Juggler - The Dilemma a Virtual Assistant

 

How do you juggle two jobs as a freelancer? I have recently been doing two jobs this month of July 2025. Both of these jobs are under an agency, meaning the client I work for is not direct, and the agency is the middleman for everything, like the salary and the order of the job. Many clients, such as people from the U.S and Australia, prefer to pay an agency to look for talent for their business, a.k.a "virtual assistants in case something happens, like if the V.A. didn't show up, is sick, or missing in action. They got a company to call. Though I prefer having direct clients, I guess I've got to resolve to deal with an agency at the moment. 

Enough of the intro, I just want to say that I've been tired physically, and lacking sleep because I work in the morning for my Aussie client and in the evening for the U.S client. Though there's a big gap from my shift, I get to end my day past midnight and start working for the Australian client from 6am-3pm, Philippines time. Why did I choose to juggle two jobs? As a family guy, you want the best for your family. I'm tired of living paycheck to paycheck. We usually spend all of my salary on our needs, that's why I've decided to look for a second job in the morning. But it looks like I'm not going to last. It's either I'm going to continue with the morning client and give up the evening client.

You know I'll be forty this coming August 1, and I'm not getting any younger! I know that I've been abusing my health just to make ends meet and offer a comfortable life for my family, where we don't get anxious about what to eat or buy. I'm currently doing sales and appointment setting. 

Maybe it's time to learn a premium skill and find a direct client where the pay is equivalent to two, three, or more clients! What skill to learn? Any suggestions?

No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. - Matthew 6:24

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The Boy who Wished for Forever

There’s a boy who wants to be reborn because he doesn’t want himself, his mom, and his dad to die.

I told him we can’t be reborn—there’s no such thing as reincarnation.

He cried in disbelief, tears welling in his eyes as I explained that we only have this lifetime to cherish and make the most of. When good people die, they go to heaven; those who aren’t good go to hell. He grew happy knowing we’d all go to heaven.

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Embracing Aging

'My body and mind may fail, but you are my strength and my choice forever. All-Powerful Lord God, those who stay far from you will be lost, and you will destroy those who are unfaithful. It is good for me to be near you. I choose you as my protector, and I will tell you about your wonderful deeds.'

Psalms 73:26-28 CEV

Since I finished celebrating my 39th birthday, I've contemplated what to do once I get older. You know, as you age, your reputation or influence diminishes, and it feels like you yearn for the strength of a young person. I remember the days when I was still vigorous and active. I’m still young; I’m only 39, but it feels like being 39 in this generation is already as old as 60! The young people have the edge. Yes, I had my time, but in this day and age, I need to be competitive and maintain my edge or whatever expertise I have. However, after reading what the Psalmist said, it’s good to be near God. Though my body and mind may fail as I age, He will forever be my strength and choice.

It’s reassuring to know that the God I serve is the source of my strength and the source of youth today. I will choose Him as my protector so that I can share more about His wonderful deeds as I grow older.

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Embracing Disagreement and Authenticity

If no one is arguing with you then you’re doing it wrong! 

I’m at a stage of my life that I don’t give a damn about pleasing everyone. It's about standing by my decisions and values, even facing disagreements. Even when you’re a Christian, chances are not everyone inside the church agrees with your beliefs, demeanor, and principles. It's important to remain true to yourself even if you face opposition. Disagreement can be a sign that you’re making bold and necessary choices. Keep pushing forward and stay authentic to who you are.

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Millennials: The Last Generation to Receive Tough Love

 

In a world increasingly defined by sensitivity and heightened emotional awareness, millennials stand out as the last generation to experience the gritty reality of tough love. This approach, once a cornerstone of upbringing, has faded in recent years, giving way to a more nurturing and accommodating style of parenting and societal interaction. The contrast between millennials and the newer generation, particularly Gen Z, is stark and telling of the cultural shifts that have occurred.

Tough Love: A Defining Trait of Millennial Upbringing

Millennials, those born between 1981 and 1996, grew up in an era where resilience and self-reliance were highly valued. Parents and educators alike embraced the philosophy of tough love, believing that challenges and failures were essential components of personal growth. This approach was rooted in the idea that experiencing and overcoming adversity would equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of adulthood.

For millennials, tough love manifested in various forms: from being pushed to achieve academically without coddling to learning the harsh realities of the job market without the safety nets now more common. They were taught that success required hard work, persistence, and the ability to face criticism without crumbling. This upbringing has imbued millennials with a unique blend of determination and adaptability, qualities that are increasingly rare but incredibly valuable in today's fast-paced world.

Gen Z: The Snowflake Generation?

In contrast, Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, has been raised in a markedly different environment. Often labeled the "snowflake generation," Gen Z is characterized by heightened sensitivity and a propensity to avoid discomfort. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including the rise of digital technology, which has created a more connected but also more sheltered world, and changes in parenting styles that prioritize emotional well-being over resilience.

While it's essential to acknowledge that every generation has its strengths, the overprotective tendencies often associated with Gen Z have led to criticisms of their ability to handle adversity. The term "snowflake" reflects the perception that Gen Z members are prone to melting down in the face of challenges, preferring to seek safe spaces and validation rather than confronting difficulties head-on. This generational shift in attitude towards hardship and criticism has significant implications for their future in the workforce and personal development.

Why Millennials are Poised for Success

The unique upbringing of millennials, marked by tough love, positions them as strong contenders for success in business and career endeavors. Here are several reasons why millennials are likely to thrive where previous and newer generations might falter:

1. Resilience and Adaptability: The tough love approach instilled a high degree of resilience in millennials. They are used to facing challenges and finding ways to overcome them, making them well-suited to navigate the uncertainties of the modern business landscape.
2. Work Ethic: Having been raised with the understanding that hard work is essential for success, millennials tend to have a strong work ethic. This drives them to go the extra mile, continually seek improvement, and strive for excellence in their careers.
3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Millennials learned early on to think critically and solve problems independently. This skill set is invaluable in business, where innovative solutions and strategic thinking are crucial for success.
4. Balance of Technology and Human Skills: While millennials are technologically adept, having grown up during the digital revolution, they also understand the importance of interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. This balance allows them to leverage technology effectively while maintaining meaningful human connections.
5. Financial Savvy: Witnessing the economic challenges of their formative years, such as the 2008 financial crisis, has made millennials more financially prudent. They prioritize savings, investments, and strategic financial planning, which bodes well for long-term wealth accumulation.

Conclusion

Millennials, shaped by the tough love of their upbringing, are uniquely equipped to excel in today's demanding business world. Their resilience, work ethic, critical thinking, and balanced approach to technology and human interaction set them apart from both previous and newer generations. While Gen Z may bring fresh perspectives and digital fluency to the table, the foundational skills and attitudes ingrained in millennials through tough love position them as the generation most likely to achieve lasting success and financial prosperity.

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We are the Church

I've been praying for our church to have its property these past few days (Years, I would say, but last week was intense because it feels like it's practically time to leave the building and have our own instead). 

We have been renting this building in San Andres Bukid since 2007, and as we all know, the monthly rental tends to go higher every two or three years depending on the landlord's pressing need. Since it's pandemic, the financial situation of our church is not the same as it used to be. We either downgrade to a small building or rent a big house in Manila that can accommodate at least two families.

Early this morning, while I'm praying. God had a spoken word/message for me. "You are a church" Yes, I've been praying to have a new church building, but the truth is, the Church isn't a building but it is a gathered people. The church is who we are and not where we go. The miracles we witness and the move of the Holy Spirit in us. 

So, wherever we go and do, we represent God. 

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DO YOU FILTER YOURSELF TOO MUCH?

I sometimes find myself filtering myself too much. I always mind what I'm going to say to my friends and even my family and relatives. I don't know, but I have been like these ever since I've become an adult. I was insensitive back when I was a kid up to 13 years old. But when I turned 19, that is when it has all started. 

We Filipinos are thoughtful. That goes back to our roots and history as a nation. Our parents have always told us to be considerate and friendly to every person we meet, which has molded us to be overly mindful of other people's feelings.  There's nothing terrible about being kind or something, but in my opinion, it leads us to anxiety. We don't think about ourselves anymore and often think of other's feelings instead.

It's right about time to think of your feelings too as a person. Be Good to yourself, as Steve Perry says, because nobody else will. We are all humans, susceptible to any wrong judgment. After being stricken by COVID last April, I have thought that I have to speak out about what's happening to me and never hide or keep my feelings. Science says that based on studies, I'm an introvert. But I don't want to be limited by classification. I want to break free from the norms of society and be me!

Be good to yourself, my friend. We're humans, after all, and not robots! Don't be controlled by what others may think and say about you. It's none of your business! You're not living to please them! There's more to life than thinking about what people may do or say. You'll be dead once you have put your faith and trust in people. 

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FACEBOOK SUCKS

My account got restricted today by Facebook for posting a facemask advert on my group and on my timeline. I didn't know that their in-house moderators also monitor each private timeline even if the word "facemask" is typed on the image? This gives me the impression that every account holder's timeline is being closely monitored by FB. Now I'm thinking if I would still continue using this social media since it has gotten stricter and it looks like everyone is being watched on. 

Yes, I know, every social media site has its "rules and community standards" to follow, but It's not "online seller" friendly anymore! Time to check other options. It's time to give other social media sites a chance and not only Facebook. Because they suck big time!

Good thing there's still Blogspot to air my side :)

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PEACETIME GENERALS

Photo: grabbed from Google.

I noticed that some of the higher officials in our country are peacetime Generals. These are types of higher officials that are only trained by the book, but when real pressure and problems kick in, they easily get swayed and defeated. It's obvious how they handled the pandemic. No concrete plans. They failed to mitigate the surge of the virus. And almost did nothing about the territorial disputes against China. So embarrassing. And the list goes on.

 I don't want to be tough looking on the outside but soft on the inside. 

What's bothering me is that most of the kids today are being set up this way either by society, peers, or parents. They always tell their sons/daughters to always win in a contest or be the consistent honor student. That they shouldn't lose or else their lives would be miserable, but the truth is when real life starts to give them real problems, they easily give in because they don't know what losing is like.

We live in a day and age where losers get runner-up trophies to get that sense of (fake) entitlement. 

Let's not train our children to be softy; otherwise, LIFE will make fun of them.

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Disconnect, Reflect and Reconnect, a Calayo Beach resort review

WARNING: A VERY LATE POST: Since 2017, Batangas shaped up as my favorite place to go to whenever I want to recharge and reflect because It's accessible and has got the nature city vibe without compromising your quality vacation. Early 2019, We've decided to go back again to give a thought about everything that happened to us last year. From the battles that we have fought with my Mom and her passing. This time, in Nasugbu

Yes, just like the title of my review. If you want a place to relax, disconnect, or detach from the hustle and bustle of the city, this place is perfect for you. My wife and I went here to celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary. I must say that we're in the right place to be in the moment, to connect, reflect, and enjoy the site. 

Main room

The place is perfect for couples and families. We had our reservation on Agoda, which was great because it was "pay the property at check-in." We already had our reservation online before paying, which I think trouble-free for customers like me who don't want to bother paying or booking online. We got surprised that we were the only customers during our entire stay here. It felt like we've rented the whole place.

Outside Calayo, the place is dominated by mountains and islands

Pros: Clean facilities, swimming pool, nature province vibe. You got to try their authentic Italian dishes. (especially their Pomodoro) A bit pricey, though, but it's worth it! The beach is 80 meters away from the resort, which would only take you 2 to 3 minutes. After getting off at Nasugbu terminal, you can go to the market first and buy foods to eat. The reservation doesn't have free breakfast, so it's a must to purchase food before checking in.

You'll be allowed to cook during your stay. You'll have your set of cooking wares and gas range!

Cons: You will be staying in a bamboo house which is suitable for six persons. When the receptionist found out that we're only two, she said that we wouldn't be able to maximize the booking since it's for six people. But I didn't mind because we were there to celebrate our wedding anniversary. They should consider upgrading their air conditioner to at least 1HP. It gets hot, especially when you're cooking, and the house is too big and a.5 air conditioner is not enough. The owners are Italians. They were renovating their kitchen, so we heard noises during our entire stay. But they've done it during the day, and again, we didn't mind at all! They should also let their employees wear uniforms so that people would be able to recognize them easily. No TV!

It's like your typical sala in the provinces during the '80s-'90s. This is my favorite spot in the house! 2nd would be the main room!

that .5HP AC is not enough. Never enough!

On the 2nd floor; you can say that this is the 3rd room

View from the 2nd floor

2nd room, good for two persons

the Terrace

modernish CR with hot and cold shower; not bad

We didn't have the signal here. You need to go by the bay if you want to get a decent reception. Again, if you're an old soul, longing to be away from the city's busy life, and missing the simple life, this is the place to be! By the way, we paid 40 phpx2=80 PHP for the "environmental fee," but when we checked the beach, there was trash almost everywhere! I hope the municipality of Brgy. Calayo, especially their Brgy. Captain should look into this! We need to make sure that the "fees" that every tourist and visitor are paying should only be used for environmental purposes and not for personal interest!

Whenever I'm having a short vacation, I tend to overlook the imperfections of the place and just be in the moment! 

***Disclaimer*** This post is not sponsored. I'm only a sporadic feelingerong reviewer.

I like this pic, feeling like a TA-ARTITS

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small things can make a BIG difference

All the small things. Yes, we neglect them. We never thought that small things can set everything up for us.  From changing and eliminating a bad habit. Incorporating a new diet, and becoming the BEST VERSION of YOU!

We already know what to do, and what's right for us, be we don't do it. The abundance of information online is already at our fingertips. From training on how to be like this and that. To the right kinds of food that we need to eat to keep ourselves healthy. We're sometimes pessimistic in starting and embracing new levels.

Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to learn a new language? Do you want to quit smoking? Addicted to coffee, soft drinks, and milk tea? Start quitting them now TODAY if you think these are bad for you!

If you want to experience things that you haven't experience before, you got to be willing to do things that you haven't done before.

extra-EFFORT
extra-DISCIPLINE

It's the word "extra" that sets EXTRA-ordinary people from average ones.



this post can also be seen here

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Becoming Vegan

How are you guys? It's been a long while since the last time I posted. There were many things have happened during the past few months. (I think it's been a year already) To start off, I'm now Vegan, and I'm already on my 6th month. I've decided to ditch pork, beef, chicken (my favorite by the way that I had a hard time letting go..) and even fish. Just by going Vegan, I have already lost 10kg in span of 3 months. Just so you know guys that veganism is not a diet, it's an ethical position against exploitation of animals.

I know that there have been discussion already about veganism here in mylot. How many vegans do we have here?



this post can also be seen here

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Kapag gusto, may paraan. Kapag ayaw, tinatamad lang.

Yes, Starbucks is getting Free Advertisent in this post

On May 27, 2018, I was about to buy Americano from a not so well-known coffee shop in Cash&Cary in Filmore Makati. They're located on the 2nd flr.. (so alam nyo na sa mga nagagawi doon yung kapehan sa may foodcourt!) The coffee cost 80php, gave a hundred to Ate and she asked "kuya my 2 piso kayo?" Sabi ko, "wala eh". Saktong 100php ang dala ko." My wife was doing her grocery that time, and I only got 100 when I went up to buy coffee. The lady was so persistent if I have 2 pesos so she can give me my change. I said "ate wala talaga eh, pwede bang ipapalit mo na lng sa mga katabi mong tindahan yung pera ko." She said "kahit ipapalit ko to, wala din naman magpapalit sa akin" to my amazement, I told her, "di ba teh hindi ko na dapat pinoproblema ito?! "As a customer dapat may ready na kayong panukli sa mga bibili sa inyo" She said, "eh wala po talagang akong mabibigay na sukli sa inyo" When I heard that (and I knew from the start na tinatamad lang siya magpapalit), I took my hundred from her and said "Akin na teh yung binayad ko, bibili na lang ako sa Starbucks" tsk, tsk, tsk..BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE!

What I want to point out is, if you have a business, you sometimes got to go the "extra mile". Hindi lang yung magtitinda ka para makabenta, at pagkatapos non ay wala na. One more thing, IF THERE'S A WILL, THERE'S A WAY.. Ate was so stuck in her place busy playing mobile legends!

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My New Guitar. A Les Paul Epiphone

Les Paul Epiphone, Cherry Sunburst 2017 edition

It's my very First time to buy a New guitar. I usually buy 2nd hand or pre-loved items. But this time it's different! It took me HOURS to look for the music store because I've decided to buy a simple guitar for the meantime. I got fond of Epiphone and Gibson, particularly Les Paul guitars since my Guns N' Roses and Journey fanboy days. Since then, I've been eyeing to have one. I must admit, LPs are PRICEY! But for the Love of music, I'm more than willing to save just to have one! For now, let's start with this simple LP. Special Vintage Edition, Cherry Sunburst!

this post can also be seen here

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Silver Sky by John Mayer made by PRS

grabbed from PRS' website

What do you guys can say about the latest guitar made for John Mayer? Do you like its headstock? It seems like many people especially guitar enthusiasts doesn't like it! Well apparently, they say it's a blatant copy of a Fender Stratocaster that is poorly done! Well for me, (since I've already watched lots of videos of it on youtube ) its sounds great! It's PRS!  But what do you guys can say about it? (aside from its price) Leave a comment below!


this post can also be seen here

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Remembering Billy Graham

It's breaking my heart to know that, one of the most genuine Pastors of all time, Rev. Billy Graham died last week, February 21, 2018. He was 99

In this day and age, I can only count few pastors who are dedicated in improving their herds' faith to Jesus, and not always thinking what they can earn from the word of God and make it marketable for their own personal interest.

Look at how other Pastors today are in the news (esp. In the U.S. and even in the Philippines) obviously live in luxury and are still in denial about how they have got their riches.

If there's going to be an award that I can give to Pastor Billy, that is the Greatest Pastor of All Time! I'm not going into details on how much Pastor Billy contributed to me and to many Christians. For I've always known him as a Man of God who preaches the word with Ultimate Anointing and Seal and had blessed many people during his prime. This blog post is not enough to put into details all his contribution to Christianity. But I will always keep the messages he shared with humanity.

Me, as a church kid, growing and knowing many Pastors that lived ONLY for God, it's sad to know that I can only see FEW Genuine Pastors today. I used to subscribe to this other Pastor's podcast, devotional message, this and that, but I decided to unsubscribe because I cannot see the sincerity anymore from these Pastors. Even if I'm reading the same word and scriptures that they got from the bible, there's always that "Advertisement" they squeeze in their messages. Having said that, I only subscribed to Pastor Billy Graham's devotional and other resources that can keep my Faith strong, aside from reading the Bible.

You will always be missed Pastor Billy, especially your followers, and the historical crusades you made. Though I am saddened that you have already left us, I know that you are now enjoying your Master's share.

For to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21 





This post can also be seen here

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30th Birthday Celebration of my Wife

SeasSpring Resort Mabini Batangas

ME and Wifey recently had a trip in SeasSpring Resort, Brgy.Mainit, Mabini Batangas. 
We went there on Oct 6, 2017 and stayed until Oct 7, 2017. Yes, It was just only a 24hour stay to celebrate my Wife's 30th Birthday but it feels like we've been there for a long time. It has this "I've already been here" vibe that I can't explain.

My rating for this resort is 8/10. Panalo yung place. Wala ring halos tao nung nandoon kami due to off-peak season. May mga Koreans tho, since they're spending their ChuSeok and the resort is also Korean-owned.

The sunrise in Mabini, Batangas is Indescribable!

Natural Sauna, so damn Hot! That rocky ground emits natural steam

View from the dinning area

Pros: 
-The package was CHEAP. Abot-kaya! it was only for 2,972.58php in Agoda. It was also my First time to book in Agoda. I was kind of skeptic at first if their packages are legit. LEGIT pala talaga!
-Pools (sea salt water)
-Natural Hot Spring (sobrang inet!)
-Natural Sauna (I said natural dahil umu-usok talaga yung lupa! Kahit ung seashore! Now I know why kung bakit Brgy. Mainit name ng place!
- Rooms and amenities (with Free Breakfast, Buffet!)
and the People! The staff are so Uber-Friendly!

Cons:
-Foods,sobrang MAHAL bes!
-Nag fa-flactuate ung electricity nila (mga seconds lang nmn)
-Walang masyadong Freebies sa Room (ok lang, nandoon naman ako for the experience NOT for freebies!)
To be honest, I overlooked the imperfections of this place since I was there to enjoy and spend this special day with my wife which she really deserves! I'm really not good at giving reviews, I'm sorry! I'm just here to share our experience in this Breathtaking Place at Seasspring Resort!

Pools

Wifey Chillin' (their pools by the way is at 4 to 5 feet only)

Near the Cottages

I'm only one call away....

In front of our Room

Wifey told me that she has plans to go back here. I was also thinking the same thing! I didn't post a picture of our room simply because I want to leave a touch of privacy of our vacation.

But If  you are interested in booking your next vacation, book a trip now and witness the beauty of this place!

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Kasusweldo pa lang, UBOS na?

Aside from reading the Bible. I also make sure to read books, and keep myself educated when it comes to stewardship. It's been a long time since I finished reading a book about financial literacy. On the last few pages of this book, the author shared a secret to financial blessing. Here, he shared The Parable of Talents from Matthew 25:14 and I've learned that "If you manage God's money properly, He will entrust you More". I'll also learned that God gives Blessing "according to our abilities" Then I realized that, if you only have one ability which is "spending money carelessly" do you think God will entrust you with more? I don't think so! BUT, if you will educate yourself, and be Financially literate (e.g. investing,tithes,stocks, mutual funds,business and savings) For sure, GOD wouldn't think twice of giving You MORE! I got to work hard for these abilities so He can entrust me with MORE! Now I know why there are many people are being entrusted and Blessed to a greater extent, because they are "Financially ready and equipped" to recieve MORE!

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Coffee FREE for 4 months

It's been a month and two weeks since the last time I posted an entry here. Well, many things have happened, and I'm going to tell you guys about them in separate posts. First off, I'm proud to say that I'm now officially COFFEE FREE for four months! WOW! I've never really imagined that I'd be able to QUITE drinking Coffee for good!

It was tough at first! I had withdrawals, frequent headaches, and migraines (and cravings). But my wife consistently supported me and helped me quit Coffee! She told me that "It's only in mind" that you won't be able to quit it. And I said, "you know what? You're right!

I started drinking instant Coffee when I was 18 years old and got hooked on it since then. From 3-in-1 coffee to Brewed, discovered Starbucks (LOL, the countryside in me) in 2007 when I and my family transferred to Manila from Cavite. Found other coffee flavors from latte to espresso, to cappuccino, and even Americano!

At the beginning of my career as an Online teacher for Koreans way back in 2010, I remember that I couldn't even start my day without taking a sip of brewed Coffee from McDonald's! I got addicted to it! Who wouldn't get addicted to their Coffee?! Come on! It was cheap! Plus, that strong aroma fascinates me! But I've decided that this addiction has to end. I decided to quit because I'm starting to have jitters plus, I'm having a hard time getting "decent" sleep."

I'm not a slave to anything and anyone! Yes, that's my daily motivation (or so-called mantra by adults, lol!)

I stopped drinking Coffee on May 31, 2017. (Yes, yes, I know, It's almost four months contrary to the title of this post) In Psychology, they said that in every bad habit that you think you need to change, there should be a BETTER substitute. So I decided to replace Coffee with GREEN TEA!

Yes! I know that Teas are NOT caffeine-free, BUT they contain less caffeine (3.12 mg )than Coffee (40 mg), and in turn, black and green tea has a lot less caffeine than Coffee. So if you're looking to reduce your caffeine intake (but not eliminate it), green tea is the right choice! Green tea is the healthiest beverage on the planet. It is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body.

In my disclaimer, I'm not totally "caffeine" free BUT rather COFFEE FREE. Free from the addiction and its Slavery! Ever since I quit Coffee, I can now sleep soundly and decently. Free from jitters and exhaustion!

this post can also be seen here

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UPDATE: As of 4/10/2024, I went back drinking to coffee, well actually, I wrote this post down back in 2017, and after a month or so of writing this post, I went back to drinking coffee! I'm really sorry!

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