Ang Buhay nga Naman (Re-written)

 

Ang Buhay nga Naman (Re-written)

Just a few thoughts, jokes, and random musings.

You know, I’ve always loved sharing a good joke. I truly believe a solid laugh can completely turn your day around. Laughter really is the best exercise! I was looking through my old Tag-lish journal, Ang Buhay nga Naman, and found a bunch of jokes I wrote and collected back then. Some were originally in Tagalog, so I did my best to translate them into English so everyone can enjoy them.

A Quick Reality Check on "The Future"

We have a famous saying in the Philippines: “Ang taong hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan, hindi makararating sa paroroonan.” Basically, it means if you don’t look back at where you came from, you’ll never reach your destination.

But honestly? That’s not true. The only reason you won't reach your destination is if you don't have money for the fare! Because let’s face it: “Ang taong lumalakad, kadalasan ay walang pamasahe.” (The person walking usually just can't afford the bus ride). Am I right or am I right?

It's funny how our needs change, too. When you’re a student, all you care about is getting your pamasahe (fare). But once you finally get a job? All you really want is a good pa-massage!

5 Ways to Get Loaded

If you're trying to figure out how to get rich, there are pretty much only five ways to do it:

1. Be born into it. Some people are just lucky enough to be born with a golden spoon in their mouth. If that wasn't you, don't sweat it—we still have four more options.
2. Work your butt off. This one is tough, but it’s definitely rewarding to enjoy the fruits of your own labor. That said, if your salary is a joke, you might want to look at the next three.
3. Marry into money. Find a wealthy spouse. Bonus points if they’re really old and on their way out. Too dark? Moving on...
4. Win the lottery. Hey, it could happen! If luck hits, you’re an instant millionaire. Just make sure you actually have the cash to buy the ticket first.
5. Steal it. Look, this is a total last resort and I am definitely not recommending it. It’s illegal, stupid, and you will go to jail if you get caught. But hey, look on the bright side—free room and board, plus a daily "massage" from the guards!

Who’s the Real Boss at Home?

Have you ever wondered who actually holds the higher rank in a marriage? It all comes down to who handles what.

Naturally, the husband is the "General." Sounds powerful, right? He gets that title because he makes all the general decisions—like what’s for dinner, or who is going to do the dishes after.

The wife, on the other hand, is just a "Major." If you think that’s a step down, think again. She's the one making the major decisions all day, every day!

A 2-Second Japanese Lesson

Want to learn a little Japanese? It’s super easy.
How do you say "One more time" or "Give me another one" in Japanese?
"Isapane." (Get it? Isa pa, neh?)

Mother’s Milk

They always say breast milk is the absolute best thing for babies... and honestly, daddies seem to love it too!

How Fashion Changed Over the Years

Filipinos have always been known for being pretty conservative, especially with clothes. Back in the day, women wore skirts that went all the way down to their heels. Showing your legs in public was a massive no-no. Everything was covered up. In fact, a guy wasn't even supposed to see his girlfriend’s legs—if he did, he was basically locked into marrying her!

But as time went on, things changed, and those hemlines started creeping up:

• First came the "Maxi" skirt, which sat just below the knee.
• Then it hit the knee, and they called it the "Midi." (The guys definitely started paying attention here).
• As the years rolled by, it went above the knee with the "Mini," then the "Mini-Mini," and finally the "Micro-Mini."
• Eventually, the world welcomed the "Bikini."

So, what do you think is next for this millennium? It’s actually getting a lot simpler. There won’t be any bikinis left—just "Ini" (Tagalog for "This is it"—meaning totally naked)! So keep your eyes open.

In accounting, I think they call that "Adequate Disclosure."

The Secret Language of Skirt Slits

Did you know a skirt's slit says a lot about what a woman wants?

• If the slit is in the back, she’s saying: "Hey man, follow me."
• If the slit is on the side, she’s saying: "Hey man, walk with me."
• If the slit is in the front, she’s saying: "Hey man... catch me!"

Hilarious Answering Machine Messages

These are actual automated responses people have left on their real-life answering machines:

• "My wife and I can't come to the phone right now. But if you leave your name and number, we'll get back to you as soon as we're finished."
• "Hello! If you leave a message, I'll call you back soon. If you leave a 'sexy' message, I'll call you back even sooner!"

Consent is Everything

I’ll never forget how a criminal law professor defined a "Rape" case under Philippine law.
He said, "If a man has relations with a minor, with or without her consent, that's Rape. If he has relations with an adult woman without her consent, that's also Rape. However, if he has relations with an adult woman WITH her consent... well, then that's 'Merry Christmas!' And it feels so good, you'll want to celebrate it over and over again."

--ooOoo--

I hope you enjoyed reading this and feel free to share it with others.

 

Five Simple Rules to Be Happy

Originally inspired by reflections written in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on February 14, 2011.

Every day gives us the same 24 hours. Yet despite the advances in technology, the conveniences of modern life, and our endless pursuit of success, many people still struggle to find happiness.

As an accountant, I often view life through the lens of numbers. Sometimes, numbers reveal truths that are easy to overlook.

Consider a typical day:

• 8 hours sleeping
• 8 hours working or studying
• 8 hours for everything else

In simple terms, only one-third of our day is truly available for family, friends, hobbies, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness.

Now extend that calculation across a lifetime.

If a person lives to age 60, roughly:

• 20 years are spent sleeping,
• 20 years are spent working or studying,
• leaving about 20 years for everything that makes life meaningful.

Of course, this is only a simplified illustration. Real life is more complex. Commutes, responsibilities, obligations, and unexpected challenges consume additional time. The point is not the mathematics itself, but the realization that our time is finite and precious.

Once we understand that, we become more intentional about how we spend it.

Life's Detours Have a Purpose

Disappointments and setbacks are unavoidable.

We all experience moments when things do not go according to plan. A missed opportunity, a failed relationship, a business setback, or an unrealized dream can leave us discouraged.

Yet life's obstacles are often like speed bumps on a long journey. They slow us down, but they are not meant to stop us. The road eventually becomes smooth again.

When things do not happen the way we want, it may simply mean that something better is still unfolding. Challenges often teach us resilience, patience, wisdom, and gratitude.

Rather than dwelling on disappointments, we should learn from them and continue moving forward.

The Value of Love and Friendship

One of life's greatest blessings is finding people who genuinely care for us.

Love and friendship cannot be measured by perfection. Genuine relationships endure because people choose understanding over judgment, forgiveness over resentment, and acceptance over criticism.

Too often, we spend our time searching for the perfect person while overlooking the value of the people already in our lives.

True friendship grows stronger with time. Like a fine wine, it matures and becomes more meaningful with age. Old friends, trusted colleagues, devoted partners, and supportive family members are treasures that should never be taken for granted.

Life is short. Relationships are priceless.

The Five Simple Rules to Be Happy

Years ago, I came across a short piece of wisdom that has stayed with me ever since. Although the original author is unknown to me, its message remains timeless.

1. Free your heart from hatred.

Resentment weighs heavily on the soul. Forgiveness does not excuse wrongdoing, but it frees you from carrying unnecessary burdens.

2. Free your mind from worries.

Not everything is within your control. Focus your energy on what you can influence and let go of what you cannot.

3. Live simply.

Happiness is not always found in having more. Often, it is found in appreciating what is already enough.

4. Give more.

Be generous with your time, kindness, knowledge, and resources. The greatest rewards often come from helping others.

5. Expect less.

Many disappointments arise from unrealistic expectations. Gratitude grows when we learn to appreciate life's blessings instead of constantly demanding more.

These five principles may sound simple, yet they have the power to transform how we view life and interact with others.

Start Where You Are

We cannot rewrite the past.

The mistakes, regrets, failures, and missed opportunities are part of our story. However, they do not have to define our future.

No one can go back and create a brand-new beginning. But anyone can begin today and create a brand-new ending.

Every day presents an opportunity to choose gratitude over complaint, kindness over anger, and hope over despair.

As an accountant, allow me to express this final thought in financial terms:

Yesterday is a canceled check.
Tomorrow is a promissory note.
Today is the only cash you have.
Spend it wisely.

The greatest investment you will ever make is not in stocks, properties, or businesses. It is in how you spend the limited time you have been given.

Choose happiness. Choose gratitude. Choose to make today count.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L Mabeza, CPA

The Good Things About the Accounting Profession (2026 Edition)

 

Dear Readers,

Allow me to rewind a little. I still vividly remember attending a Career Guidance Seminar during my senior high school years. Sitting alongside my fellow graduating students, I listened to a panel of professionals—a lawyer, a doctor, a priest, a teacher, and an accountant, among others—who served as resource speakers. Each of them proudly championed their chosen field, eager to convince us to follow in their footsteps. 

As the presentations grew more passionate, a friendly debate erupted over whose line of work could claim the title of the oldest profession in the world. 

The surgeon stood up first, confidently pointing to the Book of Genesis. He explained that God caused Adam to fall into a deep sleep, removed one of his ribs, and fashioned it into Eve. "Therefore," he declared with a smile, "the very first recorded medical operation was surgery!" The graduating class erupted into enthusiastic applause. 

Immediately afterward, an agriculturalist rose to challenge the claim. "No, my friends! Before Adam and Eve were ever created, God first filled the earth with plants and animals. Therefore, agriculture is truly the first profession in the world." This statement drew even louder cheers, heightening the excitement in the room. 

Suddenly, a politician stood up and confidently interjected, "I beg to differ, ladies and gentlemen. It is neither agriculture nor surgery. It is politics! If you read the scriptures closely, you will note that even before creation, there was already a major debate in heaven regarding who would rule the universe. And that, my friends, is politics." A brief, amused silence followed; no one dared challenge his logic. 

Personally, I think all of those speakers were partly right and partly wrong—especially if we consider God as the ultimate professional and view the universe through the lens of creation. As for me, I am quite certain about who the first engineer and the first accountant were. In fact, they were one and the same person: Adam. He was the first engineer because he was responsible for the very first structural erection, and he was the first accountant because he made the first entry! 

Well... just kidding, of course. 

On a more serious note, it has always been clear to me that accounting is one of the most vital pillars of the business world. That fundamental truth is exactly why I pursued it. Regardless of their primary industry—whether they are doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, entertainers, or public officials—nearly everyone will require the expertise of an accountant at some point. From preparing financial statements and analyzing business performance to ensuring regulatory compliance and managing complex tax reporting, every organization depends on sound financial guidance. 

What I appreciate most about our profession is that accountants safeguard the entire life cycle of an enterprise. When a company is established, we are among the first professionals called upon to set up the books and build the financial frameworks. Conversely, if a business must close or undergo liquidation, accountants are retained until the very end to close out the ledgers, settle obligations, and finalize the dissolution. 

In accounting, we are guided by clear standards and structured principles. For example, in inventory management, we frequently use the FIFO method: First In, First Out. Ironically, a similar rule applies to the professionals themselves. We are often the first to come into an organization, and the very last to leave. This presence from beginning to end gives accountants a unique and enduring degree of job security. 

I have also often reflected on why the execution of a professional career is called a "practice." Perhaps it is because true professionalism requires constant learning, refining, and a healthy dose of trial and error. Humorously speaking, even the Almighty could be said to have utilized a bit of trial and error when populating the earth. First, He created Adam alone. Then, realizing that it was not good for man to be solitary, He refined the design and created Eve. Fortunately for all of us, the second iteration was a spectacular upgrade. 

The true beauty of a professional practice is that we are granted the space to continuously learn, adapt, and grow through firsthand experience. And, of course, our clients value this expertise enough to compensate us for our services—even if those payments occasionally arrive a little later than expected! 

Let us commit to moving forward, taking decisive action, and remaining sharp in an ever-evolving corporate landscape. I am reminded of an old adage, the exact source of which escapes me: "A man who graduates today and stops learning tomorrow will be uneducated the following day." 

The lesson is simple yet profound. True education does not culminate at graduation; learning is a lifelong journey. 

Thank you for dedicating your time to reading this piece. I hope it brought both a smile and some perspective, and I look forward to sharing more insights and experiences with you in future editions. 

Sincerely yours,

Benito L Mabeza, CPA

Always Keep These 5 Things Secret

Dear Readers,

If you truly love and respect yourself, protecting your personal boundaries is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your peace of mind.

Consider keeping these five aspects of your life private:

1. Home and Family Matters
Keep personal issues and challenges within your household. Not everyone needs access to your family's private affairs.

2. Personal Vulnerabilities
Be careful about whom you trust with your deepest thoughts, struggles, and past experiences. Share them only with those who have earned your confidence.

3. Health Challenges
Your health journey is personal. Discuss illnesses or medical conditions only with people who genuinely need to know or can provide meaningful support.

4. Financial Information
Avoid disclosing your exact income, net worth, investments, or financial status. Financial privacy helps protect both your security and peace of mind.

5. Future Plans and Goals
Keep your strategies, projects, and ambitions private until they are accomplished. Let your results speak louder than your intentions.

Protecting your privacy is not about secrecy; it is about wisdom, self-respect, and maintaining healthy boundaries.

If these insights resonate with you, feel free to share them with your friends and loved ones.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA

20 Principles to Cultivate for True Personal Power

 

Dear Readers,

I would like to share a few core principles that, based on both professional experience and continuous learning, can help us become stronger, more respected, and more effective in both life and leadership.

20 Principles to Cultivate for True Personal Power

1. Protect Your Privacy
Move in silence. Let your results speak louder than your plans.

2. Build Resilience
Face setbacks and failures without losing your purpose, confidence, or identity.

3. Practice Quiet Confidence
Believe deeply in your abilities without the need to boast or seek validation.

4. Show Universal Respect
Treat everyone with dignity and courtesy, regardless of position, background, or status.

5. Embrace Accountability
Own your actions and accept responsibility for both successes and mistakes.

6. Demonstrate Courage
Stand firm in your convictions, even when doing so is difficult or unpopular.

7. Commit to Lifelong Learning
Stay humble and remain open to new perspectives, lessons, and opportunities for growth.

8. Develop Endurance
Recognize that meaningful achievements require patience, persistence, and consistency.

9. Uphold Unwavering Integrity
Do the right thing, especially when no one is watching.

10. Communicate Effectively
Express your thoughts, boundaries, and expectations clearly and respectfully.

11. Be Adaptable
View challenges and change as opportunities to learn, improve, and evolve.

12. Become a Reliable Source of Support
Encourage, guide, and uplift those who depend on you.

13. Exercise Self-Discipline
Master your impulses rather than allowing them to control you.

14. Make Vision-Driven Decisions
Choose actions based on long-term goals rather than short-term emotions.

15. Value Yourself
Respect yourself first and set the standard for how others should treat you.

16. Honor Your Commitments
Keep your promises and treat your word as your bond.

17. Practice Delayed Gratification
Be willing to sacrifice temporary comfort in pursuit of lasting success.

18. Cultivate Loyalty
Protect those behind you, respect those beside you, and learn from those ahead of you.

19. Live with Honesty
Never claim credit for work you did not do, and always acknowledge the contributions of others.

20. Maintain Emotional Control
Stay calm in both victory and defeat. When you master your emotions, you strengthen your influence and leadership.

--ooOoo--

Even adopting just a few of these principles can positively transform your habits, relationships, leadership effectiveness, and personal growth.

I hope you find these insights valuable and thought-provoking. I would be interested to hear your reflections and experiences in the comments. If you believe others may benefit from this message, please feel free to share it.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA

9 Simple Ways to Handle Difficult People

 

Dear Readers,

Drawing from both professional research and personal experience, I would like to share 9 simple yet highly effective ways to manage interactions with difficult people.

Challenging personalities can quickly drain your energy and disrupt your peace of mind. By practicing the strategies below, you can remain composed, maintain control of the situation, and protect your emotional well-being.

1. Slow Down Your Speech

When a disagreement begins to escalate, intentionally slow down your pace of speaking. A calm and measured tone can help diffuse tension and encourage a more productive conversation.

2. Use Strategic Silence

When someone offers a weak excuse or questionable justification, resist the urge to respond immediately. A brief moment of silence often encourages reflection and may prompt them to elaborate further.

3. Mirror Their Language

Repeat a few of their exact words back to them. This subtle communication technique often encourages the other person to clarify, expand, or reconsider their position.

4. Shift from Proving to Questioning

Rather than trying to prove someone wrong, ask thoughtful and open-ended questions. Questions promote dialogue, while arguments often create resistance.

5. Master Your Poker Face

Maintain a calm and neutral facial expression. You do not need to reveal every thought or emotion. Emotional discipline is a powerful form of self-control.

6. Take a Tactical Pause

When emotions begin to run high, step away and agree to continue the discussion later. A short break can prevent unnecessary conflict and allow both parties to regain perspective.

7. Be Brief and Direct

Communicate your point clearly and concisely. Avoid over-explaining or justifying yourself. Simplicity often carries greater impact.

8. Change Your Environment

If you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck, physically move to a different location. A change of environment can provide a fresh perspective and help reset your mindset.

9. Focus on Behavior, Not Promises

Pay close attention to actions rather than words. Promises can be made easily, but consistent behavior reveals a person's true intentions and character.

Remember, you do not have to win every argument. Sometimes, protecting your peace, maintaining your composure, and walking away with dignity is the greatest victory of all.

I hope you find these insights valuable and helpful in your personal and professional relationships. Please feel free to share them with your colleagues, friends, and loved ones.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA

10 Fascinating Psychology Facts That Explain Our Daily Behavior

 

Dear Readers,

Throughout my research and daily experiences, I have always been fascinated by how the human mind works. It is incredible how small, subconscious triggers completely dictate how we react to the world, manage our stress, and interact with the people around us.

Today, I want to share 10 interesting psychological insights that have fundamentally changed how I view human behavior:

1. Cognitive Overload (The Limits of Overthinking)

Our working memory has a strict capacity limit. When you force yourself to process too many variables at once, your decision-making degrades. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is stop overthinking and let your mind rest.

2. The Chameleon Effect (Behavioral Mirroring)

Have you ever noticed yourself leaning in or crossing your arms just like the person you are talking to? We naturally and unconsciously mimic the body language, gestures, and speech patterns of people we like or respect. It is the brain's way of saying, "I am in sync with you."

3. The Mere-Exposure Effect (Familiarity Breeds Affection)

We are naturally drawn to the familiar. The more frequently you are exposed to a certain stimulus—whether it is a song on the radio, a brand logo, or a new idea—the more your brain grows to prefer and trust it.

4. Consolidative Sleep (Subconscious Problem-Solving)

Your brain does not shut down when you go to sleep; it reorganizes. While you rest, your subconscious mind integrates new information and processes complex emotional or intellectual problems. This is why the best solutions often hit you clearly first thing in the morning.

5. Neurochemical Rewards (The Kindness High)

Altruism isn't just good for society; it's good for your biology. Performing kind acts triggers a release of "feel-good" chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine in your brain. Helping others actively increases your own baseline happiness.

6. Neuroplasticity and Negativity Bias (The Danger of Complaining)

Your brain is incredibly efficient at building pathways. The more you complain, the more you train your neural pathways to seek out flaws and ignore opportunities. What you focus on, you physically reinforce in your mind.

7. The Power of Personal Name Recognition

A person's name is, to that person, the sweetest and most important sound in any language. Addressing someone directly by their name validates their identity, grabs their undivided attention, and instantly builds a subconscious connection.

8. Intolerance of Uncertainty (Fear of the Unknown)

From an evolutionary standpoint, the unknown represents danger. Humans are hardwired to feel anxious about what they cannot predict or understand, often preferring a negative certainty over an unpredictable, ambiguous situation.

9. Glucose Depletion (The "Hangry" Phenomenon)

"Hangry" is a very real biological state. When your blood sugar drops, your brain lacks the fuel it needs for executive function and emotional self-regulation. As a result, you become significantly more prone to irritability and sudden anger.

10. Reciprocal Liking (The Feedback Loop of Appreciation)

We are naturally wired to like people who like us. When someone shows genuine appreciation, respect, or affection toward you, your brain automatically lowers its defenses and prompts you to start liking them back.

--ooo--

I hope you find these insights as interesting and useful as I do. Applying even just one or two of these concepts can completely change how you approach your workday, your habits, and your relationships.

Which of these points resonated with you the most? Do you notice any of these behaviors in your daily life? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, please feel free to subscribe or follow my page for more regular updates.

Best regards,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA 

15 Golden Rules of Money: A CPA’s Guide to Financial Freedom

 

Dear Readers,

We all want to achieve financial freedom, but navigating the world of personal finance can often feel overwhelming. The truth is, building lasting wealth isn’t about complex formulas or secret shortcuts—it is about mastering foundational habits.

As a Certified Public Accountant, I look at numbers every day. But more importantly, I see how small habits shape long-term financial success. To help you navigate your own financial journey, I have compiled a checklist of the core principles that can transform your relationship with money. 

Here are 15 non-negotiable financial principles, broken down into four essential pillars: 

1. Smart Spending Habits

• Always think twice before making a purchase. Give yourself a cooling-off period to avoid impulse buys.
• Avoid spending money just to impress others. True wealth is quiet; status symbols are expensive.
•  Master the art of negotiation. Never be afraid to ask for better terms, rates, or prices. 
• Learn to clearly distinguish between needs and wants. Prioritize your essentials before indulging in your desires. 

2. Strategic Saving & Budgeting

• Never underestimate the value of small savings. Every small amount adds up over time.
• Never ignore the importance of budgeting. A budget is simply a roadmap for your money. 
• Make saving money a non-negotiable routine. Treat your savings account like a bill you must pay first. 
• Always maintain an emergency fund. Give yourself a financial safety net to handle life's unexpected curveballs. 

3. Wealth Building & Protection

• Learn the basics of investing wisely. Put your money to work so you do not have to work forever.
• Avoid falling for "get-rich-quick" schemes. If an opportunity sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
• Give every peso a mission to grow and multiply. Treat your money as an army of workers that builds wealth for you.
• Avoid putting all your savings into one basket. Diversify your money to protect yourself from unnecessary risk.

4. Financial Mindset & Management

• Make tracking your expenses a daily habit. You cannot manage what you do not measure.
• Guard yourself against lifestyle inflation. As your income increases, keep your lifestyle stable and save the difference.
• Take the time to understand how your money works. Financial literacy is the best investment you can ever make. 

---ooo---

Thank you for reading, and I trust you will find these principles useful. If you found value in this post, please feel free to share it with your friends, family, or colleagues!

Which of these four pillars do you need to focus on the most this month? Let me know in the comments below!

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA 

How To Attract Respect To Yourself

 

Dear Readers,

Through my personal research and observations, I have learned several valuable insights on how to earn and maintain the respect of others. I would like to share them with you.

1. Speak Only When Necessary

Avoid speaking more than necessary. When your words are thoughtful and purposeful, people are more likely to value and respect what you say.

2. Honor Your Financial Commitments

If you borrow money, repay it on or before the agreed due date. Reliability builds trust and respect.

3. Be Considerate of Others

Avoid imposing on people unnecessarily. Be mindful of the time, effort, and attention you request from others.

4. Address Disrespect Appropriately

When someone treats you disrespectfully, respond calmly and appropriately. Setting healthy boundaries encourages others to treat you with respect.

5. Present Yourself Well

Dress appropriately and carry yourself with confidence and composure, especially when speaking in public or professional settings.

6. Think Before You Respond

Take a few moments to reflect before answering a question or reacting to a situation. Thoughtful responses often command greater respect.

7. Maintain Appropriate Eye Contact

When speaking with others, maintain appropriate eye contact. It conveys confidence, sincerity, and attentiveness.

8. Match Your Actions with Your Words

Ensure your actions are consistent with what you say. Integrity and consistency build credibility and earn respect over time.

9. Show Respect to Others

Treat everyone with courtesy and respect. In many cases, the respect you give is reflected in the respect you receive.

Conclusion

Respect is not demanded; it is earned through your character, actions, and how you treat others. By practicing these principles consistently, you can strengthen your relationships and build a reputation worthy of respect.

Thank you for taking the time to read these insights. Please feel free to share them with others who may find them useful.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA

Psychology Facts About Human Behavior

 

Dear Readers,

I recently came across these interesting psychology insights while reading and thought they were worth sharing with all of you.

1. People often form an opinion about you within just a few seconds of meeting you.
2. Acting calm, confident, and self-assured usually earns you greater respect from others.
3. People tend to remember how you made them feel more than the exact words you said.
4. If someone closely watches your reactions while speaking, it may indicate that they value your opinion.
5. The human mind often overanalyzes situations that may never actually happen.
6. Those who speak less during conversations are often the ones who observe the most.
7. When someone shares their secrets with you, it usually reflects a sense of trust and emotional security.
8. A person's true character is often revealed by how they treat those who cannot offer them anything in return.
9. Many people who appear strong on the outside are quietly fighting their own personal battles.

Thank you for taking the time to read these insights. Please feel free to share them with your friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA

12 Rules for a Happy Relationship

Dear Readers,

I recently came across an inspiring article that shares timeless principles for building a strong, loving, and happy relationship. I thought it was worth sharing:

12 Rules for a Happy Relationship

1. Never keep secrets from each other.
2. Always give a hug and a kiss before leaving the house.
3. When your partner speaks, listen not only with your ears but also with your heart.
4. Never walk away from each other, even during disagreements.
5. Avoid bringing up the past. Instead, focus on the present and the future.
6. Whenever possible, eat together and make it a priority to go to bed together each night.
7. Set aside time on weekends for family. Even a simple walk in the park can strengthen your bond.
8. If you need to argue, do so with love. Speak calmly and take time to listen.
9. Never say, "Fine, you're always right," when you do not truly mean it.
10. Cherish the good memories, forgive mistakes, and let go of resentment.
11. Remember that genuine love is precious and should never be taken for granted.
12. Always keep your word.

Relationships thrive on trust, respect, communication, and commitment. May these simple reminders inspire us to nurture and strengthen the bonds we hold dear.

Stay blessed, and cherish your relationships.

Sincerely yours,

Benny Mabeza

7 Signs of an Intelligent and Strong Person

 

Dear Readers,

I would like to share an insight from my research:

If you possess these qualities, those who lose you may truly be missing someone valuable:

1. You have the courage to end a relationship without demanding an explanation once you recognize someone's true character.

2. You quickly notice changes in people's tone, behavior, mannerisms, and actions, yet you choose not to reveal that you have noticed.

3. When someone lies to you, you do not confront them immediately. Instead, you observe how far they are willing to carry the deception.

4. You do not raise your voice when faced with disrespect. Rather, your silence speaks louder and often leaves a more lasting impression.

5. You forgive, but you do not forget the lessons learned.

6. You remain kind-hearted until someone mistakes your kindness for weakness.

7. You do not allow others to become your weakness. To protect your peace of mind, you quietly remove yourself from situations that no longer serve you. Often, it is only then that people realize they can no longer take you for granted.

Thank you for reading.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L. Mabeza, CPA

Timeless Rules of Etiquette and Common Courtesy

Dear Readers,

Here are a few timeless rules of etiquette and common courtesy that are always worth remembering:

1. Limit your calls. If someone does not answer, avoid calling more than twice in a row. Assume they may be busy or unavailable.

2. Return borrowed items promptly. Whether it is money, an umbrella, a pen, or a lunch box, return borrowed items before the owner has to ask for them. This reflects integrity and respect.

3. Be considerate when hosted. If someone is treating you to a meal, avoid ordering the most expensive item on the menu.

4. Avoid intrusive questions. Refrain from asking questions such as, "Why aren't you married yet?", "Don't you have children?", or "Why haven't you bought a house?" People's personal choices are their own business.

5. Hold the door for others. Extend this simple courtesy regardless of gender, age, or status.

6. Take turns paying. If a friend pays for the taxi ride or meal today, offer to cover it the next time.

7. Respect different perspectives. What looks like a "6" from one side may appear as a "9" from another. Be open to other viewpoints.

8. Do not interrupt. Allow others to finish speaking before responding. Listen fully before sharing your thoughts.

9. Know when to stop teasing. If someone is uncomfortable with a joke, stop immediately and do not repeat it.

10. Express gratitude. Never underestimate the power of a sincere "thank you."

11. Praise publicly, correct privately. Celebrate achievements openly, but address concerns discreetly.

12. Avoid commenting on someone's weight. Instead, say, "You look great." If they wish to discuss changes in their appearance, let them bring up the subject.

13. Respect privacy on phones. If someone shows you a photo, look only at that photo and avoid scrolling through their device.

14. Respect medical privacy. If a colleague mentions a doctor's appointment, a simple "I hope everything is okay" is sufficient. Avoid probing for details.

15. Treat everyone with equal respect. Show the same courtesy to the custodian as you would to the CEO. Character is revealed by how we treat others.

16. Be present in conversations. Looking at your phone while someone is speaking to you can be disrespectful. Give them your full attention

17. Offer advice only when invited. Unsolicited advice is often unwelcome, regardless of good intentions.

18. Keep reunions comfortable. When reconnecting with someone after a long time, avoid asking about age, income, or relationship status unless they choose to share.

19. Mind your own business. If a matter does not concern you, resist the urge to interfere.

20. Maintain eye contact. When speaking face-to-face, remove your sunglasses. Eye contact conveys sincerity, confidence, and respect.

21. Be mindful of others' circumstances. Avoid boasting about wealth, success, or family achievements around those who may be facing challenges or loss.

22. Acknowledge thoughtful messages. A simple "Thank you for sharing" can mean a great deal to someone who has taken the time to help or inform you.

Appreciation, respect, and kindness remain some of the simplest yet most powerful ways to build meaningful relationships and foster goodwill.

Sincerely yours,

Benito L Mabeza, CPA