tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7596646553885987572023-11-16T04:21:04.474-08:00A Blog That No One Would Probably Read!We all have something to say be it positive or negative. i choose to write my opinion in a blog... a blog that no one would probably read!Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-6895951858863774972017-02-17T13:35:00.000-08:002017-02-17T13:37:10.222-08:00I'm a Little DistractedIt's raining where I am right now.<br />
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I'm supposed to love the rain. But right now, I'm a little distracted. I'm a little uneasy. I feel so incompetent. Or maybe its because of the rain.<br />
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There are so many things I'd like to do. Yet for some reason, it seems that I'm not making progress. It's not that I'm not. It just seems that I'm not.<br />
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And its friggin' Friday! And I'm on a diet. Maybe, I'm a little distracted because I'm on a diet. I don't know. It feels that way though.<br />
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And the nanny can't look after my two year old daughter tonight. But I thought she was going to. She gave us a last minute legitimate excuse so God bless her. But me and my girlfriend are supposed supposed to go out tonight? How's that gonna work out? We already made plans. Now, I'm a little distracted!<br />
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I don't get it. I think I do but I feel I really don't get it. And that in itself is pissing me off so now I'm a little distracted. And saying it over and over again is definitely distracting.<br />
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But it's the weekend and there are plenty to be thankful for. But it's raining. Who cares?<br />
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And then I look around me and tell myself I'm dry and warm and the world spins just about alright. There's no reason to be distracted. It's just life.<br />
<br />Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-51398875511248131732017-02-15T15:19:00.000-08:002017-02-15T15:23:17.745-08:00How To Get On With Your Life... WoundedWe all get hurt. We all feel pain. We all experience setbacks in our lives and it sucks! And although, the intensity of hurt or pain are similar from person to person, it is the way we recover that defines us.<br />
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There are some of us who will get back on their feet immediately. While there are others who will hide like a hermit for months or years before they can finally recover. And there are those in the middle.<br />
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But what makes one able to get up on his feet and get moving? Is it the insensitivity to the situation? Is it the indifference? Is it the lack of emotional capacity. While all these are valid rhetorics, I believe that it is the will to move forward that separates those who take the time licking their wounds and those who bring their wounds with them to the journey.<br />
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<b>Courage</b><br />
The latter is hard to do but can be done. And to do so, one will need a great amount of courage. And I say this because every setback, big or small, carries some sort of discouragement. And for anyone to say that he/she didn't not feel a bit discouraged with any setback really didn't give his/her best to it.<br />
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<b>Tenacity</b><br />
Rejection is rarely embraced by losers. They know it's part of winning and see it as such. So you didn't close that multi-million dollar deal or get the opportunity to direct the next Star Wars sequel... so what? Yeah, it sucks and it hurts but that's fine. There are more opportunities out there and I need to seize them<br />
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<b>Urgency</b><br />
You've seen movies where the lead character is going up against strong foes, being shot at and tortured, etc but still manages to make headroom and go save the day. That's how wounded warriors react in real life. They have a sense of urgency and they know that time is of the essence. They know that licking their wounds is normal and that they can lick their wounds while getting on with their lives.<br />
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<b>Conviction</b><br />
You have to believe in whatever it is you are trying to achieve. If you are running after something you coined in your head, do not expect any other person to be as passionate as you. Tripping, falling flat on your face are merely obstacles on the journey to your goal.<br />
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<b>Faith</b><br />
Having faith is believing in something you cannot use your 5 senses with and yet decide to move forward and give it your all. That's never easy. What's on the other side isn't promised.<br />
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Yes there will be major setbacks. There will be naysayers along the way. Doubt may even cast a gloomy shadow along your path. When this happens, the wounded winners take deep, relaxed breathes and tell themselves,<br />
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"I can and will see this through no matter what!"<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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Recommended Read: <a href="http://amzn.to/2kzFYLc" target="_blank">The Dip by Seth Godin</a>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-73317901241216705212017-02-15T00:53:00.001-08:002017-02-15T01:02:41.401-08:00Questions Without AnswersThere are many questions posted by a lot of very intellectual people. Most of them are answered by a chosen few. Some questions though, remain unanswered.<br />
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Just like the way we live our lives. There will be chapters in our lives where we may want to know the answer to our question but we'll never get it.<br />
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It was meant to be that way. Sometimes, I just convince myself that the answer itself might just cause more havoc than anticipated.Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-2306200978813459332017-02-14T08:35:00.001-08:002017-02-14T08:42:10.016-08:00How I Renewed My Interest In My Video Cameras For Under $7.00I own a bunch of digital cameras aside from my iPhone. They've made me a ton of money from all the freelance video work I've done. And yes... the cameras have been pretty boring lately.<br />
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I got my Canon HFS10 back in 2009 and have used it with my Letus Lens Adapter in a many number of video footages. It was exciting back then!<br />
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My <a href="http://amzn.to/2ktx7KE" target="_blank">Canon T4i</a> came in 2011 and was used for a number of video commercials and music videos. Most of my footages were taken using a "nifty fifty" lens. It got the job done.<br />
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My not so latest digital eye was the <a href="http://amzn.to/2lg8ZiW" target="_blank">GoPro Hero4 Black</a>. At first I didn't know what to make of it. I wasn't into sports nor was I into "action" video shoots. So it just laid dormant for the duration of its life.<br />
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I decided to use it and realized that the whole "wide shot" was pretty cool - up to a certain extent. And then it became mundane again. And I just let it sit in storage for the remainder of 2016.<br />
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The the <a href="http://amzn.to/2kGpQIF" target="_blank">GoPro Hero5 Black</a> came out. With all the bells and whistles it offered, I asked myself what to make of my Hero4? I then found out that GoPro was offerening a software update to give me the option of having LINEAR mode, where the go pro now shoots like a regular camera at 2.7k!<br />
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Now I was definitely interested. I got out my GoPro Hero4 and started shooting. Just random shots but I was shooting once again. And then the nuance of have to screw/unscrew the darn thing just to mount/uncount it became an issue. I needed some quick release "thingy ma jiggy" if my GoPro Hero4 was to keep up with me.<br />
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I was able to get a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XNKW45I/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=pacoares-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00XNKW45I&linkId=2fcce91ef07a2f886e036eb3e0ef8321" target="_blank">Quick Release Tripod Mount</a> on the Internet and boy did it make my life easy. I bought a lot so I can mount one on a tripod, a selfie stick, a car suction mount, a gorilla pod and other mounts you can think of.<br />
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It got me excited again! Seriously! I honestly saw the screw/unscrew thing a hindrance to my creative momentum. But with this new little nifty gadget. I'm shooting like crazy.<br />
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If you want to check it out yourself, I've added a link to where I got it from.
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=pacoares-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00XNKW45I&asins=B00XNKW45I&linkId=b07f4254b8216afc46dff26ecb531d80&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=false&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;">
</iframe>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-14294219611004058752017-02-13T23:13:00.002-08:002017-02-13T23:13:27.513-08:00The Rant Of the LeftWe have the right to protest the things we don't like about our government. It is our right! And all that is perfectly fine.<br />
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What is irritating is when my brothers and sisters on the left keep on ranting about the current administration and when asked what would be a better alternative, reply with an "I don't know... I just know that this administration sucks!"<br />
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I would advise you to just keep your mouth shut because now, you're simply becoming irritating. Unless that's your true nature.<br />
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<br />Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-13372364808244004052017-02-13T10:24:00.000-08:002017-02-13T10:24:14.965-08:00Meeting People by the Bridge<div>
My father once told not to "burn my bridges". He also reminded me that the people I meet on the way up are the same people I will meet on the way down. He even said that it is more gratifying to influence other people than to be influenced by them. My father told me a lot of things! He was a great guy! No wonder when he passed away, we had to move the memorial service to a bigger place to accomodate all the people whose lives he'd help influence in one way or another...for the better.<br />
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Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-65510470365247664542017-02-10T16:21:00.002-08:002017-02-10T16:21:33.793-08:00Why Should I Filter My Words On My Blog?Is it normal?<br />
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Should I be politically correct when it comes to expressing my thoughts?<br />
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Maybe.<br />
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So what now? What if I want to be vulgar? What if I want to speak my mind? What will happen or has happened to my "freedom of expression"?<br />
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Oh yeah... #PolitcalCorrectness. Definitely a "stinker". But it is what it is. Nonetheless, it's still effin' annoying!<br />
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Anyhoo, I've decided to do CPR on my blog - this blog - and bring it back from the "dead". Besides, I'm a writer (says me) and I love doing this! I used to write good content when I didn't care about other people's opinion. But I care now. Am I less effective as a writer now?<br />
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I'll find out soon enough.<br />
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<br />Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-88672345087416850452015-03-22T15:39:00.001-07:002015-03-22T15:49:16.751-07:00Where Does Our Giving End?I used to tithe regularly. It was a privilege I had. I've always believed that God entrusted me with money and the ability to make money and as such, I obeyed His command of bringing the first fruits to the storehouse.<br />
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At the time, money was abundant and it was easy to tithe. Now, I don't tithe regularly because I am not a permanent member of any church. As for the money part, it's a lot less than what I used to make. </div>
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I see the joy in other people when they are able to give to their brothers in need. And amazingly enough, in their abundance, they are able to share what they have with others. At first, I found their actions PURELY inspiring! I thought to myself I wanted to have more so that I could give more. </div>
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And then it hit me. Abraham, of the Old Testament, waited patiently for his son Isaac to be born. And shortly after Isaac was born, God commanded Abraham to offer him as a sacrifice. Can you imagine what was going through Abraham's mind? But Abraham obeyed nonetheless. </div>
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This made me look back at the "better off" givers whom I have witnessed who mostly have more than enough money. Who mostly have a spare bedroom to offer or an extra car to lend. And mind you, most of them are pretty well off. </div>
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And what of the ones who have none? Believe it or not, their the ones who give with all of their hearts. They would even forfeit what could be rightfully theirs and invite other people to partake in it with them. These people will willingly give whatever it is they can give. </div>
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These are the people who truly know the basics of giving. What about us? What do we know about the basics of giving? Do we even know when our giving begins and why it ends!</div>
Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-88892044867695870372015-03-21T21:19:00.000-07:002015-03-21T21:19:19.025-07:00I'm In Heat!Okay, I said that wrong just to get your attention. But in a few months, summer will be here in Los Angeles and this means HEAT... lotsa heat!!! It's gonna get how outside, hot in the car and hot in the house! And when you're like me (trying to cut back on electric bills) you're finding ways to cool your dwelling place without spending an arm and a leg.<br />
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So what's a guy like me to do? Well, I've been searching online and have seen a bunch of lifehacks, including that DIY air conditioning system. One thing's for sure... that would be too much work. <br />
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Here is the final decision... get some screen door! Yeah... that's what I'll do. I'm gonna invest in screen doors. The retractable fancy ones... because I'm in heat! Yeah!<br />
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Correction... I'm gonna be in heat! Okay, it still doesn't sound right.<br />
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In the summer, I'll be hot!<br />
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Okay, you get my point.Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-18736945609489145452015-03-19T20:11:00.001-07:002015-03-19T20:11:47.310-07:00If You Can't Handle the Little Things...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Living in California is a privilege. Prices are steep. Sales Tax is a joke. Renting is unreal. Buying a house is the same thing. Traffic is alright compared to Manila. Nonetheless, everyone MUST work every week to be able to care for themselves and the their loved ones.<br />
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There are no maids for us, middle class, people here in the States. This simply means that if I leave the house without fixing my bed, it will still be as it was when I get home in the evening. So in order for my household to run smoothly every day, tasks and responsibilities are assigned to members of the household. <br />
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Someone's in charge of throwing out the trash, washing the dishes, cleaning the house, etc... but with regard to filling up the pitcher of water, whoever "kinda" finishes the water MUST fill it up. <br />
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Anyway, I come home after a long day at work, thirsty and wanting a drink, only to find out that there is no more water in the pitcher! This is a sad day in the Arespacochaga household.<br />
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You see, if you can't be consistent with the little things, how can you be entrusted with the bigger ones?Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-1798699576424080102015-03-18T11:04:00.000-07:002015-03-18T11:04:20.205-07:00Teaching Your Children To Make Choices<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have 3 boys and a girl. Well, let me rephrase that. I have a man, two boys and a little girl. As a father, my job is to raise these kids to be good men and women of society. And just yesterday, my first born, Heaven, turned 19. How time flies.<br />
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Heaven lives with me, here in Los Angeles. Yesterday, I asked him what he wanted to do for his birthday. He said he wanted to drive to his mom's house, which was about 45 miles/72 Kilometers away. And since he now drives his own car, he politely asked me if it was okay to celebrate his birthday with his mom's side of the family. I had no problems with that. And what made me even proud was the fact that he had made the decision for himself.<br />
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And that's what everything boiled down to... decision making. Was it good judgement on his part to spend his birthday with his mom? Absolutely. My son lives with me. He doesn't get to see his mom as often as he wants. Yesterday's plan was perfect.<br />
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I've read Tony Robbins say that "Good judgement comes from experience. Experience comes from bad judgement." And in order to come up with "judgement", one has to make a decision. And decision making comes with maturity. So get into the hang of it.<br />
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Make decisions on a regular basis. The more you do, the better you will become.Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-75064125844043140992014-04-18T09:49:00.001-07:002014-04-18T09:56:01.695-07:00Don't Be Afraid to AskYou may have been conditioned as child NOT to ask strangers for anything. You may have been made to believe that asking is often times inappropriate. You may have been made to believe a lot of negative things related to asking. <div><br></div><div>One thing I do know is that if you don't ask, you will never know.</div><div><br></div><div>And whether this is in regard to love, life, doubts, self doubt and everything else around you, asking is still better than assuming.</div><div><br></div><div>Maybe, the thought of knowing the truth makes you reluctant in asking. But then, wouldn't that be better than living in an assumptive environment? Another reason for not asking is probably the fear of rejection.</div><div><br></div><div>Listen, when you ask a person for something, the worst thing that person can say to you is "no". And that's okay.</div><div><br></div><div>By the way, if you don't know how to ask, start your sentence with: May I... or Can you...</div><div><br></div><div>"May I ask you help me carry this box?"</div><div><br></div><div>"Can you be honest and tell me if there's something wrong with us?"</div><div><br></div><div>Go! Fumble! Discover!</div><div><br></div><div>Have a great weekend ahead of you! And don't forget to leave your thoughts in the "comments" box.</div>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-60682617337082650122014-01-26T08:17:00.004-08:002014-01-26T08:17:40.455-08:007 Things to Consider Before Considering a Divorce<br />
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Maybe you're going through a crisis in your marriage right now. Maybe you think bailing out of the marriage is the only solution to your marital woes. And maybe, divorce is really the best option for you right now. I get it! But before you jump the gun on getting a divorce, I would like you to consider these 7 things...<br />
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1. Is Your Marriage Repairable - I have friends who have a habit of buying a new fan or microwave oven when their current one gets damaged or when it isn't working properly. I really think its a waste of money for them to just hastily replace the damaged one with a new one. How could they not consider having any of these appliances repaired? Is it because it has become a habit?<br />
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Can you imagine if you treated your marriage the same way? That would be bad! With this, I would really encourage all of you to ask yourselves if your marriage is repairable.<br />
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2. Take a Step Back and Think Hard - Again, why are you rushing through things? Take a step back and think things through. If, at the end of your reflective moment you still feel like going through a divorce is the only option, then go ahead. The point is simply for you to be able to tell yourself that you were never hasty about it.<br />
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3. Can You Afford to Live On One Income - If you and your spouse have a two income lifestyle, I want you to consider that things are going to change when you file for divorce. Be aware that you may never be able to afford paying monthly payments to your luxury car or the monthly dues to your country club membership. This doesn't mean you should stay married for financial reasons. Just be aware that going through a divorce will impact your finances... big time.<br />
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4. Be Aware That You Will Experience a Life Change - If you were a housewife, you'll probably have to go to school or get a job on the side. Or maybe you have a degree but because of your current situation, you may now have to get a higher degree to get a better paying job.<br />
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5. Seek Professional Help - By going to a marriage counselor. C'mon! What have you got to lose? If you're still determined to file for a divorce, do it after you've exhausted all of your options. No one's gonna stop you anyway. But at least you can tell yourself you've tried everything in the book.<br />
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6. How Will the Children Take the Divorce - Children are better at coping with life changes more than what we think they're capable of. Of course, you don't want your children to be exposed to domestic violence and all that crap but, again, if the marriage is repairable and all options haven't been exhausted, for the children's sake... take your time and make sure divorce is the only solution.<br />
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7. Shop Wisely for Good Representation - There are plenty of family law attorneys but most of them are just in it for the money. Some could actually care less about your situation and what you're trying to accomplish. To others, you're just a number. That's bad! Can you imagine paying $300/hour only to find out that your lawyer wasn't really paying close attention to your case..<br />
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Getting a divorce is a very tough decision. And it's also a big one. So before you jump right into it. Please make sure that you can honestly tell yourself you've done all you can to fix your marriage but it still wasn't effective and that divorce is the only solution.Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-84675244543696801542014-01-26T08:14:00.001-08:002014-01-26T08:15:33.150-08:007 Things To Consider Before Going On a Second Date!<br />
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It's close to Valentine's day and you're getting anxious. Guys have invited you to go out with them but you don't know whom to pick. <br />
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But for some of you, you're still waiting for that guy to ask you out.<br />
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Whether it's an act of desperation or excitement, here are a few things to consider before you say "yes" to a guy on a second date.<br />
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1. Are You Still Interested? - This is probably the most important question you should ask yourself when considering the idea of going out with a guy on the second date. I mean, if your first date was a "poof", why even bother to go for seconds, right?<br />
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If you decide to say YES, please don't expect too much.<br />
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2. Do You Have Anything to Do? - Because chances are, you're probably just bored! Or maybe, you really don't have plans for the night which is why you probably even entertained the idea of going out with someone you're not really fond of. <br />
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Be honest with yourself about this. The last thing you want is to go out with a guy your really don't like and end up listening to the sounds of crickets!<br />
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3. Was He Even Fun to Be With? - Because if he wasn't fun at all the first time around, what makes you think the second date would be better? Do not fool yourself! Recall if the first date got you looking at your watch, your phone or all around because your date wasn't that engaging. <br />
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Dates are supposed to be FUN! If he wasn't fun the first time around, he won't be fun the second time around. Move on!<br />
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4. Chivalry Is NOT Dead - Unless the dude you went out on a date with treated you like shit! If he did, why even bother going out for date #2? You'd be nuts to even consider it. See, if the guy didn't even open doors for you or at least covered the tab for you... DON'T give him another opportunity!<br />
<br />
5. Does He Like You? - Was he interested in you? Why would he want to go out with you and why would you even bother accepting his invite if he wasn't even interested in you. Some guys just like talking about themselves and may have found you to be a "good listener". And now he wants to invite you out because he felt good about you nodding your head in agreement to him the first time around. Don't give this dufus another chance!<br />
<br />
6. Did He Even Value the First Date? - If the guy simply "winged" the first date and made no effort to make the first date impressive, to say the least... why even bother to go for seconds. Drop it and move on. It's not gonna be worth it!<br />
<br />
7. Are You Comfortable With the Plans? - Is he gonna take you to a deserted place? Are you gonna make out or smoke pot? Are you down with his plans? <br />
<br />
Girl, you have to know what you're gonna get yourself into. It's the second date and you guys aren't really exclusive yet so there shouldn't be any surprises at this point. It's all about "getting to know" each other and part of this is knowing what the plan for the evening is.<br />
<br />
The bottom line is you shouldn't have to say "yes" to second dates like you owe every guy something and that we, as men, are entitled to it. <br />
<br />
We have to make a good impression on the first date so that you, or every girl that went out on a first date, would want to give us a shot at another date without any hesitation.Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-34767727584331796112013-08-28T01:22:00.001-07:002013-08-28T01:25:16.630-07:00Time For a Cool Change"The more things change, the more they stay the same" - Proverb<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After years of struggling to find my equilibrium, it's safe to say that I've yet to come to terms with this chapter of my life. I believe I'm experiencing a recession in my life. And yes, it's costly! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Am I scared? Yes! But I'm ready to move on. Change is the only solution to my situation. However, my sentimentality has prevented me to move on. But when I give it more thought, I think I'm just being an arrogant son of a bitch!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Why am I worrying about other people and what they may say about me if I made decisions for myself? Why am I even trying to flatter myself into thinking that they actually give a fuck? Did I just say the word "fuck"? Oh no! I'm gonna burn in hell and turn off a lot of people. Or maybe not because people actually don't care about what I say anyway.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I need change, a cool change. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are some of the changes I need to make in my life in order for it to be better!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Order</b> - I need to prioritize the people and goals in my life. I just can't operate like a "chicken without a head". And yes, I must say "goodbye" to some people who are time wasters.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>The Habit of Saying "NO"</b> - I admit. I am a "people pleaser". If I can say "yes" to make everybody happy, I would. But should I? No! Whoa! I just said it. I need to say "No" more often. I need to be able to say it without feeling guilty. Doing this will give me more time to focus on my life's <b>Order</b>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Establish Boundaries</b> - I believed that what's mine is also yours! Share the wealth right? I loved the fact that other people were enjoying the fruits of my labor... until they started taking most of what I worked for. LOL! Well, it wasn't really funny. Establishing boundaries not only makes it hard for people to abuse what I want to be charitable of, but it also protects what I've worked hard for to achieve.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Slow Down</b> - I'm not in my twenties anymore. My doctor has advised me to slow down. I shouldn't stress over useless things. I should appreciate what I currently have. At my age, I'm simply chasing the years of my life. But do I really need to chase it? I'm just gonna walk behind it and enjoy what life has to offer. Simple pleasures rock!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Sleep More </b>- Do I really need to do a Game of Thrones marathon? Do I really need to be up at 1am and consume only 3 hours of sleep. My dad dies of a stroke because he abused his body. Why am I following in his footsteps? I still want to see my children grow!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Revamp the Menu </b>- Everything starts in the kitchen. If I want to live longer, I need to stay healthy. I can't be eating all those greasy stuff! Gotta change what's inside my fridge and pantry</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>A New Mindset </b>- A humble heart. I need to get back to basics. Yes, I need a Savior in my life. I really need Jesus! I need to reconnect. This whole "I can make it on my own" really doesn't work for me. It feels empty!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are so many things I need to work on in my life to make a cool change. I'll start with these bullets first. I know I'll get far. But in order to get a ahead, I must follow through with it. Or else it doesn't make sense to even begin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yes I know. It's time for a cool change!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-41674252587230196912013-07-22T14:11:00.001-07:002013-07-22T16:22:28.888-07:00Guitar Series - 3rd-G Cristobal<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NkZUHz5hdFSjLUDuLQ_ImTOJYwe6o3h3OmVNWgwQmb8Jrtr5wsN0Hx7tD8yPmUSTbhXo3zEJn6xN_7Vt7fnw28ZQGGJyzwGazn7X8031RkPDOoeYmsCk1lhJoj63qsHX9QwJLubyPgI/s640/blogger-image-762495281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NkZUHz5hdFSjLUDuLQ_ImTOJYwe6o3h3OmVNWgwQmb8Jrtr5wsN0Hx7tD8yPmUSTbhXo3zEJn6xN_7Vt7fnw28ZQGGJyzwGazn7X8031RkPDOoeYmsCk1lhJoj63qsHX9QwJLubyPgI/s640/blogger-image-762495281.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>Photo description: 3rdG Cristobal and Paco Arespacochaga at Club LQ in New York City for INTRoVOYS' 2005 reunion tour</i></div><br></div><div><br></div>In my years at La Salle Greenhills, I would always see 3rdG messing with his rondalla (plectrum musical instrument). I wasn't impressed at all. I didn't care much about music back in 7th grade. But 3rdG was!<div><br></div><div>He wanted to be famous...and to that, I was able to relate. </div><div><br></div><div>Fast forward to 1986, we were in our sophomore year when 3rdG told me he was ready to form a band. I was like... "There's no way you're bringing that rondalla up on stage,man!" He assured me he was going to play guitars. What a relief. </div><div><br></div><div>We set out to score our first rehearsal gig at a rehearsal place called Bootleg, located in White Planes Quezon City. I called the the place to book our band. The guy on the other end, who was kinda uninterested, ask the name of the band. 3rdG told me to say "InstruVoice" but for some reason, the guy booking our rehearsal misspelled it and wrote down INTRoVOYS! How funny! But we didn't care.</div><div><br></div><div>3rdG and I brought in Jonathan Buencamino to jam with us. The line up was 3rdG on guitars, Jonathan on keyboards and me on VOCALS. We were to cover Depeche Mode's "Everything Counts In Large Amounts". Epic fail guys!</div><div><br></div><div>I was so out of tune in singing and Jonathan was more of a pianist than a keyboard/synth player. So we decided to let Jonathan take over the singing chore and I was to become... OBSOLETE!!! </div><div><br></div><div>I didn't know how to play any musical instrument and I thought I could sing! There was my short lived dream of becoming famous, I thought to myself. I wanted to cry but decided to put up a straight face and just smiled as I watched Jonathan and 3rdG jam. </div><div><br></div><div>3rdG didn't want me to feel left out so he ask me if I wanted to sit behind the drum kit. I said "yes" even if I didn't know how to play. But 3rdG knew what to do behind the drums and he taught me a rhythm I learned pretty fast! </div><div><br></div><div>All three of us were surprised that I learned how to play my first beat in less than 5 minutes! I was desperate!</div><div><br></div><div>And we were all happy and excited about our first accomplishment. </div><div><br></div><div>Looking back, I always go back to that moment when 3rdG healed my broken wing. He knew I shared his dream and passion and he made sure I was part of the ride. I had learned more beats since then and have now considered myself a "drummer". But I will always be grateful to 3rdG Cristobal for encouraging me and for introducing me to an instrument that gave me a life other people can only dream of!</div>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-29983083788771427682013-07-20T08:33:00.001-07:002013-07-20T08:33:47.802-07:00Where I Left Off<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5oiHRAZMFzjOBCQ3ja_wIaKhEOgHHd9aSQzf-lurVPfQ8TJgPLjlvMvmk6ziMQOXJSI9cu7pLZujiOtKmKkxLAsWB_oZawgeLNqGdpKrXlPVfdMe8VfUho8m8uVdC8BAOgojwCJxS70/s640/blogger-image-865731614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5oiHRAZMFzjOBCQ3ja_wIaKhEOgHHd9aSQzf-lurVPfQ8TJgPLjlvMvmk6ziMQOXJSI9cu7pLZujiOtKmKkxLAsWB_oZawgeLNqGdpKrXlPVfdMe8VfUho8m8uVdC8BAOgojwCJxS70/s640/blogger-image-865731614.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div>It's funny how time flies. In just a few hours, another year will be added to my life. Interestingly enough, I don't feel a tad older. I do remember back in the day, I'd rush my body and mind to grow up already. Today, I just chill!<div><br></div><div>But a huge question still hangs over my head. Every so often, I catch myself rhetorically asking "do I like where I am?" and I don't recall giving a response. Sad. </div><div><br></div><div>And although I've mentioned earlier that I don't feel a tad older, I do feel tired. Physically... I'm good! Mentally, spiritually and emotionally... I'm spent, bent even!</div><div><br></div><div>I blame no one for where I am. On the contrary, I am embarrassed for dragging my loved ones to where I am now... "This Dark Place". </div><div><br></div><div>For a moment, I lost hope. I caught myself tolerating things I wouldn't have tolerated years ago. But that's because I've done things I never knew I would've done. Lame. </div><div><br></div><div>There is no way to change what has been done. But I've come to terms to deal with the consequences of my actions. </div><div><br></div><div>Yes, my nights have been worst than they were but it makes me appreciate the rare times I'm able to have a good night's rest.</div><div><br></div><div>As much as I would like to go on... all I know is that this whole chapter in my life is necessary for me to handle what I am about to go through. </div><div><br></div><div>No I'm not worried. Sad... yes. But it is what it is. </div><div><br></div><div>And like any other journey, there are days when the roads are wide and clear. And there are days when the roads are narrow and jammed. And then there are those days when traffic is just at a standstill and you wished you didn't have to be on the road at all. Such is life! And I've learned to accept and embrace its dynamic with a optimism and faith in the Almighty that all things are possible and that no one is beyond hope!</div>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0Tiffany's Coffee 900 North Pacific Avenue, Glendale34.159447 -118.263597tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-7747629374202097142013-05-05T17:27:00.001-07:002013-05-05T17:27:24.283-07:00How Many Times?<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Most of you breeze through life like you have the manual at the back of your hand. </span><span class="s1">However,
there are some of us who fumble every so often trying to figure out how
we can keep our lives in motion and not rot in a “rut”!</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"> </span>
</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Often times, we wonder if being
successful isn’t really meant for us. Or maybe we really have the word
“loser” engraved on our foreheads or in our hearts. Better yet, we’ve
probably branded our lives an “Epic Fail!”</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">I’ve
often fallen flat on my face over the course of my existence. And I
will not lie about how painful they’ve been. Yes, I’ve bruised and have
been wounded in the process. And now I have the scars of yesteryears to
remind me of my failures. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">So
how many times must we fail, you might wonder. I’ve asked that question
so many times. I remember my father telling me that there are more “no”
that “yes” in every aspect of life.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Rejection
will always be there, he affirmed. He stressed it to me that if a yes
was easily achieved, it wouldn’t mean a thing. He went on to tell me
that rejection is the gate that keeps mediocre people away from what
they want. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">I really didn’t
understand what he was trying to tell me. I was his first born son and
was kinda spoiled so I pretty much got what I wanted. It was only when
my parents passed away that I realized and applied what was taught me. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">So how many times do we try to make it in life? As much as we would like to. And for as long as we are breathing. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Here are some tips to keep you from throwing in the towel:</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><strong>Have the desire</strong></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Having
the desire to achieve what you want conditions your mindset and your
heart to the end result. So instead of finding excuses on why you should
do it, having a strong desire helps you find solutions on how you can
achieve what you want. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><strong>A sense of humility </strong></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">There
is no need to brag about wanting to climb Mount Everest. Having a sense
of humility allows you to embrace your humanity. It helps you realize
what is real and what is achievable. It also helps you to keep going
after your goals over and over. A sense of humility helps you understand
that failure is part of the process. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><strong>Be vigilant and steadfast </strong></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">There
are people who will pose as your friends. But in reality, these people
the are “dream poppers” of your existence. They will tell you that it’s
better to be mediocre than to humiliate yourself trying to be someone
better. Keep away from these people. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><strong>Don’t try to be someone you’re not </strong></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s2">Who
you are is beautiful in itself. God made you in his image and likeness
but you are uniquely YOU! the goal is to try and try and try to improve
yourself within the context of who you are. You don’t want to be
someone you’re not. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">With
these tips in mind, learn to appreciate the fact that what you may have
now is something envied by those around you. If you must ask yourself
how many times you should attempt at something, make sure you know the
ultimate benefit you will get out of it. At the end of the day, of it’s
worth fighting for, it doesn’t matter how many times you have to try to
go after whatever it is your after. </span></div>
Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-5551285574924030752013-04-08T02:11:00.001-07:002013-04-08T02:11:04.787-07:00Good Is Not Great!
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL_dRGDFEwfZoO5ITLzItYluTF6bArHwLs5ei68xTtpN6t6r2pXxmbViy7qEC6B6Hy3uL6HDs9A2IT47DgrTnWSL7hFJIjgsvW0D7cDls7toI7IPRRaA5sTWI015g1Hv6nTDlO1On7rw/s1600/good-great.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL_dRGDFEwfZoO5ITLzItYluTF6bArHwLs5ei68xTtpN6t6r2pXxmbViy7qEC6B6Hy3uL6HDs9A2IT47DgrTnWSL7hFJIjgsvW0D7cDls7toI7IPRRaA5sTWI015g1Hv6nTDlO1On7rw/s320/good-great.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I’m at a point in my life where I don’t want to be. As a matter of fact, I’ve begun asking
myself what I did wrong to get me to where I am right now. And the answer was very clear… I
followed my heart!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don’t know whom I got that advise from but I will tell you
this right now. Following your
heart may not always be the right decision or choice. Beware when others tell you that as long as it makes you
happy, you’re good. In reality, it
isn’t always the case.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I’ve made a lot of wrong decisions and bad choices because I
followed my heart. Listen my
friend, our heart doesn’t think!
It simply does what it feels is good. And often times, what feels good isn’t always good!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we lead with our hearts, we will fail. But it doesn’t mean we should ignore
the heart, for it is where our passion is born. The heart is an engine that moves the will forward. Contrary to what many of us have been
taught, the heart doesn’t steer.
That is the job of the mind!
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our mind helps us stay on the right path. It knows what is right and what is
wrong. It doesn’t feel. It knows! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As an artist, I was foolish not to use my head but instead,
my heart! And now I know that I am
wrong. My heart was settling for
what it felt was good. And I was a
slave to my heart. I followed how
it wanted to feel, ignoring the warning signs… all because it felt good!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And because I had something good, I lost the opportunity to
have something great! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A balanced usage of the heart and the mind would’ve told me
to stop what I was doing and not allow me to fall off the “cliff”. If I had only applied “principles” to
my decision making process, I would be in a greater place right now.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But it’s all good because life is full of second
chances. And this time, I will use
my mind, and not just my heart, because I don’t want to have something
good. I want to experience
something GREAT!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<!--EndFragment-->Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-34434473151341722632012-07-02T15:17:00.001-07:002012-07-02T15:17:59.809-07:00Living During Hard TimesBy Paco Arespacochaga <br />
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Life is a combination of good times and bad. And just like every journey, life does have a beginning and an ending. And while we aspire for our life progress to be at an incline, that isn't often the case in actuality. <br />
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As a matter of fact, life is really full of ups and downs. And while a majority of us do thrive during good times, it's sad to know that only some of us are able to make do with life during hard times. <br />
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And though I believe there is no one way to get us through hard times, there are some principles to apply to help us live during these time. Here are some of them:<br />
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Acceptance - Everything starts with acceptance. You cannot address a problem is you don't accept the fact that there is one. Once this is established, only then can one face the situation. <br />
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Humility - When we humble ourselves to the situation, it makes our life and living during hard times easier. Humility helps us to accept that we can't afford the Mercedes Benz in the driveway, the cable service and other luxuries in life. It also stops us from keeping up with the Joneses. <br />
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Delay Gratification - There is always a lesson in every situation. Delay gratification and absorb what you must learn from where you're currently in. Delaying gratification helps you avoid pitfalls that has brought you to where you are. <br />
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Perseverance - "Hard times" doesn't suggest the slightest inclination of having a good thing going. In order to survive, one must be able to persevere. Attacks come from every direction specially if you are the head of household. At home, there are the nags of family members. Outside, bill collectors and creditors are after you. <br />
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Taking Action - Unless living in hard times appeal to you, you must begin to take action to get yourself out of your current situation. It's not going to be easy but it can be done. Seek help from experts, read books, involve family members an do whatever is necessary to help you get back on your feet again!<br />
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Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-46503920513399938692011-05-23T23:45:00.001-07:002011-05-23T23:45:37.991-07:00You Are Not Who Your Parents Were<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/108349007870430258268/ABlogThatNoOneWouldProbablyRead?authkey=Gv1sRgCKSDhZbWzuXLOw#5610170192459033442'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErVcgBkM56W15KuZHkSx13K5CTzlfw9EqzpkXJ3OpBxpXaxBECx8vH0jgeBMkQb6P9iim0yFq3IWkGtbB4c-W-B7Ss4lLVWhsbnu0OzvAlecwmFQDU6cjsvxr0uLD0ldSAPhh49ObiM8/s288/0.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A lot of you may be living the life you had planned out for yourselves. Many of you didn’t have to struggle to get away from the shadow of your parents. Maybe most of you never had to bother with who your parents were, that you just slipped in easily to who you are right now.<br /><br />However, some of us had to live up to our parents’ expectations. Some of us had to struggle with the pseudo ghost of our parents’ accomplishments and reputations. I know for a fact that some of us have to subconsciously fill big shoes that our parents prepped for us. But most of us also want to be our own person with our own identity.<br /><br />Why shouldn’t I be allowed to be me?<br /><br />Here are 4 points that will help you find yourself:<br /><br />Know thyself – Most of us never leave the shadow of our parents’ success or failure for one simple reason. And that’s because we haven’t found out who we are yet. While most of us are really struggling to find ourselves, some of us have simply developed a case of complacency that eats up our identity every single day. <br /><br />Embrace thyself – Consider this your “point of origin.” This is the acceptance stage. And don’t get me wrong here. You and I must start somewhere. Denying who you are or what you are won’t get you anywhere. Once you’ve realized who you are and what you’re capable of, embrace it no matter how close (or unclose) your sense of self is, compared to your parents.<br /><br />Develop thyself – By now, you should be under the impression that you are UNIQUE! Even if your parents are doctors, you don’t have to be one, IF YOU DON’T WANT TO! But now that you know who you are and have accepted your traits and abilities, develop it! Enjoy your abilities and use them. Sharpen those skills that are rightfully yours. Who cares if your dad is the best drummer in the world? If you love math, blaze away through all those algebraic expressions! Who’s to stop you from doing that?<br /><br />Share thyself – The first three pointers definitely help boost your confidence. When you share who you are, and what you’re made of, with family, friends, community and everyone else -- fulfillment occurs. After experiencing this, more revelations about who you are will start to appear. Then you’re back to the first step!<br /><br />As easy as it may sound, implementing such a process is not. There will be objections from parents, friends, family members, lovers, spouses and yourself. And the reason they object is because they only want the best for you because they “know” you. But if you let them know, feel and understand that you “KNOW” yourself more than they do you, then it will be easy for you to overcome these objections.<br /><br />Remember, you are not who your parents were. And you only have one life to live. Live it!<br /><br />- Paco Arespacochaga<br />Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-4202741000452240782011-05-23T23:38:00.001-07:002011-05-23T23:38:16.191-07:00My CommitmentAt the very least, I promise to update my blog as often as I update my weekly column. <br />Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-22265436933653082452011-02-14T19:39:00.000-08:002011-02-14T19:44:17.329-08:00How to Be a Failure in Life!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickkFOz7WuwNBkVv3pU81sTtbcIcLcwN2V7c-SgcbEJV13KQEfNr2JqAPkqa4MfqqpblLVJR1fo0rs6q-3LwrUUU5JsUDOKuGdPZRd8iEuf0_3Yt_3zcORPAHu1aC406eI807c35jkLPk/s1600/failure.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickkFOz7WuwNBkVv3pU81sTtbcIcLcwN2V7c-SgcbEJV13KQEfNr2JqAPkqa4MfqqpblLVJR1fo0rs6q-3LwrUUU5JsUDOKuGdPZRd8iEuf0_3Yt_3zcORPAHu1aC406eI807c35jkLPk/s320/failure.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573756409661359954" border="0" /></a><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph { margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast { margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal">We’ve probably read news articles and even self-help books on how to succeed in life.<span style=""> </span>We’ve probably bought and downloaded various self-help audio books as well.<span style=""> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">We’ve attended seminars and have vowed to even follow through with what we’ve learned.<span style=""> </span>Yet, somehow, there are still a few of us who are unable to really succeed in life.<span style=""> </span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Maybe, there are some of us who really don’t want to succeed.<span style=""> </span>Maybe, some of us really want to fail.<span style=""> </span>If you want to fail in life, I’ve listed some tips on how you can be one.</p> <ol><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Don’t Listen or Pay Attention</span> – Keep doing what you think is right and NEVER listen to anyone for advise.<span style=""> </span>If you get an undesired result, don’t change what your doing.<span style=""> </span>Keep doing it the same way so that you always get the SAME undesired result.<span style=""> </span>The key is consistency.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Don’t Prepare</span> – This is a key component in achieving failure status.<span style=""> </span>When going on a vacation, you do not want to prepare for the trip.<span style=""> </span>When you’re working on a project, you do not want to do some preparatory research.<span style=""> </span>When going on a sales call, you do not want to do pre-planning.<span style=""> </span>In order to FAIL, you have to take the first step REGARDLESS of direction.<span style=""> </span>It’s important to NOT understand the value of “preparedness”.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make Everything All About Yourself </span>– In order to fail, you MUST learn the art of alienating people.<span style=""> </span>Your friends and supporters are a hindrance in your quest for the ultimate mastery of failing.<span style=""> </span>These people, who go out of their way and of their day, only give you words of wisdom.<span style=""> </span>Words of wisdom have NO PLACE in the world of failure.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dwell On the Past</span> – Another important element one must master in order to be a failure is the ability to dwell on the past.<span style=""> </span>You must internalize all the disappointments you’ve experienced over time and dwell on them.<span style=""> </span>Don’t let go of these disappointments.<span style=""> </span>You will need to cling on every bad experience in order to help you develop the fear of moving on.<span style=""> </span>You should not let go of the past.<span style=""> </span>If you do, you will lose the foundation of being a failure.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do Not Blame Yourself at All Cost</span> – Never put the blame on yourself.<span style=""> </span>You are NOT responsible for anything.<span style=""> </span>You must blame your parents, friends, relatives, government, church, dog… anything or anybody!<span style=""> </span>But never blame yourself.<span style=""> </span>If you ever feel tempted to acknowledge any mistake… your hopes of becoming a failure will be in vain.<span style=""> </span>Blame it on the rain!</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">There are Only Excuses, Not Solutions</span> – Failures know these by heart and live by the dogma that excuses rule their lives.<span style=""> </span>You must understand that Solutions are mythical and do not exist in the world of Failures.<span style=""> </span>Successful people invented Solutions during the war between “Success and Failure” before the dawn of time.<span style=""> </span></li></ol> <p class="MsoNormal">As you journey toward the road of fail, don’t bring a map.<span style=""> </span>Do not even attempt to know where it begins or where it ends.<span style=""> </span>However, if you do reach the ultimate status of failure, know for a fact that you’ve “succeed”!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Good luck on your journey…</p>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-64086137403995750342011-02-08T00:53:00.001-08:002011-02-08T00:54:48.800-08:00If You Think It’s Good Enough, Give It Away!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhD9MDVfZKnFlpiuVR758hyphenhyphenCfqR3gLwncJWNdZqUrbgQplqb344_KmsfuvAc-v2hOzUQx8_xEwv058bSPUSkTHMYDmyE0D2N8BYiEWPgj3PTV_i_E6li1PXRAycPHToLeCVwCwuLDyA8E/s1600/givingredclothheart.jpeg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhD9MDVfZKnFlpiuVR758hyphenhyphenCfqR3gLwncJWNdZqUrbgQplqb344_KmsfuvAc-v2hOzUQx8_xEwv058bSPUSkTHMYDmyE0D2N8BYiEWPgj3PTV_i_E6li1PXRAycPHToLeCVwCwuLDyA8E/s320/givingredclothheart.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571239281080532962" border="0" /></a><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal">I may have said this before but I’ll say it again, nevertheless.<span style=""> </span>If what you have is good enough, and you’re confident other people will appreciate it, give it away and let them try it “risk free”.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m not talking about “free estimates” or “free consultations”.<span style=""> </span>I’m talking about an actual product or service that you are willing to give away or let your potential clients try out, RISK FREE!<span style=""> </span>Okay, this is the part where most of you, businesspeople, are going to go “what!?!”</p> <p class="MsoNormal">But hear me out here.<span style=""> </span>Unless, you’re the only one in the world carrying a certain “widget” or “service” that people are willing to die for, you’re going to have to stand out against your competition, bad boy!<span style=""> </span>And if you’re the new kid on the block, why are customers going to risk trying you out?<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The goal of giving “it” away is to take away the risk factor.<span style=""> </span>The goal here is to create a non-defensive attitude.<span style=""> </span>The goal is to get your potential clients in the door.<span style=""> </span>People in business call this the “loss leader”.<span style=""> </span>And it is.<span style=""> </span>And yes, there is a great benefit for having a “loss leader” in whatever it is that you do.<span style=""> </span>You want people to latch on to something without them losing anything, except time.<span style=""> </span>If your product or service is good enough, they will stick and stay with you.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">So what does this have to do with people who are not in business or who do not have anything to sell?<span style=""> </span>A lot!<span style=""> </span>As a matter of fact, as cliché as it sounds, this practice falls under the “it is better to give, than to receive” category.<span style=""> </span>And rightly so, marketing consultants have seen its value during the recession.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">And because this article comes out in time for Valentine’s day, don’t we all do this to our significant others?<span style=""> </span>Don’t we give them something… risk free?<span style=""> </span>Don’t we pay for this and don’t we spend for that?<span style=""> </span>Yes we do!<span style=""> </span>And always, we get something BETTER in return, whether we expect it or not.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">It doesn’t matter if it’s business or personal, if you believe that what you have is good enough, give it away!<span style=""> </span>Don’t hold back!<span style=""> </span>It might look like a “loss leader” but the return on investment will always outperform the initial cost of providing that “loss leader”, hands down.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Think about it and have a great day.</p>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-759664655388598757.post-33640225620401702962011-02-06T14:19:00.000-08:002011-02-06T14:19:13.254-08:007 Reasons Why Your Business Needs an Online Presence<a href="http://pacoarespacochaga.ca.st/59810/2011/02/06/7-reasons-why-your-business-needs-an-online-presence.html">7 Reasons Why Your Business Needs an Online Presence</a>Paco Arespacochagahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00803751697266105827noreply@blogger.com0