How’s Life the Past Few Months? | Life Lately

Life did me a favor the past few months. I took a number leaps of faith to bring me to where I am right now. Frankly, I missed blogging weekly or more frequently. But, how about you? How’s life lately?

How’s life lately?

It’s been a few months since I last wrote about under this category. To be honest, it feels surreal as I smile and grin while thinking about what to write on this blog post. As I write this blog post, I’m watching the replay of It’s Showtime on iwantv from the comfort of my workspace in my flat. Beside me, Sam creates an artwork. Frankly, that inspired me to work on this blog and share some news from my end.

News #1: Unintentional blogging hiatus

I did not mean to blog slower than before and actually pause on some blogging series I used to write about. The thought of it killed me since blogging became part of my nomadic digital journey. However, since 2019 started, I told myself I need to blog more because I want to do it for myself (first) before anything else.

Blogging taught me many things. It helped me carve my skills and take the path of content writing. Sporadically, I wonder why I took this path and stopped practicing my degree (Human Resources). The answer was simple, I see myself really going with the creative side than the logical side of my mind. Some may not understand this, but once you feel you’re on a crossroad, you’ll know. 😉

Now that I’m back, I’ll be blogging more. Maybe not every other day but more frequent than the last year. I hope you’ll stay and read them still!

News #2: Taking a break from post-grad

It took me a while before to put this into action. I began my break in the second half of 2018, and I’m on an indefinite break.

A lot of you may wonder why I’m doing this. I’m doing this to recuperate, cope, and fully heal from my mental health issues. Not only that, but my priorities changed and giving four (4) years to it gave me a bittersweet journey that I’ll never ever forget.

It was one hell of a ride, and I’m glad I did it. Meeting new friends and people gave me a different view about different things in life.

New #3: Quitting the corporate life and going back to being a digital nomad

I never fully realized that I’m living one of my college dreams right as of this moment. Since 2014, I gave working from home a chance to help me finance my expenses in terms of books and utilities, and it was a success. Not that I made up a lot of cash from the beginning, but it taught me to persevere also in the path of being a digital nomad.

Truth be told, ever since I began reading iAmAileen and Camie Juan (back then Wild Spirit), both inspired me to invest in myself and try stepping into the freelance world.

Some think of freelancing as easy, but to be honest, it’s not. You work hard to build yourself, especially your skills. All the work rests in your hands – from finding clients and closing deals. Luckily, I got great clients that taught me many things through the years. Freelancing back then while pursuing post-grad wasn’t easy. I continuously admire those who work full-time office jobs and still continue their post-grad degree.

Now, I’m a full-time digital nomad who faced many challenges. My motto shifted to:

Never give up on something that you want. However, remember to be grateful to all the people who helped you through the journey.
Maria

News #4: Dakila’s adoption

Recently, Sam adopted Dakila and honestly, one of the best decisions ever! I know that Dakila does not belong to me, but I loved the dog ever since he arrived. He may be naughty, but we found ways on how to meet halfway. Every so often, he cheers you up with random antics like climbing on top of his crate and acting like a cat. By the way, he likes to squeeze himself in some tight spaces.

In case you’re wondering what “dakila” means, it means “great or noble.” Sam’s mentor named him Dakila. Generally, it’s used to describe heroes or war veterans that fought in the wars to liberate the Filipinos.

Frankly, when I told my family about Dakila. Now, they always ask about him and if the flat smells okay. I always reassure them that I always clean, which is one of my favorite things to do, especially when I’m stressed!

News #5: Growing blog

It’s not that big of a deal to some, but I see some progress with my blog. Whatever I’m doing must work because I get some sponsored posts and collaborations through my blog. It makes me happy when someone emails me about a guest post on the blog. Occasionally, I politely decline due to the rates given.

So, if in case you are keen to work with me in any way possible, the blog’s open for:

• Paid ads or articles
• Sponsored posts
• Social media posting (across my different accounts)

News #6: Adulting blues

As I work remotely full-time, it allowed me to save, invest, and pay my bills in time. I didn’t imagine that it would happen soon, but I know begun giving back to my family for the support they gave through the years. It pains me to see the bills going up because of different issues in our country. However, that’s how it’s going to be.

I wish taxes on food and beverages did not go so high as it affects everything, especially when we want to dine out. Before, prices for movie tickets cost around 3 McSaver meals.

Now, it costs a lot more. It’s hard to go out to the mall without around a thousand pesos in your wallet. One of the good things about living in the province, costs of goods are somehow low and cheaper because you don’t pay for rent and food.

News #7: Mental health and self-care

Towards the last quarter of 2018, my mental health encountered some hardships that led to my anxiety levels going higher than ever. It helped a lot when I used the app named Youper. I tracked my anxiety and panic levels through this app and helped me meditate and clear my mind, especially when I need it.

Currently, I’m practicing self-care more frequent than ever. If I need a time-out, then I do so. Keep calm before going to battle again.

That’s how life is for me. How about you? How’s life?