The Top 5 In-Demand Jobs in the Philippines by 2020

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Among countries in Southeast Asia, our country is one of the lowest in employment rates due to job mismatch. So to guide our future professionals on what career to take in college, here are the jobs that are still in-demand by 2020. 

1. Aircraft Pilot/Navigator/Flight Engineer

Air travel is expected to increase in the next decades so the airline companies are taking advantage of this surge. Part of the plan is to acquire more planes so the need for staffs also grows. It will take at least 4 years to earn a degree so it is best to take an aviation course now.

2. Computer Systems Analyst

It can’t be denied that businesses rely more on computers for a more efficient and systematic delivery of products and services. Because of this, the need for IT pros like the makers and designers of computer systems also increases. To become a systems analyst, you need to be good in logic and math and earn a degree in computer science.

3. Computer Programmer
Unlike computer systems analysts that work on both hardware and software, programmers only focus on the latter. They create games, programs, and apps that are in-demand for this generation. To be a certified code expert, you need to earn a degree in I.T.

4. Civil Engineer

When it comes to the basic needs of human like shelter, there is no shortage in job vacancies. Builders like civil engineers are hired in large-scale construction, business, or infrastructure development. To be a licensed builder, you need to take a 5-year course and pass the board exam.

5. Accountant

As long as the money is used in our daily activities, the need for accountants will always be there. To be certified, you need a degree in accountancy and pass the board exam. But even if you don’t have a license, you can still work as a bookkeeper.

Aside from these professions, posts for Business Process Outsourcing companies and skilled workers will still be in-demand by the year 2020.

Do you have more insights about this issue? Please feel free to share your thoughts on the comments section below. 

Eight Effective Ways to Fight Procrastination at Work

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It’s not every day that people are always in the mood to do great things. There are just times that people feel like they don’t want to work or just get tired of doing things over and over again. These feelings often lead to procrastination.

Both neophytes and experienced workers have a tendency to procrastinate at times. This is because of many factors that trigger distraction and lack of focus.

If procrastination affects your productivity very badly, then do something to correct your habit. Do not allow less important things hamper your achievement of career growth.

What You Should Do

What specific things should you do to improve your focus toward your work? Heed the following tips:

1. Set your daily goals – Make sure that you have already prepared a to-do list right before you start your day in the workplace. If possible, you may put a checklist of your tasks for the day on your table. This way, you’ll be forced to accomplish all of your daily assignments. You may also use a planner so you won’t miss a single activity or any of your target. 

2. Come and leave on time – Always anticipate the problems that may affect your attendance. As much as possible, come early so you can still have enough time for some other things. This helps you focus more on your core tasks.

3. Practice proper prioritization – Know the deadlines of your projects so you can deliver the output on time. Also, have a good estimation of project completion. With good prioritization as your technique, you’ll be able to manage your time wisely and simplify your working pattern.

4. Know and fear the consequences of procrastination – Knowing the outcome of doing less significant things is but a helpful way to help you concentrate on your duties. Always remind yourself to fulfill your duties well so that you can reap positive results.

5. Identify your distractions and stay away from them – Know which things and activities waste your time so much. If they’re digital (social media or other web sites), then exert an effort to have them inaccessible on your end.

6. Get ready with your stuff – Even before you sit on your workstation, be sure that you have with you (placed near you) your glass of water or coffee, notebook, pen, tissue paper, and other things that you may need while working. This helps save time and minimizes distraction from other things.

7. Start with the “worst” task – Of your many activities, you may begin with the most difficult one. This will challenge yourself to work fast so that you can work on some other things.

8. Choose the right environment – Work setting plays a vital role in your productivity. Consider who you’ll be working with, as well as the presence (or more likely absence) of other objects, such as TV and radio. 

How about you? What do you do to combat the useless act of procrastination at work? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

How Can Young Professionals Maximize Their Free Time?

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Young professionals have enough time for everything, something that others envy. Since they have yet to form their own family, they can grab opportunities that will broaden their horizons and allow them to grow.

In your 20s and working on weekdays, sometimes you get bored on weekends or even after your shift. You become tired of watching movies, reading books, biking, blogging, accessing Facebook and Twitter accounts, and working freelance jobs.

How do you fight boredom, then? Are there things you can do that will not cause you mental and physical stress?

Suggested Ways

Are you looking for ways to maximize your free time? Below is a list of diversions you can embark on and make yourself busy.

• Trainings – Join trainings in writing, culinary, and more.
• Short Course – You can enroll in a short course to improve your skills or learn new ones. You may explore web design or game development.
• Photography – If you want to gain or boost your skills in photography or videography, enroll online.
• Arts and Crafts Workshop – Want to learn paper crafts, embroidery, sewing, weaving, painting, or gardening? Find workshops to learn the basics and specifics.
• Financial Seminar – If your job involves complex computations, join related seminars to gain tips, learn techniques, and know current trends or concepts.

Stuff to Ponder

Consider a few factors before joining any of the mentioned activities.

• Proximity of the location – Make sure the activity occurs near your home or workplace if not online. This will save you fuel and money.
• Family – Even if you are single or living with relatives, bond or communicate with them always. This will help you keep a good relationship with them.
• Personal health – Do not sacrifice your health for better prospects. Consult a doctor often for a medical examination.
• Time management – Carry your organizer and notes to keep your appointments and put things in priority.

Use time well. Take part in worthwhile activities to sharpen your competitive edge.

Top 7 Places to Pig Out in San Pedro, Laguna

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Are you looking for affordable places to dine around San Pedro, Laguna? Here are the top seven restos where you can find delicious dishes below 200 pesos.

1. Katsudon Japanese Food Hauz

Satisfy your cravings with authentic Japanese dishes such as ramen, katsudon, tonkatsu, ebi curry, and okonomiyaki. Price ranges from 100 to 140 pesos. The store is located at Pacita Avenue or “Main Road” right beside Sinangag Express.

2. Ting Qua Qua Restaurant

Enjoy the mouth-watering goodness of Filipino-Chinese dishes like garlic crispy pata, chop suey, litid guisado, and different kinds of pancit. The store is located beside Puregold San Pedro.

3. Maestro Fedeli Café

Quench your thirst for coffee with ice blended, iced coffee, and hot drinks as well as light meals like cookies, pasta, and sandwiches. The store is located at 7^th Street, Pacita Avenue.

4. Pixie’s Sinugba

Fill up your tummy with sinugba or grilled dishes such as inihaw na boneless bangus, inihaw na rellenong bangus, inihaw na liempo, and inihaw na tuna belly. You can find it at 8^th Street, Pacita Avenue.

5. Tuding’s Original Porkchop

Savor the taste of every pinoy’s favorite PorkSiLog or crispy porkchop, fried rice, and egg at a very affordable price. You can find it at Mabini Street in Barangay San Antonio.

6. Sinangag Express

Indulge your taste buds with garlic fried rice 24/7. Choose from the wide variety of “SiLog” dishes at Augusto Commercial Plaza Building, Pacita Avenue.

7. Pancit Maciang

If you want something unique, take on the challenge of pancit bihon with fried egg and banana catsup. You can find it at A. Mabini Street corner Garcia Street in Barangay Nueva.

Have you tried any of these restos? Do you know other places to dine around San Pedro? You can share your thoughts and experiences on the comments section below.

Historic Corregidor Island: An Enchanting Go-to Destination

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Japanese occupation of the Philippines left a scar that both history and time could not erase. It may be the last time a foreign power invaded the Pearl of the Orient Seas but that made Filipino warriors’ courageousness and patriotism grow much stronger.

Despite its tininess, the island of Corregidor played a vital role during the invasion and attack of Japanese forces. In fact, its situation at the mouth of the Manila Bay helped it protect the city as it became an armory of weapons. It even became a site of a battle and its defeat marked the fall of not just the Philippines but the entire Asia.

Unlike other local places devastated by the second world war, Corregidor had easily picked up the pieces. It had moved forward while preserving the memories of the past. Today, this tadpole-shaped island is considered as a top tourist spot in the country.

Why should you visit Corregidor? What makes it an ideal place for a relaxing getaway?

Going to Corregidor is more than just a wonderful sightseeing experience. It’s more of retracing the footsteps of our little-known heroes. It’s about looking back at a forgotten page of history—a page that narrates the bravery, sacrifice, and heroism of the island’s defenders.

The island is just a little over one hour of travel from the seaside boulevard in Pasay City. A ferry usually carries travelers. Aboard the ferry, travelers’ journey begins with the views of the Manila Bay and the city’s skyline.

Many exciting things await in the island, which was previously named Fort Mills and even got the monikers The Rock, and the Gibraltar of the East. Specifically, tourists are up for the following perks:

• Expert local guide – As soon as the ferry reaches the island, a local guide will tour the visitors while telling stories about the place. These stories highlight the role of the island during the Japanese invasion.

• Tranvia (also tramvia) ride – This kind of transportation is just ideal for a tour. Since tranvias have open sides, tourists can just look around and take photos while the vehicle is in motion.

• Historical places and pieces – The island is home to different historic relics, ruins, and structures. There can be found the barrack ruins, large cannons, the Japanese Memorial Garden, Battery Way, hospital laterals, and pieces of statues.

• Malinta tunnel – This is yet the best place that is greatly associated with the island. Not only this tunnel helped protect warriors against air attack but it also served as the seat of Philippine Commonwealth Government under the leadership of Pres. Manuel L. Quezon.

• Lighthouse (on Topside) – It is one of the oldest landmarks built that still exist in the island of Corregidor.

Many other things can prove why Corregidor is such a good tourist destination for Filipinos.

7 Reasons Grown-Ups Should Try Coloring Books and Apps

Coloring is the new craze for grown-ups. Whether it’s printed books or through mobile apps, adults can’t stop being addicted to them. Here are some of the reasons:

1. It helps express what’s in the heart and mind when words aren’t enough to describe trauma, bereavement, or depression.

2. It improves fine motor skills and vision that can help delay or prevent age-related health issues like dementia.

3. It helps reduce stress and anxiety.

4. It lets the brain focus better.

5. It can be a tool for socializing and bonding with your friends and family.

6. It can help rediscover the real you.

7. It can be used as free decoration.

For starters, here are the top books and apps you can buy from bookstores and download from Google Play and iTunes:

Coloring Books

1. “Secret Garden: An Inky Quest & Coloring Book” by Johanna Basford

2. “The Mindfulness Coloring Book: Anti-Stress Art Therapy for Busy People” by Emma Farrarons

3. “Flower Designs Coloring Book (Volume 1)” by Jenean Morrison

4. “Color Me Calm” by Art Therapist Lacy Mucklow and Illustrator Angela Porter

5. “Coloring Mandalas 1” by Art Therapist Susanne Fincher

Mobile Apps

1. Colorfy by Fun Games For Free








2. ColorDiary by App Labs Games

3. momi coloring book by momi

4. Coloring Book - Mandala HD by Smart&Fun Apps

5. Mandalas Coloring by Lilelmi

Bonus Info: What Your Coloring Style Says about You 

Here’s how your choice of colors define your personality according to Color Psychologist Leonine Burdett:

• Bright Primary Colors - You’re great fun and love to be surrounded by people. You have a childlike quality and tend to be a people pleaser who suffers with bouts of self-doubt.

• Cool Blues, Purples, and Pinks - People drawn to this more subdued palette are reserved and considered. They think carefully before acting and plan ahead. They can be perceived as aloof, even if this isn’t the case.

• Vibrant Reds and Oranges - You’re outgoing, passionate, and extremely exuberant. Your friends see you as eccentric yet loyal. You have great self-belief – though others often see you as being bossy and a bit of a know-it-all.

• Black and White - Everything is clear-cut with you: it’s either right or wrong. You have great inner strength and that takes you a long way in life. You tend to run roughshod over others to reach your goals. About 10 percent of people fit into this group and they tend to be leaders.

• Blazes of One Color - The shades you choose reflect as much about what you feel is missing in your life as reflecting your personality. For example, if you color great swatches of orange, then passion may be something you crave.

Photo Credits: Amazon.com and Google Play

World’s 10 Most Influential CEOs and Leaders

Can you not find enough reason to stir yourself while you chase your career goals or at least brighten up your day? Maybe you need stories on people who caused a positive impact on others’ lives and changed the world better.

Listed below are the most powerful modern-day business people and leaders (in any order) and their vital global contributions.

1)   Bill Gates, Co-founder and former Microsoft CEO

He formed the world’s largest computer software firm. Aside from this, he writes books and gives to many charitable activities worldwide. Microsoft products and his kind acts continue to touch and change people’s lives.

2)   Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church

Leading a religious sect with over 1.2 billion believers is a huge task. As pope, he set many firsts, but such did not go beyond Catholic teachings. He does good works that make him a good leader and a fearless reformer. He listens to people, reaches out to the faithful, befriends non-Catholics, and leads by example.

3)   Mark Zuckerberg, Co-founder and CEO of Facebook

Despite his young age, he has influenced the world so much by creating a social networking site. Despite being a college dropout, he strove hard to make his dreams come true. His impact is obvious on Facebook as netizens go abuzz on the Internet.

4)   Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway 

He is one of the richest persons on the planet. A philanthropist, too, he once pledged to give 99 percent of his wealth to philanthropic causes. As a leader, he is popular for his values and philosophy on good communication, passion, workforce and time management, planning, patience, transparency, and fairness.

5)   Steve Jobs, Co-founder and former CEO of Apple, Inc. – He was a college dropout, yet this did not hamper his skill and passion for innovation and technology. His products affected today’s way of living and remained his legacy.

Other influential leaders and entrepreneurs are:

6)   Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon.com

7)   Bill Clinton, Founder of The Clinton Foundation

8)   Malala Yousafzai, Advocate for education rights

9)   Barack Obama, US President

10)     Sam Walton, Former CEO of Wal-Mart

Top 7 Places to Spend Family Weekend Getaways near The Metro

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Are you planning for a family getaway but only got a weekend to spend? Check out these top 7 sweet escapes near Metro Manila where you can bond and relax with your loved ones.

1. Tagaytay

If you want to escape from the hot weather in Manila, Tagaytay is the nearest and the most budget-friendly alternative to Baguio. In less than two hours, you can feel the cold weather, eat good food, and enjoy leisure activities with your family or friends.

2. Zambales

For adventure-seekers and nature lovers, you can go hiking at Anawangin Cove or swim your hearts out at the white beach of Capones Island. There’s no electricity in Anawangin so be ready if you want to spend a night here.

3. Laguna

Please your eyes with lush greenery and artistic architecture. You can also enjoy various activities like biking, wakeboarding, shopping, and bird watching all in one place, Nuvali. It’s just an hour away from Manila via SLEX.

4. Corregidor

Learn history while travelling with your family. Corregidor is just a ferry away from Manila. Aside from the historical tour, you can also enjoy hiking, kayaking, bird watching, zip line, night lateral visit of the tunnels, and ghost hunting.

5. Bulacan

Challenge yourself for a weekend of eco-adventure at Biak na Bato National Park. Famous attractions include the Aguinaldo Cave, Bahay Paniki Cave, Madlum Cave and River, Tanggapan Cave, Tilandong Falls, and many more.

6. Batangas

If you want a peaceful escape, try Burot Beach along the shores of Calatagan, Batangas. First timers can indulge in its pristine waters, semi-fine sand, and stunning rock formations.

7. Nueva Ecija

Visit Minalungao National Park and be amazed at the towering limestone formations along Penaranda River. Fun activities include fishing, swimming, camping, spelunking, cliff diving.

Do you know other weekend getaways near Metro Manila? You can share your fun adventures at the comments section below.

Ways to Achieve and Maintain a Work-Life Balance

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Proper prioritization between personal and professional lives is but a challenge for many workers, much greater for those having their own family. While some may just think that this is an elusive goal that is rarely achieved, some consider it an impossible thing to happen. What’s bad about the challenge of the so-called “work-life balance” is that workers should not give up either of them.

Sure you are working to live and not the other way around—living to work. If you’re having a hard time achieving equal time for your career and loved ones (or just yourself), heed the following tips:

1. Know your personal circumstance. Try to answer these questions. Are you a “morning person?” Are you flexible enough to work in various working conditions and schedules? Your answers to these questions will determine your flexibility, focus, commitment, and productivity.

2. Start your day right. Upon getting up from bed, do the things that put you into a good mood. Drink what you prefer: coffee, tea, juice, or just plain water. Talk with someone. Sing while taking a bath. Smile a lot. All these things will help inspire you throughout the day.

3. Say your mantra. Set your goal for the day or at least the things that you want to do and fulfill before the end of the day.

4. Manage your time wisely. Don’t waste a single minute doing nothing. As your clock alarms, open your eyes and do not go back to sleep for some more minutes. Prepare a checklist or a to-do list so that you will be guided on what to do first and what to do next. Always bring with you a handy calendar or a planner.

5. Come on time and go home on time. At the start of the day, think of what your day will be like. Anticipate some problems that may affect your schedule and do some adjustments to avoid them.

6. Befriend your officemates. Simple smile and courteous greeting will surely help you draw a friendly atmosphere inside your workplace.

7. Enjoy your work. Learn to love your profession. Develop the skills that you want to possess and learn to acquire much more to make you a versatile worker.

Here are some other tips for you to maximize your time leading you to achievement of work-life balance:

8. Do not procrastinate.
9. Follow set rules and policies.
10. Communicate with appropriate people: bosses and loved ones.
11. Get the most out of social media.
12. Learn to say “no” and state your reason(s).
13. Stay away from someone or something that can ruin your relationship with other people.
14. Seek help from others.
15. Appreciate good things around you.
16. Socialize more.
17. De-stress during day-off.

Follow these tips and do them repeatedly for you to maintain a good lifestyle that does not ask for additional hours to accomplish daily tasks. Truly, work-life balance leads to the achievement of happiness.