Upon returning to Manila, I needed to finalize the occupancy of one of our condo units. Finding a tenant was relatively quick due to the unit's prime location, as well as its ideal size and pricing for people working or studying near NAIA. Prioritizing housing renovations in Santolan was also on my list. Additionally, I’ve been exploring different digital banks to optimize interest returns. Another highlight was Joyce's foundation day at school, which involved weeks of practice to prepare for their performance. I also enjoyed watching a video about simplifying life or, at the very least, managing wants within a budget.
This Month's Quote
Comfort is the enemy of progress.
― Rimuru Tempest
Avida Ending Tenant Contracts
Personally doing the rental unit managements...
One of my tenants needed to terminate their lease early, so I had to find a replacement. It took about one week to secure a new tenant for the room. I interviewed approximately 6 to 8 potential tenants, of which 3 confirmed their interest and were willing to make the down payment. I then carried out the usual transition process, including settling the bills and handling the cleaning.
The new tenant is very considerate and easy to communicate with. I hope she enjoys the place and decides to stay for several years. At the very least, I’m hoping she remains for a minimum of two years.
Pasig House Renovations
Fixtures and renovations...
Renovating the house in Pasig has been quite an expensive venture, requiring significant investment in both time and resources. From structural repairs to interior improvements, each step has demanded meticulous planning and careful budgeting. Despite the costs, the renovations are shaping the house into a comfortable and functional space. Our future plan is to either move into the Pasig property ourselves, making it our permanent residence, or lease it out as a source of steady rental income. Either way, we’re hopeful that the effort and expense we’ve put into the renovation will prove to be worthwhile in the long run.
Break and Reflection
2025 is the year for refocusing...
I am taking a much-needed break for a few months to recharge and prioritize my well-being. During this time, I plan to focus on improving my physical and mental health by adopting healthier habits. This includes staying consistent with exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and setting aside time for mindfulness and relaxation. The break also gives me an opportunity to reflect on my goals, reset my priorities, and ensure that I’m building a sustainable lifestyle moving forward. It's a chance to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.
St Cyr Foundation Day
Annual school celebration...
My daughter and I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Foundation Day celebration together. It was a memorable experience, as we enjoyed watching the lively performances, participating in the activities, and soaking in the festive atmosphere. Sharing these moments with her made the event even more special, creating memories that we’ll cherish for years to come.
I had the opportunity to attend St. Cyr Academy’s 53rd Foundation Day, and it was such a lively celebration. The energy of the event was palpable, with vibrant cultural performances, traditional dances, and engaging activities bringing everyone together. I watched as students showcased their creativity in colorful patriotic and traditional attire, while the dynamic dragon dance added an exciting touch. The stage was beautifully decorated with banners, and the entire atmosphere was filled with unity and joy. Being there truly allowed me to witness the rich traditions and spirited community of the school.
The school showcases a vibrant school celebration filled with energy and joy. Students are captured in the middle of lively performances, dressed in colorful costumes and uniforms that reflect their team spirit. The central fisheye photo adds a dynamic perspective, highlighting a large crowd gathered in a green school courtyard, creating an atmosphere of unity and excitement. This moment beautifully encapsulates the enthusiasm, creativity, and camaraderie of the event.
Beer and Chicaron
It has been a while...
It's been ages since I last had San Miguel with chicharon. I can still remember that perfect combo—the crisp, refreshing beer cutting through the salty crunch of the chicharon. It’s one of those simple pleasures that just hits the spot, especially after a long day or during a chill hangout. I should probably grab some soon—feels like I’m overdue for a little treat like that!
Papa in Singapore
Consolidated last months photo with Papa in SG...
My dad and I recently took a trip to Singapore, and it was such a memorable experience. From the moment we landed, we were eager to explore everything the city had to offer. One of our first stops was the iconic Merlion Park, where we took in the amazing views of the Marina Bay skyline. We wandered through vibrant temples, explored Dhoby Ghaut, and marveled at the stunning Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. Of course, we couldn’t miss out on the delicious food—satay at Satay by the Bay was definitely a highlight. It felt great spending quality time together while discovering such a dynamic and beautiful city.
One of the memorable trips I took with my dad—it was such a wonderful experience spending time together. I cherish moments like these, and I truly hope we can embark on more adventures like this in the future.
Digital Banks
Parking some emergency funds or ongoing project funds in Digital banks...
I've been exploring digital banks recently, and I’ve had a pretty positive experience using Maya, UNO Digital Bank, and SeaBank. Maya stands out with its intuitive app and competitive interest rates, which make saving feel rewarding. UNO Bank has been a solid choice too, offering flexible features and options that cater to my needs. Meanwhile, SeaBank’s straightforward interface and dependable savings options have been great for daily transactions and earning interest. All in all, these digital banks have been a great addition to how I manage my finances efficiently.
The Cheaper Your Pleasures, The Richer You’ll Be | Minimalist Philosophy
Managing expectation and life choices...
The video titled “The Cheaper Your Pleasures, The Richer You’ll Be | Minimalist Philosophy” dives into the philosophical teachings of Epicurus and other notable philosophers regarding the essence of happiness and wealth. Epicurus argues that true happiness does not stem from material excess, luxurious experiences, or societal power; rather, it arises from a simple life enriched by meaningful relationships and modest pleasures. The video explores the concept of minimalism across various disciplines, including music, art, and lifestyle choices, advocating for a minimalist approach to well-being that prioritizes cheap and accessible pleasures over costly indulgences.
The discussion highlights the pitfalls of excessive work and material accumulation, showing how these pursuits often lead to stress, isolation, and health issues. Philosophers like Zhuangzi and Thoreau further underscore the importance of valuing simple experiences and contentment over societal standards of success. The video posits that true wealth lies in the ability to find joy in inexpensive pleasures, such as nature, literature, and personal connections, arguing that contentment is the ultimate form of prosperity. By embracing minimalism, individuals can cultivate a fulfilling life without the burdens of excessive desires and materialism.
Highlights
🌿 Epicurus on Happiness: Epicurus believed that happiness is achieved through simplicity and meaningful relationships, not material wealth.
🏠 The Value of Minimalism: The video explores minimalism as a lifestyle choice, emphasizing its importance across art, music, and personal well-being.
⏳ Work-Life Balance: Overworking can lead to health issues and stress, detracting from overall happiness and well-being.
📚 Thoreau’s Simple Life: Henry David Thoreau’s minimalist lifestyle at Walden Pond illustrates the richness found in simple experiences and nature.
📖 Intellectual Pleasures: Engaging with literature and intellectual pursuits is highlighted as a cost-effective source of joy.
🧘♂️ Static vs. Moving Pleasures: Epicurus differentiated between static pleasures (contentment) and moving pleasures (active pursuits), with a focus on achieving the former for lasting happiness.
🌱 Cultivating Cheap Pleasures: The video encourages viewers to embrace affordable joys in life, suggesting that the richest person is the one content with what they have.
Key Insights
🌟 Epicurus’ Philosophy on Wealth: Epicurus asserted that the relentless pursuit of material wealth leads to insatiable desires and unhappiness. Instead, he championed a life of moderation, where true wealth is measured by contentment rather than possessions. This perspective invites individuals to reassess their values and seek fulfillment in simpler, more accessible pleasures.
🏞️ The Role of Nature and Simplicity: Philosophers like Thoreau emphasized the beauty and richness found in nature and simple living. By immersing ourselves in the natural world and reducing our reliance on material possessions, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for life’s everyday moments, ultimately leading to greater happiness.
💼 The Cost of Overwork: The video references studies that link excessive working hours with increased health risks, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance. The pursuit of wealth through overwork often comes at the expense of both physical health and personal happiness, suggesting that a reevaluation of priorities is necessary for long-term well-being.
📖 Intellectual Engagement as a Source of Joy: Engaging in intellectual pursuits, such as reading and meditation, provides affordable avenues for pleasure. Philosophers like Schopenhauer argued that these pleasures are deeper and more rewarding than material gains, highlighting the value of nurturing the mind and spirit.
🧘 Static Pleasures for Contentment: Epicurus’ distinction between static and moving pleasures underscores the importance of seeking contentment through the absence of discomfort rather than through active pursuit of desires. This insight encourages individuals to focus on achieving peace of mind, which is a more sustainable path to happiness.
💰 Redefining Richness: The video challenges conventional definitions of wealth, proposing that true richness comes from being satisfied with what we have rather than constantly striving for more. This perspective fosters a mindset of gratitude and appreciation for life’s simple joys.
🌼 Embracing Minimalism: Ultimately, the video advocates for a minimalist approach to life, where individuals intentionally choose to focus on affordable pleasures that bring genuine joy. By decluttering both physically and mentally, people can free themselves from the burdens of excessive desires, leading to a more fulfilling and enriched existence.
The discussion presented in the video serves as a profound reminder that happiness and true wealth are often found in simplicity and the appreciation of life’s inexpensive pleasures. By embracing minimalism, we can navigate modern life with a renewed sense of purpose, joy, and contentment, aligning more closely with the philosophical teachings of Epicurus and other great thinkers.