Why Stress and Passion Are Closely Related?

They say, “Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress; working hard for something we love is passion.” This quote hits differently depending on where you are in life, but it resonates universally across generations—whether you’re Gen Z, Millennial, or Gen X. It’s a reminder that the effort we pour into our work feels vastly different depending on whether our hearts are in it.

For many of us, especially in today’s hustle culture, “working hard” has become a badge of honor. Laging “grind” mode, di ba? Whether it’s pulling all-nighters, juggling multiple gigs, or sacrificing weekends for deadlines, we’ve normalized the idea that productivity is king. But the real question is: Are you working hard because you love what you do, or are you just surviving? Kasi iba ang “I have to” sa “I want to.”

Stress is what happens when you’re grinding for something that doesn’t align with your values or interests. Imagine waking up every day dreading your tasks, feeling like you’re stuck in a loop of obligations. That’s the “work hard” that drains you. Para kang nagbubuhat ng mabigat na bagay araw-araw, pero walang sense of fulfillment. It’s exhausting not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. And let’s be honest, marami sa atin ang nakaka-relate dito.

But passion? Passion is different. Passion gives you energy instead of taking it away. Kahit pagod ka, there’s a sense of fulfillment because you know you’re working towards something meaningful. Whether it’s starting your own business, creating art, helping others, or pursuing a dream career, passion fuels you in a way that stress never can. Yung tipong kahit overtime ka na or wala kang tulog, okay lang kasi mahal mo ‘yung ginagawa mo. It’s not just work—it’s purpose.

Let’s break it down further. For Gen Z, passion often looks like pursuing creative endeavors, championing social causes, or exploring unconventional careers. You see it in young people turning hobbies into side hustles or using social media to amplify their voices. For Millennials, passion often intertwines with balancing responsibilities and personal growth. It’s about finding meaning in work while navigating adulthood. For Gen X, passion might mean revisiting old dreams or finding ways to leave a legacy. Across all generations, the common thread is this: When you love what you do, the hard work feels worth it.

But let’s not sugarcoat things. Following your passion isn’t always easy. It’s not as simple as quitting your job and suddenly living your dream life. May bills pa rin, may obligations, may reality check. Passion doesn’t mean there’s no stress at all. It means the stress has a purpose. It’s like climbing a mountain—mahirap, pero alam mong worth it pagdating mo sa tuktok. The journey itself becomes rewarding.

So how do we shift from stress to passion? Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Identify what matters to you. Ano ba talaga ang gusto mo? Sometimes, we’re so busy keeping up with expectations that we forget to ask ourselves what truly makes us happy.

2. Start small. You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Begin by carving out time for things you enjoy. Maybe it’s writing, painting, coding, or volunteering—whatever ignites that spark.

3. Align your work with your values. If you can’t change jobs immediately, find ways to bring your passion into your current role. Or, look for opportunities outside work that align with your interests.

4. Be patient. Pursuing your passion is a journey, not a race. May proseso ‘yan, and that’s okay.

5. Surround yourself with support. Find people who uplift and inspire you. Kung puro negativity ang paligid mo, mas mahirap mag-focus sa passion.

At the end of the day, life is too short to be stuck in something that only brings you stress. Hindi ka ginawa para lang mag-survive—you’re meant to thrive. So, ask yourself: Are you working hard for something you love, or are you just getting by? If it’s the latter, maybe it’s time to reevaluate and take steps toward what truly sets your soul on fire.

Remember, working hard is inevitable. But if you’re going to pour your energy into something, let it be something that lights you up. Passion, not stress, should be the driving force behind your hard work. Kasi sa totoo lang, mas masarap mapagod kapag mahal mo ang ginagawa mo.

~ billymacdeus

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Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Watch Umbrella Academy

Ugggh to the nth level. 

Hands-down.

My personal fave show in #netflix is back!!!

31st of July baby!!!

ha ha ha ha!

In case you haven't seen Season 1, you have 20 days to go to finish or binge watch, just in time for the Season 2's premier on the 31st of July.


Top 5 Reasons Why you should lay your eyes on this show.

1. The plots and twist - welp, not to mention time travel with super amazing special effects, this show oozes with a plethora of reality-based stories relatable to at least 2-3 generations of the human kind.
You can never get tired of the family issue dramas, the siblings rivalry, the powerhouse "superpowers" these protagonist were endowed, the villainy actions of Hazel and Chacha that makes you adore them (first time in my life - adoring the plots and actions of a paired villain), the exciting capabilities of inducing moral to ethics and conflicts to harmony.

I don't know but..., way before it got adapted as a series - the comics plotline is absolutely impressive.


2. Soundtrack - welp (the 2nd), the music playlist is a mix of headbangin rock with a tinge of melancholic lovesongs, transcending from new generation pop and even back to classical hits from the 70's and 80's.


3. Five - the presence of Five and its role made its enticing all the more to bring the mind in to an action of whys and hows questioning. A tickle, or somewhat a trigger to explore additional excellent thoughts beyond you can imagine.


4. Lessons Imparting - it's obvious! There are lessons and hidden messages like eater eggs everytime you watch an episode from Season 1. These lessons may possibly be carved to your heart, kind of a beacon in dealing life in the present form.


5.The Umbrella - hahahaha! Hargreeve's talents that makes you think and answer the puzzle is what makes this show more and more enticing. If you're the intellectual type kinda watcher. You get to appreciate flow and what the show is leading you to.




As a bonus, this show is much better version of Heroes or Xmen ala kind of storyline. So if you've appreciated both movies/series, you're up for grabs then for The Umbrella Academy.





Till next time...


ˆbillymacdeus

Respect Other People's Way Of Thinking

(updated December 2024)

In life, we often hear phrases like, “We’re all unique,” or “Everyone thinks differently.” But how often do we truly respect other people’s way of thinking? Let’s face it: madalas, kapag hindi tugma sa pananaw natin ang isang bagay, our first instinct is to judge or dismiss it. Yet, the truth is, there are many ways to arrive at the same outcome. Just like how 6+3=9 is the same as 5+4=9, different paths can still lead to the same destination.

Think about this: how many times have you disagreed with a friend, a colleague, or even a family member because their approach to solving a problem was different from yours? Maybe you’re the type who likes to plan every detail, while your best friend prefers to “go with the flow.” Or perhaps you’re straightforward, but your coworker likes to analyze every angle before making a decision. Ang tendency natin minsan is to think, “Why can’t they just do it my way? Mas mabilis!” But here’s the catch: their way isn’t necessarily wrong. It’s just different. And that difference doesn’t make it any less valid.

For Gen Z and Millennials, this hits home because we’re living in an era of rapid change and diverse perspectives. Social media has amplified everyone’s voices, making it easier than ever to share opinions but also to clash over them. Whether it’s about politics, career choices, or how to live sustainably, it’s clear na ang daming iba’t ibang pananaw sa mundo. The question is: Are we listening to understand, or are we listening to argue?

Take problem-solving as an example. Imagine you’re in a group project—yes, the dreaded group project! One person wants to divide the tasks equally, while another suggests working together on every step. At first, this might lead to tension. But when you step back, you’ll realize that both approaches have merit. Dividing tasks ensures efficiency, while working together ensures consistency. When you combine these methods, you’re likely to produce the best results.

Now, apply this to real-life situations. Let’s say you and your sibling have different ways of managing money. You like to save meticulously, while they’re more about investing in opportunities. Instead of saying, “Ang gastos mo naman,” or “Ang kuripot mo kasi,” why not acknowledge that both strategies have their strengths? Saving builds security, while investing opens doors to growth. When you learn to respect and even integrate these approaches, you both win.

Even in deeper matters, like values or beliefs, the principle still applies. For instance, in Filipino culture, respecting elders (“utang na loob” or “paggalang”) is deeply ingrained. But modern perspectives, especially from Gen Zs, might lean towards questioning traditional norms to promote individuality and fairness. Instead of dismissing one as “old-fashioned” or the other as “rebellious,” what if we viewed these perspectives as complementary? Traditions can provide grounding, while modern thinking can drive progress. Magkasama silang pwedeng magtulungan.

But respecting other people’s way of thinking doesn’t mean you have to agree with everything. Hindi ibig sabihin nito na tanggapin mo na lang kahit mali. Respect means being open to understanding why someone thinks or acts a certain way, even if it’s different from what you’d do. It’s about empathy. Kapag nakita mo kung saan sila nanggagaling, mas madali mong maiintindihan na ang intention nila isn’t to oppose you but to offer another perspective.

Here’s a practical example that most of us can relate to: career paths. Some people thrive in a corporate setup, working a 9-to-5, climbing the ladder, and finding stability. Others choose the path of entrepreneurship, embracing the risks and rewards of building something from scratch. Then there are those who go the unconventional route, like freelancing or pursuing their passion projects. Sa mata ng iba, “playing it safe” ang corporate, “masyadong risky” ang entrepreneurship, at “impractical” ang passion projects. But who’s to say which path is better? Each one has its own challenges and rewards. What’s important is that the person walking the path feels fulfilled.

Respecting other people’s way of thinking also applies to how we handle conflicts. Instead of immediately reacting with, “That’s wrong,” try saying, “I see where you’re coming from, but here’s another way to look at it.” This simple shift in language can turn a heated debate into a meaningful conversation. Remember, it’s not about who’s right or wrong; it’s about finding common ground.

In the end, life isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. Just because someone thinks differently doesn’t mean they’re against you. Instead of focusing on differences as barriers, let’s see them as bridges. After all, 6+3=9, and so does 5+4=9. Both are correct. Both matter. And both teach us that there’s more than one way to solve a problem, live a life, or make an impact.

So, the next time you encounter someone whose way of thinking challenges yours, take a step back and ask: “What can I learn from their perspective?” In doing so, you’re not just respecting their way of thinking—you’re growing in ways you never thought possible. And that, my friends, is the beauty of embracing diversity in thought.

~billymacdeus

Focus On Possibilities, Not Problems (3 Practical Tips)

(updated December 2024)

Zig Ziglar once said, “Focus on possibilities, not problems.” 

At first glance, it seems like a simple motivational line, but for Gen Z and Millennials living in a fast-paced, pressure-filled world, this quote can hit differently. Let’s be real: ang daming challenges ngayon — from global issues like climate change to personal struggles like family-personal relationship problems, mental health battles, or simply figuring out life. But what Ziglar is telling us is this: instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, let’s shift our energy toward what’s possible.

Take a moment and think about this: 

How many times have you let your worries stop you from moving forward? You’re scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, and suddenly, that wave of comparison hits. "They’re doing so much better than me," or "Wala pa akong nararating." It’s so easy to get stuck in the “problems” mindset. But here’s the thing: focusing on problems alone won’t change anything. Nakakaparalisa lang siya. 

What shall we focus on instead? Possibilities.

Possibilities are where hope, creativity, and action meet. They’re not about ignoring the problems—kasi let’s face it, problems are real and valid—but about choosing to see beyond them. When we focus on possibilities, we’re giving ourselves the permission to imagine solutions and take steps forward.

Take, for example, the rise of sustainable living. Climate change is one of the biggest “problems” our generation faces, and it can feel overwhelming. But look around: Gen Z and Millennials are leading the way in creating possibilities for a greener future. From small actions like using reusable straws and bags to big moves like innovating eco-friendly businesses and technologies, these efforts prove that when we focus on what can be done, change becomes possible.

Another example? Mental health advocacy. There’s no denying the problem of stigma around mental health, especially in Filipino culture, where seeking help is sometimes seen as a weakness. But look at what’s happening now: more people are openly talking about their struggles, creating safe spaces online, and even starting local initiatives like free counseling services. These aren’t just reactions to a problem—they’re possibilities turned into action.

On a personal level, let’s say you’re stuck in a job you don’t love, or maybe you feel lost about your career path. It’s easy to spiral into thoughts like, “Wala na akong magagawa” or “I’m just not good enough.” But what if you flip the script? Instead of focusing on the “problem” of being stuck, ask yourself: “What’s possible for me right now?” Maybe you can start learning a new skill online, connect with mentors, or even explore freelancing. The key is to see options instead of dead ends.

This mindset doesn’t mean dismissing challenges or pretending everything’s perfect. Instead, it’s about where you choose to focus your energy. Problema or posibilidad? (or to make it simpler - what will you choose : dwelling on the issue or opportunity in solving the problem), kasi kung tutuusin, parehong nandiyan ‘yan. It’s your perspective that makes all the difference.

So, how do you start focusing on possibilities? Here are three practical tips:

1. Reframe your thoughts. Instead of saying, “This is so hard,” try asking, “What can I learn from this?” Shifting your mindset from defeat to curiosity opens up new paths.

2. Surround yourself with doers. Be with people who inspire you and push you to dream bigger. Kung ang paligid mo ay puro reklamo lang, mahahawa ka. Choose to be around those who talk about ideas and solutions.

3. Take small steps. You don’t need to solve everything at once. Focus on one possible action you can take today, no matter how small. Small wins lead to big changes.

Zig Ziglar’s advice isn’t about denying reality. It’s about embracing the power of hope and action. As Gen Zs and Millennials, we have so much potential to make a difference—for ourselves and for others. So instead of letting problems define you, let possibilities guide you.

Always remember: bawat problema, may kalakip na oportunidad. The question is, are you ready to see it? Let’s stop obsessing over the barriers and start building the bridges. Focus on possibilities, not problems, because that’s where the magic happens.

~ billymacdeus

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Sikretong Malufet!

We weigh our decisions all the time based on our experiences, in fact, most of the time even without thinking about it.

According to scientificamerican.com - there is a basis for this using the experiment conducted on ants. Oo, mga langgam...

Ayon naman sa businessnewsdaily.com - the more of an expert someone is, the more they should trust their gut when making decisions.

It all boils down to experience.

And how do you qualify for an experience to connote positivity and accurate results?

Simple lang, we gain experience because of the lessons we learned from our mistakes.

The heartaches and failures we encountered because of the the wrong moves, uncalculated approaches we took resulting to things that tell us behind our minds -- " I shall never repeat this same mistake again ".




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(Source: The Scientific American)



~ billymacdeus