April 9, 2021
In this day and age where social media is (almost) everything, many people are now shifting to the world wide web to build their career to pursue the “dream." Among the most popular online careers are bloggers, vloggers, and social media influencers. But as many would have thought wrong, braving this world is not that easy because there’s really a huge and serious competition out there.
Speaking from experience, having passion is not enough to succeed in this world. Because with so many people who have the same passion and goals as yours, how do you make yours stand out? How do you increase visitor numbers and build a loyal following? One way is leveraging platforms like Tokmatik to buy followers. But increasing your following organically, that's the challenge. And how do you get people returning to you for more?
So in this article, I will share with you how I became a successful blogger. This is not the typical finding your niche blog tips. While it’s a factor as well, there’s more to blogging than that.
How I started
The Girl Behind the Pen started nine years ago. I created this blog as a way to reach my dream of working in a popular teenage magazine in the Philippines. At first, I shared random things in my life and eventually, it became a fashion blog. I love mixing and matching pieces-that-don’t-work-well-together-but-somehow-I-managed-to-pull-off.
I didn’t have sponsors that time, I featured my old clothes from my closet and sometimes, I’ll spend my savings from my allowance to buy clothes to be featured. I asked my little sister who was 10 years old at that time to take a photo of me using our digital camera. I got several good comments telling me that I was able to help them fix their fashion dilemma, while some told me that they were really inspired by my posts to get through life’s challenges. As time passed, my blog grew and my reach became even wider.
Back then, I really had no intentions of monetizing my blog nor becoming a famous blogger; one because I was really a shy person, and two is because I really didn’t know that it was possible. A few months passed and one international brand reached out to me and that was my very first paid collaboration. Eventually, it continued with both local and international brands. I got invited to events, asked to review products, wore pieces from a shop’s new collections, became a brand ambassador, and so on. That got me thinking, whoa, it’s really possible to make a living out of blogging. But I didn’t want to make it that way, I want my blog to remain a hobby because I don’t want to be pressured that I have to earn this amount of money or go to five places a week for an event to consider myself successful. I just let it be. Besides, what I really wanted was to become a writer.
My setbacks
Though I told myself that I will not make this blog a living nor becoming a famous blogger, in the back of my mind, there’s a part of me that wants to because it’s the dream, right? You just have to go to events and get paid, you will get free clothes or skincare in exchange for one blog post, you meet a lot of people, and so on. These are really fun.
If only I did the right thing at the right moment, blogging could have been my full-time career, and perhaps, I’ll be a popular blogger. But I didn’t because I was afraid and I wasn’t open to making use of the new platforms (Instagram). In short, I refused to adapt to the new trend and that was really one of my biggest regrets to this day. I’d be lying if I tell you that it was all okay. I had a hard time riding on the trend because, by the time I did, I thought I was too late. All the bloggers that started at the same time as I did were ahead of me already. I got unmotivated so I laid low and thought I lost my readers.
But instead of allowing that to bring me down, I used it as a motivation to work harder.
How I got back in the game
I was so close to giving up that time because I was pressured on the thought that I was too late and there are so many people, even younger than me, who are “making it” in the industry. While it’s really challenging, I told myself that I have to brave the road and get myself out there. And so I did.
I continued blogging. I’m not as active as I was before but this is a good restart. This time, I didn’t let the pressure of the numbers get in the way. I blog at my own pace and in my own terms just how it used to be. But in order for me to be a successful blogger, I have to be more creative than ever. This, I think, is how I will stand out. Thankfully, there are still people who read my blog and appreciate my articles. They may be less than it was before but what matters most is, someone still reads my blog.
I’ll continue to write about fashion and self-help tips to empower other people. Alongside these, I’ll also share some of my travel discoveries, food recommendations, and so much more. I’ll be the blogger that anyone could turn to whenever they have a dilemma.
Key takeaways
To summarize everything, here are the things I learned from my setbacks for me to succeed in the industry.
Don’t let go of your passion.
Be open to changes.
Timing is key. It really is.
Don’t be pressured by society.
Be creative.
Build your network.
Know your worth.
Engage with your readers.
Have a clear goal.
Be consistent.
Always be humble.
Becoming a successful blogger does not mean you must have a huge following on social media. Sometimes, all it takes is one person who believes in what you do. There's not really an accurate answer as to what success is because we all have our own definitions of success. And as for me, this is success.
March 29, 2021
The past year might have been challenging but, if there's a silver lining on it, 2020 is a meaningful one. Last year, the pandemic dared us to be connected even amid the pandemic. Thus, Lumina Homes conducted this year's annual awards through another virtual event this 2021 to prioritize health and safety.
Gawad Lumina is the annual sales awarding event that aims to express gratitude to partner networks and recognize top sales performers that delivered outstanding results by going beyond expectation yearly.
In its second year of celebrating the event virtually, over 500 performing Bida Lumina Sellers registered and joined "Gawad Lumina 2020: Digi-Connect" last March 19, 2021, via Zoom.
Lumina Homes awarded top-performing Bida Lumina Sellers per categories such as salespersons, sales managers, and brokers in each cluster of North and East Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The highlight of the virtual event is awarding the
overall top performers nationwide.
For Lumina Homes, the seller's experience is as important as that of the buyers. Amid this pandemic, Lumina continuously strives to help its partner sales network adjust to the changing landscape of real estate selling. Lumina ensures that Bida Lumina Sellers remain proactive and persistent in their shared mission of providing affordable homes.
To ensure safety, Lumina Homes built a way to make "virtual tripping" and online reservation possible. With the use of 360-degree virtual house tours, sellers can discuss the features of Lumina Home Models, a hassle-free way to explore and avail house and lot unit using a computer or smartphone.
"Lumina Online University" was also launched, dedicated to being a web-based teaching platform that offers sales courses on selling Lumina Homes. Lumina Online University will soon include free webinars and specific courses about Lumina properties so sellers will become more familiar with the house and lot offers of Lumina Homes.
To spice up the virtual event, Lumina Homes also announced its biggest Annual Incentives for the year 2021. All its Bida Lumina Sellers may receive "CASHing! CASHing! Cash Sales Incentives" depending on their sales performance. A salesperson can receive as much as 100,000 pesos, and a broker can have as much as 500,000 pesos worth of cash and digital support. And the jaw-dropping "Bonggang House and Lot Promo" was also launched. Every performing partner sales network can have the chance to own a brand new house and lot via raffle to be done in the next Gawad Lumina for the sales year 2021.
Gawad Lumina 2020: Digi-Connect ended with a fun live raffle where 50,000 worth of prizes were given away! 50 participants won 300 pesos; 5 lucky winners of 3,000 pesos; 1 winner of 5,000 pesos, 1 winner of 10,000 pesos; and 1 winner of 20,000 pesos!
Lumina Homes being an all-digital real estate developer and equipped with future-ready innovation believes that the key to success in the industry will always be its connection with every dedicated salesperson. And the connection that binds them is the mission of providing affordable house and lot for every Filipino family.
December 24, 2020
1. Always stay a student
2. Think that you're not the best at your craft
3. Take small steps
4. Go for the menial job
5. Get out of social media. For awhile.
6. Beat resistance into submission
7. It's okay to fail
December 19, 2020
Spending money, even for "smart" investments, can make anyone think twice especially with the situation now. But one thing you could put your hard-earned money on without making your blood run cold is a real estate property.
Experts say that it's one of those investments that don't depreciate easily as it continues to hold value. Sounds promising, right? However, I have just one teeny-tiny problem that's holding me back—budget.
I'm a millennial earning less than a six-figure salary monthly and thinking of buying an affordable house and lot at such a young age. With this setup, it's like I'm diving head-first. Because seriously, how could a 20-something five-figure earner afford to buy a house at this time, especially now that my side hustles as a freelance writer and a blogger have been affected (less to no events, fewer promotions).
But then I discovered this local real estate developer and in an instant, my heart skipped a beat. Lumina Homes is the affordable housing arm of Vista Land, the Philippines’ largest homebuilder known for housing brands including Camella, Lessandra, and Vista Residences among others.
It offers an affordable yet exclusive subdivision lifestyle featuring 24/7 guarded entrance, roving security, and shuttle service. You can also enjoy cool amenities like a play area, gazebo, mini gardens, and more.
Since 2012, Lumina Homes was able to expand in over 50 locations including Rizal, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Quezon, Camarines Norte, Albay, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Capiz, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Agusan del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Bukidnon, Misamis Occidental, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and South Cotabato.
Lumina Homes Affordable House and Lots
- Anna Rowhouse (24 sqm house on 36 sqm lot with provision for 1 bedroom)
- Angelique Townhouse (35 sqm house on 36 sqm lot with provision for 2 bedrooms and carport)
- Angeli Duplex (42 sqm house on 54 sqm lot with provision for 3 bedrooms and carport)
- Athena Single Firewall (53 sqm house on 63 sqm lot, with provision for 3 bedrooms, family area, and carport)
Owning a house and lot at such a young age should not be an achievement but should be achievable for everyone and Lumina is making that possible. Whether you're retiring or a young professional, you can totally get your dream house with Lumina's affordability. It's never too late or too early to invest in your dream house.
Check them out on Facebook and their website lumina.com.ph
December 5, 2020
Let me start this by saying that I'm very aware that this is a very small problem considering the global situation, but as someone who typically worries about every single thing, I need to say this: I'm (sort of) freaking out that I'm having breakouts on my cheeks—on the lower left part of my face to be exact.
I've had breakouts on my forehead and on my chin but not on my cheeks. It started in March so I think, one of the main causes is wearing a mask. But since it's now part of the new normal, the maskne problem may not be going away soon.
How to Prevent Maskne
If you also experience this, here are some things you can do to #SkipTheMaskne:
- Use a cloth mask made with breathable fabric
- Wash your mask regularly
- Keep your face clean
- Skip the makeup, if possible
- Use a trusted skincare brand
Here's the good news, there's a solution to our maskne problem—the new @pondsph Anti-Bacterial Range. It is formulated with Advance Protect Technology that is scientifically proven to fight 99% of maskne-causing bacteria.
The Anti-Bacterial Facial Foam is formulated with BHA that helps prevent acne; while the Anti-Bacterial Face Mist and Wipes are formulated with AHA that helps exfoliates skin cells.
Can't wait to use these. I'll share the progress with you after 2 weeks. And oh, you can get them on Shopee until December 12. #MakeItFunWithPonds
November 9, 2020
The newly-rebranded POVA smartphone series combines premium performance and competitive pricing
With the arrival of its POVA series in the Philippines, global premier mobile phone brand, TECNO Mobile, has once again provided consumers with a high-performance phone at an affordable price tag.
Officially launched last October 15, 2020, POVA is exclusively
available at the TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee Mall. This smartphone comes in two attractive colors, Magic Blue and
Speed Purple, and is priced at PHP 6,999.
Previously released as TECNO Pouvoir, POVA retains key elements
from its predecessor, including an outstanding processor, brilliant screen, and
superior battery. Built to provide optimal value to users, the new POVA series
is flexible and adaptable, capable of delivering the best mobile experience.
What exactly can users expect from this performance beast? Here's
a list of 7 must-see features of the awesome new TECNO POVA.
1. Super Battery
A 6000mAh super battery with a standby time of 30 days, and the ability to play music for 8 days straight, on just a single charge.2. Dual IC flash charger
3. Helio G80 Gaming Processor
4. Lag-free gaming experience
5. Exclusive HiOS Operating System
6. 90.4% perfect screen ratio
TECNO POVA also boasts its 6.8” dot-in display screen with an extremely sharp display, and a 90.4% perfect screen ratio that provides a better viewing experience.7. Quality Cameras
Visit and follow Tecno Mobile PH https://www.facebook.com/TECNOMobilePH and check out the new POVA series, and see the latest offerings. For more updates and other information, visit www.tecno-mobile.com/ph.
October 26, 2020
So if you want to slay the streetwalk when things get better, be sure to have these clothing pieces to upgrade your wardrobe. The best part? Everything is under $5!
Read on to find the best fashion pieces you must have for an upgraded wardrobe without breaking the bank.
1. Scarf Top
Back Tie-Bow Solid Color Short Strapless Top ($4.80)
One of the must-have items for every fashionista is a scarf top. It’s sleek, sexy but classy. A scarf top is easy to wear, simple to look at but definitely a scenestealer.
This Back Tie-Bow Solid Color Short Strapless Top from Wholesale7.net has high quality and textured Polyester/Terylene, the fit runs casual but remains comfortable for you. It is made of good quality 91%-99% Polyester, soft, and comfortable to wear. Your wardrobe must have this scarf top because cheap tanks & camisoles are always on-trend. You can wear this on a quick road trip, on a beach getaway, and even on a romantic date night.
2. Camisole Tank Top
Summer Backless Camisole Black Tank Top ($3.96)
Another wardrobe must-have that every fashionista must invest in is a neutral camisole tank top. It’s very versatile and can be paired with anything. A lot of cheap clothing online stores sell this kind of top so it’s easy to find the perfect one in a few clicks.
3. Bodycon Dress
Solid Cut Out Rope Pulling Bodycon Dress ($4.39)
What better way to spend a romantic date night than wearing a classy bodycon dress? It’s a staple for every wardrobe because a bodycon dress is a classic that you can wear everywhere especially on a date and night outs.
This Solid Cut Out Rope Pulling Bodycon Dress from Wholesale7.net is made of high quality and textured Milk Fiber. It fits so well but remains comfortable for you. This dress is breathable and flattering. And it’s only under $5! Talk about a steal.
4. Gold Layered Necklace
Simple Geometric Star Moon Pendant Necklace For Women ($3.06)
The best way to complete your look and make your outfit more classy is a beautiful gold layered necklace. Not only you can wear this for your everyday look but you can also wear it on the beach.
5. A Statement Bag
Draped Handle Solid Color Mini Crossbody Bags ($4.99)
An outfit is never complete without a bag. If you’re the gal who’s always wearing classic and minimalist outfits and want to make your whole look stand out, you can just bring a statement bag. The statement bag never disappoints when it comes to catching attention.
No need to look for a cheap clothing online store to get all these items because you can just buy everything at Wholesale7.net for a very affordable price.
October 19, 2020
What is a waist trainer?
What it does:
- Helps sculpt your body.
- Helps you lose inches.
- Supports your posture during a heavy lifting workout.
- Assists with losing water weight.
- Decreases your appetite (makes you feel full faster)
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