pinoys to dress their houses up with the little means they have.  For most Pinoys, Christmas brings a sense of hope that at least for one day, one week, or one month, we are all happy.

Another thing I will miss is the company of friends whom I love so dearly. Christmas is usually the time for reunions and get-togethers. A time that everyone sets aside to tell each other a year’s worth of stories and/or reminisce the good ‘ol days over a good meal complemented by wine and dessert. [Not to mention the gifts I would be getting from them if I were home. =p] But this year, I will be survived by new friends who will also be staying and celebrating Christmas expat-style. Old memories would have to give way for new ones, at least for the mean time.

And oh, there will be Simbang Gabi’s. Not that I have ever completed one but the traditional Simbang Gabi here is celebrated every 8PM. Literally, gabi. The good thing is, I now have a fighting chance of completing the Simbang Gabi and wish for something. Though I am not sure if my fellow Pinoys who are organizing the masses will be serving the holiday favourites bibingka and puto bumbong. I just hope they will.

But then again, I am most favoured by my family’s decision to fly here and celebrate Christmas in Singapore with me and Giselle. We might be away from most of the people we love but as long as we’re together (and can skype with Gracee and Bong), nothing in this world can drive these good vibes out!!

I truly looooove loooooove you Christmas! You give me immeasurable joy!

Thanksgiving Day 2010

Exactly last year, I celebrated Thanksgiving with my sister in Chicago. It was also around that time when a strong urge to live in another country found me-- although at that time I haven’t figured out where I should relocate. I just knew I had a vast expanse of options other than my home country.

Fast forward to a year, I honestly believe I am exactly where I am supposed to be. Of course I miss home but living far away makes me appreciate what I had and what I have, the good and the bad. I may still be far from living the life I have dreamt of but it doesn’t stop me from savouring every moment of it. Afterall, I have everything and everyone I need now.

I am living happily, one day at a time. And I remain hopeful for the coming days.

To the One who made all these possible, THANK YOU.

Flat Shopping

Haven't been able to blog lately. Home-hunting is really stressing me out, without a doubt. Been searching online, calling property agents (whose fees are too darn expensive), and viewing available units. Over the course of the week, I have already jotted down the key things I need to consider before signing any contract (in order of priority):

1. Look and Feel

I am a minimalist. I like open spaces. And I only take in what is useful and necessary. This is precisely the reason display cabinets rarely work for me. I deco by simply just adding some style to every piece of useful item I buy (ie. even my laundry hangers are uniform and of the same color). Singapore flats are generally small so strategic positioning of the furniture is a must. As for the flat, it should be new or newly renovated and free of any funky odor.

2. Location

Anything within the business district is out as I don't like busy and crowded places. Remote areas are definitely out as well as I need to see living and moving things from time to time to keep my sanity. Outer central area (and a few others) is just fine. One thing nice about Singapore is that everything is within reach, so location for me just means the surroundings and less than-an-hour travel time to my workplace.

3. Budget

This should be number one but I realized I am the type who would shell out an extra $100 ($200 when I get rich =p)  for a more comfortable living space. It's still in the top three as I intend to save / invest more than what I spend.

4. Freedom to entertain guests, or at least family members.

5. Perks

Shops within walking distance. Bus stop or MRT within 150 meters. Peace-loving landlords and neighbors. Or perhaps a park nearby.. Etc.

Attention, referrers.

I Made Friends Today

Naturally, I am not the friendly-type. I am (or at least try to be) kind to 90% of the people I meet but it would take me a tremendous amount of effort to go up to a person I haven’t been introduced to and strike a conversation. Believe it or not, I am shy. Although most of the time, I’ve been mistaken for a snob or a prude. I may appear confident but deep down I cringe at the thought of approaching someone I do not know. Once I get acquainted, the walls go down and the trust goes up.

Unless I am working.

I morph into a different person when I am in business meetings / gatherings. I don’t understand why but shyness deliberately leaves me during these times. I am definitely more comfortable in business situations than in personal interactions. But today was different. I genuinely offered to share my umbrella to a fellow foreigner on my way to work. We shared some basic info during that 10-min walk to our building and I even invited my new friend to have lunch sometime. [Woah! I just asked someone out! But don’t get your hopes up, she’s a girl!!]

I realized that living someplace else can act like a placebo to counter an involuntary social discomfort. If I were home, I would probably just shift my umbrella to her direction without uttering a word. I have a handful of people I am close to in my new home. I am doing great. However, I still miss just bumping into someone I know almost always whenever I am out.. Or getting my free days packed ‘because I need to meet up with a ton of people’ from every aspect of my life. Plus, it is always a good idea to expand my network of good people.

It’s a big world and everyone is going global, so must I.

Weekends in Singapore

My weekends are sacred. I intend to keep them stress-free as much as possible since I only get two precious respite days a week. Unlike almost everyone I know, I do my chores (laundry, ironing, cleaning) on weeknights so I can enjoy my anything-can-happen weekends.

Last Saturday, my sister and I decided to go biking in East Coast Park. Too bad it rained.. And since I was still recuperating from my week-long cough/cold episode, we just settled for our ultimate favourite McDonald’s afternoon break.

[But we really plan to visit the place regularly.]

Sharing some photos we took on one rainy afternoon..

Weekend Location: East Coast Park, Singapore

at S$ 6 / per hour +1 hour free on weekends..

Rent anything with wheels (bike, rollerblades, roller skates, etc)..

There is a reason the loo is called “comfort” room and “rest” room

One thing I love about Singapore is that most of its restrooms are well-maintained and well-equipped. Something that you can expect from a highly developed country. However, I can’t seem to comprehend why there are still individuals who live in a civilized society yet lack the basic toilet etiquette. It is as if they have been brought forth into this world to annoy us all with their nasty toilet habits..?

To my darling office neighbour, I hope you get to ponder on these..

What public restrooms are not:

Photosource: thatsweird.net

1. It is never meant to turn tummies upside down

Flush! If you have to do number two and don’t want to unleash the stink, flush as soon as the “thing” disengages from its source. When you’re done, flush away! And make sure you don’t leave any souvenir for the world to see. I agree that achieving such may have taken a long and tedious process, but trust me, we don’t need your proof of business.

2. It is never a choice between sitting and squatting

Although in very rare occasions (here in Singapore), you may be faced with squat-type ones, but for obvious reasons, the toilet seat is meant for sitting and not to set your foot prints on. If disinfectant and seat liners are not available, you can use the tissue to wipe and line the toilet seat. Point and shoot! When done, flush! And make sure you don’t leave any splatter un-wiped.

3. It is never a skid mark gallery

If we want to see artistic strokes and green-brown-black color gradation, we’ll go to an art gallery or an art museum. Again, we don’t need your proof of business.

4. It is never a smoking area

I know of a few people who like to smoke while relieving themselves. But not everyone can tolerate the smell of cigarette smoke, especially on hair and clothes. So please, give due respect and read the "NO SMOKING" sign.

I haven’t met anyone who is fond of cleaning after another person’s mess so please be an angel and respect everyone’s right to a clean and comfy loo. There is a reason why it is called “comfort” room and “rest” room. Let us all be considerate and let everyone experience a moment comfort and rest when we need them the most.

Discomfort Zone

I have always believed that I’m the “happy-go-lucky” type. This theory has been proven by a series of personality tests I took over the years. I am the type who would easily get bored with routine and comfortable (term to be qualified) situations. I thrive in highly stressful environments. Maybe that’s precisely why every time I planned on slowing down; I end up jaded and depressed.

But now as I contemplate on the decisions I’ve made and the actions I took, I have realized that I have been responsible for all the complications I went through. Yes, I have always been the type who mapped her whole lifetime out but I am also the same person who has always been attracted by spontaneity.. by uncertainties.. by unexplainable situations.. and by the innermost desire to surpass them.

Hence, the big move.

Now I am again within my discomfort zone. I am working for an industry that is completely new to me in a place that is relatively new to me. I have accepted my current job with my knowledge and long years of experience as arsenal. My self-esteem came from believing that since I have done great in my previous assignments, no matter how new they were at first, I can as well be successful in this highly technical industry.

So far so good.

As expected, there are days that I seriously don’t know what to do but collect all the guts to ask my boss (keeping my fingers crossed that he wouldn’t think of me as an idiot) a lot of questions about a project or about the nitty gritty details of a product. There are days that I would just bury my head in prayer for the much needed divine intervention as to how to perform an assignment. Some days I just sit, sigh, and savor the unknown.

I am stressed, like everybody else. But my current stress is not because of the deadlines, nor the pile of tasks to be completed. I am stressed because of a deep desire to earn the respect of the people who hired me. My core is deeply motivated by accomplishment, which I can only envision in my mind as of the moment. But I guess before that vision becomes tangible, I must endure/enjoy the discomfort zone I am in now.

And still, as long as I don’t let what I do define who I am, I am safe.

Well, let’s see what happens.

Where God guides, He provides.        - Vance Havner

The Commuter Story Collection - September 30

I was asked by a friend if I miss driving, or bringing a car for that matter. That simple question made me pause for a while and think. The answer I gave was, ‘it depends.’

It depends on what time you ask me!

Ask me during the day and I’d say NO. However, when the clock strikes 12 and the cabs charge an additional 50% premium on the fare and you don’t have any choice due to scarcity of public transport, I’d seriously blurt out a strong “I miss having a car!” statement even before you think about asking me.

One thing I don’t miss about owning a car, aside from cruisin’ Manila traffic on rush hour, is the maintenance. Car repair is definitely not for me. Maybe I was traumatized when I had been assigned a rusty old car that gave up in the middle of SLEX! Cause of death: old age.

[I had a friend who encountered the same middle-of-the-road production recently. She was driving a Ford Escort.]

The engine had to be overhauled; timing belt and water pump had to be replaced, etc. I returned the car right then and there and resorted to bringing a personal car-- until the company assigned me a ‘newer’ model.

But that was all in the past. Now I am simply enjoying the comforts of commuting (though I am already inclined to apply for an SG Driver’s License real soon).

Finding Work in Singapore

So, you have finally decided to go out of your comfort zone and join the multitude of pinoys making a career mark abroad. If you’re one of the “lucky” ones who have been hired while you’re still in the Philippines or you’ve been offered an expat status, you may stop reading now. Otherwise, for those who are equally lucky but haven’t been found by companies based here, let me share with you some insights and guidelines based on our collective experience:

1. Why?

The first question you may want to ask is “WHY?” and I sternly hope that it’s not just about the money. Singapore is not the land flowing with milk and honey for everyone. It could be for most, but I repeat, NOT for everyone. Contemplate on your core motivation and see whether the move is for you or not. Evaluate your key strengths and check your willingness to compromise “some” comforts to fulfil your dream. There are a lot of trade-offs and you must really prepare yourself for them.

[For those with extra cash, I recommend a short visit and try to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle: Take the bus, go to the suburbs, stay with a local/resident, talk to people.. Try not to act like a tourist on this trip. But NEVER engage in any form of work without a valid pass!!! It’s illegal.]

2. Apply for EPEC – Employment Pass Eligibility Certificate

This certificate, when approved, will allow you to stay in Singapore for a year to look for a job. You may register for an EPEC via:https://epec.mom.gov.sg/epec/index.do

The EPEC application is FREE but you will be asked to submit the following but not limited to:

• Passport
• Education certificates
• Passport-size photo

The EPEC is NOT a guarantee that you will be able to land a job. It is different from a work pass. [The work pass will be secured by the company upon acceptance of the job offer].

Once you get an email approval, your certificate will be sent to the address indicated in your application. THE
CERTIFICATE IS NOT YET YOUR LONG TERM SOCIAL VISIT PASS. You still have to apply for its ‘activation’ viahttps://ltpass.ica.gov.sg/eltsvp/newAppPreLogin.do

The processing for the long term pass would cost you 30SGD and approval would take five to six weeks. It would be best to activate it AT LEAST a month before you leave for Singapore. At this stage, your application for long term pass may still be rejected. But if approved, you will be asked to go for a medical check-up and pay 90SGD for the card.

Some people opted to fly to Singapore while they were having their long term pass processed. This option is possible since you are given 15 to 30 day-social visit pass. You may use this time to apply for work (pending the long term pass approval). Most of the time, people already found jobs even before their long term pass got approved, hence, there was no need to pay 90SGD.

3. Get yourself a Singapore SIM card

Companies are more inclined to call a local number. Your passport will be needed when you purchase a SIM card.

4. Build a strong CV, then customize accordingly

The internet has a wealth of information available that will help you in crafting your CV. And yes, customization is VERY important. In most cases, the companies prioritize employees who meet at least 80% of the criteria posted.

Recruitment managers receive hundreds of applications per day and what better way to get yours noticed is to tailor-fit your CV based on the position and qualifications required. Ensure readability and be as clear and concise as possible.

Remember, never EVER lie on your resume! Also, never EVER use text or chat lingo (and jejemon for goodness’ sake!). Maintain formality and professionalism.

5. Visit job portals, meet head hunters, and participate in job fairs

Job fairs are mostly organized by job portals such as:

http://jobscentral.com.sg/

http://www.jobsdb.com.sg/Singapore

http://www.jobstreet.com.sg 

http://www.monster.com.sg/ 

http://jobs.st701.com/

For professionals and executive positions, head hunters are the way to go. Executive positions are hardly advertised and most of the time, outsourced. Headhunters have tried and tested strategies to make you stand out from the pack. Not to mention the vast expanse of their industry contacts.

Headhunters do not charge the jobseekers, they are commissioned by companies looking for candidates to fill a vacancy. Recruitment companies, on the other hand, charge the jobseeker fees to set them up for interviews and/or help them throughout the job hunting process.

[I’ve heard from friends that paid recruiters also help speed up the process, but I cannot vouch for them since I haven’t tried getting their services. Will do my research and keep you guys posted.]

6. Networking

Referrals are the quickest, and probably the best way to find work. Go around and meet people. Some people may just opt to stay home and do online applications for the whole day to avoid unnecessary expense. There’s nothing wrong with that but trust me, getting people to refer you to job openings is a few steps closer to getting hired.

7. Be 101% prepared for interviews

Do your homework, research on the company before even attempting to set foot on it. Internet is probably the best resource to look up information about the company (whether they have their own website or not). Likewise, ALWAYS research on the exact location and the amount of time needed to get there, especially if you will be taking the public transport. Download maps, if you must and always allot an allowance despite Singapore’s transport efficiency.

8. Negotiate

Some people may advise you to just accept a lower level position than what you previously held in Manila. Again, this is up to you. Based on my experience, most companies prefer the “local experience” however, do not be disheartened. Especially for the first timers, I have always believed that you have already reached the face-to-face interview stage because they know you have something to offer them. They have seen an element in your application that has tickled their interest. Find out what they are after, and then build your case. Before accepting any offer, you may want to ask yourself the following questions:

a. Is this job aligned with my long term career goal?

b. How will this company support my career development?

c. How do I feel about the office environment? Culture? Boss? Workplace distance?

d. Is the work schedule acceptable? (Some companies have 6-days workweek and/or require weekend shifts)

e. Of course, compensation package (with full consideration on the living expense. The amount may seem large when converted in Peso, but Singapore is way expensive compared to Manila). This should give you a basic idea of the salary:

http://www.robertwalters.com/resources/salarysurvey2010/Singapore_Salary_Survey_2010.pdf

9. Relax and be confident

People choose to work in Singapore for different reasons—and it is not always about money. Landing a job may take you a day or a month or sometimes, even a year. You may hear people tell you “if you do this, you’ll be this or if you do that, you’ll get that.” It depends. THERE IS NO PATTERN.

So what if it takes time for you to find work. I always tell people to enjoy their experience here. Do not fear rejection. It is natural that we can’t always get what we want when we want it. Not making the cut doesn’t always mean you are under qualified.

10. Pray – Need I say more?

My experience so far has been rewarding. Occasionally I still miss the comforts of having help to do my laundry, cook my food, and do the basic house chores. But ask me if the move is worth all the sacrifices, I’d give you a definite and resounding YES.

Love.. The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection

(No.. not that emo-inducing, spine-tingling feeling whenever that someone special walks by..)

Love.. Everyone’s favorite subject matter. Love is our ultimate reason for being.

In the bible, Christ teaches us how to love perfectly despite our imperfect state.. to love beyond our human capacity—To give love that transcends our predetermined boundaries. Jesus gave us His greatest commandment, that is, to love God above all and to love one another.

To love God with all our being is to completely surrender to His will. He doesn’t want an empty worship nor a lip service, He wants all of us. He doesn’t want just an hour of prayer, He wants to be present in our workplace, our commute, lunch break, when we do our laundry, when we’re out with friends--all our activities. There is no such thing as compartmentalized life when we decide to fully love God. To give ourselves to God is to allow Him to work in us and through us. Likewise, to radiate this love wherever we go and whatever we do.

To love one another is easier said than done. How can we possibly love our boss who torments us day and night (even in our dreams)? Our nosy colleague who constantly seeks our failure? How can we love a friend who betrayed us? A disrespectful cab driver?

I’ve read somewhere that Christian love is not a feeling, but a lifestyle. I guess this means that we must do all things out of love. Demanding, don’t you think? But imagine this: if we can love those who make us miserable, then we can love anyone. If we can understand someone with opposite belief as ours, then we can understand anyone. If we can show compassion no matter how inconvenient it may seem, then compassion becomes natural.

To love like Jesus is to let Him to love on our behalf. This only becomes possible when we give our entirety to Him. When we surrender, we accept His love. His love is then planted in our hearts to be carried out to one another. And in loving one another, we express our love to God.

Indeed when perfected, God’s LOVE goes around, comes around.

Investing Early

The end of the month usually equates to bills payment. However, instead of moping on the high cost of living in this lifetime, I decided to focus on the positive side of bills payment which included my investment policies.

I started investing on a forced-savings plan nine years ago, right after college graduation. Using 80% of the graduation money I received from my family and the educational insurance company, I signed my first endowment policy. Around that time, my monthly payments were measly Php 1,000/mo. Just enough deduction from my then, Php 10,000/mo. salary.

As my income increased over the years, so did my penchant for looking up higher yield investment. It’s a paradox since I am not really a finance person. I fall asleep reading my FinMan books when I was taking my MBA. In fact, I really don’t like talking about money and most people are actually surprised when they learn how religious I am when it comes to saving. But having trusted friends and family giving free consultations make investing easy.

The rules of thumb are, as your earnings increase, your investment should follow. Likewise, be sure to ask questions and get all the necessary details before you entrust your hard-earned moolah. Be on-guard against selling spiels, if they sound too-good-to-be-true, they definitely are. Read books. Lastly, the amount you invest should hurt a bit, you’ll get used to it anyway. Several times it may ask you to pass up that gorgeous pair of shoes but you’ll be surprised on the value of the returns in due time. Remember, eyes on the prize.

I still have a long way to go but I am really thankful that my parents taught me the value of investing early. The last contract I signed was two years ago, it’s time for a new one.