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Education Nurture

Born to Be a Hero: Investing in YOURSELF

There are many things I have learned as I have grown in my motherhood.

One thing I have learned of most recent is that finding and creating my own happiness in life is a fine balance.

These 5 petals to this flower which represents me might look familiar. I have posted it before with some of my other #BetterMe pieces. I always knew it was important for me to balance the different parts of myself before I attended a session with Coach Pia, but seeing it in this way so simply-helped me achieve that balance...

The 5 petals on this flower represent me and the different parts of myself that I try to balance.  It might look familar because I have posted it before with some of my other #BetterMe pieces. I always knew it was important for me to balance the different parts of life before I attended a session with Coach Pia, but seeing it in this way, put so simply, helped me better achieve that balance…

Someone recently asked me…”What makes 40 different from 30?”  I thought for a long while before I answered this question. I tried to rationalize the ease with which I can sit here at 40. I’m not quite sure if it’s the number, the life experiences that have led me to Manila, the people that I have come into contact with, or if it’s the fact that I have had the ability to work with Coach Pia and attend #SoMoms #BetterMe sessions. I would dare say, that it’s most likely a combination of all of these factors.

Yes…I think it’s all of these factors and then some.

I'm definitely more comfortable with who I am, who I aim to be, and where I want to go in this life, with the help of Coach Pia and our #BetterMe sessions.

I’m definitely more comfortable with who I am, who I aim to be, and where I want to go in this life. (Photo Credit: The One Core FB page)

The last #BetterMe session I attended was based on Coach Pia’s book “Born to Be a Hero.”  (You can pick up the book at any National Book Store.)  Highlighting the key points from her book, Coach Pia guided us to realizing the HERO within. The principles are quite simple and easy to understand, but the real challenge is incorporating said principles into your daily life and adjusting your mindset so you KNOW and BELIEVE you are a HERO. Building character isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most worthwhile investments you can make in yourself.

Coach Pia‘s book has helpful activity sheets which aid in reinforcing and processing what you need to take away. Taking quizzes, rating your own behavior, and filling up questionnaires helps integrate the learning that can take place with this helpful tool to improving your character.

What is HEROISM?

“Heroism is your own commitment to your personal development. It’s your call to step out of yourself, whether consciously or unconsciously, that makes yourself present to others and to yourself.  By investing in yourself, and your dreams, you are free to build your hero currency.”

This has gotten easier for me as I have gotten older. I think when we are younger we are too busy thinking about how a certain situation or conversation makes us FEEL. It was easy for me to be egocentric before I practiced yoga, before I gave birth to Gelli, and before I started meeting regularly with Coach Pia. Stepping outside of yourself first, consciously, takes a lot of work if you are not used to it. Once you can do this-you begin to build your HERO CURRENCY.

I think the most important questions we will ever ask, are the ones we ask ourselves-to improve, and build character.

I think the most important questions we will ever ask, are the ones we ask ourselves-to improve, and build character. (Photo Credit: The One Core FB page)

What in the world is HERO CURRENCY?

“Hero Currency is your capacity to give of yourself, armed with all the talents, skills and enthusiasm your have for life.” 

First of all, let’s clarify here that we are not talking about the currency with which you buy things. We are talking about investing in yourself, in your character, in your self esteem, (self-worth) and in your relationships. By working on yourself (a.k.a. INVESTING in yourself) you are destined to improve all of these things, reach your goals, and then realize your personal dreams. 

HERO CURRENCY consists of:

-“Your personal commitment to your personal growth and development.”

Will you set the time aside to improve and build on your character?

-“Your ability to identify and to accept your strengths and weaknesses.”

This is difficult when you touch on things that are uncomfortable…I call these the “not so pretty” parts of myself. It’s not easy to work through this but this is where you must stay the course and follow through with your commitment in order to reap the rewards of all this hard work.

-“Your capacity to make the best decisions you can, given a certain situation or experience you are facing.”

I heard somewhere that 80% of our decisions are based on our emotions, I’ll get into this in another post-but taking a step back and breathing deep has been helpful for me to achieve this. My yoga practice has helped me here too. I have been working on this for some time now. My sister approaches things like this. She says it’s vital to remove emotion from the equation so that you can make a sound decision on the matter at hand. With her help-I believe I have gotten better at this.

I'm aware how my emotions affect my decisions, not just in parenting, but in life.

I’m aware how my emotions affect my decisions, not just in parenting, but in life. (Photo Credit: The One Core FB page)

HERO METER

If there is HERO CURRENCY-then there should be some type of measure  to evaluate ourselves through our growth, correct? This is the HERO METER. Coach Pia has outlined five different starting points for you to consider so that you can determine how much hero currency you can bank.

This part of the book has coordinating worksheets for you to use so you can create a solid understanding of HERO CURRENCY.

This #BetterMe session had so many key points which I knew I needed to address. I love to take notes, but I was working feverishly to make sure I included everything being discussed.

This #BetterMe session had so many key points which I knew I needed to address. I love to take notes, but I was working feverishly to make sure I included everything being discussed.

1. “Success begins with me, but it is not about me.”

2. “FOCUS-Do I have an ability to be silent? How comfortable am I with evaluating the decisions that I have made?”

I’m so much better at this now.

3. “Do I have the ability to name my feelings and know the reasons behind them?”

There are four main emotions we feel. There may be different variations of these depending on the intensity with which we feel, but the 4 main feelings can be identified as HAPPY, MAD, SAD, & AFRAID.

4. “What is my ability to open up and show my vulnerability?”

This is not something I have a problem with. I have been told many times before that I wear my heart on my sleeve. It’s ok. I am one of those self-proclaimed cry babies.

5. “Do I have the ability to work without seeking recognition?”

I’m so much better at this now. I realized only recently that by appreciating other people’s contributions and talents in a small group, I can also offer mine without feeling like I needed something in return. Just the fact that I can share of myself makes me feel good already.

So after you have evaluated yourself using these questions as a guide, it’s easier to take an honest assessment on how you can improve. Honestly looking in the mirror to try and improve upon the person that you are is not by any means EASY, but these points (Not kidding, folks. It really is hard work.) are great to start with.

BUT-there are “Wildcard Entries” that can make it easier on us in this process. Thank goodness there are some things that can make personal development and character building just a little easier. If you have already developed any of these four traits, it becomes easier to invest in yourself and develop the hero within.

Have you heard of that saying? "Everything I need know I learned in Kindergarten." (Photo taken from Coach Pia's FB page)

OMG. Of course!!! (Photo taken from Coach Pia’s FB page)

1. Self Acceptance frees you to be truly sensitive to people around you.

Simply put? Be kind to yourself. It allows your to be kind to others, too.

2. Forgiveness is one of the most powerful secrets to achieving your heroism! Forgive yourself AND forgive others.

I realized this long ago. In fact, I realized this through one of my most valuable relationships. I can’t remember exactly how old my first born was when I figured this all out, but when I did, I was able to let so much of my parental baggage go. (Let it go like Elsa.)

We are all human. Moms and Dads alike. Becoming a mother and realizing that I can’t “DO IT ALL,” that “I’M NOT PERFECT,” and that I would want my kids to forgive me for my flaws no matter how they come across in in my parenting was a huge realization. At some point, I realized that Mom wasn’t Wonder Woman and Dad was not Superman. Forgiving my parents for their flaws (or flaws in parenting) allowed me to also forgive myself for not being the perfect parent to my children.

3. Remembering who you are…at your CORE will allow you to take a step back and not be swept away with the moment. It’s important to LIVE in the moment, NOT to be swept away by it.

Have you ever heard the saying, “Don’t forget where you came from?” This is kinda like that. In other words, no matter where your HEROISM takes you, no matter what kind of success you will experience, staying grounded in who you are and what your passions are can keep you connected to who you are.

You know how my Dad explains this one? “Never forget you see the same people on the way up, as you do on the way down.” In other words, be kind to those people you may meet as you climb the ladder to success…you’ll see those same people on the way down if your success is fleeting.

The pain and fear of raising a child with Down Syndrome that I initially experienced with Gelli's diagnosis has given way to a better understanding of what is important in this life.

The pain and fear of raising a child with Down Syndrome that I initially experienced with Gelli’s diagnosis has given way to a better understanding of what is important in this life. (Photo Credit: The One Core FB page)

4. Embrace Fear and Pain.

Exhale. Breathe your way through it. It’s the only way to do it. Knowing that we will survive  and having the faith that we will get through what ever we are facing is hard but empowering.

When I gave birth to Gelli, the pain and fear of having a child with special needs was too much to bear. I was not sure of the gift I was given, and it took me a little while to embrace the idea of being a “Special Needs Parent.” Since then that debilitating pain and fear has long since subsided. It has been replaced by joy and gratitude even in the face of the unknown.

Coach Pia’s book Born to be a Hero, has actually given me so much more insight into improving my character and my happiness factor. This #BetterMe session offered so much information and things for me to work on, that it took me quite a long time to digest and even longer for me write about it. So much, in fact, that I am breaking up what I have learned into two posts to publish. Be on the look out for the second part to this post where I share helpful hints and tips to continue to build the hero within.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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It’s December 1st! Is there anything more delic It’s December 1st!

Is there anything more delicious than the smell of Christmas and the new found freedom as we anticipate celebrating the holidays with our families again?

@festivalmall has hosted a series of musical shows since November 5th that include Ace Banzuelo and Silent Sanctuary. Check out Michael Pangilinan on December 10th, too!

With Santa visiting, Christmas parties, arts and crafts and lots of promos, you can even enter for a chance to win a Toyota Fortuner!

Best of all-I love it when the places we know give purpose to their celebrations. Thank you #FestivalMall for partnering with @dsapi1  this holiday season. 

Thank you for sharing all the different ways we can celebrate the holidays with you!

#tistheseason #seasonofgiving #downsyndromeawareness #aintnothingdownaboutit #upsyndrome
I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Th I have always been intimidated by Cornish Hens. Through this learning exercise with @usapeecphl, I have learned a bit more about these little birds that have bigger breast parts, and thank you Chef @ivoryyat for showing me how easy it is to prepare Greek Lemon Roasted Cornish Hens with Roasted Potatoes.
 
Clean and fresh flavors are perfect for these smaller birds that are rich in protein with zero carbs. Try the recipe in the comments section. I’m sure you’d enjoy it as much as I did!
 
Interested in U.S. Cornish Hens? You can buy them in stores near you. #CornishHen #USCornishHen #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ad
@gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @pura @gi.aventajado and I played with some of the @puratosph products that they sent over the other day. Ready to use Bavarian Cream made these Cream Puffs easier than ever. I think we have to figure out how to temper our couverture better…

#workinprogress #wasdelicious #giabaked #puratosph #gavinosph #anyonecanbake
@mommymundo always has a way of bringing together @mommymundo always has a way of bringing together just what we need, no matter the time of year. Loving these photos of my first boy that were snapped @expomom.

Anyone else thinking about #HolidayPhotos? I am not one of those moms that has it all together before Christmas. It’s usually a mad dash for us at the end of the year, but if it’s anything that the past few years has taught me, it’s that the little things are what makes the Christmas special.

Many of us haven’t been together with the extended family or even our immediate family in so long. That means it’s the perfect time to document.

@nextbymetrophoto will be hosting one last Christmas Marathon family photo shoot before the end of year. Check them out or shoot them a message. They have some cute set-ups.
****GIVEAWAY ALERT*** 10 things I LOVE about @sed ****GIVEAWAY ALERT***

10 things I LOVE about @sedahotels listed here and on FB!

1. Each property has a Signature Dish. If you can’t make it to Bacolod, you can still enjoy Chicken Inasal in any of their properties.

2. Clean Design. So easy to work and play in a space that is light, modern, and clean in design. 

3. Beautiful views. Every chance I got, I would sit outside at @straightupatseda. 

4. Spacious Rooms and Residence Stays. Staying in the Three Bedroom Premier was perfect for our family. 

5. Attentive Service. Everyone was pleasant and accommodating.

6. Centrally Located. If you are thinking of fun things to do in Makati and want a home base, Seda Residences Makati is near a few of the museums, parks, and malls.

7. Work with ease. Internet service is uninterrupted. Meeting rooms are available and easy to book.

8. Relax and Play. From mid-day tubbies with Gelli to, taking advantage of the pool, or the children’s room, the little girl had more than enough things to keep her busy!

9. #FamilyTime. Spending an extended amount of time outside our own space led to laughter, fun conversations, and opportunities to try new things. We were comfortable and rested in the space we were in, which meant more opportunities for us to connect.

10. Homegrown with a Purpose. A Filipino brand that understands the importance of both work and travel, each property is important to the city & province location. Environmentally aware by adopting Mayumi, a Philippine Bald Eagle. 🦅

Want to win your own staycation at #SedaResidencesMakati?

Up for grabs is one night in a ONE BEDROOM DELUXE for two persons with breakfast!

Here’s how to enter to win:
1) Follow @sedahotels 
2) Follow @mommanmanila & @kitchen143 
3) Tag a friend (or more) who love(s) staycations too!
4) Comment why you should win this staycation treat!

Plus points for people who share this post in stories and the winner will be announced on December 6th.
Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work. Thankful for work that doesn’t feel like work.

@kitchen143 is something I really do love. Sharing a little bit of my kitchen with viewers and followers brings me joy. Even better when I get to work with chefs whom I can learn from and friends who like to spend time in the kitchen too!

#Thanksgiving
Thankful for the gift of music. Wish I caught mor Thankful for the gift of music.

Wish I caught more mini moments from We Will Rock You.

Such a great musical!

@sedahotels 
#sedaresidencesmakati 
#sedaat10
Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. @gelliaventajado j Thankful for @bestbuddies_ph. 

@gelliaventajado joined our family and led me to @bestbuddies. 

Thankful for all the ambassadors who were able to spend time with us. And for @smlpeeps  and @asurionphcareers for helping make magic happen on Saturday afternoon for #Friendsgiving.

#Thanksgiving #bestbuddiesph
Thankful for women who share their faith with me. Thankful for women who share their faith with me. 

#Thanksgiving
Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at Is there anything better than a stuffed turkey at this time of year? Whole turkeys require serious commitment to cook. #IYKYK But because U.S. Poultry is now available here in the Philippines, that also means preparing turkey is a tad bit easier.
 
Frozen U.S. turkey products are available and ready to cook for people who want to dabble with flavors for this bigger bird but aren't sure how.
 
Thank you to Chef @ivoryyat for putting together a medley of my favorite fall flavors. This combination of apples, sweet potatoes, and maple syrup perfectly compliment  the roasted turkey leg and remind me of flavors and scenes from back in New York. 
 
@usapeecphl l has the highest standards that follow USDA requirements which are certified safe before shipping to the Philippines. Get them in stores near you. 

#ad #Turkey #USTurkey #Thanksgiving #PoultryPerfection #CookingWithUSPoultry #USPoultry #USAPEECPHL #ServeTurkey #EatTurkey
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