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MY EXPERIENCE | MY EXPERTISE

Tag: value

  • Live Sellers | The art of SSD 1-2-3

    Live Sellers | The art of SSD 1-2-3

    Live sellers are people who do live videos on social media such as Facebook and TikTok and sell their products. They do this by showing the products they are selling, talking about details such as sizes and where can it be used, and some models the use of it. People who watch the video buy by doing what I would like to call the art of ssd 1-2-3

    SSD 1 2 3. You do not know what this means but it is a popular term in our house. It is a joke that I made and followed by my daughters. The joke is made towards my wife. My wife, in the past few weeks, had been doing SSD 1 2 3 on her phone. She had been constantly viewing an online seller on TikTok selling jeans-type dresses. She bought a lot already from the seller for herself and our daughters. She had made it their staple outfit. To buy from the seller, it is not just a simple add-to-cart and checking out like on other shopping apps like Amazon, Lazada, Shopify or Shoppee. The initial step is SSD 1 2 3.

    Screenshot done. 1 2 3.

    Online Live Sellers Availability Impact

    Everyone must have bought something online, one way or another. This could be through a website, shopping apps, or social media. We go to a specific site like Amazon to search for something we want to buy. Or on a shopping app and look for the best deals. But now, buying is made more available through social media. When we encounter a seller selling online, and if we are interested in the product, we watch the video and buy.

    As for my story in the introduction, my wife watches the seller sell live on TikTok. The seller shows the jeans-type dresses, provides details like sizes and texture, and waits for anyone to comment and say “mine”. Once a person says it, the seller would ask the person who wants to buy to take a screenshot while she is holding the dress. The taken picture is then sent to the seller as part of checking out. Payment and delivery details are then discussed.

    Now, this makes it easy for anyone. More people watching the video will make the seller’s video available to more people. The more the seller is active, the more people it attracts. And with us on our phones watching videos and reels, no sooner than later we encounter such videos and could get hooked.

    Buying just because

    With this availability to us, we usually think that what is being sold is something that we need. Scrolling through our social media, seeing someone on live and selling, getting our attention, makes us first think that there might be something here that we like. And at some point, true to the influence, we do think we need it, or at least like it, then buy whatever the seller is offering.

    We make up various reasons for us to get it. A new dress to wear for work or for going out. A new equipment or tool that could help us do some of the work we do better. A nice item that is so cute and we think we should have it because it is nice to have.

    Personally, this is what I think. The impact of the availability of online selling makes us buy more, even if we do not need more. The mere presence of these online sellers and platforms available to us conditions our brains to purchase because we create the reasons in our heads that we need it.

    Not all, of course, at buying just because. Some really need that stuff. Some are really looking for something to wear for an occasion or something they can use because the keyboard they are using is not working anymore (for example)

    So it is a question of when the reason to buy became clear. Was it before scrolling through social media? Or was it after? Are we purposefully looking for what we need (or want) or we are just influenced and made out of reason because we saw something that made us want to buy it?

    Spending and Saving

    There is actually nothing wrong with buying. It actually helps the economy grow. The more transactions and exchanges that happen and the more money that is in circulation, the greater the impact on more people. It creates jobs. It creates money. It creates a world where more people could thrive.

    However, when we spend, and only spend, without thinking of saving or investing first, eventually leads us to a feeling of unhappiness, unfulfilling life, and the possibility of depression. You see, after working more than 40 hours a week and seeing your bank account still zero after a few months gives a feeling of poverty. A feeling that whatever work you do, you will never get rich or wealthy. A nagging feeling that will suddenly explode when something happens but you don’t have the money to use. Because, well, you spent all of it buying without any thought of saving or investing for the future.

    So, the way I see it, we can buy. Purchase what we want. Whatever it is, no one should judge is for it. But, if we spend everything we have, that I think is too much. If everything that we earn in a paycheck is used to buy whatever we want, then it becomes too much. Caveat though, this is not about people living paycheck to paycheck. This is not about people earning just enough to support their lives. Those are more about needs. The wants is what I am referring to. Spending all of our paychecks on wants and letting our bank account stay at zero will for sure give us a sad feeling eventually.

    It is okay to buy whatever. Just pay yourself first

    We buy things we want. No one should and can tell us what to buy. If we want something, it is we because we put a value on it and that is our own. No one can tell us that we are wasting money on things. It is our own money that we use. We get to decide what to do with it. No one else.

    The issue now arises if we just buy without paying ourselves first. If we just spend without setting aside money for savings or investing some of it, we end up in a situation where we are doomed in the future. When we exhaust every earning that we get without putting some money in the bank or investing some of it, there will come a time when we are not free to do what we want, in an emergency situation like hospitalization that we can not finance, or just as simple as a feeling of sadness because, after years of working, we have nothing to show in our bank accounts.

    When we only think of now, YOLO or FOMO, we forget that we still have a future in which we are going to live. In that future, if we do not have our finances fixed and we are not prepared for something to happen, then we will not live a happy and fulfilling life. This is because without such good finances, we are chained to the shackles of our jobs, other people’s whims, and life that will eventually get us.

    So, pay yourself first. Save. Invest. Then buy whatever you want. Protect your future. Enjoy the present.

  • Being Late | Being Disrespectful

    Being Late | Being Disrespectful

    The biggest disrespect of all is being late. When there is an agreed time for two people to meet, or a group of people to gather, for whatever reasons, arriving late disrespects the other person. Why? For the simple reason that time is precious for everyone that once it has passed, no one can take it back. Losing time from waiting for someone to start a certain activity is like taking a piece of that person and dumping it into nothing.

    Now, we may think that there are various reasons for people to be late. Who we are to judge. Everyone encounters the same problem every now and then. A problem at home that needs to be attended to. Traffic jams that we really can not get out from. Or simply waking up late because of long hours at work we put in the previous night, or partying. But, does this happen everyday? Does this all nuances in life happen every single time in our life?

    Well, we might say that it does. There are people that are so challenged in life that they are having difficulties getting out of these mishaps. As much as they want to, they can’t seem to find a way out and just learned to live with it. They learned to accept it and take it one day at a time. But let’s take that out from the discussion. Let’s just focus on those who are chronic late.

    Habitually Late

    I have encountered two people who are habitually late. These people have no real reason. They just are chronically late. They arrive at least 15 minutes or the most 30 minutes late after the agreed time. There are no reason. Just a simple apology. Sometimes, there is no apology at all. It is what it is.

    So I started observing them. During the time I was checking up on one of them on their whereabouts, the person lied. This person said that he/she is on his/her way. About 5 minutes away from the agreed place to meet. However, that was not true. Multiple instances of being late and observing by asking the person, and understanding where this person is coming from, showed that it was a lie. The 5 minutes away is actually 30 minutes away. Which means, assuming where this person was coming from, had left his or her house 5 minutes before the agreed time to meet. Why even do that knowing it will take him or her about 45 minutes to get to the agreed place? This person did not provide any reason. Just said an empty sorry. That’s it.

    The other person, and thanks to the power of technology, we called on video. Waiting for this person multiple times, we discovered that on the time we agreed to meet, that is the time this person prepares. Takes shower, get dressed. Happened multiple times. Why even do that?

    Time is a valuable thing. That’s a cliche. But it is true. We value our own time. Which means those who are habitually late are also thinking of their own time. What about other people’s time? Have they ever thought of how others value their own time too? If we consider that time is important for us, it should be the same for others. In a nutshell, if someone is not giving importance to what we value, it becomes disrespectful.

    We all have things to do on our own. We all have things happening in our own lives. That is why when we need to collaborate with other people, it is important to agree first with the when. When will it be and how long will it be. This way, we know how much of our precious time will be used so we could allocate that portion of our life and make adjustments on the rest.

    And if other people are late, then we lose that time for ourselves waiting and shortening the time we could have used to accomplish a certain tasks. A quick example of setting up a practice for a performance that is agreed to start, let’s say at 8:00 PM and to end at 10:00 PM. If other people arrived at 8:30 PM, we already lose 30 minutes of that time. Why do people do this?

    Value other people’s time

    If we value our own time, we should be thinking other people’s time too. Considering how important our time is, it must be important to other people too. Now, if we view this as we only value our own time and not others’, it only means that we do not care. It only means that we can be forgiven and other people will understand. Isn’t that being selfish? By thinking only of ourselves and not others?

    I hope that we get to realize this that time is valuable for everyone. No one can not get it back. We have a finite amount of it. We can do whatever we want with it which is why we choose to do what is important to us. And in that note, if we are habitually late, it just means that we are not giving any importance to other people. Whatever the reason may be, it just means that we prioritize something else. And if that is more important than the people we are meeting with, then maybe it is okay. Just keep in mind that that only means we do not value them as much as what we chose to do in that moment.

  • Need first, then the want

    Need first, then the want

    Smartwatches. Big screen TVs. Luxury bags. High-end and latest smartphones. These are some of the things we buy that we usually justify by making excuses that we need it.

    We need it to exercise. We need it to watch better. We need it because it has great leather quality. We need it because our current phone is slow.

    But do we really? Do we really need it? Do we need to get that smartwatch, that big TV, that luxury bag, that smartphone?

    Or are we just buying because it is the trend and we want to be cool?

    What we need to always consider when we buy things is our goal. What do we want to do and what are the things that would help us get there.

    Consider the need (purpose of the thing) and then the want (which one are we more inclined to buy) when we purchase.

    The human desire for material possessions is often driven by a complex interplay of factors, including practical utility, social status, and personal gratification. In today’s consumerist society, we are constantly bombarded with messages that link the latest gadgets, fashionable accessories, and high-end products with notions of success and happiness. Whether it’s the allure of a state-of-the-art smartphone promising seamless connectivity and advanced features, a sleek smartwatch designed to track fitness and streamline daily tasks, or a luxurious designer bag that exudes sophistication and elegance, the temptation to acquire these items can be strong.

    In a world where the pursuit of material possessions often intersects with the desire for personal advancement and fulfillment, many individuals find themselves navigating a delicate balance between the tangible benefits of ownership and the psychological satisfaction derived from possessing coveted items. The modern consumer landscape, characterized by rapid technological advancements and a constant stream of new, enticing products, presents a compelling narrative of aspiration and desire, weaving together threads of innovation, social influence, and individual identity.

    At the heart of this complex tapestry of consumerism lies a fundamental human inclination towards seeking tangible symbols of achievement and social belonging. The possession of coveted items extends beyond their intrinsic functionalities, encompassing deeper layers of personal expression and societal belonging. The latest smartphone, for instance, embodies not only cutting-edge technology but also a statement of contemporary lifestyle and connectivity. Similarly, a fashionable accessory or a high-end product serves as a tangible representation of one’s aspirations and lifestyle choices, offering a means of self-expression and social affiliation.

    Yet, amidst the allure of material possessions, it is essential to consider the broader implications of consumer behavior and its impact on individual well-being and environmental sustainability. The relentless cycle of materialistic pursuits can foster a culture of excess, leading to potential ramifications for personal finances, environmental conservation, and societal values. Therefore, while acknowledging the allure of acquiring desirable possessions, it is imperative to approach consumption with mindfulness and conscientiousness, considering the long-term effects on both personal fulfillment and the greater ecosystem in which we exist.

    It’s crucial to pause and reflect on the underlying motivations driving our purchasing decisions. Are we genuinely fulfilling a specific need, or are we succumbing to the allure of trends and societal pressures? This introspection can provide valuable insights into our consumer behavior and help us align our purchases with our values and aspirations.

    In the fast-paced world of consumerism, where trends and societal pressures hold significant sway, taking a moment to reflect on the reasons guiding our purchasing decisions becomes paramount. It’s within this introspective pause that we can discern whether our choices are driven by genuine need or whether they are influenced by external forces. Understanding the drivers behind our consumer behavior allows us to make more conscious and meaningful purchasing decisions that align with our personal values and aspirations. By engaging in this level of introspection, we gain valuable insights that can lead to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven approach to consumption.

    When contemplating a purchase, it’s essential to carefully evaluate the underlying purpose behind it. By discerning the genuine need driving the desire for a particular item, we can make more informed and mindful choices. Whether it’s the goal of staying fit and active, creating an immersive entertainment experience, expressing personal style, or enhancing productivity, clarifying our intentions can serve as a guiding compass in the realm of consumption.

    Moreover, distinguishing between needs and wants can help us prioritize meaningful expenditures that align with our long-term objectives and values. By considering the practical utility and intrinsic value of an item in relation to our aspirations, we can navigate the enticing landscape of consumer goods with greater clarity and purpose. Ultimately, the pursuit of mindful consumption entails a conscious effort to evaluate our motivations and align our purchases with our genuine needs and aspirations.

    By consciously differentiating between these categories, individuals can develop a more refined understanding of their own consumption patterns and financial decisions. This awareness fosters the ability to prioritize expenditures that are not only practical but also genuinely meaningful within the context of one’s long-term objectives and personal values. Embracing this approach can provide a clear framework for navigating the myriad choices presented in the consumer marketplace, empowering individuals to make informed and intentional purchasing decisions.

    Furthermore, by evaluating the practical utility and emotional resonance of an item in relation to our aspirations, we can begin to cultivate a more purposeful and fulfilling relationship with consumption. This deliberate contemplation allows us to transcend the allure of fleeting trends or superficial desires, guiding us towards investments that truly resonate with our core values and contribute to our overall well-being. In essence, the pursuit of mindful consumption becomes a journey of self-discovery and self-expression, as we align our material acquisitions with our genuine needs and aspirations.

    In essence, the endeavor to embrace mindful consumption speaks to the power of introspection and intentionality, urging us to critically examine our motivations and to forge a harmonious relationship between our purchasing behavior and our authentic desires. It embodies a call to seek value beyond the mere acquisition of goods, encouraging a holistic approach that enriches our lives in meaningful ways.

  • BALANCE

    BALANCE

    Work-life balance. What’s your definition?

    Does it mean spending time equally between work and your personal life?

    Does it mean not doing work when you are not on shift?

    Does it mean spending time with your loved ones just as much as you spend time at work? How about time for yourself? Is it part of it?

    The President/CEO of my previous company spends all his waking hours working.

    One of my previous bosses works during the weekends.

    A friend of mine spends most of her time with friends at work instead of her family.

    And someone else, somewhere, we don’t know what he or she is spending his or her time for.

    To me, work-life balance is a very misunderstood concept. It says balance which means equally distributed. Equal amount of weights. Equal amount of importance. Equal amount of attention. Equal amount of time.

    Most of us thinks that there is no work-life balance because we always work, work, work. Do overtime because there are a lot of things we need to do.

    Some even do weekends just to complete their tasks.

    But, keep in mind, that wherever we allocate our time, whatever things we do with our time, those are the things we consider important in the present moment.

    If you rather work longer hours, because that’s what you are inclined to do, go ahead.

    If you rather watch Netflix, go ahead. Up to you.

    If you rather go out with your friends, go ahead. Just save two bottles for me. 

    There is no such thing as work-life balance. There are just priorities.

    Before, when I was a customer service representative up to the time that I became RTA supervisor, I spent most of my time working and going out with friends from work. That’s what I like. That’s my priority, that time.

    And in effect, I created long-lasting relationships with people. They had been my mentors and we are still in contact up to this day (that was 15 years ago!). And I have progressed very well in my career thanks to them.

    But, what did I lose? The time I could have spent with my wife, and my son, and save up for our future. We went into a very dark spiral 15 years ago and I almost lost them.

    Because they were not my priority.

    So, think. What is your priority? I know someone from our team who has family as priority and finding the right amount of time to spend at work and at home. (Nice!)

    Things you can do

    • Don’t aim for balance. You’ll just get stressed out thinking you have not given enough time to different aspects of your lives.
    • Set a goal. Very clear goal may it be your career, your finances, your family, up to you. What do you want to achieve?
    • Identify what you need to do. Create the steps you need to do to get there. Baby steps will really go a long way.

    When you identify your goal…

    When you identify your goal and have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve, you set a compelling direction for your life. This sense of purpose can provide motivation and guidance as you navigate through the ups and downs of your journey.

    When you have identified your priorities…

    After identifying your priorities, you can effectively allocate your time, energy, and resources. This deliberate focus allows you to concentrate on the aspects of your life that matter most to you, fostering a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.

    When you know what steps you need to take… Then, you have created a real balance in your life.

    When you know what steps you need to take to move towards your aspirations, you empower yourself with the tools for achievement. Each action you take becomes purposeful and contributes to the realization of your ambitions.

    Then, you have created a real balance in your life. By aligning your actions with your goals and priorities, you cultivate a harmonious equilibrium that nurtures your well-being and sustains your progress.

    Work-life balance is indeed a complex and often misunderstood concept. It’s not simply about spending an equal amount of time on work and personal life or avoiding work outside of specific hours. It encompasses a multitude of factors, including the allocation of time to loved ones, the pursuit of personal interests, and the maintenance of physical and mental well-being. It’s about identifying and prioritizing what truly matters to us at a particular phase in our lives.

    It’s not uncommon for many of us to feel overwhelmed by work demands, leading to overtime and even working during weekends. In some cases, this may stem from a genuine inclination towards work, while in others, it could be driven by external pressures. Regardless of the reasons, our allocation of time and the activities we engage in reflect our present priorities. You emphasized that whatever we choose to do with our time signifies its importance at the moment, whether it’s investing extra hours at work, unwinding with a Netflix binge, or enjoying social outings.

    Your personal reflection on your own journey from being a customer service representative to an RTA supervisor underscores the impact of your priorities on your relationships and career progression. You gained valuable mentorship and lasting connections through spending time with colleagues, yet it came at the expense of valuable time with your family. This introspective realization serves as a poignant reminder of the profound effects of our choices and priorities on our personal and professional spheres.

    Ultimately, work-life balance should not be viewed as an elusive state of equilibrium to be achieved. Instead, it calls for introspection and deliberate prioritization. Your advice to refrain from pursuing balance in itself but rather focusing on clear goals, identifying priorities, and outlining actionable steps aligns with the notion of creating a meaningful and personalized balance in life. This approach enables individuals to channel their efforts toward what truly matters to them, be it career advancement, financial stability, family time, or personal pursuits. By aligning actions with identified priorities and goals, individuals can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and purpose, thereby nurturing a genuine balance in their lives.