Discovery Articles Teaching Materials For Japanese

Table of Contents
Article No. 1: THE DIAMOND IN YOU..............................................................................................8

Article No. 2: HOW YOUNG ARE YOU?...........................................................................................8
Article No. 3 THE PRESENT LIFE OR THE AFTERLIFE?...............................................................8
Article No. 4: ABOUT CATCH AND SUCCESS................................................................................9
Article No. 5: ABOUT TURTLES AND BUSINESS...........................................................................9
Article No. 6: ABOUT STRAWBERRIES AND TECHNOLOGY....................................................10
Article No. 7: STANDING FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN............................................................10
Article No. 8: NO WAY OUT.............................................................................................................11
Article No. 9: THE STATUE INSIDE THE STONE..........................................................................11
Article No. 10: INSPIRED OR DESPERATE?...................................................................................12
Article No. 11: SIMPLE IS COOL......................................................................................................12
Article No. 12: THE TOUGHEST JOB...............................................................................................12
Article No. 13: LIFE OF A SMOKER................................................................................................13
Article No. 14: WHO AM I?...............................................................................................................13
Article No. 15: 5 THINGS I'D LIKE TO DO BEFORE I DIE............................................................14
Article No. 16: THE POWER OF HABITS........................................................................................14
Article No. 17: TO MY PAST SELF...................................................................................................14
Article No. 18: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO CANADA....................................................................15
Article No. 19: WORK TO LIVE OR LIVE TO WORK?..................................................................16
Article No. 20: THE MISSING PIECE...............................................................................................16
Article No. 21: THE REAL YOU........................................................................................................17
Article No. 22: THE HERO IN ME.....................................................................................................17
Article No. 23: MIYAZAKI - THE MAN WHO EMPOWERS WOMEN..........................................18
Article No. 24: THE SECOND BEST.................................................................................................18
Article No. 25: THE BEDS OF LIFE..................................................................................................19
Article No. 26: SOME WORDS DON'T RHYME..............................................................................19
Article No. 27: WHAT’S WITH THE IDIOMS?................................................................................20
Article No. 28: BABABA BA? BABABA..........................................................................................20
Article No. 29: SUPER IS BETTER! OR IS IT?.................................................................................21
Article No. 30: THE HAMSTER WHEEL..........................................................................................22
Article No. 31: THE LAW OF ATTRACTION..................................................................................22
Article No. 32: INVITING HAPPINESS............................................................................................23
Article No. 33: THANK YOU FOR THE IRRITATION!...................................................................23
Article No. 34: ONE CHANCE...........................................................................................................24
Article No. 35: DO YOU LIVE OR JUST EXIST?.............................................................................24
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Article No. 36: WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT ISRAEL?...............................................................25
Article No. 37: I LOVE YOU..............................................................................................................25
Article No. 38: PALINDROMES: THE ENGLISH KAIBUN............................................................26
Article No. 39: MY IDEAL MATE.....................................................................................................26
Article No. 40: ABOUT PAPER AND THE SPEED OF CHANGE...................................................27
Article No. 41: WABI-SABI: THE PERFECT IMPERFECTION......................................................27
Article No. 42: FOR THICKER FLOW, MAKE THAT HOLE BIGGER!.........................................28
Article No. 43: GOALS VERSUS DREAMS.....................................................................................28
Article No. 44: THE BAKIT LIST......................................................................................................29
Article No. 45: TAUTOLOGY… CAN YOU REPEAT THAT AGAIN?..........................................29
Article No. 46: POLITICAL AWAKENING......................................................................................29
Article No. 47: THE CRIMINAL'S POV............................................................................................30
Article No. 48: WHAT'S IN A NAME?..............................................................................................30
Article No. 49: HOW RELATIONSHIPS AFFECT OUR INTELLIGENCE.....................................31
Article No. 50: IS EMOJI THE FUTURE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE?...........................................32
Article No. 51: TO ACCEPT OR NOT TO ACCEPT?.......................................................................32
Article No. 52: THAT’S SO FUNNY! JEJEJE…...............................................................................33
Article No. 53: DEEP INTO AMUNE’S EYES..................................................................................33
Article No. 54: THE CULTURAL ROOTS OF CULINARY SPECIALTIES....................................34
Article No. 55: WE ARE CATS..........................................................................................................34
Article No. 56: ROBOT COLLEAGUES: A.I. IN THE WORKPLACE............................................35
Article No. 57: WORKING OVERSEAS, ANYONE?.......................................................................36
Article No. 58: THE UGLY TRUTH..................................................................................................36
Article No. 59: WHAT'S YOUR STAND?.........................................................................................37
Article No. 60: BALLET… WHO CARES?.......................................................................................38
Article No. 61: CLEF SIGN................................................................................................................38
Article No. 62: A FISH OUT OF WATER..........................................................................................39
Article No. 63: BEAUTIFUL ACCENT, BEAUTIFUL YOU............................................................39
Article No. 64: WALLS......................................................................................................................40
Article No. 65: SPEND IT WELL!......................................................................................................40
Article No. 66: LOOKS CAN BE DECEIVING.................................................................................41
Article No. 67: DADDY IS PREGNANT!..........................................................................................41
Article No. 68: MY TRAVELS TO KOREA......................................................................................42
Article No. 69: HUMAN DIARY........................................................................................................42
Article No. 70: GOLDEN YEAR........................................................................................................43
Article No. 71: LET NATURE TAKE ITS COURSE.........................................................................43
Article No. 72: I’LL DO BETTER IN MY NEXT LIFE!....................................................................44
Article No. 73: FIVE MORE MINUTES............................................................................................44
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Article No. 74: I WANT A NEW EARTH, PLEASE..........................................................................45
Article No. 75: OPEN-ENDED...........................................................................................................45
Article No. 76: BACK TO THE BARTER ECONOMY.....................................................................46
Article No. 77: MAKE UP..................................................................................................................46
Article No. 78: ALL IS FORGIVEN...................................................................................................47
Article No. 79: WE ARE GOLD.........................................................................................................48
Article No. 80: ABOUT HELMETS AND TEENS.............................................................................48
Article No. 81: CAN THE BLIND LEAD THE BLIND?...................................................................49
Article No. 82: HOW TO LOSE AN OPPORTUNITY.......................................................................49
Article No. 83: ABOUT A SINGER AND BACKFIRE.....................................................................50
Article No. 84: A THING OF THE PAST...........................................................................................50
Article No. 85: ENGLISH AS A LIFESTYLE....................................................................................51
Article No. 86: REAL LIFE DRAMA.................................................................................................52
Article No. 87: IT'S MORE FUN TO FAIL........................................................................................52
Article No. 88: THE TEACHER IN ME.............................................................................................53
Article No. 89: THE BEAUTY OF LETTING GO.............................................................................53
Article No. 90: I LOVE BEEF.............................................................................................................53
Article No. 91: SORRY IS NOT ENOUGH FOR PEPSI....................................................................54
Article No. 92: TIME MACHINE.......................................................................................................55
Article No. 93: THE KEY TO MAKING DECISIONS......................................................................55
Article No. 94: THE ROLLER COASTER RIDE...............................................................................56
Article No. 95: THE WORLD ACCORDING TO HUSKIES.............................................................56
Article No. 96: TEMPORARY FRIEND............................................................................................57
Article No. 97: DI RAW MASYADONG MASARAP, PERO PWEDE NA!.....................................58
Article No. 98: THE LAST COUNTRY.............................................................................................58
Article No. 99: MY CHILDHOOD DREAM......................................................................................59
Article No. 100: SPREAD THE LOVE...............................................................................................59
Article No. 101: MAKE IT A GREAT DAY......................................................................................60
Article No. 102: “YUCK!” IS SUBJECTIVE.....................................................................................60
Article No. 103: FRUITS OF ONE'S LABOR....................................................................................61
Article No. 104: TAKE TIME GROWING YOUR ROOTS...............................................................61
Article No. 105: MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY.........................................................................62
Article No. 106: WHY IS A POWER NAP POWERFUL?.................................................................62
Article No. 107: THINK LIKE WOLVES!.........................................................................................63
Article No. 108: STRESS-FREE ENVIRONMENT?.........................................................................63
Article No. 109: SHARE YOUR BEST KIND OF CORN..................................................................64
Article No. 110: YOU AND YOUR WORDS.....................................................................................64
Article No. 111: DOWNSIZING IN A NUTSHELL...........................................................................65
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Article No. 112: MANAGEMENT STYLES......................................................................................65
Article No. 113: LOST IN TRANSLATION......................................................................................66
Article No. 114: PROCRASTINATION.............................................................................................66
Article No. 115: BROWN IS THE NEW WHITE...............................................................................67
Article No. 116: BREAKING BARRIERS.........................................................................................67
Article No. 117: A FATHER’S GIFT..................................................................................................68
Article No. 118: AUSTERITY, CAN YOU HANDLE IT?.................................................................68
Article No. 119: TO MY BELOVED: I WISH YOU COULD TALK................................................69
Article No. 120: DIGITAL DEMENTIA............................................................................................69
Article No. 121: LET'S ALL BE PIT BULLS.....................................................................................70
Article No. 122: NORMAL IS AN ILLUSION...................................................................................71
Article No. 123: OUR PERCEPTION OF TIME................................................................................71
Article No. 124: VICTIM OR A VICTIMIZER?................................................................................72
Article No. 125: KINTSUGI: THE ESSENCE OF RESILIENCE......................................................72
Article No. 126: CLINICAL TRIALS AND FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN........................................73
Article No. 127: IT'S MORE RICE IN THE PHILIPPINES...............................................................74
Article No. 128: MY THREE ASSOCIATES.....................................................................................74
Article No. 129: PLASTIC ISN'T SO FANTASTIC...........................................................................75
Article No. 130: HEY, SUPERMAN! I'M NOT LOIS LANE............................................................75
Article No. 131: THE PRICE IS RIGHT.............................................................................................76
Article No. 132: IS TOO GOOD A MEMORY GOOD?....................................................................77
Article No. 133: IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES................................................................77
Article No. 134: 50 CENTS OF BLISS...............................................................................................78
Article No. 135: AN EXPERIMENT TO FIND A NEW PERSPECTIVE..........................................78
Article No. 136: MELODIES THROUGH SKIN, EYES, NOSE, AND MOUTH..............................79
Article No. 137: YAMASHITA TREASURE: THE UNSEARCHABLE GOLD...............................80
Article No. 138: COLLECTING COINS............................................................................................80
Article No. 139: ABOUT GIANT EMPIRES AND CORPORATE GIANTS....................................81
Article No. 140: WHEN THE ELEPHANT STOPPED TRYING......................................................81
Article No. 141: EASY DOES IT........................................................................................................82
Article No. 142: FROM ZERO TO HERO AND VICE VERSA........................................................82
Article No. 143: BLESSINGS AND BATTLE SCARS......................................................................83
Article No. 144: THE PINK TAX.......................................................................................................84
Article No. 145: IT’S MORE ‘PUN’ IN THE PHILIPPINES!............................................................85
Article No. 146: TREE DIED DOWN.................................................................................................86
Article No. 147: LOVE THAT I HATE IT..........................................................................................86
Article No. 148: A CULTURAL MISHAP.........................................................................................87
Article No. 149: HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES...............................................................................87
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Article No. 150: THE BIG QUESTIONS............................................................................................88
Article No. 151: I AM GOOD!............................................................................................................88
Article No. 152: PARTY ISLAND......................................................................................................89
Article No. 153: NO AFTERLIFE FOR ME.......................................................................................90
Article No. 154: THE FLAT EARTH SOCIETY................................................................................90
Article No. 155: TRANSPLANTABLE ORGANS.............................................................................91
Article No. 156: AIM FOR THE MOON, LAND AMONG THE STARS..........................................91
Article No. 157: THE SLING AND THEIR SONG............................................................................92
Article No. 158: LIVING ON THE RED PLANET............................................................................92
Article No. 159: THE STORY OF THE SUPERMALL THAT HATED A SUPER DRUG STORE. 93
Article No. 160: EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER.......................................................................94
Article No. 161: WHY SUPERSONIC TRAVEL FAILED LAST TIME...........................................94
Article No. 162: CHEAPER THAN WATER.....................................................................................95
Article No. 163: AFRAID OF THE DARK, ARE YOU?...................................................................96
Article No. 164: STUDENT LOANS: STUDY NOW, SUFFER LATER..........................................96
Article No. 165: THE MOST HANDSOME INSECT........................................................................97
Article No. 166: THE "BER MONTHS" BUSINESS.........................................................................97
Article No. 167: PAGPAG..................................................................................................................98
Article No. 168: FIXING A BROKEN HEART..................................................................................99
Article No. 169: THE SANITATION PROJECT................................................................................99
Article No. 170: THE ART OF REPLYING TO AN ANGRY E-MAIL..........................................100
Article No. 171: THE RING OF FIRE..............................................................................................101
Article No. 172: THE RISE OF SPOKEN WORD PERFORMANCES...........................................101
Article No. 173: NEITHER TOO TIGHT NOR TOO LOOSE.........................................................102
Article No. 174: NO COLLEGE DEGREE, NO PROBLEM?..........................................................102
Article No. 175: MY DREAM JOB: WORK AT GOOGLE.............................................................103
Article No. 176: CURVEBALL QUESTIONS..................................................................................104
Article No. 177: BUCKET LIST.......................................................................................................105
Article No. 178: IT’S ALL ABOUT CHOICES................................................................................105
Article No. 179: AT THAT MOMENT.............................................................................................106
Article No. 180: AGUNG - THE HEROIC WINGMAN..................................................................106
Article No. 181: CRAZY RICH ASIANS INDEED!........................................................................107
Article No. 182: THE GOOD STRESS.............................................................................................107
Article No. 183: PAID 30 YEARS AGO..........................................................................................108
Article No. 184: MOTIVATING THE DEMOTIVATED YOU.......................................................109
Article No. 185: DAY ZERO............................................................................................................109
Article No. 186: THE SUPER MARIO EFFECT..............................................................................110
Article No. 187: THE ART OF TATTOOS.......................................................................................111
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Article No. 188: TIME-TRAVEL......................................................................................................111
Article No. 189: HISTORY, DOES IT MATTER?...........................................................................112
Article No. 190: THE GAY CAKE FIGHT.......................................................................................112
Article No. 191: THE UNKNOWN TRAIL......................................................................................113
Article No. 192: WHAT’S “CLONING” IN CHINESE?..................................................................114
Article No. 193: THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM A CHILD......................................................114
Article No. 194: TO SERVE AND PROTECT.................................................................................115
Article No. 195: JACK OF ALL TRADES, MASTER OF NONE...................................................116
Article No. 196: BOILING FROG SYNDROME.............................................................................116
Article No. 197: HER REAL VOICE................................................................................................117
Article No. 198: CLOSER OR FURTHER APART?........................................................................118
Article No. 199: THE POWER OF BEAUTY...................................................................................118
Article No. 200: WHEN IMITATION BECOMES EXPLOITATION.............................................119
Article No. 201: OLD-TIME FOLK HOME REMEDIES................................................................119
Article No. 202: OINK, OINK..........................................................................................................120
Article No. 203: LANGUAGE DEATH............................................................................................121
Article No. 204: BALANCING HUMILITY AND CONFIDENCE.................................................121
Article No. 205: THE MOST EXPENSIVE COFFEE......................................................................122
Article No. 206: THE NAMES WE GIVE OUR CHILDREN..........................................................123
Article No. 207: KILLER SELFIE....................................................................................................123
Article No. 208: LOOK BELOW......................................................................................................124
Article No. 209: THE PERFECT NUMBER THREE.......................................................................125
Article No. 210: JUST LIKE WINE..................................................................................................125
Article No. 211: IS THE MAJORITY ALWAYS RIGHT?..............................................................126
Article No. 212: FUN IN A BORING PLACE!................................................................................127
Article No. 213: THE SELF-LEARNER IN ME...............................................................................127
Article No. 214: BETTER THAN A ROBOT...................................................................................128
Article No. 215: HEY, ARE YOU LISTENING?.............................................................................128
Article No. 216: OUTGROWING THE POT: OPRAH WINFREY STORY....................................129
Article No. 217: MIRROR, MIRROR...............................................................................................130
Article No. 218: THE EYESIGHT OF A WARRIOR.................................................................................131
Article No. 219: THE COMMENTS SECTION.......................................................................................131
Article No. 220: NO SWEAT?..............................................................................................................132
Article No. 221: A NEW LANGUAGE IN TWO WEEKS.........................................................................132
Article No. 222: ARE WE ALONE?.......................................................................................................133
Article No. 223: ANIMAL CLOCK........................................................................................................134
Article No. 224: GOOD-FOR-NOTHING SEEDS....................................................................................134
Article No. 225: FROM PALATABLE TO PUNISHMENT........................................................................135
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Article No. 1: THE DIAMOND IN YOU
Level 2-3
Diamonds. The hardest material known to man. But what makes such stones so tough? Apparently,
you just need 3 things: millions of years, extreme temperature and tremendous pressure. That's like
sitting in an oven at around 1,500 degrees Celsius, with about 4,000 grown men standing on your
head and enduring everything for a very, very long time.
And then the thought just hit me.
People can be like diamonds. The heat we take and the pressure we endure would make us stronger
over time. So, the next time you feel you're taking the heat too much or enduring the pressure for too
long, think about diamonds. Tough it out and say "bring it on!" When all is said and done, people will
realize your rarity and your worth.
Exercises:
Answer the following:
Do you know anyone who has achieved this "diamond" status? What situations did he/she go
through?
When do you know it's time to give up on something?
What pressures you the most in life or at work? How would you overcome this?
Article No. 2: HOW YOUNG ARE YOU?

Level 1
I couldn't understand why some people have to hide or deny their age. I know some people who feel
embarrassed when asked how old they are.
Just like breathing or eating, aging is a part of life. So for me, age is just a number. It's how I think
about myself that defines my true age.
If I start thinking I'm old, then I would feel old. But if I do what I love doing, then I would feel young.
It's all in the mind. So, how young do you think you are?
Exercises:
Do you agree with the author's opinion about age? Why or why not?
Do you think you're younger than your real age?
What are the things that make you feel young?
Article No. 3 THE PRESENT LIFE OR THE AFTERLIFE?

Level 4-5
A man on his deathbed is surrounded by family and friends. In his last minutes, his whole life flashed
right in front of him.
At a very young age, he was taught that true happiness could only be experienced in the afterlife –
that blissfulness in this life means nothing. His absolute belief in this faith confined him and denied
him from pursuing his own happiness. All in the name of eternal blissfulness.
But then, a part of him wants to live his life over again. The painful I-should-haves are starting to
cloud his thoughts. His regrets now overwhelm his belief in the great beyond. The more he loses his
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breath, the more he loses his faith. He realized he could've been as happy in life back then as he would
be in the next.
Then he closed his eyes not knowing whether he was a happy man.
Exercises:
Is the concept of afterlife generally accepted in your culture?
What are your views about the afterlife?
Is it better to be happy in this life or in the next? Explain.
Article No. 4: ABOUT CATCH AND SUCCESS

Level 4-5
Do you know why you can catch a ball? Obviously, we cannot see every movement the baseball
makes when your partner throws one at you. The position of the stitches the exact moment the ball
leaves the finger; the position at the next millisecond and the following millisecond - these are not
what you see. All you see are a "zip" and a "whoosh", but still, you manage to catch the ball. How,
with such little information?
Ideas of several scientists including Horace Barlow, Charles Darwin's grandson, suggest that if your
brain tries to comprehend every millisecond of the ball's movement, it'll need several galaxies of
memory space to process that kind of information. So instead, your brain only pays attention to
"unexpected change," like the initial speed and any changes in speed or direction of the ball.
So if there's a steady pattern and no drastic change between points A and B, the movement between
those points is redundant. It is not worth processing as info for your brain. At least this is how frogs'
eyes and brains work (which Barlow studies) and why they can catch flies.
Now, I'm going to go ahead and make an extreme connection between this story and life. If you only
do what's expected, you're redundant. You'll exist of course, but you won't deserve attention or
remembrance. For me, remembrance is a form of success.
Exercises:
What do you think of the statement "If you only do what's expected, you're redundant"?
What would being an unexpected change in your profession mean to you?
Many of us live in a world of capitalism. Is wealth the only form of success?
Article No. 5: ABOUT TURTLES AND BUSINESS

Level 2-3
Female leatherback sea turtles of some communities were born on a beach in Brazil. But they find
their boyfriends in waters near Central Africa. And then, they swim back to South America to lay
their eggs. The distance of this round trip is almost 12,000 km, which is similar to running 285
marathons.
The question is: why would anyone want to run 285 marathons? Is there a beach in Brazil with great
food and no enemies? The answer is: no. Only 1 in 1000 baby turtles can survive no matter which
beach or country they were born.
So why? Well, 120 million years ago, there was only a narrow river between South America and
Central Africa. Leatherback turtles were dating on one side of the river and laying eggs on the other
side. Every year, the river got wider by a few centimeters. The tradition has continued until now, even
after the river had become the Atlantic Ocean.
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Our environment changes so gradually that we don't notice. Keeping to old traditions "just because it
has been that way" can cause unnecessary hardship, I think. And of course, I'm not just talking about
turtles now. The way we do business, marriage, among many other things - are they really, really
suitable in the world we live today?
Exercises:
In your business, are there any unnecessary processes? Why are they still there?
Do you think the marriage practice works in the modern world?
What other practices, do you think, need to be reconsidered?
Article No. 6: ABOUT STRAWBERRIES AND TECHNOLOGY

Level 1
In my last job, I met a true Japanese entrepreneur. At that time, he already had 2 or 3 IT companies.
But his next business, he told me, was strawberry farming.
He learned how to grow strawberries under a farmer in Iwate prefecture for a year. Next, he taught his
software and robots how to grow delicious strawberries. Basically, his new business brought AI and
IoT (Internet of Things) into strawberry farming. But the real revolution was that his business was
"cool."
"The countryside needs a sustainable and cool industry to bring young people back. Not charity, not
volunteer work" he said, with his broken English. And that is how he gave Iwate, his hometown, a
new business and many young workers after the 2011 tsunami.
Exercises:
Does the countryside of your country have any problems?
What can solve those problems?
Have you met an entrepreneur before?
Article No. 7: STANDING FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN

Level 4-5
Nicolas Copernicus is arguably one of the bravest men in history. He challenged Ptolemy's idea that
the Earth is the center of the universe – an idea that had been established for centuries.
Copernicus introduced his model of a sun-centered solar system because he found flaws in Ptolemy's
idea. It was such a radical concept that nobody accepted it right away.
Most of us hate sticking out like a sore thumb. This is what Copernicus might've felt, but he pushed
on. And, what happened to his idea? Well, it's the sun-centered model we've known for thousands of
years.
So, stand for what you believe in. Your ideas might echo down the line as well.
Exercises:
Name something that you're willing to stand for. (an idea, a belief, a person, etc.)
How are radical ideas generally viewed by people in your culture?
Can you think of anyone who stood for an unusual idea and became successful?
Think of a common problem around you. Suggest a radical idea that you think would solve this
problem.
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Article No. 8: NO WAY OUT
Level 2-3
Claustrophobia – the irrational fear of confined spaces. Up to 5% of the U.S. population suffers from
this disorder. But when you think about it carefully, most of us are, in a sense, claustrophobic.
We often panic in the middle of a situation when we feel there's no way out. We feel trapped and
helpless. We sometimes wish someone out there would open the door for us.
In life, opportunity is very much like that closed door. We can either wait for someone to open it for
us and continue to panic, or we can remain calm and open it ourselves.
What if there isn't a door? Well, you can always make a hole in the wall.
Exercises:
How do you react to situations when you feel there's no way out?
When was the last time you felt "trapped" in a situation? What did you do?
How do you understand the last sentence in the article?
Article No. 9: THE STATUE INSIDE THE STONE

Level 1
When sculptors work, they aren't just looking at a huge block of stone. They see what's inside of it.
Their job is to slowly chip away the pieces until the statue comes out. It's this vision that turns a
simple stone into a work of art.
The same goes for the rest of us. Whether we're training a child, a friend or a colleague, we have to
see what's inside and not to look at what's outside. As parents or mentors, we need to have a clear
vision, so we can turn an imperfect individual into a masterpiece.
Exercises:
What's the most difficult part when training someone?

Who are you training now? (a child, a colleague, yourself, etc.)
What is your vision for this individual?
What can you do to achieve this vision?
Article No. 10: INSPIRED OR DESPERATE?

Level 2-3
There are two powerful forces that could make us achieve astonishing things: inspiration and
desperation.
Both forces have been the result of great achievements. Amelia Earhart's solo flight across the
Atlantic in 1937 and Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's conquering of Mount Everest in 1953
are both examples of humans inspired to achieve great things. Jose Salvador Alvargenga's 13-month
survival lost at sea and Slavomir Rawicz's 4000-mile hike through snow and ice to escape a prison
camp during World War II are just as amazing but were possible only out of desperation.
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In all cases, they became heroes. However, perhaps there is one clear difference. The ones who were
inspired to achieve lived their dream while the ones who survived out of desperation lived through
their worst nightmare. So are you inspired or desperate to master the English language?
Exercises:
Are you inspired or desperate to master the English language?
Give an example of someone famous who did amazing things due to inspiration and desperation.
Imagine that you are interviewing a famous person who did something amazing. What questions
would you ask?
Article No. 11: SIMPLE IS COOL

Level 1
People like simple things in life: simple design, simple products, simple rules.
This is the same with communication. In today's world, using big words doesn't make you look smart.
It only confuses listeners.
However, in this complex world, it is very difficult to make things simple. And that's why it's simply
cool.
Exercises:
Tell me about a product that you think is simple and cool.
Tell me about a company that you think is simple and cool.
Make a list with your trainer on how you can make your life simpler.
Article No. 12: THE TOUGHEST JOB

Level 1
What's the toughest job in the world?
Is it a bodyguard who protects you from danger? Is it a nurse who takes care of you when you are
sick? Is it a maid who cleans your house every day?
There is one job that does all of these. In this job, no one says thank you. In this job, there is no pay or
breaks. It's called "mom". Let's thank our moms today.
Exercises:
Make a list of all the things that a mother does.
What are some things that you want to thank your mother for?
What are some other tough jobs in the world?
Article No. 13: LIFE OF A SMOKER

Level 2-3
Roses are red

My lungs are black
I'm running low
Time to buy another pack.
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My mind says to quit
But my body asks for one more
Ah…, I can't do it
Gotta run to the store.
My wife worries about my health
It's a constant fear
I wish I could quit
Ah…, maybe next year.
Exercises:
How has smoking laws changed in your country over the last 30 years? How do you think it will
change in the future?
Make a list of all the addictions in the world and rank them from worst to not so bad.
Create a poem of your life.
Article No. 14: WHO AM I?

Level 2-3
H
Humorous because laughter is the greatest cure.
I
Inspirational because I want to make a difference.
K
Keen on staying healthy because I love life.
A
Ambitious because that's how I was brought up.
Exercises:
Make a list of your strong points and weak points.
What makes you different from other people?
Come up with words to describe yourself using your name.
Article No. 15: 5 THINGS I'D LIKE TO DO BEFORE I DIE

Level 1
1. Travel along the coast of Japan in a camping car after I retire

2. Tell my parents how thankful I am for everything they have done for me
3. Buy a yellow Ford Mustang with a white stripe down the middle
4. Take my grandchildren to Disneyland
5. Learn to fly an airplane
Exercises:
What do you think are the most common things that people in your country want to do before they
die? Do you think it's different from other countries?
What are the 5 things you would like to do before you die?
Make a list of things that you can do now in order to do the 5 things you would like to do before you
die.
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Article No. 16: THE POWER OF HABITS
Level 2-3
What defines you? Your job? Your family? Your experiences? Although all of these are important,
the things that define you most are your choices and habits. Every decision you make in your daily
life can have a great impact on you.
A study conducted by Cornell University found that the average adult makes more than 70 decisions a
day, things like what time to get up, what to have for breakfast, what to wear, and so on. Although not
all of these are life-changing decisions, these daily choices (often made unconsciously) create habits –
and habits determine your Philosophy & Thought.
Choice is power, and we need to be aware of every choice we make. No matter how small they may
seem, sometimes, the smallest choices we make can have the biggest impact.
Exercises:
Make a list of all the little decisions you make in an average day.
How do you think these choices impact your life?
Create three new habits that you want to start, you want to stop.
Article No. 17: TO MY PAST SELF

(Level 4-5)
Dear Past Me,
Hello, Me. It’s Me (that’s a strange thing to write). I’m writing to you from the future. I know you
might not believe me, but we’ve always been someone who’s wanted to believe in spectacular things.
A lot has happened since I was your age, but I can assure you, we’re alive and well.
I remember we were always so worried about the future. Who are we going to be? What should we do
with our lives? Who should we spend our lives with? Should we follow our brains or should we listen
to our hearts? To be honest, I wish I had the answer to those questions. The truth is, I don’t. I know
this might not be what we wanted to read, but if I’ve gained any wisdom from my years it’s this:
Learn to live in the present.
Take a moment. Stop whatever it is you’re doing, and for just a moment, be here, now. Be truly
conscious for a few minutes every day. Stop wasting your time regretting the past or worrying about
the future. Be in the present. So, let me leave you with a quote from one of our favorite movies:
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.”
See ya,
Me
Exercises:
Talk about how you think you’ve changed for the better and for the worse.
What advice do you think you could’ve used when you were 10, 25, 40, 55?
Write a letter to your past self.
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Article No. 18: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO CANADA
(Level 1)
So, you’re interested in Canada, eh? Here’s a basic guide:
Weather:
It is very cold in the winter (sometimes -30 or below!), but it is also very warm and dry in the
summer.
People:
There are around 35 million Canadians. There are many different people and cultures. As of 2011,
20.6% of Canadians were born in another country.
History:
Canada was under British rule from 1763 and became independent on July 1st, 1867. Canada is now
part of the British Commonwealth with 51 other countries.
Politics:
The Canadian Prime Minister is Justin Trudeau. He is young, charismatic, and modern. He was a
schoolteacher before becoming PM and is very liberal.
The most popular Canadian expression:
“Eh” – Used to get confirmation or an opinion.

Ex. It’s cold, eh? (It’s cold, don’t you think?)
Popular Tourist Spots:
Banff National Park – A beautiful area with many mountains, animals, and lakes.
Old Quebec – A UNESCO world heritage site with many historical sites.
Vancouver – One of the most beautiful cities with great food, culture, and nature.
Now you have a basic understanding of Canada. If you want to know more, the only way is to visit!
Exercises:
What is your image of Canada?

Give a simple introduction of your country.
Talk about a country you want to visit.
Article No. 19: WORK TO LIVE OR LIVE TO WORK?

(Level 1)
Are you working too much? Are you working too little? What is normal? Well, the answer may
depend on where you live. Here is a list of countries that work the most:
1. Mexico
2. Costa Rica
3. South Korea
15. United States
21. Japan
35. Germany
Normally, a person works 40 hours a week. However, in some cases, people might work 60 hours or
more a week. So if you ever feel overworked, ask yourself, "Do I work to live or do I live to work?".
We all need to work, but remember that we are still human and even machines need time to rest.
Page | 15
Exercises:
Do you think you work too much or too little?
How do you keep work-life balance?
Do you 'live to work' or do you 'work to live'? Explain.
Article No. 20: THE MISSING PIECE

Level 2-3
Life is like a puzzle. We build it. Some take their time, others rush to finish it.
In the process of trying to put together the image, we find ourselves forcing and pushing the wrong
piece into an unfinished section simply because, at first glance, it seems to fit perfectly. But as we
look more closely, we realize that it isn't a match. Then, we stop to think. Where is that missing
piece? Still in the box? Scattered on the floor? Lost?
Maybe, most of us will stop looking and give up. Several will move on. A few will take a moment to
figure it out; and a handful may break it apart and start anew. What's your missing piece?
Exercises:
Have you found your missing piece?
If yes, are you still building your puzzle or have you completed it?
If no, what will you do to find your missing piece?
Article No. 21: THE REAL YOU

(Level 2-3)
We are all taught to be prim and proper by family, culture and society. Follow rules, show respect,
and be polite.
However, is this how we truly feel? What is the difference between "who I should be" and "who I
really am"? To put it simply, "who I should be" are our actions and behaviors based on what we know
as socially acceptable. "Who I really am" are our inner feelings that we keep locked up.
Have you ever congratulated a colleague on a promotion while thinking that he didn't deserve it?
Have you ever offered to pay the bill while feeling that your friend should pay half? Have you ever
accepted an apology but not really forgive the person?
Does this make us liars, frauds, and fakes? This is a constant battle within us. Who is the real you?
Exercises:
What are some examples of times when you battled with "who you should be" and "who you really
are"?
What's the best way to deal with this constant battle?
What are some things that you could do if you didn't have these social pressures?
Page | 16
Article No. 22: THE HERO IN ME
(Level 2-3)
As children, the media paints a picture of what a hero is. Scenes of a superhero defeating an evil
villain, rescuing people, and saving the day are etched in our heads. And I have wished, at least once
in my life, to be able to say that I am a hero.
However, as adults, we forget our dreams of saving the world because inside we know heroes are just
imaginary characters in cartoons and movies and don't really exist. Or do they? If a hero is someone
who saves the lives of others, I have met many in my lifetime. My 12th grade teacher who convinced
me to go to university was my hero. The cafeteria lady who cooked the best apple pie was my hero.
And, of course, my parents who gave me life are my heroes.
Being a hero doesn't always have to be as grand as it is presented in literature, but it can be in small
things in life like bringing a smile to a stranger's face. Now here's a question to think about: Are you
someone's hero today?
Exercises:
Who are some famous heroes in your country? Why?
In what ways can you be a hero in your community?
Who is the biggest hero in your life?
Article No. 23: MIYAZAKI - THE MAN WHO EMPOWERS

WOMEN
(Level 4-5)
What made Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke better than other foreign animation films? Hayao
Miyazaki's portrayal of women as strong and confident changed the way we perceive gender roles.
Unlike other movies for young ladies and adults, most of his main characters are not your typical
women. They are strong and empowered. Also, the lesson in his movies are clearly delivered. That's
why he wins the hearts in different countries.
Many say that we've made tremendous progress in gender equality around the world. However, I
sometimes wonder whether the glass ceiling is really breaking down or it's just becoming more
difficult to see.
Exercises:
What is your favorite Ghibli movie? Can you think of similar movies?
Can art influence change or challenge society?
What does it mean to be an empowered woman? Do you know any women who are strong and
empowered? Describe them.
Article No. 24: THE SECOND BEST

(Level 4-5)
“Second place is the first loser”, said Dale Earnhardt, an American professional stock car racing
driver.
As I look back into my life, I can only recall how much effort I exerted in everything I did – just to be
on top of my game. I didn’t mind the extra hours I spent on school projects, theses, and finally,
Page | 17
presentations and demos in my job. I thirsted for the ultimate success and recognition. I longed for the
validation of my efforts.
I was struggling to soar higher than anyone else - then I hit rock bottom. Out of nowhere, I suddenly
gave up trying to be THE BEST. I surrendered obsessing over the idea that I had to be the prize
winner. I quit fearing the thought that I could be inferior to others if I didn’t earn the top spot.
Being the second best can be frustrating as you are so close to a significantly better alternative. But at
the end of the day, it’s not about who finishes first and who finishes second – it’s how you ran the
race, and how well you did it that counts.
Exercises:
Think of a period in your life when you felt that your best wasn’t good enough. How did you feel
about it? How did you deal with it?
Do you agree that being second is the first loser? Why or why not?
How do you deal with failures in your life?
Article No. 25: THE BEDS OF LIFE

(Level 4-5)
Let's take a journey of the different beds of life...
1. WATER BED - Our very first bed of life - our mother's womb. We spent 9 months in it,
nurtured and loved by our parents.
2. SLEEPING BED - This is where we experience bedtime stories, pajama parties, pillow fights
and even nightmares.
3. BED OF ROSES - The part of our lives which we go through personal relationships. It is
when we experience falling in love. However, just like a rose, it has many thorns. This bed
could give us pains, wounds and scars in life.
4. HOSPITAL BED - As we grow older, our immune system would weaken and in other cases,
we could get hurt from an accident and end up lying on a hospital bed.
5. DEATH BED - This is where we finally draw our last breath. Some would experience pain,
yet some are lucky enough to peacefully drift away to sleep.
6. CEMETERY BED - The final resting place. Some would be buried 6 feet below the ground,
others would be cremated, or something else, depending on which tradition your family
would follow.
7. SPIRITUAL BED - Resting place of our spiritual body. A place where there's no more pain
and no more suffering.
Exercises:
Do you have an idea if your mother had any difficulty during her pregnancy with you?
What is your most memorable moment in your 'SLEEPING BED'?
Would you mind sharing an unforgettable event in your 'BED OF ROSES'?
Have you ever been hospitalized?
If you could choose the way you'd die, how would you like it to be?
What is the most common way to bury dead people in your country?
Do you believe in life after death?
Article No. 26: SOME WORDS DON'T RHYME

(Level 1)
Page | 18
I sometimes get confused
with English words commonly used.
Some of them look the same
but pronunciation's hard to explain.
Why does "wood" rhyme with "could"

when "food" is spelled like "wood"?
Why is "nose" different from "lose"
when "lose" sounds like "use"?
I hope I don't sound funny

if I say the words incorrectly.
I really need to take my time
to understand that some words don't rhyme.
Exercises:
1. Words that sound the same but spelled differently are called homophones. Do you know the
pronunciation and meaning of these words:
write - right
here - hear
board - bored
there - they're - their
band - banned
What other homophones can you think of?
2. Words that have the same sound at the end are called rhyming words. Can you pronounce these
rhyming words:
cat - bat - sat - rat - hat - fat - mat

grace - face - ace - pace - race
eight - fate - create - bait - wait - hate
What other rhyming words can you think of?
3. Are there words in your language that are difficult to pronounce for language learners?
Article No. 27: WHAT’S WITH THE IDIOMS?

(Level 2-3)
In the course of teaching English, I have come across questions from curious learners who want to
understand the origin of idiomatic expressions.
Why say 'break a leg' to someone when you're wishing 'good luck'? Or when something's 'very
expensive', why say it costs 'an arm and a leg'? Exactly how much does an arm or a leg cost? Wouldn't
the heart or the kidney be more expensive? You can get prosthetic for external body parts but internal
organs are hard to come by.
And when you are to carefully watch someone/something, why say 'keep an eye' on it? Shouldn't it be
plural because don't our eyes move toward the same direction by default? Even the familiar 'it’s
raining cats and dogs' when it’s raining heavily, since when did cats and dogs start falling from the
sky so that they would be associated with heavy rain?
Truth be told, I myself am ‘at sea’ about it.
Exercises:
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What are some English idioms you know?
Why should you learn idioms?
Share some common idioms from your language and their meaning.
Article No. 28: BABABA BA? BABABA

(Level 2-3)
In an elevator, someone asks, “Bababa ba?” Another person replies, "Bababa”.
Bababa ba? Bababa.
No, they aren't sheep. In the Filipino language, ‘Bababa ba?’ means “[Are] you going down?”, and the
answer to that is “bababa”, which means “[I’m] going down.” This is a common expression you hear
in the Philippines.
This has always been a topic of fun for foreigners. Their faces always light up in amazement. How is
it that two people can communicate without misunderstanding just by repeating a single syllable?
Every language has expressions that may seem bizarre to the foreign ear, but to a person who speaks
the language, the message is as clear and natural as can be. So, what about your language?
Exercises:
Did you know the following are actually Japanese English? Are there others you know of?
Japanese English Correct English
salary man business person
key holder key chain
guard man security guard
consent power outlet or socket
free size one size fits all
What are some words in your language that only repeats one or two syllables, such as giri giri or sara
sara?
Do you support the idea of a world with only one language? Why or why not?
Article No. 29: SUPER IS BETTER! OR IS IT?

(Level 1)
Have you ever wanted superpowers?
One minute, you're sitting at your desk. And in just a split second, you're at the top of Mount Everest.
Today you look like you. And on other days, you can choose to look like Angelina Jolie or Brad Pitt.
Now, I can see you. But in the blink of an eye, you’re out of sight.
Would having superpowers make your life better?
Exercises:
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why? (teleportation, shape shifting,
invisibility, speed, mind control etc.)
What superhero name would you give yourself?
Page | 20
How would you use that superpower to improve the world?
Would having superpowers make your life better or worse? Why?
Article No. 30: THE HAMSTER WHEEL

(Level 2-3)
One of my most memorable experiences as a child was owning my very first pet — a hamster. To see
it running in a wheel inside its cage was entertaining. All that running but not getting anywhere.
Humans have a tendency to do this. You work hard to accomplish goals. You find yourself rushing
from one task to the next. You chase one goal after the other because you think that someday you will
finally arrive.
But alas, the tasks and to-do lists never seem to run out. Every time a goal is checked off, another one
takes its place.
Eventually, you realize that the excitement you get from achieving your goal doesn’t last very long,
and so, you set out to achieve yet another one. The cycle continues.
There is nothing wrong with setting goals and working hard to achieve them. The problem lies in not
knowing how to stop and smell the roses.
Allow yourself to get off the hamster wheel and appreciate what you have in your life right now.
Exercises:
Are you dissatisfied with your current situation? If so, why?
Do you find yourself always thinking about the future?
What does it mean to stop and smell the roses?
Article No. 31: THE LAW OF ATTRACTION

(Level 2-3)
In 2006, a book was published called,"The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne. In the book, she was able to
reveal to the world the key elements in attaining a successful and joyful life. Would you like to know
this secret?
To get what you want in life, practice the law of attraction. So, what is the law of attraction? It’s
simple; just think about everything you want and it will come to you. The power is in your every
thought. Every thought has a frequency. It sends out a signal to everything around you and activates
the attraction process. It’s true! It really works.
Last year, after watching a documentary on Turkey, all I could think about was how to get there.
Unfortunately I had no extra money saved for this adventure. Nevertheless 3 months later, my boss
suddenly assigned me a business trip to Turkey! All it took was a simple thought.
Exercises:
Do you believe that something can come true just by simply thinking about it?
Do you believe in fate?
What would you want to make a reality right now?
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Article No. 32: INVITING HAPPINESS
(Level 2-3)
To: happiness@aspectsoflife.com
Subject: RSVP: Life's 40th birthday
Dear Happiness,
How are you old friend? It's been years since we've been together. I still remember when everything
was so simple back then -- just you, me and your twin sister, Love.
My teacher, Experience, mentioned where I could find you. Sadly, you weren't there so I traveled the
globe just to look for you. Along the way, I met some influential friends. They're Fame, Fortune and
Power. You must've heard about them. They're really nice guys but the old man, Wisdom, said I
should be careful of their company.
Anyway, I'm celebrating my birthday soon and I really wish I could see both of you again. You know,
just like old times.
See you soon.
Thanks,
Life.
Exercises:
What is happiness to you?
If you were to write a letter to any aspect of your life, what would it be? (Success, peace of mind,
health, etc.)
What would you write?
Article No. 33: THANK YOU FOR THE IRRITATION!

(Level 2-3)
Pearls are one of the most alluring things in the world. It is used for jewelry, clothing and other
ornaments. But what fascinates me about it is how it is formed. When an oyster or clam is irritated by
a foreign parasite, it produces chemicals called, "nacre" for its defense. It excretes this substance layer
by layer, and later, this becomes what we all know as “pearl.”
Reflection:
Even with the things that irritate us, we can extract good things from them. They form our character
like a pearl -- beautiful and valuable! So the next time you experience a challenging or an
uncomfortable situation, just pause and remind yourself that there is a pearl forming inside you.
"How Pearls are Formed." https://pearls.com/pages/how-pearl-are-formed. Accessed: August 24,

2017
Exercises:
Who is the most irritating person you've ever met?

What do you do when you're irritated?
How have experiences of irritation built your character?
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Article No. 34: ONE CHANCE
(Level 2-3)
If you were given the chance... ONE chance... to spend 15 minutes with anyone in the world (living or
dead), who would it be? What would you do? What would you say to this person?
Hmm..., what about me? I might ask Abraham Lincoln what his plans were for America had he not
been assassinated. Or ask Thomas Edison what sparked his inventions. Or maybe ask Lady Gaga for a
selfie.
And then I came to realize it wasn’t any of these people that I would like to see. I would choose my
kindergarten teacher. When I was six, she told me that when I become successful I should remain
humble and kind. Be a good citizen. Be a good man.
The teacher who inspired me already passed away many years ago. If I could get my 15 minutes with
her, I would probably just hug her, hold her hand, and whisper two words in her ear. “Thank you.”
Exercises:
If you were given the same opportunity, who would you spend your 15 minutes with?
How has this person affected you? Why did you choose this person?
What would you say to him or her?
Article No. 35: DO YOU LIVE OR JUST EXIST?

(Level 2-3)
Most of us just exist without living. But what is the difference between living and existing?
For me, living is having a clear vision in life; existing is just waking up everyday to work and receive
a salary to survive.
For me, living is doing what you want, when you want; existing is doing what you have to do, when
you have to do it.
For me, living is creating happiness for yourself and others; existing is hoping that someone will
create it for you.
Many just exist but not really live. For me, broadening my horizons through experiences is what
makes the difference. That’s why I don’t believe in the saying “We only live once”. I believe we only
die once, because we live again and again.
Exercises:
Do you agree with the author? If yes, do you have other examples of living vs existing? If no, why
not?
How do you live your life to the fullest?
What's your life goal?
Page | 23
Article No. 36: WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT ISRAEL?
(Level 2-3)
Israel is small. As of 2017, its population is about 7% of Japan’s, and its area isn’t much bigger than
Shikoku Island. It doesn’t seem impressive, does it?
What Israel lacks in size, it makes up for in diversity. It’s a land of contrasts in terms of people,
culture, and geography. Here are a few great places to visit:
The Sea of Galilee – You can ride a boat on this serene lake, which is Israel’s main source of fresh
water.
Caesarea – The ancient ruins by the Mediterranean feature an amphitheater and a hippodrome.
Jerusalem – The capital has historical and religious sites such as the Western Wall and the Dome of
the Rock. It is also home to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Remembrance Center.
The Dead Sea – The water is so full of minerals that you can float on it!
More than a collection of tourist spots, Israel is a real country with real issues. Jerusalem, for
example, is a holy place for the world’s three biggest monotheistic religions: Christianity, Islam, and
Judaism. Most people live together with tolerance, respect, and even harmony, but conflicts
sometimes erupt. Lasting peace and security have always been Israel’s goals.
Exercises:
Has your impression of Israel changed at all after reading this article? How so?
Make a list of questions you'd like to ask someone from Israel?
Where would you recommend in Japan to a foreign visitor?
Article No. 37: I LOVE YOU

(Level )
Why are we shy to express our true feelings to others? For me, the word, "love" is so beautiful.
However, some people believe that actions speak louder than words.
I always say “I love you” to my husband and children, even to my friends! So even if I die tomorrow,
they will know how I felt about them.
How about you? When was the last time you’ve said “I love you” to the most important people in
your life?
Exercises:
When was the last time you’ve said “I love you” to the most important people in your life?
Do you usually express your true feelings to people you love? Why or why not?
Aside from “I love you”, what are the other powerful phrases/sentences you know?
Article No. 38: PALINDROMES: THE ENGLISH KAIBUN

(Level 1)
My nickname is Roma J. But my real name is Roma Amor. Try reading it backwards. It's the same
name! My name is a palindrome.
So, what is a palindrome?
Page | 24
A palindrome is a name, word, verse, sentence or number that you can read the same backward or
forward.
Here are other examples:
(word) wow; peep

(phrase) nurses run; a nut for a jar of tuna
(sentence) Madam, I'm Adam. ; Was it a car or a cat I saw?
(number) 1881; 23,032
1. Kimberly Joki. 16 Surprisingly Funny Palindromes. Retrieved from:
https://www.grammarly.com/blog/16-surprisingly-funny-palindromes. Accessed 12 September 2017.
2. Contributor: eslobrown. Palindrome List. Retrieved from: http://www.palindromelist.net/Madame-
not-one-man-is-selfless-I-name-not-one-madam. Accessed 12 September 2017.
3. Contributor: harorudo. Kotoba Asobi: Kaibun – Learning the Japanese Style of Wordplay 1.
Retrieved from: http://quest-for-japan.com/traditional-culture/kotoba-asobi-kaibun-learning-japanese-
style-wordplay. Accessed 12 September 2017.
Exercises:
Think of or look for other examples of palindromes.
Do you agree with what the following palindrome is saying? "Madame, not one man is selfless; I
name not one, madam."
The Japanese equivalent of palindromes are kaibun. An example of kaibun is "Natsu made matsuna"
which means "Don't wait until summer." Come up with a kaibun and translate it in English.
Article No. 39: MY IDEAL MATE

(Level 2-3)
Long hair, smooth skin, nice figure, and a good sense of style. This is what most men envision as a
preferable partner. Science has proven that males are visual creatures. Which is why when asked
about their ideal woman, most of the time, men focus on physical attributes. Is this the reason why
women try their best to look their best?
Strong, educated, romantic, loyal, and financially stable. Science has proven that females use multiple
senses when looking for a suitable mate. This may be why when asked about their ideal man, females
tend to describe both physical and non-physical attributes. Is this the reason why men try their best to
become the best?
Exercises:
Describe your ideal mate back when you were still in college.
Describe your ideal mate at present.
Why do you think women want to look their best and men want to be the best?
Article No. 40: ABOUT PAPER AND THE SPEED OF CHANGE

(Level 2-3)
If you fold a piece of paper, it becomes 2 pages thick. Of course.

If you fold it again, it becomes 4 pages thick. Of course.
And if you fold it three times, it'll be 8 pages thick. Of course.
Now, if you fold it 15 times, it'll be 32,768 pages thick. If the piece of paper was originally 0.01 cm
thick, it's now taller than you.
If you fold it 27 times, your paper will be taller than Mt. Everest.
Page | 25
42 folds, and congratulations, your paper has touched the Moon.
You know, this reminds me of the speed of change nowadays.
Exercises:
What new technology or idea has spread quickly around the world?
Have you or your company been keeping up with recent technological advances? How, or why not?
Do you think everyone can keep up with the rapid changes in the world? What will happen to those
who are left behind?
Article No. 41: WABI-SABI: THE PERFECT IMPERFECTION

(Level 2-3)
Wabi-sabi is the appreciation and acceptance of natural imperfections, knowing that they are also
perfect in their own ways. However, is it still in the heart of Japanese culture?
It started from a Japanese anecdote. A young monk raked his master’s garden until the ground was
clean. Then, he shook the cherry tree causing leaves and flowers to fall to the ground. And this
imperfection made the garden perfect.
Ironically, it seems that imperfection is the wrong goal for Japanese nowadays. They are known as
perfectionists especially when it comes to technological advancement and innovation. I wonder how
they incorporate Wabi-sabi in their work? Does it have a deeper philosophical thought?
Exercises:
Many non-Japanese describe Wabi-sabi as beauty in imperfections. However, is this an accurate
definition of Wab-sabi?
How do you define Wabi-sabi in your own words?
Is Wabi-sabi still practiced in Japan? If yes, please give examples. If no, why not?
Article No. 42: FOR THICKER FLOW, MAKE THAT HOLE

BIGGER!
(Level 4-5)
Big corporations allocate huge budgets on research to find that one great idea to outdo their
competition. However, sometimes thinking small could lead to something big.
Take the “Toothpaste Story” for example. The story goes that many decades ago, a toothpaste
manufacturer had trouble increasing its sales. Intense meetings with marketing and technical staff
produced no useful ideas.
Then one day, an employee suggested something that made the executives raise their eyebrows – "To
sell more toothpaste, make the hole bigger.” At first, it was seen as a silly idea. However, the
employee explained that a bigger opening would result in faster consumption and thus more frequent
repurchase of the product. The executives were left speechless and decided to do the first trial with
practically zero cost. And the rest is history.
Page | 26
There is much speculation that surrounds this story. However, regardless of its validity, sometimes the
smallest idea could have the biggest impact.
Exercises:
Do you think this story is true? Do you know any similar stories or myths about products or
companies?
How does your company come up with innovative ideas?
Think of a crazy idea that could have a huge impact on your company's success.
Article No. 43: GOALS VERSUS DREAMS

(Level 2-3)
We often have the impression that goals and dreams are the same. Yet, there is a big difference. To
differentiate them both, here are some thoughts to ponder:
Dreams give us hope. Goals show us the way. Imagine looking at a ladder. The top end of the ladder
is your dream however every step you take is your goal.
Dreams come from imagination. Goals are based on reality. We may want to become rich and famous,
but is it possible?
Dreams do not have deadlines. Goals do. No task takes forever to finish. It must be done in a certain
amount of time.
Dreams inspire us. Goals motivate us. A person who can inspire us is a dreamer. On the other hand, a
person who can motivate us are leaders.
Dreams are free. Goals have costs. Some sacrifices have to be made to achieve goals.
Our goals and dreams may conflict with each other. And we need to make the right decisions since
life is short. The big question is, "Is it worth to have that kind of dream and goal?"
Exercises:
So what is the difference between dreams and goals in your words?
Why is it important to have dreams and goals?
What were your dreams and goals when you were younger?
What are your dreams and goals now?
Article No. 44: THE BAKIT LIST

(Level 2-3)
Perhaps you’ve heard of a bucket list. It’s a list of things people would like to do or experiences they
would like to have within their lifetime.
In the Philippines, you might occasionally hear a young person refer to a “bakit” list. “Bakit” is a
Filipino word that means “why.” A young person might use it to ask a list of love questions like,
“Why doesn’t he/she love me back?” or “Why did that person break up with me?”
I use it differently. My “bakit” list identifies my motivators – the reasons I do what I do. For example:
Why did I work for a year building LEGO displays at shopping malls? I wanted to express my
creativity and share my passion with others. Most of all, I wanted a job that didn’t feel like a job.
How about you? What’s on your bucket list, and what’s on your “bakit” list?
Exercises:
Page | 27
If you’ve never made a bucket list, why not make one now and include at least 3 to 5 items.
Which is the most urgent item on your bucket list? Which is the most important item?
What is one of your top motivators in living life or doing work?
Article No. 45: TAUTOLOGY… CAN YOU REPEAT THAT

AGAIN?
(Level 2-3)
Every day, we are faced daily with phrases and sentences full of tautology. In my opinion, I think we
don’t do it on purpose, but has become part of daily communication. Our topmost first priority is to
understand what is the meaning of tautology.
Tautology is the saying of the same thing twice using different words. “Pizza pie” is tautology
because the word pizza means pie in Italian. “Morning sunrise” is tautology because sunrise really
does happen in the morning. “Prediction of the future” is tautology because you can only predict what
has not happened in the future.
In fact, the last statement of this article is the only sentence that does not have any tautology in it.
Look again…
Exercises:
Is tautology a style or a fault in communication?
You can probably find eight tautologies in this article. How many can you spot?
Can you think of other common phrases and sentences that are tautologies?
Article No. 46: POLITICAL AWAKENING

(Level 4-5)
I voted for the first time in 1986 for Cory Aquino. I had just come of age and Ferdinand Marcos had
been president of the Philippines since 1965, having solidified his grip on power when he declared
Martial Law in 1972.
It took a widow to unify the opposition and win against all odds. Thousands took to the streets of
Metro Manila and the dictator eventually left the Philippines without a single shot having been fired.
Since then, the Philippines has managed to make baby steps of progress against the endemic
corruption and towards economic sustainability. But today, we are once again at a crossroads. A
highly controversial president who does not fit the mold won the elections against established
stalwarts. Sides are taken; positions entrenched; friendships broken; families torn asunder.
This just seems all too familiar. Where are we headed as a nation?
Exercises:
The EDSA Revolution is also tagged the Peaceful Revolution. How do you think that a revolution can
at the same time be peaceful?
Was there ever a time in your history when a dictator held sway over your country?
The Philippines elected Duterte; the USA, Trump. Both presidents go against the norm in each one’s
country. Is this indicative of a global political trend?
Would you say that you have freedom of expression in your country?
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Article No. 47: THE CRIMINAL'S POV
(Level 2-3)
I always hide in the shadows whenever I hear footsteps approaching. They are after my life. They hate
me.
I have spent my entire life being despised for they think I am a criminal. I steal their food and ruin
their properties. They do not understand that I do so for the sake of surviving this cruel world. I have
been independent since my youth. My mother abandoned me upon birth.
I am not always like this. Sometimes I try to get out of my nook and approach them to make friends. I
would like to clear my name and make them feel I am not a criminal but the women and children are
terrified. Fathers would then rush after me to defend their families.
Please don’t run away from me. Please don’t kill me. I just wanted to make friends and say, “Hi, nice
to meet you. I am Cockroach.”
Exercises:
Do you hate cockroaches? Why or Why not?
Do you think criminals live a similar life to cockroaches?
If you had to choose between becoming a criminal on the run or a cockroach, which would you
choose?
Article No. 48: WHAT'S IN A NAME?

(Level 2-3)
My name is unusual. When I was younger, I never found its meaning in a book of baby names. Little
did I know that my search would produce an interesting study.
One day, I read in a dictionary that ‘Jig’ has contradictory definitions. It can mean an energetic dance.
That’s a lot of movement. It can also mean a device that holds things in place. That’s limited
movement.
English has over 100 words, called contronyms, that have the same spelling but opposite or
contradictory meanings. Three common examples are:
Dust: to place tiny particles on something, or to remove them. She dusted the donut with sugar. She
dusted the table.
Left: went away, or stayed there. Eight people left. There were nine people left.
Out: visible, or invisible. The moon is out. The power is out.
My name suits me. Sometimes I like to be active. Other times I like to be still. I’m glad it’s a
contronym.
Exercises:
What are most common names in your country for boys? For girls?
What are some unusual names in your country?
What's the origin of your name?
Has your name had any influence on who you are as a person?
If you could have an English name, what would it be?
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Article No. 49: HOW RELATIONSHIPS AFFECT OUR
INTELLIGENCE
(Level 4-5)
Have you ever noticed that you act differently among different types of people? The way you talk to
your family is vastly different from how you talk with other people. The way you behave at work is
vastly different from how you behave with friends.
The reason why we act a certain way with different crowds is because neurons in our brain create
neural bridges that trigger our behaviors and emotions. These neural bridges are strongest with the
people we are closest to, like our parents, siblings, kids, etc. The more time we spend with a certain
person, the stronger the link. These neural bridges can trigger positive or negative emotions and
behaviors subconsciously which can either be beneficial or detrimental to ourselves and around us.
Picasso once mentioned that his relationships with his wives and mistresses inspired him to create the
masterpieces we know of today.
Conversely, being stuck in a toxic relationship with a person can make you depressed and negative.
Furthermore, being in a prolonged toxic relationship can shrink your intelligence emotionally, socially
and intellectually, because your brain literally shrinks in size.
Although we're taught growing up to not burn bridges with people, sometimes it's better to light the
flame.
Exercises:
Who are some people that bring positivity into your life? How?
Who are some people that bring negativity into your life? How?
Do you think you can change the negative relationships to make them more positive?
What can you do to limit your interactions with toxic people?
What types of people do you want to surround yourself with?
What can you do to increase interactions with these types of people?
Article No. 50: IS EMOJI THE FUTURE UNIVERSAL

LANGUAGE?
(Level 2-3)
The worldwide use of emojis is undeniably true. This has now become a major part of our written
conversations either through texts or instant messaging. Instead of writing word for word that we are
sad, we can just send a picture of frowny face to convey the message. The big question that some
people ask, ‘Is emoji the future universal language?’
However, emojis are still open to biases. For example, popular emoji keyboards originally show only
one skin color. It also shows mostly men in representation of professions which clearly leave different
types of people out of the equation. This point of view on emoji is not really the ‘advanced’ way our
modern society is trying to achieve.
The Aztecs, the Mayans, the Egyptians and other old civilizations used pictures to convey message.
So the concept of using emoji to communicate isn't revolutionary at all. So perhaps emoji is the future
universal language.
Exercises:
How often do you use emojis when you send someone a message?
What are the pros and cons of using emoji rather than text to communicate with people?
Do you ever see emoji becoming the universal language? Why or why not?
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Article No. 51: TO ACCEPT OR NOT TO ACCEPT?
(Level 2-3)
This morning, I asked my daughter to stand up so I could pick her up and hug her. I noticed she had
gained weight. I remember the first time I picked her up; she was so light. But now she’s more than
14 kg. Every day I can sense how time flies, and in a blink of an eye, she will be a grown-up and
won’t need me for “the little things” anymore.
Me: Mia, please stay this small forever. Don’t grow bigger anymore, please.
Mia: But Mama, I want to be bigger so that when I’m 7, I can climb the mountain with you.
Of course, she means the hiking trip that I promised we would go on when she turns 7 years old, but I
couldn't help think that maybe she was referring to the mountain of life that lies ahead. Perhaps she
means that I will no longer need to carry her as she could climb on her own. And eventually, she'll
carry me when I'm old and gray.
And though this is sometimes hard to swallow, I realize there are many more things in life that we
simply must accept.
Exercises:
Let's list all the things in life that are out of our control that are difficult to accept.
Now, go through the list and see if we could come up with ways to control them.
For the ones that we can't control, what can we do to accept them.
Article No. 52: THAT’S SO FUNNY! JEJEJE…

(Level 4-5)
That’s so funny! Jejeje…

“6ut0m nUah acquoeh” [should be “Gutom na ako” (I’m hungry.)]
Jejemon is a pop culture in the Philippines which is derived from “jeje” which is a variation of the
laughing sound “hehe”. In Spanish, a language where many of the Filipino words were derived from,
the letter J has the same sound with the letter H.
Old mobile phones have limited texting characters so to save load, people usually shorten SMS by
removing the vowels or using alternative symbols. However, the jejemons did the opposite.
Jejemons are widely-known for having a “weird” style of fashion and language. They are commonly
found posting awkward selfies on social media or using a language incomprehensible for people not
exposed to this culture.
So, the next time you see sentences using mixed letter cases or numbers to replace some letters, you
will be aware that you have just encountered what the bashers call “jeje-monsters”. Maybe you could
ask a Filipino to translate it for you.
Exercises:
Has your language changed a lot over the years?
How do you feel about the young generation purposely misusing the language to create a new
language?
Is there a group of people in your society that are shunned for their abnormal behavior?
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Article No. 53: DEEP INTO AMUNE’S EYES
(Level 2-3)
I was told that the eyes are the windows to the soul. I realized that this wasn’t always true when I met
Amune.
It was a hot summer day in May. As I was strolling in the crowded streets of Divisoria, I heard a small
whimpering sound of pain. I looked around and saw Amune, staring back at me, with pools of black
watery eyes. She stared at me for a long time, her eyes beckoning me to come closer.
I saw that she was badly beaten up. She had a deep scar on her left ear and was trying her best not to
scratch it. I was about to hold her when someone pounded her cage with a stick. It was so loud that all
the other dogs inside the cage tried to scamper away. My heart was crying deep inside. When I looked
at Amune, I could see that she was crying too. Not visibly, but rather deeply. I finally held her paw
and she let me cuddle her. “You’re safe.”, I whispered and she snuggled closer.
Until this day, whenever I look deep into Amune’s eyes, I know they were not only windows. Deep
into them, they were doors leading straight to her heart.
Exercises:
Do you agree that the eyes are windows to the soul?
Tell me about the pets that you've had in your life.
Is animal cruelty an issue in your country?
Article No. 54: THE CULTURAL ROOTS OF CULINARY

SPECIALTIES
(Level 2-3)
Every country prides itself in its unique cuisine. Oftentimes, one dish stands out - Korea has kimchi, a
fermented cabbage dish. The Philippines has sisig, a dish of fried pork face meat with chilis and
topped with an egg. The Scots have Haggis, a pudding of minced sheep liver, heart, lungs, and spices
stuffed into a sheep’s stomach and boiled.
They all have one thing in common, though. They are dishes that the poor have cleverly made use of
leftover parts - discarded or avoided by the rich – to produce delicious and awesome food.
In many cultures, “cooking” with a sour component like vinegar, lemons, limes, or any acidic liquid
was developed out of necessity – no refrigeration meant quick spoilage of meat and fish. These dishes
(“ceviche”, “kinilaw”) still exist today even if refrigerators are ubiquitous – the flavors speak for
themselves.
Salting and sun-drying fish to preserve them are popular in coastal areas. This prevents spoilage and
adds a delicious flavor, especially if also smoked. Some even discovered bacterial fermentation to
produce new foods – soy sauce, fish sauce, cooking wine, yogurt, beer, etc. come to mind.
“Nose to tail” cooking, where every part of the animal is treated with respect and utilized, has always
been an essential part of many cultures. It is amazing how clever use of cooking techniques are
present in all cultures. Tell me about yours!
Exercises:
What is the worst food you have ever eaten? Describe its taste, odor, texture. What is its cultural
history?
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What is the best food you have ever eaten? Describe its taste, odor, texture. What is its cultural
history?
What food ingredients are essential to your cuisine? How do they contribute to taste, odor, and/ or
texture? Were these ingredients originally from your country, or were they introduced from another
place?
Pick a dish from your country that you like very much. What differences in ingredients, cooking
technique/ style, and/or flavor, aroma, and texture can be found in different regions of your country?
Do you often cook at home? What dishes do you prepare from scratch? Which ingredients do you buy
as a pre-prepared package? Do these give the same flavor as fresh natural ingredients?
Article No. 55: WE ARE CATS

(Level 4-5)
Regardless of how we perceive them, cats have their own personalities and uniqueness. However, just
like humans, they are also misunderstood.
The common misconception about cats are:
They lack compassion. Cats seem to have a routine for eating, sleeping and being lazy all day. They
may be soft to cuddle, but they appear uninterested with our affection. They don’t seem to care. In
reality, they are attention-seekers, and they get jealous when there is a new cat in town.
They are incapable of learning tricks compared to dogs. To some extent, people perceive cats to be
really stubborn that they refuse to obey their owners. Hence, we are unable to train them. However,
cats can be potty-trained. They also know if it’s time to eat.
Black cats mean bad luck. It is unfortunate how a cat’s color changes one’s perception. However,
having a cat in the household, regardless of the color, keeps the unwanted “visitors” away, such as the
rats, lizards, and cockroaches. Lucky!
Just like cats, we are misunderstood in so many ways. Often times we are even treated based on other
people’s first impression. We, however, also tend to pass judgement on others based on their
appearance, skills, and how they react towards us. Let’s give ourselves a chance to know other people
beyond the first impressions, because how we see other people is not a reflection of who they are, but
a reflection of who WE are.
Exercises:
What is your perception of cats compared to dogs?
How do you think your culture is perceived by people around the world? Is this perception accurate?
How do you think you are perceived by people around you? Is this perception accurate?
Article No. 56: ROBOT COLLEAGUES: A.I. IN THE

WORKPLACE
(Level 4-5)
Picture this: Complaints are coming in about glitches in the system you recently developed and a
major client is adamant that you visit them before the day ends. You have a report due today so you
can't squeeze that in. In your stead, you send your AI tech support robot, Sumato, to troubleshoot.
What once seemed like a distant sci-fi future is quickly becoming a reality. In 2015, the Nomura
Research Institute found that robots could take over close to 50% of available jobs in Japan by 2035.
In fact, Fukoku Mutual Life Insurance has taken a step in this direction and installed an AI system in
January this year to raise productivity by 30%. Even the Japanese parliament has begun a trial period
for computers to perform administrative tasks, as reported by the Yomiuri Shimbun in December
2016.
Page | 33
Apart from being a resource to boost efficiency, Dr. Michael Harré, a lecturer in Complex Systems at
the University of Sydney, reckons that interacting with and working alongside AI could allow us to
gain more insight into human behavior while posing bigger questions about consciousness.
In recent years, there has been a stronger push towards the inclusion of people of different ethnic or
cultural backgrounds, physical abilities, and genders in the workplace. Soon, workforce diversity may
mean welcoming "AI employees" as well. Perhaps, in one of your project meetings someday, an "AI
colleague" could be taking the minutes right next to you.
Exercises:
Would your company/organization be interested in installing AI systems? Why or why not?
What do you think of counting AI as part of workplace diversity?
What tasks could AI effectively perform at your company/organization? Which ones would it struggle
with?
How would your company/organization, including its staff, clients and partners, benefit from having
AI systems in place? Would there be some drawbacks?
Article No. 57: WORKING OVERSEAS, ANYONE?

(Level 2-3)
Will you accept an offer to work overseas? For many Filipinos, it seems like an easy decision.
In a country where at least 6000 people leave daily to work overseas, the Philippine government has
branded these Filipino migrant workers as "modern-day heroes". There is a good reason for the tag
since remittances of the over 10 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in over 170 countries had
reached a record high of $26.9 billion in 2016 alone. The cash amounts that OFWs regularly send to
their families have certainly helped the national economy since the labor export phenomenon started
in 1970s.
The reasons often cited are the country’s lack of job opportunities, low wages, and unstable economic
conditions. The opportunity to earn bigger salaries and secure the family’s future outweigh the risks
of family separation, cultural adaptation, and labor abuse issues that expat workers may encounter.
As a former OFW, I also underwent different phases of excitement, frustration, adjustment and
acceptance. I eventually looked beyond the financial benefits and saw positive sides. Working in a
multicultural environment equipped me with additional knowledge, skills and attitude that may not be
acquired through local employment alone. Moreover, I experienced the joys of discovering other
places, culture and people.
Each one has a compelling reason to accept a job overseas or not. What’s yours?
Exercises:
How is working overseas viewed in your society?
What is your personal opinion on working overseas?
Have you ever considered working abroad?
What will make you accept an offer for foreign employment?
Do you personally know someone who has worked overseas? How did he or she describe the
experience?
Article No. 58: THE UGLY TRUTH

(Level 4-5)
Some ugly truths I learned from my years of employment:

Page | 34
1. Uttering the truth could be unprofessional and accusatory, because it could bruise someone
else's ego.
2. People become your enemies even on a single hint of constructive criticism. Believe me,
nobody wants to be criticized.
3. Many fledglings think they're already capable of soaring high.
4. The friends you think you have could be your number one adversaries.
5. Where you're from, where you live, and from what university you graduated, always matter.
6. Many don't know what they're talking about...really!
7. There will always be someone who will steal your concepts and get the entire ovation without
sweat.
8. One time or another, you will get quoted for something you did not say.
9. People will always remember how you made them feel no matter what.
10. What happens inside the office never stays inside the office; people take it to coffee shops,
and their homes.
The ugly truth may exist in every workplace, but then again, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Exercises:
Which of the ugly truths above do you most/ least agree with?
Are there any other ugly truths that you can share?
How do you go about dealing with difficult situations in the office?
What issues have you faced in your employment and what lessons have you learned from them?
Article No. 59: WHAT'S YOUR STAND?

(Level 2-3)
"STOP THE KILLINGS"
These are the words that you will often see written in the placards of Filipinos protesting in the streets
lately.
A placard is a huge paperboard used to announce something in public. It can be an advertisement, a

warning, a notice, or even a reminder.
But among all its purposes, it has a famous use for one thing: to let people know what you stand for.
Below are some statements written in people's placards all over the world. See if you can determine
what the people who are holding each stand against.
"Corruption creates poverty."

"U.S. troops, out now!"
"I am not a color."
"Don't insult our Prophet" / "We love our Prophet more than our lives"
"If God hates gays, why are we so cute?"
Exercises:
The people holding the placards in the article, what do you think do they stand against? (Answers may
vary, but you can use the answers below)
Why do you think people protest?
If you were to join a protest, what would it be against?
If you were given one empty placard, what would you write on it and why? (This does not necessarily
have to be political)
Guide Answers for Exercise #1:

Page | 35
Corruption, increasing taxes, removing benefits
Colonization, imperialism, selling territories
Racism
Religious intolerance
Gender inequality
Article No. 60: BALLET… WHO CARES?

(Level 4-5)
Girls wearing tight-fitting, skimpy clothes and dancing on their toes while spinning. This is the boring
dance called ballet. Boring with a capital B.
I had the worst of luck to be invited to this ballet show called “Giselle” by a client. Honestly, I would
have rather had a beer at home than go to this event. But I couldn’t refuse. The client had ensured me
that I would love it. I knew then that I was going to die of boredom.
A few minutes into the play, I started noticing the gracefulness of the lead ballerina, how every dancer
connected with each other. No words were spoken. Only music. I was sitting at a distance but I could
see the expressions on their faces, and the emotions in their eyes. I understood their joy and pain. It
was so moving. What a magnificent experience!
I didn’t notice the first act of the play had ended when my client walked towards where I was seated.
When he saw me he had the biggest smile of satisfaction on his face. I didn’t understand why he
looked so pleased. It was then I realized what had happened. I wiped the tears from my eyes as I stood
up to talk to him.
Exercises:
Have you ever watched ballet live? If yes, what was the experience like? If not, what do you think the
experience would be like?
Have you ever experienced a situation when you thought something bad actually turned out to be
great?
What are some things that people like to do that you just can't understand?
Article No. 61: CLEF SIGN

(Level 2-3)
They say that music reveals our hidden emotions. If you want to break a person's silence, you need to
listen to the music they listen to. Listen to the lyrics and chords, and you will hear the person's
thoughts and emotions.
There are times in my life when words seem to hide from me. I'm speechless but emotions are
overflowing. When I can't find the words, my music reveals it all. It can express joy and happiness or
pain and sorrow. And sometimes the right song could express my true feelings better than I could ever
describe in my own words.
Music is a great way to confess our emotions when fear holds you back, when hesitation blocks our
words. So, if you really want to know how someone is doing, rather than asking them how they are
doing, you can just ask them what their song is today.
Exercises:
What type of music do you listen to?
What are some songs that are special to you? Why?
What's your song today?
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Article No. 62: A FISH OUT OF WATER
(Level 4-5)
It's been said that everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will
live its whole life believing that it is stupid.
Socrates was one of the first people in the history of time to ingrain the idea that the responsibility of
education must not be merely left in the hands of “ordinary people,” but instead in the hands of
someone who has acquired great wisdom and experience. This idea has led to the birth of what we can
now call institutionalized education alongside the rules, theories, and methodologies of teaching.
I believe, however, that before this idea travelled the whole world, education was free; education was
fluid (without a definite form and structure); it was unique in every culture, and based on the natural
curiosity and intrinsic motivation living and active inside every person from the moment they are
born.
John Medina, a neuroscientist who wrote the book, “Brain Rules” says that the brain is designed to
survive, and learning is its way of surviving. But we have bought into the idea that each and every
child must begin learning at a certain age, in a particular environment, and with different sets of rules
to follow. If one veers away from such a system, it is deemed unacceptable or as failure to achieve
success. So, I end with this. Let's never forget "the spirit of discovery" in our education system.
Exercises:
What is your interpretation of Albert Einstein’s idea: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish
by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”
How has the education system in your country changed since you were a child?
If you had the time, what would you like to learn more about? Why?
Article No. 63: BEAUTIFUL ACCENT, BEAUTIFUL YOU

(Level 4-5)
One of the first things I learned upon moving to Cebu was that Cebuanos would rather speak in
English than Tagalog when conversing with their Tagalog counterparts. I found it strange at first,
because the Tagalog-based national language, Filipino, is supposedly taught in all schools; Tagalog is
also the most predominantly spoken language in 5.4 million households, followed by Bisaya, in 3.6
million households.
I soon came to realize that they’d rather converse in English because my Cebuano friends were
ashamed of their Bisaya accent, which is more noticeable when they speak in Tagalog. I became
acutely aware of the fact that in Manila, it isn’t uncommon for a Tagalog to mock a Cebuano for their
accent or to make jokes at a Bisaya-accented speaker’s expense. In fact, one of the tropes in
Philippine TV is Bisaya-accented characters, usually portrayed as basic sources of comic relief.
To a native Tagalog speaker’s ears, a Bisayan accent may sound clumsy and funny. I confess that I
thought the same, too. But then I realized that accents betoken a speaker’s ability to speak in an
altogether different mother tongue, meaning that a person with an accent can speak at least two
languages: an ability not to be taken lightly, and least of all, to make fun of.
Accents are a sign of a worldly, multilingual individual: a phonetic badge of achievement. So speak it
loud, and speak it proud – for your accent is beautiful, however it may sound.
Exercises:
Can you identify the background (birthplace, level of education, age, position in a company, etc.) of
someone in your country just by their accent in your language?
Page | 37
Is there any discrimination against people in your country for having a certain accent?
How important is accent to you when learning English?
How do you feel about your accent in English?
Article No. 64: WALLS

(Level 2-3)
What do you do when you metaphorically hit a wall? Do you get depressed? Do you feel weak and
lost? Does it want to make you give up?
It used to bring me down. I would get depressed when my ideas were turned down by my boss. I
would feel stupid when I couldn't answer questions after my presentation. I would feel useless when I
failed a job interview. However, I realized that it's during these times of hardship when we can truly
show our strength. The rejection of my initial idea inspired me to come up with a better idea. The
embarassment of not having the answer motivated me to be better prepared for my next presentation.
And the failure to secure a job gave me the realization that I needed to brush up my skills.
A wall is an opportunity to do great things. In the medical field, we make new discoveries to combat
deadly diseases. In architecture, we design amazing buildings to fully utilize limited space. In every
business field, you'll see revolutionary ideas that attempt to conquer impregnable walls.
So next time you come up against a wall, remember it's an opportunity to do something great.
Exercises:
What are some big walls that you've faced in your life?
Have some of your greatest achievements come when you were faced with a wall?
Can you think of other great feats that humans have done to overcome a wall?
Article No. 65: SPEND IT WELL!

(Level 2-3)
Imagine someone putting ¥86,400 in your bank account every morning. You have a whole day to
spend it any way you want, but you can't spend more than that amount. And at the stroke of midnight,
the amount in your account will return to ¥86,400. What would you do?
If this were to happen to me, I would surely withdraw everything in the morning and make sure that I
spend every yen before nightfall. Maybe I could also invest it, use it to help a friend, or just leave it in
my pocket just in case I need it later in the day. No matter what happens, I'll make sure that all the
money will be used.
Time is like that. Each of us receives 86,400 seconds every day. Every minute, day, week, month, or
even year that is wasted is lost forever. How can we use it wisely? However, consider this. Time is
even more valuable than money. Because the time you spend doing something is the time of your life
you are giving to it.
Exercises:
Where do you spend most of your time?
Recall your day. What are some things that you do that is wasting your time?
How could you "invest" your time wisely? (You may answer with as many as you can)
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Article No. 66: LOOKS CAN BE DECEIVING
(Level 2-3)
We know that if you pour boiling water in a glass, the glass may crack. So, if you had a choice
between a thick glass and a thin glass, which one would you choose?
You might be surprised to know that a thin glass is the better one. Why? It’s because the heat or
warmth of the water travels its way to the inner layer of the glass, preventing it from cracking. If the
glass is thick, it will take a long time to reach that layer, and when that happens, it might crack.
People can never be completely right about someone or something just by appearance. For example, a
fat person could be a better dancer than a slim one. A timid-looking lady could be a fierce lawyer. A
muscular man with tatoos could be super polite and gentle. And it's often when the unexpected is
revealed when it's most impressive.
So there is truth in the old adage, "Never judge a book by its cover". So, before you judge someone
based on physical appearance, remember the experiment with boiling water and glass. As we learned,
looks can be deceiving.
Exercises:
Do you sometimes judge people according to their looks?
Discuss incidents when you got deceived by someone's looks.
Have you ever experienced getting judged wrongly?
Article No. 67: DADDY IS PREGNANT!

(Level 2-3)
There are a few species in the animal kingdom where the male care for their young. Male Emperor
penguins carry and take care of the egg while females hunt for food. The male Darwin's frog carries
its offspring in its mouth and spits out the tadpoles when they are ready for the real world. But wait,
then you have the seahorse. A male seahorse literally carries the eggs inside his pouch until they're
ready to hatch. The female would deposit as many as 1,500 eggs in her man's pouch and the male
would carry them as if he were pregnant until the eggs hatch.
Nowadays, we often hear of hands-on fathers taking part in raising their children, making breakfast
for them, taking them to and picking them up from school. It's unlikely that we'll ever see men going
as far as the male seahorse in bearing their children, but this new generation of dads is certainly a
different breed from the past.
Exercises:
How involved was your father in raising you?
How involved are you in raising your child/children?
Are you familiar with the term "house husband?"
Why are fathers more involved in raising their children than in the past? And will this trend continue?
Article No. 68: MY TRAVELS TO KOREA

(Level 2-3)
As an English teacher, I get to meet a lot of people from different cultures. I taught Koreans from
2000–2004. I became very close to some of them and even visited them in South Korea.
I had the opportunity to stay in the home of one of my closest students for a week in 2003. I saw the
famous Gyeongbokgung Palace where I tried numerous kinds of Kimchi and learned about the history
Page | 39
and architecture. I was also able to experience their night life, singing in a Nore Bang (karaoke room),
dining and drinking in their restaurants, not to mention staying overnight at a jimjilbang (spa). The
fiery orange/red trees in the fresh and cool Kyounggi mountain in Autumn was an unbelievable
experience. I also got to taste their unique chocolate pizza.
This experience was only possible because English created the opportunity for me to meet such
wonderful people. Thank God for English. My next adventure will be in China where I plan to have
more experiences of a lifetime.
Exercises:
What countries have you visited? Which was your favorite and why?
Is there a country that you'd really like to visit? Why?
Has English created opportunities for you to meet people from different cultures?
If someone were to visit your country, what would you recommend to see and do?
Article No. 69: HUMAN DIARY

(Level 2-3)
What would people remember about you when you die?
Well, for me, it actually depends. My boss might remember me for being an achiever. He would recall
my competitiveness, my punctuality, and my motivation.
But those closer to me might say something much more different:
"Kring was the most impatient person in the family. Sharing the house with her felt like living with a
time bomb waiting to go off." - My mom and my sister
"If there's one person whom you should talk to at times of trouble, Kring should never be in your
option. She isn't much of a good listener as she is as a talker." - My bestfriend
"Kring could oftentimes be a little difficult to work with. She was always preoccupied with her own
world, and I'm guessing her mind was just as cluttered as her messy desk." - A close colleague
Whether people remember me for my strengths or flaws, I just hope they do remember me after I
leave this world. Because at least that means I made some impact on their lives.
Exercises:
If someone were to write your biography, who would you like it to be?
Who would you never want to write your biography? Why not?
What do you think your family and friends would say about you in your biography?
What could be the perfect title for your biography?
Article No. 70: GOLDEN YEAR

(Level 2-3)
People are amazed whenever they see a couple celebrating their Golden Anniversary, 50 years! That
is just amazing! Such a cliché. Is it really impressive? Is it a fairy tale come to life?
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Marriage is a contract that binds people by law. Through social pressure, marriage dictates how a
dutiful wife must submit herself to her husband and how the responsible husband provides for his
family. Have you ever wondered if they are really happy together?
Now find me a couple that has chosen to be together for over 50 years without the rules of a man-
made contract. No obligations, no social pressure, no traditions, just two people who have chosen to
love each other. That my friends is real, genuine. That is true love!
Exercises:
What is your definition of a perfect marriage?
Do you think that it is necessary to be bound by rules?
Do you know any amazing love story of a couple who fought real hard for how they felt?
What is your view on divorce?
Article No. 71: LET NATURE TAKE ITS COURSE

(Level 4-5)
“If an individual temporarily abandons human will and so allows himself to be guided by nature,
nature responds by providing everything.” – Masanobu Fukuoka
Farming is like teaching. The seed is the learner and the farmer is the teacher. Every seed has a tree
living inside of it just like every learner is born naturally curious. This curiosity grows as far as its
roots grow deep into the richness of the soil.
One professor named Sugata Mitra proved in an experiment that this natural curiosity grows far and
wide despite a poor and struggling environment.
After placing a computer in the opening of a wall at the center of a slum area in New Delhi, he simply
waited and observed what happened next. The results of this experiment were quite astonishing: he
discovered that when working in groups, children do not need to be "taught" how to use computers.
He also discovered that children develop deep learning by teaching themselves.
Professor Sugata Mitra decided to call this experiment Minimally Invasive Education (MIE), which is
quite similar to Masanobu Fukuoka’s philosophy in farming. So next time you think about teaching
your child, mentoring a new employee, or giving advice to a troubled friend, maybe all you need to do
is observe and let nature take its course.
Exercises:
Do you generally believe that things will somehow work out if you leave it untouched?
What are some examples in your life of things that you taught yourself to do?
How can this approach of learning be incorporated in your country's education system or in your
company's employee training system?
Article No. 72: I’LL DO BETTER IN MY NEXT LIFE!

(Level 2-3)
“I adopted the theory of reincarnation when I was 26. Genius is experience. Some think to seem that
it’s a gift or talent, but it is the fruit of long experience in many lives." –Henry Ford
Rebirth, Transmigration, Reincarnation.
These words sound new and confusing. But the simplest explanation is “I have lived before and I will
live again.”
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Some people believe that after our physical death, our souls will wander this world waiting to be
reborn. Then, we’ll have another chance at life again.
A chance to repeat childhood and do great in school this time.

An opportunity to get that promotion you didn’t get before just because you weren’t good enough.
A possibility to be transformed from being awkward to being cool or beautiful.
A chance to live the life you’ve always dreamed of.
If this is true, then no fate is sealed. We can always go back… because we’ve done it before.
Exercises:
Have you ever thought if you’ve lived before?
What do you imagine your situation was like in your past life?
What life would you want to have once you’re reincarnated?
Do you believe in Karma? (If you were a bad person in the past life, do you think you’d pay the
consequences in your next life?)
What are the pros and cons of believing in reincarnation?
Article No. 73: FIVE MORE MINUTES

(Level 2-3)
Do you ever find yourself hitting that 'snooze' button on your alarm when it wakes you up in the
morning? Don't we all wish we could have five more minutes of sleep before we finally get up and
start our day?
We use the alarm clock for one single purpose – that is to remind us that we need to wake up and
proceed with our daily tasks. Moreover, the use of the alarm has been proven effective, as other
applications have adapted the same feature, such as Outlook Calendar wherein we receive a reminder
15 minutes before our meeting.
The purpose of the first known mechanical alarm clock was to simply wake you up before sunrise.
Levi Hutchins, the inventor of the alarm clock in 1787, had a strict rule of getting up at 4:00 AM,
nothing more, nothing less. He could then make full use of his day and get everything he needed to do
before sunset.
Then, came the snooze button over a hundred years later. Compared to Hutchins' purpose for the
alarm, we have become susceptible to second chances. Just five more minutes. And then another ten.
Some go as far as setting their alarm clocks a little early to make up for the few extra minutes that
they plan to sleep in.
What would Hutchins think if he saw how his invention was being used?
Exercises:
Are you guilty of using the snooze button all the time?
Have you ever experienced naturally waking up just before your alarm clock when it's an important
day?
Do you think the snooze button has helped create a mentality of procrastination in our society?
Article No. 74: I WANT A NEW EARTH, PLEASE

(Level 2-3)
Have you ever thought of redesigning the Earth? I have. And I still do.
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I don't want to live in a world divided by religious beliefs.
I don't want to live in a world divided into groups of more powerful and less powerful nations.
I don't want to live in a world where differences in language, culture, and values are the cause of
misunderstanding.
If all the continents in the world were connected, we would be one major land mass. We would have
one language, one culture, and one history. We would have one national anthem, one flag, and one set
of laws. We would have one kind of food, one kind of music, and one kind of entertainment. We
would be one nation.
And what a boring world it would be. On second thought, maybe the world we live in isn't so bad
after all.
Exercises:
What do you think about the author's perspective?
If you have all the means to redesign the world, where would you start?
Create your very own list of how you want the Earth to be. Share it with your trainer.
Article No. 75: OPEN-ENDED

(Level 2-3)
During my adolescent years when peer pressure was just too hard to resist, my mom and I usually
fought. Like most youngsters, I was angry at the world and was just too mutinous. I learned how to
puff cigarettes and gulp booze. I just never failed to disappoint my parents.
Out of frustration my mom blurted out, “Let me tell you a story.”

“I’m not listening,” I said, but she continued on.
“There was this village boy who met a rattlesnake on his way to the big city. The snake begged that
the boy take him along. The boy refused knowing that it’s the snake’s nature to bite and kill. After
some sweet talking, the boy picked the rattlesnake up and together they headed to the big city.”
“So, what happened?” I demanded.

She never told me what happened next.
Exercises:
How would you conclude this story?
What do you think is the mother’s purpose of telling this story and why did she keep it hanging?
What realizations did you have while reading this article?
Do you know any other open-ended stories like this?
Article No. 76: BACK TO THE BARTER ECONOMY

(Level 2-3)
Imagine a world with no concept of money. Would we be happier, if the only available currency were
the service that each of us could provide with our talents and skills?
A pharmacist would trade with a farmer: medicine for food.

A dancer would trade with a painter: dancing lessons for painting lessons.
A fireman would trade with a fisherman: public service for seafood or fishing services.
In such a world, hard work and talent would certainly pay off. We would be motivated to
continuously hone our skills. We would inherit genes and morals from our parents rather than wealth
and power.
Page | 43
Would this really be a better world? It's hard to say, but one thing is for sure. We would live in a
world where your wealth would be solely determined by what you can actually do.
Exercises:
What are the pros and cons of this kind of economy?
What talents or skills do you have to offer in this kind of economy?
Would a barter economy be a better world for us?
Article No. 77: MAKE UP

(Level 2-3)
It's 5:00AM, and I'm already on my one-hour ride to work. I feel sleepy, weak, and lazy. I usually
read a book on the train, but today I can’t help but notice a young girl sitting in front of me.
You have a pretty face, but your eyes look so tired. You look too old for your age. Your hair is
disheveled, and your makeup is not applied properly. Why are you not taking care of yourself? You
do not look around. You do not notice people. You are just staring into some obscure distance. What
happened to you? Why waste a beautiful face? I wish I could do something to help. Finally, my
station is the next stop. As I stand up, the woman in front of me also stands up. Funny that we get off
at the same station. And then I finally realize that the woman in front of me, is actually just my
reflection. It is me.
It's then and there, I realized the importance of taking care of my physical appearance. We often say
not to judge a book by its cover. However, I assure you that how you look has a profound effect on
how you feel. So if you look your best, you'll feel your best, and this will lead to doing your best.
Exercises:
Do you agree that you feel better when you look better?
How important is it to you to take care of your physical appearance?
Do you think how you look has an impact on how you perform at work?
Is living healthy a way to care about our appearance as well? What do you do to live a healthy life?
Article No. 78: ALL IS FORGIVEN

(Level 2-3)
We've all been through a phase where we could not communicate well, especially with our parents.
This is a such a common situation that Ernest Hemingway once wrote about.
His story was about a Spanish father who had a teenage son, Paco (a common Spanish name). Paco's
relationship with his father was not very good. One day, he ran away from home. As expected, his
father searched all over Spain for his son, but he could not be found. Out of desperation, his father
placed an ad in the daily newspaper. It read:
"DEAR PACO,
PLEASE MEET ME AT THE HOTEL MONTANA. NOON TUESDAY. ALL IS FORGIVEN.
LOVE,
FATHER"
The next day at noon, in front of the hotel, there were 800 Pacos, all seeking forgiveness from their
fathers.
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Exercises:
If you saw the same ad with your name on it, who is the first person that comes to your mind that
might have written it? Why do you think this person wants to forgive you?
For you, what kind of mistakes are very hard to forgive?
Is there someone in your life who is still seeking your forgiveness? Who is that person?
If you were given one chance to post an ad, what would you write on it? Why? (This does not have to
be related to the story.)
Article No. 79: WE ARE GOLD

(Level 4-5)
What makes gold so precious? Surprisingly, gold itself is soft and malleable and thus lacks the
durability to be made into jewelry. However, when combined with the right amounts of other precious
metals, such as copper, silver, or platinum, gold jewelry is one of the most sought after possessions in
the world.
The process of making gold jewelry is a painstaking one. First, a cast for the desired design has to be
made. Then, the mixture of gold and another metal is poured into the cast to be sculpted. And finally,
the finer details of the jewelry are done by hand. However, it's really the combination of these metals
that determines the price.
Now think of the best team you worked on. What made the team so effective? Perhaps rather than one
individual member, it was the combination of the personalities and skills of all the members that
really made the team so special. So although one person might be gold, gold by itself can't do much.
It's the other precious metals that bring the best out of gold. So together, we are gold.
Exercises:
Have you worked with people from other cultures? What was the experience like?
What do you think are some important characteristics that make up a good team?
Describe the best team you worked on.
Describe the worst team you worked on.
Article No. 80: ABOUT HELMETS AND TEENS

(Level 2-3)
Australians living in the state of Victoria must wear a helmet while riding a bike. The helmet law was
passed in 1990, to reduce head injuries. It worked! But it worked in a way the government didn't
expect.
Many teens and young adults stopped cycling. Why? Well, here's what they thought: "Wearing a
helmet is just so un-cool. If we need to wear a helmet now, I'm not going to ride a bike at all."
So the number of teenage cyclists decreased by almost 50%. Because the number of cyclists dropped,
the number of head injuries naturally dropped too. But according to some studies, now that teens don't
get exercise through cycling anymore, their overall health has declined.
I mildly advise governments to ask for the opinions of teenagers before they pass laws that affect
them. Besides, aren't teenagers the adults of tomorrow?
Exercises:
What are the age limits for drinking, smoking, voting, driving, marriage, etc. in your country? How do
these limits compare to other countries?
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What do you think of countries such as Argentina, Serbia and Austria, that allow 16-year olds to vote?
Do you think teenagers should have decision making authority in laws that will affect them as future
adults?
Article No. 81: CAN THE BLIND LEAD THE BLIND?

(Level 2-3)
A saying goes that if a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit. Makes sense, right? After
all, what advantage does one have over the other in terms of sight?
But believe it or not, I have seen a blind man lead not just one but a group of blind people! On my
way home riding a public jeepney one day, I literally saw a single blind man leading four other blind
people across the street and flag the jeepney I was riding in. I was surprised! What's more, those
people were on their way to work as masseurs and masseuses in a massage spa. How is this possible?
Well, there's strong scientific evidence supporting the theory that the brain actually adapts by
enhancing the other senses to make up for the loss of one. Examples of this could be found in the
music industry, such as Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles.
I can't imagine what it would be like to get up one day without my sense of sight. However, what I did
learn from this group of visually impaired is that no matter how difficult life may be, through
determination and adaptation, we can overcome any of life's obstacles.
Exercises:
What are some misconceptions about people with disabilities?
What can disabled people teach those without disabilities?
Which one of your senses do you think is the most important? Why?
What could we do to make life easier for those with disabilities?
Share an example of someone with a disability who succeeded in life.
Article No. 82: HOW TO LOSE AN OPPORTUNITY

(Level 4-5)
My dad and his best friend, during their younger years, stayed until morning to wait for the sunrise.
By dawn they had walked their way to Manila Bay, which is one of the most famous ports in the
Philippines. They looked for a comfortable place to settle, and both waited with excitement as the sky
began to light up. A few moments later, when it was completely daytime, they realized that they were
waiting for the sunrise by looking towards the west. This became one of the funniest stories that they
love to share during reunions.
I find the story hilarious too, but it has taught me the importance of how we position ourselves in life
and business. An opportunity is only an opportunity if you're in a position to take it when it comes.
For example, would you be able to accept a big promotion that required you to live overseas away
from your family? And a risk is not really a risk if you're in a position to face it. For example, would
you be OK if your company suddenly went bankrupt and you had no source of income?
Life is full of opportunities and risks. However, unless we position ourselves properly to receive
them, opportunities may just pass us by and risks may very well be a serious threat.
Exercises:
When was the last time that you missed a golden opportunity? How could you have positioned
yourself better?
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What are some opportunities and risks that you may face in the future? Are you well-positioned to
take them on?
What are some opportunities and risks that your company may face in the future? Is your company
well- positioned to take them on?
Article No. 83: ABOUT A SINGER AND BACKFIRE

(Level 2-3)
If something goes on the Internet, it stays on the Internet. Trying to fight this rule may lead to serious
backfiring.
Back in 2003, American singer/actress, Barbra Streisand, sued a photographer for taking a photo of
her beachfront house from a helicopter, and then posting it on a website. She was concerned about her
privacy.
The photographer was no paparazzo at all. He was just doing his job of recording how the Californian
coastline looked then, so that people would later know how the landscape had changed due to human
activities.
Streisand didn't win the case and had to pay her lawyer over $150,000. But there was a bigger cost.
The photo had been only viewed 6 times before the lawsuit, but because it attracted so much media
attention, it was viewed 420,000 times within 30 days after the case. Not only did she lose money but
she also lost her privacy.
This kind of backfiring has a name - the Streisand effect. There goes her dignity, too. I feel a little
sorry for her.
Exercises:
For you, how valuable is privacy? How about your family's privacy?
Do you ever feel people are over-sensitive to privacy issues? Why or why not?
Do you know of any organization or person drawing unwanted attention for trying to hide their
wrongdoing?
Article No. 84: A THING OF THE PAST

(Level 4-5)
So what does it take to get your employees to do their best? What is it that makes them tick? Well, a
well-known psychologist, Abraham Maslow, seemed to know the answer as he described his theory in
his 1943 paper titled, "A Theory of Human Motivation".
According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, there are 5 levels to human needs –
1. Physiological – food, water, warmth, rest

2. Safety needs- security, safety
3. Belongingness & love – relationships, friends
4. Esteem – prestige and feeling of accomplishment
5. Self-actualization- achieving one’s full potential
These needs are hierarchical in nature. For example, you wouldn't be able to satisfy someone with an
offer of job security or safety if he or she were starving. You would need to meet his or her immediate
need for food and water first. And only when the needs of the first level were fulfilled, the person
would be motivated by the next level of needs.
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As logical as it may seem, is it still relevant in this day and age? How many people actually live
without food and water in the modern business world? And is job security really a preference for the
new generation who can easily start their own business with a laptop from their garage? And is
belongingness still held so highly by youngers who have hundreds or even thousands of friends who
LIKE their Facebook posts? And are esteem and self-actualization really sought after in this world
where work-life balance is becoming the norm?
I don't know about you, but I seriously wonder if many of the theories and principles from the past
have become just that, a thing of the past.
Exercises:
Do you think Maslow's Hierarchy of needs is still relevant in this day and age?
What motivates you in your work now? Was it the same 5 years ago?
What are some basic principles or ideas that have become obsolete in our current society?
Article No. 85: ENGLISH AS A LIFESTYLE

(Level 4-5)
In this day and age where globalization has evolved into an irrepressible worldwide trend, learning the
global language –English - has become a requisite. As such, ESL offline and online schools are
springing up like mushrooms in countries where English is not their mother tongue. And for these
non-English speaking populations, globalization exposes a somber reality that individuals who are
fluent or articulate in English have more edge - especially in the business world - than those who
aren’t.
The drive to acquire this competitive advantage propelled many of the business world populace to
learn English. However, in more cases than not, there came a time in their quest to improve their
English skills when they feel disheartened or resigned to the idea of becoming a better English
speaker. Thus, the question: What’s the best way to learn a language?
Popular opinion maintains that learning a foreign language at a younger age is the best time since
children are more predisposed to picking up a second language than adults. The Critical Period
Hypothesis theorizes that full native competence in language acquisition is possible from early
childhood to adolescence. However, this doesn't mean that it's too late for grown-ups. There is a
strong belief that growth of language is dependent on cognitive and social development and that
language acquisition is a lifelong dynamic process.
So, what's important to you as an adult learner is to see English, not as a school subject that you have
to learn or even as a useful skill that you need to have, but as a lifestyle. English is a life goal and the
secret to achieving your goals in English is to make it a part of your daily life.
Exercises:
How important is English to you in your business and personal life?
How has your mindset toward English changed since you've started studying at Bizmates?
What can you do to make English a part of your daily life?
Article No. 86: REAL LIFE DRAMA

(Level 2-3)
The first Japanese drama I watched was Hana Yori Dango in 2005. I was hooked after that! This was
followed by Hana Yori Dango 2, Gokusen, Nodame Cantabile, Hana Kimi and countless other
dramas.
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What I love about J-dramas is its emphasis on friendship and sacrificing your own happiness for the
sake of your friends. Japanese dramas also teach us about doing our best and never giving up. These
two themes are made more entertaining by funny situations and romantic moments between the lead
characters.
Despite the cultural gap that I have with J-dramas, I can still empathize with the characters as I
observe the same basic human emotions that we all feel. And this gives me the opportunity to reflect
on the lead character I play in my real life drama.
Exercises:
What are some popular dramas in Japan, both Japanese and foreign?
Talk about your favorite Japanese drama and explain why it’s your favorite.
Tell me about your real life drama?
Article No. 87: IT'S MORE FUN TO FAIL

(Level 4-5)
In today's business world, so much focus is on the successes we have. However, we mustn't forget that
our lives are filled with many failures too. And most of the time, these failures make for better
entertainment.
The "I knew it" failure

This is the type of failure that you totally expected to happen, but you tried it anyway. For example,
you know the HR Manager is going to say no to your "nap room" idea, but you propose it anyway.
The "I swear I had no idea" failure

This is the type of failure that is an honest mistake. For example, you take your VIP foreign client to
an all-you-can-eat yakiniku restaurant, but later you learn that he's a vegetarian.
The "I'll never do it again" failure

This is the type of failure that you know you are doing something wrong, but you think it's no big deal
until you get caught. For example, just as you finish printing 100 New Year's postcards in full color
using your office printer, you see your boss standing by the printer picking up the pile of postcards.
The "Nice knowing you" failure

This is the type of failure that you just can't recover from. For example, you gossip with your
colleague in the restroom about how useless your boss is, just as your boss steps out of one of the
stalls.
So, let's look back at some of those entertaining moments that we can all laugh about.
Exercises:
Discuss some of the failures in your life that fit the types of failures described in article.
Discuss the life lessons that you learned from your failures.
What are some of the successes that arose from these failures?
Article No. 88: THE TEACHER IN ME

(Level 1)
No two people are exactly the same. We all have unique characteristics, experiences, and ideas that
we can teach other people.
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For me, I would teach mindfulness to others. If we are mindful, we can create healthy relationships. It
is the root of respect, compassion, empathy, kindness and love.
What about you? If you had to teach someone one thing, what would it be?
Exercises:
Do you agree that all of us can be a teacher?
What are some things that you could teach other people? Why?
What are some things that other people have taught you?
Article No. 89: THE BEAUTY OF LETTING GO

(Level 4-5)
Letting go can be a scary concept. We often associate these words with pain or loss. However, we
mustn't forget about the positive side that it brings. This goes for everything, whether it be in our
personal life or business life.
We find examples all around us. Maybe you've been meaning to let go some bad habits like smoking
or staying late at the office. Then, you have the old items that you've had for so long but can't seem to
let go, like an old jacket you never wear or notes from meetings years ago. And finally, the hardest to
let go are those that you've invested so much in, like a bad relationship that you're hoping would
relight its fire or a failing project that keeps increasing its budget and extending its deadlines.
However, the fear of letting go comes with the hope for something better. Letting go may be difficult
at first, but it can be rewarding in the end. It's almost impossible to escape the fear of letting go, but
don't forget to enjoy its beauty, which is the hope for something better.
Exercises:
Share some experiences where you needed to let go.
How did you cope with it?
What did you gain/learn from it?
What are some things you still need to let go? Why?
Article No. 90: I LOVE BEEF

(Level 2-3)
All too often, we take food for granted. Most of us eat what we want, when we want. However, that's
not the case where I'm from.
In India, beef is banned. It's actually in our constitution. You cannot kill cows or calves in India. You
can get killed for eating beef or for just having it in your possession. I've heard of a story of a man in
India who was killed by a mob of 100 men when they found out that he was transporting cows from
one place to another. It may sound unreasonable to the rest of the world, but the cow is sacred and
considered to be mother goddess by millions of Indians. And this is where I grew up.
However, when I moved to the Philippines, I had a very different experience. Everything was
different: the people, food, culture, mannerism – the list could go on and on. However, the thing I love
about the Philippines is that you are allowed to eat anything you want without fear of persecution.
I can't openly say this back home, but I like eating beef. And I enjoy that freedom to choose the food I
eat in the Philippines.
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Exercises:
What's your view on the ban on eating beef in India?
Are there any laws in your country that may appear extreme or strange?
Describe some unusual foods that exist in your country?
Article No. 91: SORRY IS NOT ENOUGH FOR PEPSI

(Level 4-5)
Pepsi-Cola in the Philippines received 689 civil suits, more than 5,200 criminal cases, over $10
million legal fees, 40 damaged trucks and of course, a ruined reputation, all due to a simple
misunderstanding.
In 1992, Pepsi started a marketing campaign called “The Number Fever” game with a grand prize of
one million pesos (about $40,000). Each Pepsi bottle cap had 3 digits printed on its bottom and the
winning combination would be announced live on TV. The chaos started when they finally announced
the winning number - 349. However, instead of one winner, more than 100,000 Filipinos appeared to
be winners. Pepsi apologized for their mistake; however, people demanded for their grand prize. Big
riots and serious violence still broke out, which resulted in property damage, injuries and even deaths.
And it took 14 years for this fiasco to settle.
So how did this happen? Well, the Supreme Court ruled that the consulting firm that organized the
event had mistakenly selected the wrong number as the winner. Although Pepsi wasn't legally
responsible for the mix-up, the damage had already been done. Even after more than 25 years since
the fiasco, there are still millions of Filipinos who hold a grudge against the company. Let this be a
gruelling reminder of how careful companies need to be with their brand.
Exercises:
How do you think consumers would have reacted in your country if this had happened?
What are some famous corporate scandals that ruined companies in your country?
How does your company prevent miscommunication at work?
How does your company handle customer complaints?
Article No. 92: TIME MACHINE

(Level 2-3)
On my 30th birthday, I received a present. It was a Time Machine. Well, it was what the box said.
Like, for real? A time machine in a small box? Surely this is a joke from one of my friends, but the
gadget looked so authentic. It even had a manual. Out of curiosity, I started looking over the manual.
The time machine only had two buttons: “PAST” and “FUTURE.” I could choose to go back 10 years
in the past, or 10 years in the future. It was a one-way ticket. I wouldn't be able to come back to the
present anymore.
If I chose “PAST,” I would go back to being 20 years old again, but I wouldn't have any memory of
the “present.” It would give me the chance to live my life again. But would I make the right choices
this time, or would I commit the same mistakes?
If I chose “FUTURE,” I would become 40 years old. I would have memory of the “present” but I
would not remember anything between the ages of 30 and 40. I could be successful in the future, but I
would have no recollection of what happened in the past 10 years.
Time machines are not real, or are they? What if what I am holding right now is real, what should I
choose?
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Finally, I pushed a button.
Exercises:
Which button do you think the writer pushed? Why?
If you were given a choice, would you push past, future, or would you rather remain in the present?
Do you think time machines will become a reality in the future?
Article No. 93: THE KEY TO MAKING DECISIONS

(Level 4-5)
What does it take to become a great decision maker? Well, perhaps we can learn something from,
Charlie Munger, one of the most successful investors of the 20th century. Even Warren Buffett, the
richest investor in the world, saw his career really take off after his encounter with Charlie Munger.
Charlie Munger believed that we could improve our decision making abilities by understanding basic
concepts in nature, called "mental models". According to Munger, humans use various models in
physics, accounting, mathematics, economics, marketing, grammar, etc. to help us solve problems in
life and business. However, in order for us to apply these mental models, we really need to understand
them in depth. And the more mental models we have stored in our brain, the better the solutions we
can come up with.
This made me begin to value the teachings from my professors even more. Many of the basic
principles I learned in school were, in fact, mental models of how the world worked. Maybe it's time
to review my old school notes.
Exercises:
What is your process to solve complicated problems?

What are some basic mental models that you learned in school?
How are the mental models you learned relevant to solving problems and making decisions in your
life?
Teach each other a mental model that has helped you.
Article No. 94: THE ROLLER COASTER RIDE

(Level 4-5)
Have you ever ridden a roller coaster? I never liked it. It made me feel dizzy, unhappy and insecure. I
haven't ridden it this morning, but I woke up with the same feeling. Where is my life going?
Well, let me be more personal of how Jill of all trades I am. I got my Bachelor of Science degree in
Hospitality and Tourism Management with a Certification in Tour Guiding. I, then, jumped into the
outsourcing industry which offered a very attractive salary package for fresh graduates. Despite
almost becoming a team leader, I left and took an offer to work in Singapore instead. However,
devastating events led me to missing my ride to the Lion City. Then a turn of events led me to real
estate, marketing, and now teaching English.
I have all these industries under my belt, yet I don't specialize in any of them. What use am I? Then, it
hit me. It's because of all these experiences, I'm able to understand the needs of so many different
students. Despite my roller coaster journey of a little bit of this and that, I'm actually now in a position
to put all of it to good use. Now, my dizziness has started to subside and my happiness and security
have returned. What a ride!
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Exercises:
Describe the career path that you've taken.
Have you ever experienced moments in your career where you didn't know where you were going?
If you could redo your career, what would you do?
Article No. 95: THE WORLD ACCORDING TO HUSKIES

(Level 2-3)
A lot of people fear of owning a Husky. Perhaps people think they're too big, high-maintenance and
extremely stubborn. However, as a husky owner, let me shed some light on this majestic breed.
Huskies have great instinct and can make decisions on their own, which make them good sled dogs.
For instance, they often decide to change route if they feel the ice is too thin without orders from their
masters. They are also much smarter than many other breeds of dog. For example, they actually
calculate the nutritional value of their food unlike other dogs that eat just about anything you give
them. Unfortunately, this is why huskies are often mistaken to be stubborn. And lastly, they are
extremely loyal. So they're perfect for families with lots of children.
I hope you can now see that Huskies possess leadership, intelligence, and loyalty, which I believe are
also traits of a successful business leader. Maybe on this perspective, we can all learn from the Husky.
Exercises:
What is your favorite breed of Dog? Why?
What is your best/worst childhood memory with dogs?
What do you think are traits of a successful business leader?
What can we learn from Huskies that we can apply to ourselves?
Article No. 96: TEMPORARY FRIEND

(Level 2-3)
I am a friendly person. But I am shy. I am an introvert. I am terrified of small talk. Let me just sit in
one corner during party events and I will be fine.
One day I was flying out to Kuala Lumpur for a business trip. 30 minutes into the flight, my neighbor
on the seat turned to me and asked, “Business or pleasure?”
No! No! No! Don’t talk to me! “Sorry, what?” I asked.
Are you going to KL for business or pleasure?” He said, smiling.
“Oh, it’s business.” I replied.
“Me, too. Is this your first time going to KL?”
Stop! Stop! Stop! “Yes, it is.”
“Ah, you need to visit the Chinatown Night Market. You will get to taste all sorts of Malaysian food
at very cheap prices there…”
And so, a very simple three-word question ended up becoming a three-hour conversation. I could not
remember a time when I enjoyed talking so much.
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When the plane landed he extended his arm to shake my hand. He said the strangest thing to me.
“Thank you, my temporary friend.” Just like that, we parted ways.
What he did to me broke the shell I was in. Talking to strangers should not be scary. I was free from
my fear.
So now, whenever I travel alone, I always turn to my neighbor and ask the same question that a
stranger once asked me, “Business or pleasure?”
And we become temporary friends. Always.
Exercises:
When was the last time you traveled alone? What was the purpose?
Do you like talking to strangers when traveling? Why or why not?
How would you start a conversation with someone on the plane?
Tell me about a temporary friend that you made.
Article No. 97: DI RAW MASYADONG MASARAP, PERO

PWEDE NA!
(Level 2-3)
While every other food company claims to serve the most delicious food, Uling Roasters, a chicken
rotisserie business in the Philippines, came up with a very humble advertising slogan - "Di raw
masyadong masarap, pero pwede na!" In English, "It (the chicken) is not so delicious, but not bad at
all."
Each branch hangs this sign on top of their store. This catchy slogan caught the attention of many
passersby and started to upload photos of it on their social media accounts. It spread like wildfire
online and triggered curiosity for its taste.
Surprisingly, many people confirmed that the oven-roasted chicken was juicy, well-cooked and with
the right amount of spice. Whether this is truthful or deceitful advertising, it turned out to be a
successful tactic. Now, Uling Roasters, launched only in 2013, operates more than 200 outlets
nationwide.
Exercises:
What can you say about this kind of creative advertisement? Is this common in Japan?
Would this ad make you want to try it out?
How does your company attract more customers?
Give some examples of unique advertisements you know.
Article No. 98: THE LAST COUNTRY

(Level 4-5)
Divorce is the last resort for couples who are no longer happy with their marriage. This is the case for
almost everywhere in the world, except in the Philippines.
The Philippines remains as the only country in the world where divorce is still illegal. There is a
strong belief that in order to have a unified and peaceful country, we must start first with the most
basic structure of society, which is the family. And this belief stems from the widespread teachings of
Catholicism in the Philippines.
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Of course, not everyone agrees. A lot of unhappy couples want to see the divorce-law passed so they
could get on with their lives. However, before we question the fundamental principle of "for all
eternity", shouldn't we focus more on the root cause of an unhappy marriage?
Getting married too young

Unwanted pregnancies
School dropouts
Vices at an early age
There are tons of reasons why couples end up in an unhappy marriage, most of which are due to bad
decisions made at an early age. Maybe better parenting and education would give clearer direction to
youths while still valuing marriage as a lifelong commitment, rather than a temporary promise.
Exercises:
What is your idea about divorce?
How common is divorce in your country?
How are divorces viewed by society in your country?
What are some other factors that cause an unhappy marriage?
What do you think can save marriages?
Article No. 99: MY CHILDHOOD DREAM

(Level 2-3)
What did you want to be when you were a child? An astronaut? A professional athlete? A singer? For
me, it was to be a flower shop owner. Ever since I was just a kid, I've loved flowers. The aroma. The
colors. The way they make me feel comfortable and relaxed. Very few people ever live their
childhood dream. However, I did.
It didn't happen right away by any means. It took me over 50 years. For many years, I worked in the
corporate world as a secretary. In 2017, I was fortunate to establish my own flower shop in my
humble hometown. It was the greatest feeling, a dream come true.
However, it didn't last long. What took me over 50 years to create, was closed down after just a few
months. Despite all this, I have no regrets. I did something that many never get a chance to do. I lived
my childhood dream.
Exercises:
What did you want to be when you were a child?
Do you ever think about living your childhood dream?
What are some things that you've wanted to do since you were a child?
If you could go back to when you were a child, would you have taken a different path in your career?
Article No. 100: SPREAD THE LOVE

(Level 4-5)
All of us have experienced helping others in need in one way or another. Some would hesitate to offer
help while others jump at the opportunity. How about you? Imagine this.
You are at a busy train station and in the distance, you notice an elderly woman struggling to carry a
heavy suitcase up a flight of stairs. Just as you glance at your watch to see if you have enough time to
offer her a hand, out of the crowd, a friendly man approaches her, smiles, and helps her with the
suitcase.
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If you have experienced the situation above, chances are you felt warm and inspired by the stranger's
kindness. These feelings come from a hormone called Oxytocin, or more commonly known as "the
love hormone".
When this hormone is released, reward centers in the brain are activated and we experience increased
feelings of warmth, trust, and altruism. The other great thing about "the love hormone" is that even
though one isn't directly involved, simply seeing an act of kindness releases the hormone causing a
feel-good biological response that reduces stress, encourages community building, and deepens
empathy literally creating nicer people. So, next time you see the chance to act, remember to spread
the love.
Exercises:
Have you ever experienced a situation described in the article? How did you feel?
What are some acts of kindness you have witnessed? Experienced?
How open is it in your society to offer help to strangers?
How open is it in your society to accept help from strangers?
Do you think people were more willing to offer help in the past? Why or why not?
Article No. 101: MAKE IT A GREAT DAY

(Level 4-5)
It might be a more difficult question to answer than some may realize. Many of us tend to drift
through our daily lives with the sole intention of just getting through the day. It is precisely this
passive approach to our daily lives that leaves us feeling like we're never really getting ahead. Instead,
consider the following to make sure you make each and every day a great one.
1. Ask yourself: What do I need to do to consider today successful? Setting small daily goals
beyond your daily tasks will give your day purpose.
2. Clean: Your physical space is a direct reflection of your mental state. Cleaning will give you a
sense of accomplishment and it's a great example of how small things can have a big impact.
3. Reflect: Recognize when you do have a good day. More often than not, we don't give enough
credit to good days. Make sure to take the time to pat yourself on the back when they come
along.
Making a day great is an attitude, so make each and every day one worth remembering.
Exercises:
What are your small daily goals?
What small things give you a sense of accomplishment?
When was the last time you had a great day? Can you describe it?
Looking back in your life, has your life become better?
Article No. 102: “YUCK!” IS SUBJECTIVE

(Level 2-3)
“Yuck, that’s gross!”
We often find ourselves saying this when we encounter an exotic dish that we find revolting. Take
blue cheese for example. It looks like cheese that's been left in the fridge and forgotten about for
many years. Or how about stinky tofu? Why would you eat something that smells like stinky socks?
And of course blood sausage. Just the name would make you raise your eyebrows.
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If you visit any country in the world, you’re almost always going to find a dish that you will find
disgusting. But this dish will only be disgusting to you. Maybe they've been eating it for centuries and
they find it tasty. What’s yucky to you may not be yucky to others, and vice versa.
Cross cultural communication works the same way. Every culture has a different idea of what’s
acceptable and what’s not. So a rule of thumb when dealing with other cultures is to never judge just
based on what you know. Remember, we all have different tastebuds.
Exercises:
What food do you dislike intensely?

What do you do when someone offers you food that you do not like?
Is there a delicacy in Japan that foreigners don’t like?
What are some cultural differences that you've noticed when communicating with foreigners? And
how have you handled these differences?
Article No. 103: FRUITS OF ONE'S LABOR

(Level 2-3)
Look around you. I bet you'd see something in your room that looks entirely different than it was a
few years ago. It could be your TV, your computer, your mobile phone, the fruits on the table...
Yes, you read it correctly. Some of the fruit we know and love today, looked and tasted entirely
different back then. Here are some examples:
Corn - The original corn came from a Mexican grass called "Teosinte" which was extremely tiny,
skinny, only had few kernels and was covered by a hard case.
Avocado - Wild avocados were very small and could fit in the palm of your hand. It grew only to
about 3.5 inches in diameter and had a muddy, earthy taste.
Strawberry - The wild strawberry - Fragaria vesca, was known to be sweeter and had better taste than
the strawberries we have now. Farmers cultivated it based on size and aesthetic, compromising the
taste.
These fruit are no different from our business. Successful businesses constantly undergo innovation to
suit their clientele's ever-changing needs. If we can change Mother Nature itself, then we can
definitely change our business into something bigger and better. Yes, it may require a long and
laborious process, but at the end of the day, we can certainly enjoy the "fruits" of our labor.
Exercises:
Can you name a few things that have drastically changed over the years?
What are some areas in your business that you think needs improvement?
What would be the impact of such change?
What would be the impact if you don't change it?
Do you think such a change can create a domino effect to the industry? How so?
Article No. 104: TAKE TIME GROWING YOUR ROOTS

(Level 2-3)
Have you heard about the moso bamboo? Also known as Zhu Mao, it's a fast growing bamboo found
in China.
What's interesting about this particular bamboo species is that it doesn’t show any visible growth for
about five years after it is planted – not even under good soil and weather conditions. Then, as if by
some magic, it suddenly shoots up at an average of two and a half feet a day, reaching a full height of
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about 90 feet in one and half months. When it’s fully grown, the bamboo offers a natural, wood
alternative for decking, furniture, walls, beams, boards, and worktops. It could even be a solution to
deforestation of tropical rainforests. In terms of safety and hardness, it meets the highest requirements
of wood products.
However, there’s really no hocus-pocus behind its rapid growth. It is due to the miles of roots it
develops all these years. That’s five years of getting ready for the moso bamboo.
Now, imagine how a businessman can benefit from taking time growing his roots - knowing the
market, building relationships, and developing his products. Just picture what a person can achieve
from taking time studying, honing his skills, and gaining experiences. I can only envision growth and
success.
Exercises:
How would you compare the moso bamboo to people?
How would you compare it to business?
How would you grow your roots?
What important life lessons can we learn from the moso bamboo?
Article No. 105: MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY

(Level 2-3)
In September of 1960, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon faced off at a presidential debate. Some
Americans watched on television and the rest listened on the radio.
Kennedy was young, well-groomed, and telegenic. Nixon, on the other hand, had just come out of the
hospital and was underweight. He wore a wrinkled suit. He had a light beard on his face. His face
looked tired. But he refused the help of a make-up artist.
At the end of the debate, the radio listeners thought Nixon was the winner. His answers to the
questions clearly sounded better. However, the television viewers thought Kennedy won not only
because of what he said, but also because of how he looked.
So I guess you need to do a good job and also look like a good job nowadays. Or has it always been
that way?
Exercises:
What are the first things you look at when you meet a new person?
Are your first impressions always correct?
Are you careful about how you look? How and why?
How do successful businesspeople in your company look?
Article No. 106: WHY IS A POWER NAP POWERFUL?

(Level 4-5)
Nowadays, we admire people who are always on the go. Our current society glorifies busyness.
However, working for long hours causes us to feel sleepy at some point during the day. Instead of
giving into this feeling of sleepiness, we resist it by turning to caffeinated drinks, simple exercises,
surfing the web, or chatting with friends. These solutions consume about the same time, or even
longer, than a power nap.
The truth is, very few people opt for napping because of the stigma surrounding it - we tend to see
people who take a nap as lazy. Fortunately, this negative perception is slowly being debunked by
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studies that prove the benefits of the power nap. It restores alertness and improves memory and
learning. It is also beneficial for managing weight, blood pressure, and stress levels. We all know the
benefits of a good night’s sleep. Now we are also learning about the benefits of a good midday’s nap.
Exercises:
Do your sleeping habits (bed time, duration) provide you with enough energy to last you for the entire
day?
What do you do when you feel sleepy during the day? Do you give in to or resist it?
Is your workplace open to the idea of resting or taking breaks during office hours? If so, what type of
activities are permitted?
How does your culture see people who take naps during break time?
Article No. 107: THINK LIKE WOLVES!

(Level 2-3)
A photograph of a wolf pack, travelling in a single file, went viral back in 2015. According to the
description, the frontliners are the old and the sick ones, then followed by the strongest pack
members, and finally trailed by the alpha - the leader. According to the author, the alpha wolf stayed
in the rear so he could see a wider view of his team.
However, this photo has been debunked by wolf experts. But it got me thinking: it may actually make
sense. We often see leaders as people who march in front, but is this how it should always be?
Whether the photograph is true or not, I think being a leader could sometimes mean staying in the
back to ensure that nobody goes astray or left behind.
Exercises:
What is your definition of leadership?
What is your opinion on the idea of leaders staying in the back?
Can you think of reasons why a leader should sometimes stay in the back?
In what ways can a leader show his/her full responsibility to the team?
Article No. 108: STRESS-FREE ENVIRONMENT?

(Level 2-3)
Define stress. To me, stress is a relative term. Stress is, and always will be, present everywhere we go
and everything we do. From the president of the company down to his/her staff, everybody's dealing
with different levels of stress. Whether we work locally, overseas or at home, stress will always tag
along.
Here's an eye opener: it's how we see our tasks that stresses us out. We can either see mundane tasks
as boring things or we can look at them as opportunities to hone our skills for something bigger. We
can either see a daunting new project as an impossible mission or we can look at it as an opportunity
to learn something new.
So, in my humble opinion, the phrase "stress-free environment" is defined not by the amount of work
we put in, but by how we see the task itself.
Exercises:
How would you define stress?
What sort of tasks make you feel really stressed out?
How would you view these tasks positively?
What's your idea of a stress-free environment?
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Article No. 109: SHARE YOUR BEST KIND OF CORN
(Level 2-3)
I read a story about a farmer who had grown an award-winning corn. Each year he won a blue ribbon
at a state fair for his amazing corn. One time, a newspaper reporter interviewed him and discovered
that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbors.
Reporter: Why do you share your best seed corn with your neighbors? They're competitors.
Farmer: Don't you know? The winds pick up pollen from the ripening corn and take them from field
to field. If my neighbors grow low grade corn, cross-pollination will degrade my corn. If I want to
grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn.
The farmer is very much aware of the connectedness of life. His corn cannot improve unless his
neighbors’ corn also improves. So, it is in other dimensions of our lives. Those who choose to be at
peace, must help their neighbors to be at peace. Those who choose to live well, must help others live
well. Share your best kind of corn.
Exercises:
How would you describe the farmer's personality?
Do you believe that success is very often a collective process? Why?
When was the last time you shared knowledge with others? Did it help you in return?
Do companies in your industry help each other to develop? How?
Article No. 110: YOU AND YOUR WORDS

(Level 2-3)
Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and silently criticized how big your tummy was or how
small your eyes were? Did it make you feel less confident? Did it trigger some insecurities?
Our mind is an amazing machine, which is capable of storing our experiences, both positive and
negative. Repeated negative self-talk can give us a negative outlook on life. This kind of self-talk is
actually destructive and can lead to deteriorating health conditions. At the same time, positive self-
talk has been proven to have the opposite effect which includes increased confidence, a positive
outlook on life, and a healthier life.
So it's time to change our negative self-talk to positive self-talk. Instead of saying something is
impossible to do, you can say you'll take on the greatest challenge you've ever had. Instead of saying
you're not good enough, you're getting better. And now, you can enjoy a more positive outlook on life
and a healthier life.
Exercises:
When was the last time you had a negative self-talk?
What do you usually say to yourself?
Describe someone you know who has a positive outlook on life.
Make a list of all the negative things around you at work, at home, in the news, etc. And see if you
could view them in some positive way.
Article No. 111: DOWNSIZING IN A NUTSHELL

(Level 4-5)
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CEO Frederick Curvet had a hard time balancing his company’s budget. He invited a group of
financial experts and sat down with them to discuss the pressing issue of his company’s finances. He
said that he couldn’t fathom that even with many talents he employed, and very high sales, not enough
money was coming into his company’s bank account.
A business consultant, who was seated at the far end of the table, arose and fished a large lump of ice
from a punch bowl. He held the ice for a moment, and then passed it on to the consultant next to him,
asking that it be passed from hand to hand until it reached the CEO. By the time it got to him, it was
only about one sixth of its original size.
“The lesson is obvious, Mr. Curvet, “said the consultant. “There are just too many hands in your
company.”
Exercises:
What reasons are there for companies to downsize?
Do you know anyone who has received the pink slip because of company downsizing?
Apart from downsizing or reorganization, what measures can companies take to cut down cost?
Do you agree that technology can replace people?
If you were a CEO of a company, would you be able to lay people off to maintain profitability for the
company?
Article No. 112: MANAGEMENT STYLES

(Level 2-3)
Our company regularly holds an out-of-town managers' meeting, and in one of those meetings we
were asked to pick an object within the premises that would best describe our management style.
One manager selected a flight of stairs, saying that she does her best to guide and develop her staff.
Another manager chose a glass of water, insisting that his management style is flexible to fit any
situation that his staff need support with.
What did I pick? The humble emergency light. You can find one in any business establishment, but
you hardly notice it. It doesn't seem very helpful in the normal course of operations, but it serves well
when people need it the most -- during the "darkest" of times.
It was one of the most brilliant activities I've ever participated in. Not only did it give us a chance to
explore the whole venue, but it also gave everyone the opportunity to tune into their inner self as
managers.
Exercises:
If you were to pick an object around you right now that would describe your management style, what
would it be?
Why did you choose that object?
What is the most brilliant activity that you've participated in?
What did you discover and realize during this activity?
Article No. 113: LOST IN TRANSLATION

(Level 1)
Have you ever had a funny experience with language barriers? I clearly remember one I had when I
was still just a little girl.
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My parents and I were eating at a restaurant in Hong Kong. However, we ordered too much food, so
we wanted to take the leftovers back to our hotel for a midnight snack. So, we told the waiter that we
wanted the food for "take-out".
He took the food out of the restaurant and we never saw it again.
"Dine in" versus "for here"; "take-out" versus "to go" . . . English may be a global language, but
depending where you are, your English words could have very different meanings.
Exercises:
Have you ever experienced an instance of miscommunication due to language barrier?
What are some Japanese-English phrases that native speakers find confusing?
Every country has its own local version of the English language. Do you know any local expressions
in English?
How can language barriers affect your business?
Article No. 114: PROCRASTINATION

(Level 2-3)
We do this almost every single day.
I’m going to do the laundry. Hmm, maybe tomorrow. I just can’t get myself to wake up early today.
My bill is overdue and I must pay it immediately. Perhaps next week would still be okay? My service
has not been cut off yet, anyway.
I need to lose weight, so I should exercise. I will start going to the gym next week. But, no rush. My
clothes still fit me somehow.
I need to finish my report as soon as possible. Or not! The deadliest deadline is still three days away.
The others haven’t finished theirs as well. As long as I’m not the last one to submit, I’ll be fine.
Admit it. You are guilty of one or all of the above. I know I am. I’m honest about it. Are you?
So let’s be technical. What is the definition of procrastination? (Even pronouncing the word is so darn
difficult!) Well, the definition of procrastination is…
Nah, I’ll just define it later. No hurry. You can Google it anyway, right? Will you? Maybe? Maybe
not…
Exercises:
What is procrastination?
Are you a procrastinator?
Why do you think people procrastinate?
What can you do, from tomorrow, to avoid procrastinating?
Article No. 115: BROWN IS THE NEW WHITE

(Level 2-3)
I surf a lot, but I also take good care of my skin. But whenever I visit cosmetic shops in the
Philippines, the salesladies always recommend skin-whitening products. Actually, most of the
cosmetic products nowadays come with whitening ingredients.
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According to advertisements of whitening products, fairer skin will give you prestige, happiness, and
the man of your dreams. This industry has continued to grow throughout the world. And there's no
sign of this trend slowing down.
However, expert studies tell a very different story. Whitening products contain two active ingredients:
hydroquinone and mercury. Hydroquinone essentially reduces melanin -- the body's built-in sunscreen
against harmful UV rays. Killing melanin is like inviting skin cancer. And, in a tropical country like
the Philippines, I don't think that's a brilliant idea.
So I wonder, do we need to change how we look and act for society to accept us? Do we need to
compromise our health for people to perceive us as beautiful?
I don't think so. I say no to whitening products! Marketing has failed to convert me on this one.
Exercises:
How does your society perceive beauty?
Are skin-whitening products popular in your country?
Is this a case of marketing going too far?
Should society dictate how beautiful we are as individuals? Explain.
Article No. 116: BREAKING BARRIERS

(Level 4-6)
In today’s society, "easy access’ is what everyone wants. Easy access to websites, easy access to
services or even easy access to communication.
However, no matter how much technology advances, there will always be barriers preventing easy
access to some of the most important things in life. There is no easy access to happiness, respect, and
love. The bigger the barrier, the greater the sense of achievement we get when it comes to these
intangible qualities.
So rather than looking for easy access to everything, it's the barriers that make it great. So, what are
your barriers? How can you overcome them? Remember that some of the best things in life usually
don't have easy access.
Exercises:
What are some examples of things that have become easily accessible due to advances in technology?
What are the things that you consider as barriers in your life? Work? Career?
Can you describe a time that you worked hard to overcome a barrier? How did you feel when you
achieved this?
What are some barriers that you wish technology will one day remove?
Article No. 117: A FATHER’S GIFT

(Level 2-3)
The Enchanted Kingdom is the biggest and most expensive amusement park in the Philippines.
Today, I brought my children, maybe for the fifth or sixth time. After parking the car, I stood in line
to pay for the entrance fee while my wife and our two boys bought some snacks. In front of me was a
couple with their son of 10 or 11. The child looked so excited, and the parents looked so happy.
Maybe it was their first time.
As we neared the ticket booth, the father took out some money from his right pocket and started
counting. He checked his left pocket, and then checked his rear pockets. There was a worried look on
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his face. The mother asked, “Is something wrong? Do we have enough money? We saved money for
one year to afford to come here, right?”
The father replied, “It’s okay. I didn’t realize the price had gone up. We’re lacking 500 pesos just to
be able to get in. Let’s just buy two tickets so you and our son can go. I will just wait outside.” He
was still checking all his pockets hoping for some phantom money to appear.
I pulled out my wallet and took 1,000 pesos. I dropped the money to the ground, and tapped the father
on the shoulder, “Excuse me, sir. There’s 1,000 pesos on the ground. I think you dropped this from
your pocket.” He couldn’t believe what he heard. He picked up the money without breaking his gaze
at me. He was teary-eyed, gave me a short nod, and said two words: “Thank you.”
I just nodded and smiled back. The happiness I felt at that moment, not a single ride from any theme
park could equal.
Exercises:
What was the kindest thing you ever did for a stranger?
Why did you do it?
What was the kindest thing a stranger did for you?
Do you think people are still kind, in general? Why or why not?
Article No. 118: AUSTERITY, CAN YOU HANDLE IT?

(Level 2-3)
In this day and age, people have gotten accustomed to upgrades. Buying the latest iPhone models,
getting the most cutting-edge laptops, dining at very luxurious restaurants, purchasing the most
expensive wines or shopping for clothes that are worth more than a day’s salary.
Do you think you can handle living in austerity? It means living simply. Only buying the things that
are necessary or buying cheaper gadgets that have the same functions as the expensive ones. Do we
always have to keep up with the trend and upgrade our lifestyle even if we can’t afford it?
Before I got my first job, my father always told me that you are capable of saving money no matter
how low your salary is. You will always have the power to change your lifestyle and desires in life.
Unfortunately, technology and social standards have consumed me and I think I’ve forgotten his
advice.
Exercises:
What is the most expensive thing you have ever purchased?
Would you be willing to give it up to save money? Why?
If your friend gave you 50,000JPY as a birthday gift, what will you do with the money?
List all the expensive things you have which you can actually live without.
Article No. 119: TO MY BELOVED: I WISH YOU COULD TALK

(Level 2-3)
No words were needed whenever I see your overwhelming happiness as you welcome me home.
Although I wish you complained when I pet or kissed you too much, or those times when I dressed
you in cute but uncomfortable clothing.
I wish you could've talked - not just barked. I wish you were able to tell me how bland the food was
and that you wanted fried chicken for dinner. I wish you told me to let you sleep on the bed next to
me. Remember when you got angry when I was trying to put socks on your feet? You should have
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told me I was annoying. I will listen to you explain why you chewed through and destroyed my
favorite pillow instead of just hiding under the bed.
I can only wish you had told me these things. I wish you told me you were feeling very unwell. I
didn’t see it. I didn’t pay too much attention because I did not hear a word. I left you and when I came
back, your last silent good bye was deafening.
I wouldn't have left if I heard the words "stay with me."
Exercises:
How do you think the author feels in this story?
Have you ever wished your pets could speak to you in a language you can understand?
How could you communicate with people whose language are different than yours?
Name a situation where communication is very important.
Article No. 120: DIGITAL DEMENTIA

(Level 2-3)
When I was a child, I always found Doraemon, one of the oldest running animated series, very
fascinating. He brings a lot of wacky gadgets to help his dearest friend, Nobita - from doing his
homework to dealing with bullies. But the funny thing is, Nobita has become so dependent on
Doraemon's gadgets that he often ended up failing.
Going back to reality, it got me wondering: have we become like Nobita? Have we become so
dependent on gadgets too much that we've forgotten what it means to do things through hard work?
According to Jim Kwik, CEO of Kwik Learning, there is a new ailment, digital dementia, that's
affecting millions around the developed world. Do you know your spouse's mobile number by heart?
Can you remember the purpose of your next meeting without looking at your online calendar? Can
you buy everything you need at the supermarket without looking at your grocery list on your phone?
If you answered, "No", to these questions, you may be suffering from digital dementia. And it may be
time to put that gadget down before you too become Nobita.
Exercises:
Do you think you are overdependent on technology?
How has technology changed your life for the better and for the worse?
Are you familiar with other social issues caused by technology? (Facebook Depression,
Cyberbullying, Lack of privacy, iPhone thumb, etc.)
Which Doraemon tool would you want?
Article No. 121: LET'S ALL BE PIT BULLS

(Level 2-3)
Pit Bulls are one of the most defamed and mistakenly understood dog breeds. In my research, I have
found out the truth behind one of the myths of this loving and caring dog.
A lot of people believe that Pit Bulls have locking jaws which is definitely unverifiable. "Pit Bulls do
not have the physical mechanism or enzyme that would allow them to "lock" their jaws." If you
compare a Pit Bull's skull with other dog breed's, you can tell they have pretty much the same
structure. So the pitbull, like any other dogs, is not capable of locking their jaws.
However, they are very determined - whatever they do, they do it with great enthusiasm. So that "lock
jaw" action when they bite down on something is called determination because they have no plans of
releasing their bite.
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Just like Pit Bulls, we are sometimes misunderstood by others, but with willpower, by doing
everything we do with great zeal, we will be able to attain our goals in life.
So let's be like Pit Bulls and remember, when you see an opportunity, grasp it with determination and
do not release it.
Exercises:
Do you know any other myths about dogs?
Name a few things that you are passionate about in your life?
Have you been misunderstood by other people because of how determined you are?
In what work-related situations do you need to hold on and keep going?
Article No. 122: NORMAL IS AN ILLUSION

(Level 4-5)
A hurricane the strength of Haiyan. A cancer diagnosis. Or a mild heart attack.
These are events that occur at a moment's notice without preliminaries. But when they hit you at a
time when you don't expect them, the impact can throw you off balance for quite a long time.
Psychologists of note have begun to refer to them as "disruptions". Because that's what they do - they
disrupt the usual course of life that we have come to expect to be as "normal", and all of a sudden,
normal is an illusion.
Business people often refer to these disruptions as "game changers" - because they do change the
rules of the game, if not the game itself. Consider the following game changers:
Facebook - a media company that doesn't produce content

Uber - a transport company that doesn't own their own vehicles
AirBnB - a hospitality company that doesn't own its own real estate
Alibaba – the world’s most valuable retailer with no inventory
They changed the game for media companies, cab companies, wholesale and retail companies and
hotel groups and are predicted to be the way that business will be conducted in the future. Elon Musk,
for all that's being said about him, has already put the Middle East oil cartel in peril, if his electric
vehicle and power storage solutions products take a life of their own.
The process of innovating – reinventing ourselves after reaching, or just approaching what seems to
be a dead end – will only happen if we detect the symptoms early enough. Otherwise, if we only see
the signs when they are obvious, it may be too late. This is what happened to companies who thought
that they were secure with what they were doing – Wang, a word processor manufacturer, Polaroid
and Kodak: camera companies that sold film and developed them, pager companies: they all failed to
see what other companies were doing that would threaten their very existence, and before they knew
it, they were gone.
Truly, if the giants fail to innovate, they will go the way of the dinosaurs - extinct, with only fossils to
remind ourselves of their existence. This is why companies need to keep an eye on the future, while
continuing in the present. Because disruptions do happen. And always, when we think that everything
is running smoothly.
Just like a heart attack. Or a cancer diagnosis.
Exercises:
Define "disruption". Have you gone through one in your own life? How did you manage it?
Have you considered "reinventing yourself" to cope with the disruptions you were confronted with?
How did you choose what you wanted to do?
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What do you think will the future be like for you, so that you can prepare for the coming new
disruptions? Name a few trends and list down some of your skills or abilities that will help you cope
with the forthcoming trends.
Article No. 123: OUR PERCEPTION OF TIME

(Level 2-3)
We all know that time flies by when we're having fun. But have you ever wondered why your 10-
minute presentations seemed like 30 minutes? Or why it feels like forever when standing in a long
line?
The answer is how we perceive time. Scientists call it "chronoception." We tend to become more
conscious of time when we're either bored or afraid - that's why it seems like it's slowing down. On
the other hand, time flies by when we are so engrossed at something or just having fun.
So the next time you deliver a presentation, try to enjoy it. Have fun and be yourself. Next thing you
know, your 10 minutes is up - you might even feel you didn't have enough time.
Exercises:
What do you do when boredom or fear strikes? Does it help time go by more quickly?
In what situations do you feel like time slows down? Speeds up?
In what situations do you wish time would slow down? Speed up?
Why do you want time to slow down/speed up in these situations?
Article No. 124: VICTIM OR A VICTIMIZER?

(Level 2-3)
I know a lot of people who are successful and competent. Yet, in spite of being accomplished in many
ways, some of them feel the opposite -- that they still lack the skills. However, they all see it as an
opportunity to improve themselves; some can do it on their own, while some need other people to tell
them "you can do this!"
It is a humbling experience to know these kinds of people. But what about those in the other end of
the spectrum -- the people who are obviously incompetent, but are annoyingly confident about their
skills? I'm sure you've met one. Maybe a distant cousin or a colleague you dislike? You know, the one
person who talks and talks about a topic like if he or she were an expert, but in actuality, they are
completely wrong.
In psychology, this kind of mindset is called the Dunning-Kruger Effect. It's a disorder where
incompetent people see themselves superior to other people. It's their lack of skills and self-awareness
that make them ignorant. To make matters worse, they often look down on other people's abilities.
So, are these people victims of DKE who need our patience and understanding? Or are they
victimizers who need to be told they are wrong? Well, while my head says give them a break, my
mouth can't help but say "Shut up".
Exercises:
Do you know anyone who might have DKE?
What kind of impact do these people have on others?
How would you deal with a colleague with DKE?
Now that you know that DKE is a real illness, how do you feel about people with DKE?
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Article No. 125: KINTSUGI: THE ESSENCE OF RESILIENCE
(Level 4-5)
When a precious tea cup or ceramic pot breaks into pieces, we usually throw it away because it loses
its value. Kintsugi, a traditional Japanese art of bringing together the pieces of a broken pottery using
liquid gold, gives the item a new value and a more refined property – something more beautiful than
the original.
This transformation process teaches us that broken objects should not be thrown away but should be
treasured. One great poet once said, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” The
Japanese art of Kintsugi implies the same ideology. Each resurrected masterpiece has unique cracks
and stories behind them reminding us that it is possible to recover from being wounded.
As we face challenging economic and social conditions, we experience destruction, rejections, losses
and failures. Hence, being resilient is the vital answer to cope with these traumatic events. These
experiences make us unique and precious. No one is prepared for being broken, but let us be reminded
that there is gold flowing in our blood as we try to fill the holes and cracks in our heart.
Exercises:
Do you usually throw away broken objects? Why or why not?
What are the challenges we face in modern society?
How do Japanese cope with traumatic events in a positive way?
What makes you unique from others?
Article No. 126: CLINICAL TRIALS AND FEAR OF THE

UNKNOWN
(Level 2-3)
When we see patients strapped down and experimented on against their will in movies, we can’t help
but fear clinical trials, or testing of new drugs. It’s this lack of knowledge that causes Filipinos to be
among the most hesitant groups of people to join medical research as patients.
Let’s walk through the process. Clinical trials are done with safety of the patients as the primary
concern. Before a study is approved, it is reviewed by the regulatory body of the country, such as the
Food and Drug Administration, the ethics board of the hospital where it will be performed, and
regularly monitored by the pharmaceutical company that owns the drug. No need to worry about mad
scientists pouring some fizzy green liquid on you.
It’s also purely voluntary. Patients read and share the consent form with their family members and
decide whether they want to join or not. They can ask questions about the study and quit the trial for
whatever reason. Patients aren’t kidnapped - they all wish to be there.
It’s natural to fear the unknown. However, the medical team involved in these studies are also risking
their reputation. They would not be doing them if they felt that the risks outweighed the benefits for
future patients and generations. These studies are necessary to prevent and possibly find cures for
diseases. As a professional study coordinator of clinical trials, I just want you to know that what you
see in Hollywood films is not what we do.
Exercises:
What was your impression of clinical trials before you read the article?
Would you join a clinical trial if you were asked? Why or why not?
What are some other misconceptions people hold due to the influence of media?
Describe an example of how jobs are portrayed in a movie or drama you have seen.
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How may reality differ from the image you have built?
Article No. 127: IT'S MORE RICE IN THE PHILIPPINES

(Level 2-3)
We think "Asian" when we think of rice, but in the Philippines, rice consumption is on a whole new
level of crazy.
Enter the unlimited rice -- one of the greatest business ideas known to Filipinos. Cup after cup like
there's no tomorrow, or at least until one falls into a food coma. Interestingly, here are some theories
that attempt to explain our unlimited rice obsession:
1. "Pasok Sa Budget" (Utility Theory) - talk about getting maximum carbo intake for a cheap
price. This "pasok sa budget" (within budget) mentality springs from our desire to get the best
value for our hard-earned money.
2. Energy Booster (Biological Theory) - The idea is simple. The more rice you eat, the more
energy you have to last the day. Works best for labor-intensive work.
3. "Tatak Pinoy" (Cultural Theory) - Most of our "ulam" (viand) have that little sweet, salty,
saucy and sour character. The blandness of rice tones it down. Also, we grew up as rice-
eaters. No one could take that right away.
4. Rice Olympics (Competition Theory) - The more cups of rice consumed the better, as if it
were some athletic achievement. We consider ourselves victors when we outdo our friends, or
family members, in this self-proclaimed rice-eating "contests".
Indeed, "unli-rice" is a successful marketing ploy of some fast food restaurants. To many working-
class Filipinos, it's perhaps the only luxury they could afford given the rising cost of food but one that
could easily fill their stomach.
The great philosophers reminded us of a life of moderation in everything, but it's not bad to give in to
your guilty pleasures from time to time. Now go finish that third bowl of rice!
Exercises:
Do you agree with the stereotype that Asians are "rice eaters"? Why or why not?
From the theories raised in the article, which do you find most interesting? Why?
What's the latest marketing ploy that people in your society/culture are into? What's your theory?
In what situations do you find it hard to resist life's guilty pleasures?
Article No. 128: MY THREE ASSOCIATES

(Level 2-3)
I have three associates. I like the two of them the best, but I have little use for the third.
One day I was ordered to appear in court. Worried that I would lose the case, I looked around for
someone to defend me. Then, I thought about my two favorite associates. The first one said, “No way.
I am not going to any courts with you.” The second one said, “Well, I can only drop you off at the
court house, but I am not going inside with you.” In despondency, I turned to my least favorite
associate for help. To my surprise, he said, “Sure, I’ll come.” And so he did come and defended me so
well that I won the case.
In life, we all have three associates when death calls and we must appear before our grand jury. The
associate we love the most is money; but it cannot go with us a single step. The second associate we
love are our friends and family; they can only take us to our final resting place. There’s no way they
can shield us before the jury.
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The third associate that we neither favor nor revere is the only one that accompanies us to the jury and
wins the case. That associate is the list of good deeds we’ve done in this life.
~adopted from a Jewish proverb~
Exercises:
In life, who do you consider your associates?
Arrange these according to your order of priority (money, friends, family, good deeds)
Do you have a similar proverb in your country?
What is your country’s perception of the afterlife?
How would you like to be remembered?
Article No. 129: PLASTIC ISN'T SO FANTASTIC

(Level 2-3)
We always find convenience in using single-use plastics - and some find it convenient to just throw
them anywhere. According to some scientists, there will be more plastic than fish in the sea by 2050!
In fact, plastic has made its way to the deepest part of the world, the Mariana Trench, at 36,000 feet
(10,898m). These are the single-use bottles and cups we nonchalantly use (and throw away) every
day.
Should we blame plastic bottling companies for manufacturing these single-use products? Perhaps.
After all, it's all about corporate social responsibility, right? But is it enough to leave this
responsibility to them? Aren't we the consumers? Shouldn't we, as global citizens, also be responsible
for properly disposing the plastic we consume or at least avoid using single-use plastic as much as
possible?
Let’s not turn a blind eye anymore. The ubiquity of ocean pollution is alarming and it’s time for
change. Bringing your own day-to-day environmental kit can go a long way. Reusable bottles,
utensils, cups, food containers and eco bags can save our oceans! Remember REFUSE and REUSE.
Exercises:
Is plastic disposal a big issue in your country?
What do you think are the consequences of having more plastic than fish in the sea in the future?
How can you minimize the use of plastic in your daily routine?
What is your company doing to protect the environment in any way?
Article No. 130: HEY, SUPERMAN! I'M NOT LOIS LANE.

(Level 4-5)
Imagine there are two roads to your destination: One is a smooth pavement; the other, a rough, bumpy
road. Which would you be likely to choose?
Most people I asked picked the paved road. I would too. But, there was this situation when I realized a
rough road wasn't so bad after all.
On my way home while riding a habal-habal (a modified motorcycle as a means of transportation in

Cebu, Philippines), the driver suddenly boosted his engine and flashed along the pavement. It was so
horribly fast that I thought I was flying with Superman! Did I enjoy the ride and feel like Lois Lane in
the arms of some handsome hero? Absolutely NOT!
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Then, just before I could shout back to the driver, he suddenly slowed down. Lo and behold, I was
saved, not by the bell, but by a rough road! The driver had no choice but to drive slower over the
bumpy road. I usually hate the sight of muddy and rocky paths, but in that moment, I was grateful!
Similarly, we sometimes live our lives on the fast lane and avoid bumpy roads that could slow us
down. But when you think about it, these obstacles in our lives could actually keep us from making
sudden regrettable decisions or fatal consequences.
So the next time you encounter a bumpy situation, be thankful. It might just save your life.
Exercises:
How do you usually deal with obstacles in your life's goal or business?
Have you ever felt that you were the most unlucky person in the world because of negative
occurrences in your life?
In what situations in life would you have to slow down? What about in business?
Have you ever made a sudden decision that you now regret?
Article No. 131: THE PRICE IS RIGHT

(Level 2-3)
The main idea of doing business is getting paid for services rendered. For businesses in the service
industry, prices can be flexible. We can either offer discounts, or add services for the same price.
Some may ask for payment before, during, or after providing the service. But in small family-owned
businesses like ours, these ideas tend to be even more flexible.
The family business has been around for 60 years - the pioneer and the most prominent company in
the funeral service industry in one of the cities in Metro Manila. Now, my grandfather always had an
issue in asking for payments. He has this soft heart for families who have no budget for the
unexpected death of their loved one. His collection period ranges from one week to six months. In
other cases, he’s left with no choice but to consider it as bad debt. There are even times when he'll
give a longer payment period, especially if these clients are his friends, business partners or suppliers.
Some have tried to hand him their payment, but he would sometimes refuse. We often question his
business approach, but his answer is always the same: “They might need it more than we do”.
When the time came that my grandmother passed away, it was expected for the family business to
handle her wake. After all, we are in the funeral service industry. But to our surprise, we didn’t spend
a single penny for it. All of my grandfather’s business partners and suppliers covered what we needed
to complete her interment – from the casket and flower arrangements to the funeral hearse.
This time, we “needed it more than they did”.
Exercises:
Do you see the grandfather's business approach working in your country?
Which do you or your company value more: business relationships or sales? Why?
How strong is your relationship with your clients or suppliers?
Share an experience where a good relationship with a partner helped you personally or in business.
Article No. 132: IS TOO GOOD A MEMORY GOOD?

(Level 4-5)
I have an “eidetic” memory, commonly called photographic memory. Once I want to remember
something, I don’t forget it. But more than that, I am also “hyperthymesiac.” I remember everything.
Every single thing, whether I like it or not.
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I can name all the countries in the world, including their capitals. And their population. And the
currency they use. And the country’s leader. Every. Single. Thing. Amazing, you say? Sure, it can be.
However, one thing that this ability has taught me is that sometimes forgetting details is not such a
bad thing. There have been so many times my friends would talk about the past in such a positive
way. However, my memory would clearly recall all the negative details that my friends had long
forgotten.
Our past is the stories of our lives. And my past is made up of what actually happened, while for
others, it’s made up of what they remember what happened. And many of the times, their version is
better than mine. That's why I wake up every day wishing I could forget how not to forget.
Sometimes, forgetting is a good thing.
Exercises:
How good is your memory? Are you a forgetful person?
What are the pros and cons of being able to remember everything?
What is the happiest memory you can remember off the top of your head?
What is a mistake you recently made that you can remember off the top of your head?
Would you like to be a hyperthymesiac?
Article No. 133: IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES

(Level 2-3)
It was 2:00AM. I was pumping the chest of a seventeen-year-old girl. The resident doctor was giving
orders to everyone in rapid succession. Nurses proceeded to give medications. Amidst all the chaos,
her heart was dead quiet.
Lena, as I would like to call her, was just beginning her life. But instead of hanging out with friends
and going to college like the rest of the kids her age, she stayed at home after quitting school because
she was bullied for having rashes all over her body. She had lupus and since they had no money, she
remained untreated.
Lena got admitted in our ward because she was having trouble breathing. I was her nurse and I
became close to her since I watched her when her mom was not around.
During one evening shift, Lena’s monitor started beeping strangely. She was “crashing.” As I was
pumping her chest, I could feel her slipping away. Lena was done fighting.
After everything, I tried to comfort Lena’s mother but no words would come. I walked to the
bathroom and cried my heart out.
When you are in the business of saving lives, sometimes, you get invested in your patients
emotionally as well. Most of the time, I am absolutely professional with them, but cases like Lena’s
seem hard for me.
I am still a work in progress now. I guess, maybe, my biggest flaw is that I care too much, but my
patients do not see it that way. They see it as my biggest asset.
Exercises:
How do you handle successes and failures in your job? Analytically, emotionally, or both?
Do you think emotions are an obstacle in your job?
What is your biggest flaw in the context of work?
Can that flaw become an asset in other contexts of life?
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Article No. 134: 50 CENTS OF BLISS
(Level 4-5)
In a world full of stress, most people would often give anything just to have a few moments of bliss.
Some would even pay through the nose or take on the risks involved - all in the name of happiness.
Street food is a good example, and here in the Philippines, it's probably one of the best. Enter the fish
ball. One might find a fish ball cart in almost every street corner, flocked by patrons eating this 50-
centavo-a-piece treat - and it has been that way for generations. On the other hand, it's not surprising
that the fish ball has major health risks since it is exposed to different elements on the streets. Despite
this troubling fact, frequenters of fish ball kiosks are perfectly okay with it.
Our own happiness comes in different forms that some people could never understand - street food,
extreme sports, me-time, selfies, etc. In every challenge we face, I think there's always an option to
appreciate life and its pleasures.
Exercises:
What do you consider life's simple pleasures?
What things do you enjoy doing that people find it hard to understand?
What could be the risks involved?
Why do you enjoy doing such a thing?
Article No. 135: AN EXPERIMENT TO FIND A NEW

PERSPECTIVE
(Level 2-3)
Do you know those people who take pictures of everything whenever they travel, eat out or attend a
special event just to share with friends on social media? Well, I’m one of them. Oh, a nice view! Take
a photo. Oh, that looks delicious. Take a photo. Oh, I’m having a nice hair day. Take a photo.
Then, I decided to try an experiment to challenge myself. I visited Coron, Palawan, one of the most
beautiful places in the Philippines, taking only 3 photos. I realized that I enjoyed the trip so much
more. I didn’t waste time thinking about how I could best capture the natural scenery, how I could
make myself look beautiful on social media and how people would react to my posts. All in all, I saw
more wonderful places and experienced them directly, rather than through the lens of my iPhone.
So what’s the takeaway from this experiment? Nothing really. It was a good way for me to get another
perspective on my daily routine. Now, it’s time to move on to another new experiment.
Exercises:
Do you like taking photos and posting them on social media? Why? Why not?
Have you ever tried changing your daily routine for the sake of giving yourself a new perspective?
How do you feel about these experiments to change your daily routine?
Waking up an hour earlier
Taking a different route to work
Changing the layout of your room
Writing everything down
Come up with a creative new experiment to give yourself a new perspective.
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Article No. 136: MELODIES THROUGH SKIN, EYES, NOSE,
AND MOUTH
(Level 2-3)
I took care of a dog since she was a pup. She was the smallest amongst the litter. Frail and scrawny,
she fought her way towards her momma's breasts and into my heart. At three months, she hardly knew
the word "sit". I only realized that she was deaf when my dad told me this observation. I thought it
was impossible; she was no different from the other dogs - very playful and independent.
Time passed. My dad was right. I've stomped, clapped, and shouted hard over her ears while asleep
and she never budged. One time, we parked the car almost on top of her and she stayed there soundly
sleeping.
Others thought she was pitiful. I didn't. She had a world of her own. She slept like a log and no
shouting or thunderclap could faze her. In the New Year, when all other dogs were hiding and
cowering in fear from all the noise, she danced with us and celebrated with fearless joy. She followed
and listened through her eyes. Her skin heard the songs of love I sang her and she sang back with the
most unique sounds she could make.
Listening to melodies through her skin, eyes, nose, and mouth - this wasn't a weakness, this was her
strength. This made her so special.
Exercises:
What weakness do you have that can be turned into strength?
What are your thoughts about disability?
Do some companies in your country discriminate PWDs?
Name a PWD you know. What makes him/her special?
Article No. 137: YAMASHITA TREASURE: THE

UNSEARCHABLE GOLD
(Level 4-5)
Rumor has it that Japanese soldiers hid a massive amount of gold in the Philippines during the second
World War. Treasure hunters have spent much of their precious time and money trying to find this
legendary treasure, which was estimated to be worth tens of millions of dollars! They've looked
everywhere - caves, old houses, and even underneath flagpoles.
Some speculate that the treasure was already found by a prominent Filipino family, thus explaining
their indescribable wealth. It could also be that the treasure is still somewhere out there. Others say
the treasure is nothing more than a myth.
Whichever is true, one significant question is raised: is it worth investing on something that could be
pointless in the end?
In any business venture, risk-taking is common. However, some ventures may be nothing more than a
search for "the Yamashita treasure". Some get overwhelmed with the huge profit they could possibly
get, but fail to logically think about the possibilities or impossibilities first.
Exercises:
Have you heard of the Yamashita treasure? Do you think it's real?
Would you consider the search for this treasure as a waste of time? Why?
Are you willing to take risks and invest on something seemingly impossible?
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What would make you invest in something despite huge risks? Give an example.
Article No. 138: COLLECTING COINS

(Level 2-3)
I am a numismatist. A numismatist is someone who collects coins. I started collecting coins when I
was still a child. It was when my grandmother gave me some coins that she kept from her trip to Hong
Kong. It was love at first sight. I was immediately drawn to the beauty of these small pieces of metal
used as currency.
Today I have hundreds or maybe even thousands of coins in my collection. These came from different
countries. Some I bought and some are given to me as gifts. Some are new and some are old. Some
are common and some are collectibles. Maybe someday I will pass my collection to my son. Or
maybe, if I ever need some money, I will sell some.
Coins are a lot like people. Some are young and some are old. Some are worth very little while others
are very valuable. Some you'll just find and others you might need to buy. Just like coins, the longer
you have them with you, the more valuable they will become to you. I still have those old coins my
grandmother gave me. They're worth no more than a few dollars according to my coin guide. But they
are still everything to me.
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Exercises:
Are you in the hobby of collecting something?

What are the benefits of having a collection?
Do you network with people?
Where do you meet new people?
What are the benefits of having a network?
Article No. 139: ABOUT GIANT EMPIRES AND CORPORATE

GIANTS
(Level 2-3)
Giant empires never last forever. The reason has always been the same. They grow too big to manage
and then collapse.
The Roman Empire (27 BC - AD 476) that stretched from Portugal, through England and Egypt all
the way to Turkey, had to be split into an East zone and West zone. Eventually, this caused civil war
and the breakdown of the empire.
The Mongolian Empire reigning from the 13th to 15th century was the greatest empire to date,
holding much of Asia and a significant portion of Eastern Europe. However, the empire soon had to
be split into four areas each ruled by a separate king. The great empire lost unity, and gradually, also
their once invincible power.
Maybe we should just accept that all giants have to fall someday. Name the biggest corporate giants
of your country and the world. It’s hard to imagine, but they will fall someday. Is this good news or
bad news for you?
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Exercises:
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Name a few of the biggest corporate giants in your industry, or an industry you are interested in.
Do they manage their large organizations well? How?
What could cause their future downfall?
What would their downfall mean to you? Are you prepared for the change?
Article No. 140: WHEN THE ELEPHANT STOPPED TRYING

(Level 2-3)
Once, there was a man passing by a parade of elephants. He saw something odd. The elephants were
restrained by just a small rope fastened to their leg. It was obvious that the animals could break free
but they didn’t dare to do so.
The man asked the trainer why these gigantic creatures stood still and made no attempt. The trainer
said that when the elephants were still calves, they were tied to the same type of rope and it was
strong enough to hold them. They still think they can never break away.
We are like these elephants sometimes. We let our past failures determine our limits. As the greatest-
basketball-star-of-all-time Michael Jordan states, “I can accept failure, everyone fails at something.
But I can’t accept not trying.” So what is failure? Failure is when we stop trying.
Archon, S. Short Story: The Elephant and The Rope. Retrieved from:
https://theunboundedspirit.com/short-story-the-elephant-and-the-rope/. Accessed 20 June 2018.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you agree with Michael Jordan’s statement?

What is an example of something that you failed at in your life?
Can you recall a moment(s) in your life wherein you failed, gave it a try more than once and
eventually, succeeded?
Is there anything you’d like to be able to succeed in one day? How do you plan to achieve this?
Article No. 141: EASY DOES IT

(Level 2-3)
When I was a small kid, my sisters and I were expected to keep our vegetable garden free from weeds.
Needless to say, we hated the task and we often procrastinated as long as possible. As a result, we
never had a Saturday free. Then, my mother’s best friend visited our house one Saturday and saw the
three of us scowling at our work.
She stopped and asked three important questions:

Mom’s friend: Girls, do you know why you’re pulling all these weeds?
Me: Because mommy said we have to do it.
Mom’s friend: Yes, and the weeds will kill all your vegetable plants if you don’t pull them out. Do
you want to finish quickly so you have enough time to play or do you want to spend a long time
pulling weeds?
Me: I want to finish early so I can play.
Mom’s friend: OK, how can you do this?
Me: I don’t know.
Mom’s friend: Here’s my suggestion: Why don’t each of you divide the garden into nine little plots
and each of you tend to three of them? Now, if each of you do one plot every second afternoon, you
will have your Saturdays free.
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We followed her advice and we had plenty of time to enjoy every Saturday. We were also very proud
of our neat-looking garden.
My mom’s best friend taught us three important lessons on how to handle a difficult job:
Know why you’re doing the job. (Purpose)

Imagine what a success job would look like. (Vision)
Divide the job into smaller tasks and tackle only one at a time. (Strategy)
▼▼▼
Exercises:
When you were a child, what chores were you expected to do? Did you like doing them?
What values did you learn from doing those chores?
Explain the purpose, vision, and strategy of your job.
Explain the purpose, vision, and strategy of other things in your life.
Article No. 142: FROM ZERO TO HERO AND VICE VERSA

(Level 2-3)
Imagine signing a contract that can bring you millions of dollars in royalties for the rest of your life?
Pretty amazing, right? But also pretty unbelievable unless you’re a famous inventor, author or
musician.
Now think about actually having that contract signed. Yes. You. And now, you can travel the world,
buy anything you want, everything is possible. And then, one day, you decide to tear the contract up.
To destroy your future, give up your dreams and hopes and lose everything you have ever worked for.
And why, you might ask? Well, simply for the benefit of others. Sounds crazy, I know. But it actually
happened.
Nikola Tesla was a famous scientist and inventor. His work greatly contributed to development of the
modern world. Basically everything we use today, exists thanks to Tesla. But most of all, he was a
philanthropist. By the time he was 35, Tesla had become a millionaire with most of his earnings
coming from royalties for his alternating current (AC) generators. He had a contract with the
Westinghouse Electrical Company that paid him $2.5 for every horsepower generated by his motors.
After nearly 20 years of successful collaboration with George Westinghouse, the founder of the above
mentioned company, approached Tesla with an honest proposition. He begged Tesla to lower or
temporarily revoke his royalties, or else the Westinghouse Electrical Company would go bankrupt.
(For the sake of good conversation, notice that royalties Tesla received were in value of 300 million
today’s dollars. Let it sink in for a minute.)
Most of us today, with some exceptions of course, wouldn’t really care about the company. We would
all want our royalties, right? But not Tesla. To everyone’s surprise he tore up the original contract on
site, relinquishing his royalties and helping one of the most contributing companies stay on their feet,
thus, indirectly, making the world a better place. It’s important to mention that he died in poverty, in
his hotel room surrounded by pigeons. Again, let that sink in for a moment.
We’re not all made for business. What matters is that, coming home a hard day's work, we can go to
bed knowing we did something good today. After all, it’s not all about the money, isn’t it?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What is your prime reason for working hard?

For what reasons would you give up your life's work?
Would you revoke your earnings for a greater good? Why?
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In your opinion, is it all about the money today?
Article No. 143: BLESSINGS AND BATTLE SCARS

(Level 4-5)
Life is a very complex concept to explain. Being alive means being subject to the reality of ups and
downs. Both sides go together—one cannot exist without the other. This fact is what makes life more
special.
This Yin and Yang concept is aptly captured in a quote by Anthon St. Maarten: “If we never
experience the chill of a dark winter, it is very unlikely that we will ever cherish the warmth of a
bright summer’s day. Nothing stimulates our appetite for the simple joys of life more than the
starvation caused by sadness or desperation."
The same is true with the unique experience of pregnancy and giving birth. One endures
unexplainable pain and suffers bodily changes that might scar a woman for a lifetime. Those 9 months
of worry and ache are incomparable.
However, there is no greater joy than seeing your little one’s face for the first time; no sweeter sound
than your baby’s cries; and no better feeling compared to the one you felt while lying beside your
bundle of joy.
Truly, of all battle scars, there’s none more sublime than those which brought a miracle of blessing to
life.
Reference:
Maarten, A. Divine Living: The Essential Guide To Your True Destiny. Retrieved from:
https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/yin-and-yang. Accessed 18 July 2018.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What hardships have you experienced at work? In your personal life?

How did you overcome them?
What lessons have you learned from these experiences?
Looking back, do you think these difficulties brought you something positive?
Article No. 144: THE PINK TAX

(Level 2-3)
Have you ever wondered why pink razor blades are more expensive than the blue ones despite their
identical functions? Well, it’s because they are for females and we have the pink tax! The pink tax
refers to the extra amount that women pay for ‘feminine’ products. The problem is, this is completely
legal. These products marketed to women often cost more, even if they're basically the same as those
for men or no gender at all.
Generally, women pay:

12% more for personal care products
8% more for clothing
7% more for girls' toys
8% more for healthcare products
So, why is this happening? Women are seen as more brand-loyal, so marketers take advantage by
creating attractive products exclusively for them – adding pink and flowery designs, making the item
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smaller and more ‘feminine’; and some women want to use these products to reflect their femininity,
which can make them feel happier. So, does it mean that being a woman is expensive?
[Source: NYC Department of consumer Affairs

https://www.vox.com/2018/3/30/17179350/pink-tax-beauty-products-gender-inequality-women]
▼▼▼
Exercises:
In Japan, are products marketed to women more expensive than those for men?
What are some example of products that cost more for women than men?
Do you think this is fair for companies to charge women more for these products? Why or why not?
What can women do to avoid paying the pink tax?
Article No. 145: IT’S MORE ‘PUN’ IN THE PHILIPPINES!

(Level 4-5)
Choosing a business name can be quite exciting. But, what’s in a name? A name may make or break
your business. It’s the first thing customers ask for and it may be the only thing they’ll remember
about your brand. Marketers and store owners always try hard to make their products or companies
stand out, and Filipinos have a fun way to do that by using puns. We love a good laugh and looking at
some of the names people came up with can give you an idea of how we love a good sense of humor:
Names of Beauty Salons:

- Hair Dot Comb
- Cut ‘n Face
- Facebooth
- Starbangs Salon
- Hair Force One
Laundry Shops:
- Lord of the Rinse
- Summa Cum Laundry
- Star Wash: Attack of the Clothes
- Wash Your Problem
Food and Coffee Shops:

- Fish Be With You Seafood Shop
- Bread Pit
- John Lemon
Shoe Repair Shop:

- SHOEperman: We will HEEL you
Secondhand Watch Store:

- A Second Time Around
A Budget Restaurant:
- Ken Afford
As clever as these names are, the reality is that these businesses are small, family-owned companies,
and they probably have no intention of becoming nationwide chains. So, if you’re aspiring to grow
your business, maybe it’s more important to create a good product rather than a funny name.
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Exercises:
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Are there stores/companies in your country that have funny names?

What are other brilliant ways that a brand can appeal to the public? (using celebrities, having a
mascot, etc.)
Do you think humor is a good way for a company to appeal to the public?)
Do you know the origin of the names of some famous companies?
Article No. 146: TREE DIED DOWN

(Level 2-3)
Who doesn't love trees, plants and flowers? I suppose everyone does. It never fails to amaze me to see
a tiny seedling grow into a full-grown tree. But how does it happen? Well, it takes all the right
conditions and sometimes constant care by us through watering, weeding, and giving sufficient
sunlight.
But, you might wonder why some plants die despite our utmost attention. Well, the answer isn’t
always so simple. Bad weather, disease, or insects could all make a healthy plant to wither and die.
Perhaps even a bit of luck plays a role.
Same goes with business. A plant can be like a company that you are trying to build. In the beginning,
it starts small and weak. Your business needs cash, manpower, and customers. Bad market conditions,
a weak product, or your competitors could make your company wither and die. And of course, luck
plays a role.
Whether you’re growing a plant or a business, the basic philosophy is the same. Know your
surroundings better than anyone. Make more effort than anyone. And nature will take its course.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you think the “plant/business” analogy is accurate? Why or why not?

Can you describe something that you made a lot of effort to grow?
What were the difficulties and joy of doing this?
Make a comparison on how you grow a plant and your work life.
Article No. 147: LOVE THAT I HATE IT

Is there something you don't like doing but somehow makes a positive impact? Or maybe something
you hate but eventually learned to love? I know it sounds counter intuitive, but it happens to me...
most of the time.
Let me show you what I mean.
I hate being a yes-man. But hey, being a yes-man has made me an effective worker.
I'm not crazy about handling new assignments. But then again, I learn something every time.
I don't like going out with clients. But come to think of it, that's how I've closed most of my big
contracts.
I hate overtime work. But that's how I saved up for a brand-new gadget.
I loathed being an errand boy. But that taught me how to become ambitious and climb up the ranks.
I hate thinking about problems at work when I'm at home. But, that's how I usually come up with
solutions.
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So you see, hating something isn't all that bad. But if there's one thing I hate, it's quitting. If I learned
to love quitting, I suppose I wouldn't be who I am now.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Name one thing you hate most, but made a positive impact in your life.
How did this make you a better person?
Would you be the same person if you learned NOT to love this?
Name one thing you hate that you'll never learn to love? Why?
Article No. 148: A CULTURAL MISHAP

In the Philippines, one of the most common presents is a clock. We give it as a gift for birthdays,
graduations, Christmas parties or even just to express gratitude to a teacher or a boss. Why? For
simple reasons that it is cheap, useful and applicable for all ages and genders.
However, I didn’t realize that this would be my worst cultural mishap. 5 years ago, when I visited
Beijing for a business trip, I was almost fired because I gave a clock as a gift to my 50-year old
Chinese boss. I learned that, in China, ‘giving a clock’ (chinese: song jong) sounds exactly like ‘song
zhong’ or ‘attending a funeral ritual’. Also, clocks and watches symbolize the running out of time
especially for seniors. So, it’s a no-no in Chinese culture.
I chose the most beautiful and expensive clock I could buy, and I didn’t have any bad intention. Now,
in this ever-international business era, how are we foreigners supposed to know this kind of cultural
Dont's? Do we always need to learn the hard way?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What are some things we should not give as a gift in Japan?

Have you ever experienced cultural mishaps? What happened?
What are some foreign cultures you may have business with in the future?
Do you know any cultural Do's and Don'ts of those cultures?
How can you avoid cultural mishaps in international business?
Article No. 149: HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES

I started playing the guitar at 13. It's been a while now since I last played and it's pretty obvious I'm
getting rusty. However, I've never forgotten the basics: Pluck a string and you get a note. Strum at
least 3 notes, you get a chord. Simple enough, but the tricky part is ending up with something
harmonious and melodic.
Yesterday, I picked up my guitar again and tried to play something new. Then, in the middle of it all,
a thought hit me.
Guitar-playing can be like managing people. Your staff members are the notes; your team is the chord
they belong to. Sure, you might know each staff individually, but you also have to know the dynamics
of the team as a whole. Assign one person and you get results, but it doesn't mean you've hit the right
note. Sometimes you just have to strum the chords and let each note do their thing. I honestly believe
this is how a beautiful song is created -- a good balance between chord-strumming and note-plucking.
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Anyway, where was I... Oh yeah, B minor.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What's your favorite hobby?

Can you relate your hobby with team management in some way?
Is it also important to get to know your team as a whole? Why or why not?
How do you strike a balance between micro- and macro-management styles?
Article No. 150: THE BIG QUESTIONS

“What would I do and love every day, even if I was failing?’ The questions you ask yourself will
determine the course of your life.” Tom Bilyeu, an American entrepreneur, asked his audience as he
stood in front of them in one of his presentations. According to him, we need to start changing our
questions. Instead of asking, “What do I need to do to get rich?” we can say, “Why do I want to get
rich?” With this in mind, he built Quest Nutrition, one of the fastest-growing private companies in
North America, and Impact Theory, a media organization, aimed at using the power of commerce for
global influence.
Bilyeu also believed in the nearly limitless ability of human beings, and because of this, he hired
former gang members, ex-drug dealers, and felons when he started his first company. He didn’t ask
for a resume. He just focused on the person’s ability to look forward into the future and work hard to
achieve his goals. “It’s not about who you are today,” Tom Bilyeu said, “It’s about who you want to
become, and the price you are willing to pay to get there.”
How about you? Have you started asking the ‘big questions’ yet?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you sometimes feel that you focus too much on the day-to-day tasks in your life?
What are some big questions that you could ask yourself?
How would you answer these BIG questions?
What matters most in my life?
What do I need to change about myself?
What is keeping me from reaching my full potential?
Imagine that it's 10 years from now and you have achieved all your goals in life. Now, look at
yourself now. What advice would you give yourself?
Article No. 151: I AM GOOD!

There is an African tribe that nurtures one beautiful custom. If a tribe member makes a mistake or
does something bad, they don’t judge. Instead, they try their best to ease and help that person.
More specifically, they come after the person who made a mistake, take her to the center of the village
where the entire tribe is assembled, and they spend the next two days talking to that person about all
the good things she has achieved and done in life.
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This unusual tribe believes that everyone is born a good person and we all essentially want security,
peace, love and happiness. But at some points in life, we make mistakes. The community sees
mistakes as the cry out for help. That’s when they all unite for the purpose of encouraging and helping
the person reconnect with her true nature and realize one universal truth: I AM GOOD!
At work and in society, we sometimes don't have the time to help a person who has caused trouble.
And so we sometimes toss people out of the boat to maintain peace or efficiency. But what if
everyone WAS good and just needed help? Are we making scapegoats for our own misdoings?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you know someone who has made a critical mistake at work or in some other community you
were in?
How was the person treated by his/her community?
Would you say it was the individual's fault or the community's fault for letting the critical mistake
occur?
Do you believe every human being is essentially good? Why or why not?
Article No. 152: PARTY ISLAND

Being dubbed as a “party island”, Boracay had been popular with both local and international tourists.
Its long stretch of white sand beach were filled with resorts, shops, and bars. It was the island that
came alive at night!
However, safety regulations and environmental laws had long been violated by business owners,
which caused to pollute its once crystal clear water and eventually completely shut down the island
for six months – maybe even more.
This is just another example of how short-term gain was prioritized over long-term sustainable
growth. But we’ve all been guilty of this at some point in our lives. Haven’t you bent the rules just a
bit to reach your targets or hid the truth to keep your boss happy? Sometimes it’s an act of kindness
and sometimes it’s just sheer selfishness that lead to such behaviors. But one thing I can say for
certain is enjoy the party while it lasts because at the end of the day, there may not be another party to
attend.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How do you feel about the unethical business practices that led to Boracay's shutdown?
Do you know of any unethical business practices going on in your country?
Do you agree that these are all based on short-term personal gains?
Are you guilty of doing something for the sake of short-term gains?
Article No. 153: NO AFTERLIFE FOR ME

I've been struggling with a strong feeling for years, and I've finally made up my mind. I am now an
atheist.
It's just me and reality. No more fairy tales -- that includes the notion of the afterlife. In a culture
where religion primarily gives meaning to one's life, this may seem absurd or even scary. Back then, I
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often took family and friends for granted since my belief was that I would be with them in the next
life anyway. However, I now just realize that life, and the people around you, become twice as
precious when you know you only have one shot.
Would diamonds be as valuable as they are if they could be found anywhere? Would you grab an
opportunity now if you knew it would come knocking again the following week? Would you value
your current job if there was another one waiting? I don't think so.
But maybe that's just me.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How does your culture feel about the afterlife?

Apart from rarity, what make some things more valuable than others? Give some examples.
What makes your job precious to you?
What things do you consider priceless in your life? Why?
Article No. 154: THE FLAT EARTH SOCIETY

This may be odd for us in the modern world to believe that there is an international group called, “The
Flat Earth Society” - individuals who promote the idea that the Earth is flat rather than a sphere. Their
argument is that the Earth "looks" flat and "feels" flat, therefore, it is flat. Their belief is that satellite
photos are merely fabrications.
Elon Musk even asked the Flat Earth Society a brilliant question on his Twitter account: “Why is
there no Flat Mars Society!?” And he got an answer: “Hi Elon, thanks for the question. Unlike the
Earth, Mars has been observed to be round. We hope you have a fantastic day!” These tweets drove
the netizens crazy and caused a war on Twitter. It's amazing to see how people often quarrel about
beliefs. This happens when we try to impose our thoughts on others without proper reason to back it
up.
Now let's forget the flat Earth idea and focus on business. To some employees, a company process
may look and feel wrong; therefore, it is wrong. Tell them otherwise without a good reason and you'll
certainly rub them the wrong way. Just like the Flat-Earthers, maybe they just need a more civilized
explanation to enlighten them.
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Exercises:
What was your first reaction when you heard about The Flat Earth Society?
If you were given a chance to debate with a Flat-Earther, how would you explain that the earth is a
sphere in a polite and effective way?
Have you encountered a stubborn person whose idea is totally different from yours? How do you
handle such a character?
From a business perspective, how do you show respect to someone who holds an opposing opinion?
Article No. 155: TRANSPLANTABLE ORGANS

Do you need a new heart, a kidney or a liver? We found you a donor. A pig. Yes, a pig.
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Recently, the supply of organs for transplant is far smaller than the demand. Due to this, the medical
industry needs to consider other means of how human organs can be replaced. It seems like a scene
from the movie the Island of Doctor Moreau, a mad scientist who creates human-like hybrid beings
from animals via vivisection.
This medical technology, however is not far-fetched. Xenotransplantation, or the process of

transplanting organs or tissues between members of different species is being tested. Although
unethical, doctors in the past tried to put pig hearts and livers in people, these attempts did not go
well; patients died, and their doctors were often charged with murder. But if you’re going to harvest
organs from some other species, pigs are the most logical choice according to Revivcor, a division of
United Therapeutics and a regenerative medicine company. The organs are the right size, and pigs are
easy to find.
Researchers from Revivcor are trying to alter the pigs’ biology so that they grow human organs. The
team is making breakthroughs, though. Scientists published a paper documenting a pig kidney that
was transplanted into a baboon that lasted for 136 days.
So there’s still a long road ahead, but the hopes of creating an "endless" supply of transplantable
organs are real. It’s hard to imagine the impact that this would have on humans. And pigs.
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Exercises:
Would you consider getting transplantable organs from pigs?

What is your take on transplanting animal organs to humans?
Are you for or against such developments in biotechnology?
What impact would this development have on society?
Article No. 156: AIM FOR THE MOON, LAND AMONG THE
STARS
During my preparation for the nursing board licensure examination, everyone in our class had a daily
mantra: “I will top the board exam”. There were 35 of us and yes, we all shared this same goal. This
was a big deal for our class because my college was fairly new. So far, our nursing school never had a
100% passing rate in its 6-year history.
There’s a popular saying that goes: Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.
Our class did just that. We all aimed for the top 10. Even if we didn't end up at the top, we could at
least be passers. The result? Our class made history. Everyone conquered the dreaded exams
successfully!
We live in a competitive world. There are always tens and hundreds of contestants for just a few seats.
But don't worry about how many seats there are. Worry about not trying hard enough.
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Exercises:
When was the last time you had a challenging goal?

What is your personal goal at the moment? How would you set its bar higher?
At work, does your team aim for the moon or make more realistic goals?
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Article No. 157: THE SLING AND THEIR SONG
Grubby clothes, foul smell, and pitiful faces. We often see these people, usually children, boarding the
jeepneys and buses of the bustling roads of Metro Manila. They are called by many names but
technically, they are the tribesmen from a province in Mindanao. They are the Badjaos.
The Badjaos are considered as nomads in the metro – surviving the harsh lifestyle of the streets and
slums by asking for alms. Most of the time, they ride public transportation and sing to please the
passengers. Unfortunately, the passengers are more displeased than happy. Well, who would be? It is
heartbreaking to see a month-old baby slung to the body of a 15-year-old teenager who does not seem
to resemble the baby’s face at all.
I have encountered a lot of the Badjaos during my times of commute – and in few occasions I have
given one a sandwich, candy, or whatever edible I have in my bag. But never money. Never.
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Exercises:
Are there any minority groups in your area/region/country? How are they viewed in general?
What are your thoughts on giving alms?
Would you agree with the author about not giving money to the Badjaos?
How do you think the problem of city nomads can be solved?
Article No. 158: LIVING ON THE RED PLANET

Imagine our children and grandchildren living on Mars. Will we one day build the future of mankind
on the red planet? NASA and even Elon Musk believe that Mars has all the resources necessary to
sustain civilization.
However, there are still challenges:
1. It takes nine months to get there. That’s a long flight.

2. The average temperature on Mars is below zero. It’s not exactly a tropical paradise.
3. The air is also largely carbon dioxide which is bad for people. I guess you can forget about
fresh air.
4. They have huge dust storms. So you may be doing lots of vacuuming.
5. And finally, we need to build an entire infrastructure. Well, I guess there will be a lot of jobs.
I don’t know about you, but this option of living on Mars doesn’t sound all that great. However,
global warming, nuclear proliferation and bio-engineered germ warfare may force us off Earth. But is
this really our only option?
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Exercises:
What would be the pros and cons of living in another planet?

What other global issues impact the Earth and mankind's survival?
What can we do in our daily lives to protect our planet?
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Article No. 159: THE STORY OF THE SUPERMALL THAT
HATED A SUPER DRUG STORE
When I was a kid, I always wondered why I never saw a Mercury Drug store (one of the biggest
drugstores in the Philippines) inside the premises of SM Supermalls (the biggest shopping center
chain in the Philippines). It was sometimes inconvenient to leave the SM mall to walk across the
street to pick up my medication at a Mercury Drug Store. So, why were there no Mercury Drug store
in SM Supermalls?
Henry Sy, a Chinese-Filipino businessman and owner of SM supermalls, came from humble
beginnings with a dream to become rich. He failed a couple of times but his hard work enabled him to
save enough money to start his small business.
At that time, Henry noticed that Mercury Drug store would always get a lot of customers. He saw this
as a good business opportunity, and so he humbly asked the owner of Mercury Drug if he could rent a
small spot in the store. The owner declined his request, which deeply disappointed Henry. He swore
that he would never let Mercury Drug step into his life or business again.
While both companies have achieved phenomenal business success, to this day, you will not find a
Mercury Drug store in any of the 70 plus SM malls across the Philippines all because of this one
incident. This just shows how every interaction we have with people in our daily lives should never be
taken for granted.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
If you were Henry Sy would you still hold a grudge against Mercury Drug after all these decades?
Is there anyone in your life that you could never forgive?
Do you have any regrets on how you treated someone in business or your personal life?
Article No. 160: EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER

Less than 1% of all Filipinos invest in the stock market. One of the biggest reasons is the volatility of
stock prices. Sometimes it's up but often it's down. Majority of my countrymen believe that buying
stocks is a gamble rather than an investment. But I disagree.
Emotions play a big factor in the game of stocks. People have the tendency to buy when prices soar
and sell when prices fall. They get excited when people are buying, causing the prices to go up. They
panic when investors sell causing the charts to go down. So it's very important to manage your
emotions to manage your assets.
Here’s how you can do it.
1. HAVE A GOAL. Decide what your goal is. Is it for the experience? For education? Or do you
seriously think you are going to become a millionaire investing in stocks.
2. HAVE A STRATEGY. Sell if it goes to this price. Buy more if it goes to this price. Do
nothing until it reaches these prices.
3. HAVE AN EXIT PLAN. It could be until you use up your five hundred dollars or until the
rest of this year. It could be until you lose 3 consecutive times. Whatever it is, know when to
end the game.
These rules apply to just about everything, even your job and your relationships. Sometimes it's just
not worth the stress.
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▼▼▼
Exercises:
Is investing in stocks common in Japan?

Do you know anyone who is very emotional?
What are some things that make it difficult for you to control your emotions?
Can you describe a time when you couldn't control your emotions?
How do you control your emotions in the workplace?
Article No. 161: WHY SUPERSONIC TRAVEL FAILED LAST

TIME
Imagine traveling twice the speed of sound. To cross the Atlantic in just three and a half hours is just
mind-blowing. Engineers have made this concept into a reality by developing the Concorde -- the
world's first supersonic airliner.
The Concorde was way ahead of its time. The engineering behind the aircraft was so advanced that
the average traveler could break the sound barrier. Unfortunately, the environment, the market and the
economy weren't ready for it.
Supersonic jets create massive shock waves that can shatter glass windows, so they can only fly over
bodies of water. This essentially limited the Concorde's flight routes. Fewer routes mean fewer
passengers. Moreover, the plane needed vast amounts of fuel to travel at such breakneck speeds. More
fuel equals higher costs. And so higher prices equal fewer passengers.
So, that brings me to this conclusion: no matter how brilliant an idea may be, it is deemed to fail if all
aspects have not been carefully considered. The Concorde could have been a technological
masterpiece that revolutionized the way we traveled. The world just wasn't ready for it.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What would the business landscape be like if the Concorde were still around today?
What product/service do you think is way beyond its time?
In your business, what areas do you carefully consider before executing an idea?
Name other products/service that are no longer around today because they failed. Why did they fail?
Article No. 162: CHEAPER THAN WATER

Have you ever heard of a company that succeeded even without advertising? Do you think a start-up
business can do this these days? Well, Arizona Beverage Company did it, and they are still going
strong in the drinks industry up to the present.
Arizona Tea is known for their 99-cent product and the price has not changed since they launched it in
1992. So how did they do it?
According to Don Vultaggio, one of the owners, they made a business model that channeled the costs
to things that the consumers really wanted and needed. They did not advertise. Instead, they used
technology to pack drinks faster. They thinned out their cans. They used more recyclable materials.
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To prevent their trucks from traveling far and to save on gas, they built 40 factories across the US.
They moved their products at night. This allowed them to avoid traffic and deliver their tea faster.
It was also quite smart of them to print “99 cents” on the can itself, so convenience stores couldn’t set
their own prices.
This just goes to show that following conventional business practices is not the only way to succeed.
Being smarter is another great way. So the next time you see a can of Arizona, think about why it’s
cheaper than water, and about why it has become America’s cup of tea.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Can you give an example of a consumer product that has survived for a long time? How did it manage
to survive?
How important is marketing in starting up a business?
Do you think older businesses can do away with advertising?
Is there a business model in your country that you admire?
Article No. 163: AFRAID OF THE DARK, ARE YOU?

Have you ever tried blindfolding yourself and moving about like how you would normally do? A bit
silly yes. Yet I tried that just to figure out how my father managed to continue living normally after
total darkness took over his sight almost 11 years ago.
What I managed to get after that experiment were a couple of bruises on my leg and heart attack from
almost breaking my mother's favorite vase. Additionally, an eye opener (ironically as it may seem)
came to view.
My father lived by absolute trust. Not to us, because it is very difficult to give trust these days. But
trust in his inner voice, his instincts. With the help of compensation of his sense of hearing, he was
able to manage the mini convenience store I gave them before settling down on my own.
To this day, he can sense I am in trouble even though we live oceans apart. He sends help without
hesitation. What makes me most proud is that, albeit, he doesn't have a 9-5 like most of my friends'
dads do, he has secured my future even in the dark.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
With the unpredictability of circumstances these days, would you say you are ready? How so?
If your sense of sight were suddenly gone, who would be the one person you would trust your life to
and why?
When companies face unexpected challenges, how do they compensate?
Article No. 164: STUDENT LOANS: STUDY NOW, SUFFER

LATER.
Cost of college education continue to rise especially in the US, and student loans are commonly
considered by many low-income students because they believe that this is the only way for them to
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get a good paying job in the future. After graduation, reality kicks in as they are told to repay their
debts. Those students who are unable to do so, face serious financial penalties.
By 2014, it was reported that 40% of the borrowers had balances above $25,000. The distressing part
is that the interest is higher compared to the actual money that was lent. This financial burden leads
people to delay life milestones.
College is one of the biggest investments in our lives, and it deserves careful consideration and
strategy. Students need to ask themselves, “Is the debt that I take on now really worth the
opportunities that college will open up for me?” What you decide today will have a huge impact on
your life and success so think wisely and look before you take out the biggest loan of your life.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What do you think are the advantage and disadvantage of getting a college degree?
If you were a student in a low-income household, would you also consider applying for a student loan
to support your education? Why?
If you want to succeed in life, is not going to college an option in your country?
What was the wisest decision that you've made so far that contributed to your success?
Article No. 165: THE MOST HANDSOME INSECT

QUESTION: What’s the most handsome insect?
ANSWER: A cockroach.
QUESTION: Why?
ANSWER: Heads turn when he walks, girls scream and jump when he enters a room, and they get
goosebumps even before he touches their skin.
It’s a classic joke I often hear. It’s an attempt to make an icky situation seem funny. But I'd like to add
a little more to this joke.
QUESTION: What’s the most important insect of our planet?

ANSWER: Cockroaches.
QUESTION: Why?
ANSWER: They're abundant and serve as food to many animals. Their feces contain nitrogen that
fertilize the soil so that plants can grow. They are an essential part of the ecosystem.
QUESTION: What’s the most successful insect on our planet?

ANSWER: Cockroaches.
QUESTION: Why?
ANSWER: They have existed for 300 million years and survived several mass extinctions.
What will happen if us humans destroy the environment and the ecosystem, and fail to survive the
mess we have created for ourselves? We will be no more useful than a cockroach, and as the joke
goes, no more handsome than a cockroach either. So let's not make that happen.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What insect are you most afraid of? Do you think they’re significant?
Have you ever felt insignificant in your life?
What do you wish to contribute to your work, society, and family?
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List some of the animals you dislike (rats, flies, mosquitos, etc.) and talk about their significance and
purpose.
List some concepts that you dislike (illness, war, poverty, etc.) and talk about their significance to the
world.
Article No. 166: THE "BER MONTHS" BUSINESS

“Hooray, it’s September!” Call this exaggerated but Filipinos mark September 1st as the beginning of
Christmas countdown. We call this the "BER Months" since it spans from SeptemBER to
DecemBER. During these months, most Filipinos start decorating their houses with Christmas trees
and lights, children start going house-to-house for Christmas carols, schools and offices start planning
for Christmas parties and Christmas songs start playing on the radio. Filipinos overseas begin making
plans to go back to the Philippines to spend time with their love ones. We say that Christmas is often
the only time that brings all family members together in one roof. Christmas makes us united.
Despite the high inflation rate in the Philippines and no matter how many financial obstacles Filipinos
face every year, we find ways to provide everything for this celebration. But where did it really all
start? Is it because of religion? It could be one of the many reasons, but there’s something behind it.
Big shopping malls and manufacturers have a huge influence on this long celebration. Retail outlets
capitalize on the tradition by increasing demands for toys and other gift items and Christmas decors as
early as September. To cut it short, these businesses dictate the customers that we should start
preparing for Christmas.
Embracing a unique culture is good, but is it still worthwhile to spend a lot of money (like one's 13th
month pay) for a single celebration? Or are we just victims of predatory capitalism?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What is the most important holiday in your country? What makes it special?
How do people in your country prepare for it?
Is it reasonable to spend a lot of money for a celebration? Why or why not?
Do you know any company which ‘invented’ a holiday in Japan or other countries?
Article No. 167: PAGPAG

In the slums of Manila, you’ll hear the word pagpag. So what is it, you may ask? Well, every night,
fast-food chains like McDonald’s, KFC, Jollibee and others, would dump their trash out to be
supposedly collected by garbage collectors.
But instead, some men would be there first to collect the leftovers of that day. After collecting, they
would debone what’s left of the fried chicken pieces and keep the meat after. The collected meat will
then be sold to eateries in the slums of Manila for 50 pesos (or 1 dollar) for a 2-kilo bag each. These
eateries will cook the scraps into different delicacies, saucy ones usually. These delicacies, are pagpag
– recycled food from leftovers.
In several documentaries, diners of these eateries were asked if they were aware that they’re eating
pagpag. And they all answered the same - of course they knew, hence, its cheap price. They believe
that they cannot be picky on what they eat if that’s the most of what they can afford. It’s really a sad
reality, but it’s also their way of living now. It’s a heart-rending sight to imagine, but they’ve already
accepted their fate.
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So what's on our dinner plate? What's on our plate of life? Before we wish for more or better, I'd say
we appreciate what we have today.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Name something you have now and want more of.

Name something you have now and want to make better.
Why aren't you satisfied with what you have now?
In your opinion, is there a risk in taking things for granted?
Article No. 168: FIXING A BROKEN HEART

According to statistics, about a third of all deaths around the world is the result of heart diseases and
stroke. Fortunately, wealthy Asian nations such as Singapore, Japan and South Korea have been
recorded the lowest incidence of heart disease. Perhaps this is no surprise.
However, something that many people don’t know is that there is actually a heart condition called
Broken Heart Syndrome, also known as Stress-induced Cardiomyopathy or Takotsubo
Cardiomyopathy, which could happen to anyone. The symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome are very
similar to a heart attack and it happens when your body reacts to a surge of stress hormones brought
about by an emotionally stressful event. And what’s shocking is that it could be good stress or bad
stress. A death in the family OR the birth of your first grandchild. During your daughter’s wedding
OR during a surprise birthday party. If you get laid off OR if you win the lottery. Good stress or bad
stress, it’s all a risk when it comes to Broken Heart Syndrome.
Stress is like salt. Without it, life is bland. But too much of it, and it can really mess you up. So just
take it easy.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Why do you think nations like Singapore, Japan and South Korea have the lowest incidence of heart
disease?
Do you agree with the statement that stress is like salt? Why or why not?
What are some examples of good stress and bad stress in your life?
What do you do to manage the stress in your life?
Article No. 169: THE SANITATION PROJECT

Let’s take a moment and learn a part of medical history that is so important but often dismissed
because it's unglamorous – the creation of the modern sewer system. It is the network of pipes and
pumps underground for collection of wastewater from household toilets and industrial contaminants.
In 1854, a severe cholera outbreak occurred in Broad Street which killed more than 600 Londoners.
Many more could have died if not for the studies of a local doctor, John Snow. Public health officials
believed that cholera was spreading through the air. However, Dr. Snow believed that sewage dumped
into rivers was contaminating the water supplies. So, he started to investigate and found that the
public water pump on Broad Street was the cause of deadly cholera. On the 7th September 1854,
Snow convinced the local officials to take the handle off the pump, so people could not draw water
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from it. Shortly after this action, the outbreak came to an end. Researchers later discovered from the
interviews that a mother washed her baby’s cloth nappy into the cesspit near the pump and became the
point source of the outbreak.
John Snow's studies on the causes of cholera provided evidence of the dangers of filthy cities. Due to
Dr. Snow's efforts, a new sewer system was introduced in 1859, which is still what many modern
cities around the world use today.
Now, looking up at tall buildings and modern infrastructures, we rarely look down and ever think
about the sewer system, the septic tanks and other sanitation projects under our feet. But they are one
of the greatest projects ever created. It is the bedrock of modern civilization. Just imagine the big
cities you live in with pipes or tunnels under every house, connecting every building, throwing away
the wastewater we have every day and saving thousands of lives. Let's celebrate sanitation and all that
it has done for us.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What are some examples of dirty jobs that no one wants to do but are important to society?
How can these people be recognized?
What aspects of your work would you consider undesirable?
What are the most popular jobs in your country? Why?
Article No. 170: THE ART OF REPLYING TO AN ANGRY E-

MAIL
Many years in customer service have taught me that every customer complaint is actually an
opportunity to build a closer relationship. But how does one deal with a rude-sounding e-mail from an
angry customer?
The Acknowledge-Apologize-Reason-Reassure-Compensate (AARRC) e-mail formula is an effective

method that helped me deal with the most irate customers. In a nutshell, this is what the AARRC
approach is all about:
1. Acknowledge and Apologize – show that you recognize the issue and empathize with the
customer.
2. Reason and Reassure – provide an explanation and give some form of assurance that the
incident will not happen again in the future.
3. Compensate – gain back your customer’s trust by meeting him/her halfway or offering
something of value.
Many customer service reps know this method like the back of their hand and customer-oriented
companies hold this approach in high regard as it can be used in any dire situation. Maintaining
connection with the client, after all, is important to gain their trust and loyalty.
But what about the other people that make up the entire business? Employees, vendors, suppliers,
investors, etc. Don’t they deserve the same level of acknowledgment or reassurance as well? Maybe
it’s time to shift from being customer-oriented to being relationship-oriented.
Just like the AARRC, any business undertaking should be done with sincerity - a virtue that's
evidently present when you value relationships over the business itself.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
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Have you ever dealt with an angry customer? Why were they upset?
Do you have a special way of pacifying angry customers?
What do you think is the difference between being customer-oriented and being relationship-oriented?
How do you feel about businesses that don't practice sincerity? Can you give an example from
experience?
Article No. 171: THE RING OF FIRE

Have you ever heard of the terrifying Ring of Fire? It is known to be one of the most horrifying
geographical areas here on earth.
The Ring of Fire has 452 volcanoes, which are mostly active, stretching in a shape of a horseshoe.
The countries near the ring are prone to massive earthquakes due to its constant plate movements. A
country that's located right on the ring is Japan, and another is the Philippines. We have something in
common. Japan is known to have multiple active tectonic plates which is primarily the reason
earthquakes frequently occur there. Philippines is also known for its frequent landslides and sinkholes
due to these plate movements.
What is the contingency plan for the Philippines in the event of another super typhoon? What
preventive measures has Japan taken for the next big tsunami? A question I sometimes ask myself is:
If we can't afford to do both, should a country take solid protection measures or have a solid
contingency plan?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What natural disasters are common in your country?

What was the most terrifying disaster your country has experienced in recent years?
Was the damage kept minimal? How?
How would you answer the last question in this article?
Article No. 172: THE RISE OF SPOKEN WORD

PERFORMANCES
There is parallelism between longevity and evolution. As Charles Darwin said, "It is not the strongest
of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable
to change."
Many years ago, poetry has been the most criticized form of art. It is not as entertaining as songs,
paintings, or theater plays. The messages hidden are too deep, boring, and often misunderstood. As a
result, young people are increasingly unlikely to read poetry.
Few modern poets around the world joined forces to save and promote this form of literature and it
evolved into a new popular medium— “spoken word,” performance art where the poet stands on stage
and recites his work. Tone of voice, facial expression and hand gestures bring a written poem to life.
Another innovative feature of spoken word is its strong component of social commentary. It boldly
tackles heavier topics such as human rights, mental health awareness, or war. Thus, poetry became
less intimidating, more informative and entertaining which also encourages more social
consciousness.
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Again, there is parallelism between longevity and evolution – not only in the Arts, but also in
business. Companies must continually evolve to stay relevant and competitive. Some employees may
resist the change, but businesses are different today than they were a year ago. Small changes happen.
Successful companies always search for new business models, new markets to explore or new
products to produce. If not, a company will be a forgotten poem – boring, replaceable, misunderstood.
So, in your business, have you thought about what's next?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Would you be interested in watching a "spoken word" performance?

How has art or entertainment evolved over the years?
What are the factors that drive companies to evolve?
What are some companies that disappeared because they couldn't evolve?
Do you know some businesses which evolved over the past years?
Article No. 173: NEITHER TOO TIGHT NOR TOO LOOSE

I remember when my dad brought home an injured pigeon. One of its wings was wounded badly. My
father felt sorry for the poor bird so he took it home to take care of it.
The pigeon got healthier with each passing week. And so one afternoon, out of curiosity, I took the
bird out of its cage to pet it. My dad saw the pigeon was really struggling, so he said "son, don't hold
it too tight or it'll struggle to break free." The week after, I took the pigeon out again and heeded my
father's advice. To my surprise, the bird broke loose and flew away. My dad saw what happened and
said "you held it loosely, didn't you?"
This little incident taught me something. People tend to rebel when rules are strictly set or enforced.
We try to break free from a very tight hold. On the other hand, people could also go out of control
when rules are too lenient or flexible. From raising children to managing people, it can be sometimes
difficult to find that right balance.
A firm grip, but neither too tight nor too loose.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What are the pros and cons of having very strict rules?
What are the pros and cons of having lenient rules?
How would you describe the rules set in your company? Laws in your country?
How do you strike a balance between setting stringent and flexible policies?
Article No. 174: NO COLLEGE DEGREE, NO PROBLEM?

They say education is the passport to the future. Now, this idea is changing as the economy pursues to
have a friendly place for job seekers.
A job-search site, Glassdoor, released a list of 15 top companies that no longer require applicants to
have a college degree – companies like Google, Apple, IBM and Ernst & Young. This trend is a big
Page | 95
leap to improve diversity in tech firms and to give a chance to people who took non-traditional
courses or who never graduated college but with sufficient skills to get a decent job.
This could be a good start but, there are implications. In the future, it seems that there would be more
vacant seats in colleges or universities as it may change the mentality of students from "I must go to
college" to "Do I need to go to college?" Also, companies would have to spend more money in
training and development programs if they want to maintain a competent workforce.
There has been a long debate as to whether a college degree is important to succeed, but do companies
really need to disregard academic achievement and change the hiring policy or does the real problem
lie within the current education system?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you think a college degree is necessary for success?

Does having a college degree still matter in many companies in Japan?
What are the pros and cons of hiring someone without a college degree?
What issues do you see in the education system in your country?
How could these issues be addressed?
Article No. 175: MY DREAM JOB: WORK AT GOOGLE

Some of my friends call me, Ms. Google because every time that I have a question in mind about
random things, I always rely on my good friend, Google. Whether it’s about the longest word in the
dictionary, or if fish can taste their food, or if I just need information for school or work, it's always
Google. Google has helped a lot of people all over the world and if I were given a chance, I’d thank
the people behind it.
I did some digging and found out that the company started as a research project in 1996. It became a
huge success when big companies shifted their marketing strategy from newspaper, radio, and
television to the Internet.
So, who are the people behind google? Google's success was never achievable without the hard work
of its employees - employees who are very happy about their jobs. Some "googlers" even listed the
perks of the job in Quora (a question-and-answer site) and shared why you might consider it as your
dream job. Here is the List:
1. Free meals for every employee.

- Unlimited delicious and healthy food and snacks for everyone which can let them save a lot of
money and time. They can eat whenever they want within the day!
2. They offer maternity leave for up to 22 weeks while paternity leave for 7 to 12 weeks PAID
LEAVE.
- Some companies offer 12 weeks of leave for new mothers, which are unpaid. Fortunately for
Google, you get to spend time with family and you get paid for it. How amazing is that!
3. You can bring your dog to work.

- Studies show that having pets at work can decrease the stress level and increase job satisfaction of
employees, so Google decided to let employees bring their best friends to work. Isn't that cool?
4. FREE massages.
- Employees are given “Massage Credits” for doing a great job and this can be redeemed for a one-
hour Massage. Stiff shoulders from working too hard? You deserve a massage! Go ahead, it’s FREE.
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These are just SOME of the perks that Google employees receive. There are a lot more and it really
shows that well-compensated employees can actually be a good investment towards a more
productive and high-quality business. Retaining talented people is crucial so companies should better
understand what truly motivates their workers.
But here's something to think about: If all companies were to practice what Google does, then is there
still a need for self-motivation?
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Exercises:
What is your dream job?

What sort of perks do you receive from your company? Does it help motivate you?
What are the things that you’d like to suggest to improve your employee satisfaction?
In your opinion, which type of motivation would likely make you more successful: self-motivation or
motivation from the company? Why?
Article No. 176: CURVEBALL QUESTIONS

In an interview, sometimes you will be asked a question that's totally unrelated to the job you are
applying for. So there is no way to prepare for it.
But why would interviewers ask such questions? Your interviewer is not looking for the “right”
answer, but he is trying to find out how you handle pressure or how quickly you can come up with a
witty, exciting, and unique answer. If you can make your interviewer smile, nod in agreement, or even
laugh… then you just scored some good interview points.
I remember when I was applying for a managerial post, my interviewer asked me: “How many tennis
balls can you fit inside a Toyota Corolla?”
How in heaven’s name should I know?! But instead, I calmly said to the interviewer, “Give me a few
seconds to compute and I will give you the EXACT number!” To which, my interviewer just smiled.
After a few seconds of pretending to make mental calculations I confidently said to my interviewer,
“Well, based on my expert methodology of computing, I have found out that you can fit exactly 5,267
tennis balls inside a Toyota Corolla.”
My interviewer was smiling bigger now. “Really? EXACTLY 5,267 balls? Are you very sure of that
number?”
“Of course!” I replied to my interviewer. “Why don’t you buy 5,267 tennis balls, find a Corolla, and
fit in the tennis balls yourself? You will find out that my computation is accurate. Try it.”
My interviewer started laughing. I got the job.
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Exercises:
How will you explain the color “red” to a blind man?

If you were to be a cake, what kind of cake would you be, and why?
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be, what would your superpower be, and why?
On a scale of 1 to 10, how crazy are you?
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Article No. 177: BUCKET LIST
A bucket list is a list of things you want to do before you die. For example, I have worked overseas
and have traveled to other countries. I have experienced different cultures, eaten strange food, and met
amazing people. These were some of the items on my list.
Doing everything on your bucket list is a life goal. Unfortunately, I still haven’t done everything on
my list. I still need to get married and have kids. What's on your bucket list?
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Exercises:
What's on your bucket list?

What items on your list have you completed?
What is the next item you want to complete?
Article No. 178: IT’S ALL ABOUT CHOICES

Destiny. Fate. Fortune.
Do you believe that you are born with a life path that you just follow? Every event that unfolds is
already written in the stars, all before we even open our eyes to the world?
If so, then why are there rich and poor? Millionaires and beggars? Kings and slaves? Do these life
writers randomly create stories that dictate our lives? Is the amount of our fortune and happiness
determined by the mood of these writers?
As I thought about all the happenings in my life that made me cry shamelessly, I could only blame the
lousy writer that I had. But then, a smile broke in as I recalled the many moments of happiness and
fulfillment that I had experienced. I closed my eyes tightly and opened it to a wondrous reality.
Nothing was served to me. It was me who made all the choices. I realized then that life is not a set of
memorized lines but a spontaneous play that we control. We only have ourselves to blame for all our
faults. We only have ourselves to credit when we accomplish great things. This realization to me is
true freedom. The freedom to fail. The freedom to succeed. This is the freedom to live.
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Exercises:
Do you believe in destiny?

If given a chance to go back in time to change one decision in your life, what would it be?
How would your life be now had you decided differently back then?
Did your company make bad decisions in the past? What did your company do about them?
Article No. 179: AT THAT MOMENT...
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I always thought that I had the perfect life. I had a flexible job that allowed me to do all the things I
wanted while earning enough money to buy almost anything I needed. I could hike, travel, go to the
gym - I was my own boss. At that moment, life couldn’t get any better.
Then, my world turned upside down in a blink of an eye. I got pregnant. Suddenly, I had no time, no
freedom. I was on my own without a partner by my side. I had a mix of emotions inside of me: fear,
shame, loneliness. I became what my parents and teachers had told me not to become, a single
mother. At that moment, life couldn’t get any worse.
But then something magical happened when I held my newborn son for the very first time. As his soft
hands touched my face, I felt something that I had never felt before. The feelings of fear, shame, and
loneliness were instantly replaced with joy, completeness, and meaning. At that moment, I learned an
important lesson. Just when you think that life can’t get any better or worse, it certainly can. And it all
depends on how you choose to see it.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What do you think the last sentence in the article means?

Are there any events in your life that completely changed your world for better or worse?
How is single motherhood viewed in your country?
Tell me something in your life that gives you fear, shame, and loneliness? How about joy,
completeness, and meaning?
Article No. 180: AGUNG - THE HEROIC WINGMAN

On September 28, 2018, Anthonius Gunawan Agung, a 21-year-old air traffic controller, was working
diligently at an airport in Palu, Indonesia. It was just another day for Agung and his colleagues. Then
out of nowhere, the world around them began to shake. Buildings collapsed and the runway started to
crack. An earthquake of magnitude 7.5 had struck the islands of Indonesia. During this instance, as
Agung’s colleagues ran to safety, Agung chose to remain in the control tower to successfully guide a
jet into the air, which likely saved hundreds of people. According to the jet’s pilot, his last
transmission with Agung was "Batik 6231 runway 33 clear for takeoff.”
After his heroic actions, Agung jumped out the collapsing four-storey tower to escape. Unfortunately,
the fall left our hero with broken limbs and internal injuries which took his life before he could be
taken to the hospital.
Agung was indeed a brave man with tremendous courage. He will always be remembered as the
heroic 'wingman' who sacrificed his life for the lives of others.
In this day and age, where young workers are seen as being spoiled and entitled, what is it that drives
people like Agung to carry out such acts of courage? Could I have done the same?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you think Agung made the right choice?

If you were Agung, would you have done the same? Why or why not?
When was the last time you made a big sacrifice for your family? For your company?
In what dire situation would you place a stranger's welfare before yours?
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Article No. 181: CRAZY RICH ASIANS INDEED!
How often do you see an Asian actor play the leading role in a Hollywood movie? It’s just not
commonplace. Asians are all too often portrayed as nerdy and being good with computers. However,
this all changed with the release of "Crazy Rich Asians", a Hollywood movie featuring an English-
speaking all-Asian cast.
It is not your typical good guy/bad guy movie. It’s a romantic comedy about a beautiful and
independent Chinese American woman who falls in love with a good-looking, filthy-rich
Singaporean. Many movie pundits have credited the movie for its accurate portrayal of modern Asians
and the challenges they face with parental pressure and traditional Asian values.
Within the first 2 weeks of its release, Crazy Rich Asians grossed over $80 million in global ticket
sales. So, how did an Asian movie like this make a box office hit in Hollywood? Aside from great
storytelling and a bold, cultural representation, it creates a new sub-genre. This is what we called
‘sub-category competition’, coined by David Aaker, the vice-chairman of Prophet, a brand
consultancy. Sub-category competition is a term to define brands that are so different that they
become categories of their own.
As the saying goes, unique has no rival. And of course, this is true in business. Rather than trying to
be better than the competition, it may be better to just be different.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How do you feel about Hollywood's portrayal of Asians in movies?

What are some examples of stereotypes of a particular culture in your country?
Do you know a product or service which created its own sub-category?
What can your company do to create its own sub-category?
Article No. 182: THE GOOD STRESS

Ever stop to wonder if there’s any good in being stressed? Sounds weird? Think again. From science
to media, we constantly hear of the detrimental effects of stress to our overall health and well-being.
However, it is largely when stress becomes long-term that it can affect us negatively. There is such a
thing known as “good stress”.
Good stress or “Eustress” are momentary, low levels of perceived daily stress that we encounter like
situations that create challenges, suspense and excitement. So, how can we benefit from eustress?
Good stress stimulates our memory. It helps us improve our focus and recall especially during tests or
when preparing for an important presentation at work. Not only can it motivate us to do our best, but
it also drives us to excel to our fullest potential.
Good stress allows us to have positive life-changing experiences that bring about success, happiness
and fulfillment. Think about milestones in your life which you would definitely agree to be stressful
life events - graduation, first day at work, marriage, birth of your child, travelling, moving home, etc.
Good stress adds spice to life. As Hans Selye puts it- “Without stress, there would be no life.”
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Exercises:
What other examples of good stress can you think of?

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Describe your extraordinary experience with good stress?
What did you gain as a result of good stress in that experience?
When does good stress become bad?
Article No. 183: PAID 30 YEARS AGO

“No one has ever become poor by giving.” This old adage was the first thing that came to my mind
when I saw the short video ad of a Thai phone company with the slogan of "Giving Is The Best
Communication".
The commercial shows a young boy getting caught stealing a bottle of medicine and packs of
painkillers for his sick mom. A noodle vendor from a nearby store approaches him, pays for the stolen
item and tells his young daughter to give the boy a bag of soup. 30 years later, the noodle vendor is
shown still giving free soup to the needy. Suddenly, he falls to the ground due to a strong headache.
His daughter, now a lady, is handed a hospital bill more than 790,000 baht (24,000 USD) for his
father's treatment. She is shown sitting by herself crying. The next day, she wakes up to find a letter.
It is a new bill with all the expenses revised to zero. It has a note saying “All debts were paid 30 years
ago with a bottle of medicine, packs of painkillers and a bag of soup.” Signed by Dr. Prajak Aruthong.
And everything flashes back to 30 years ago.
The real power of this ad doesn't solely lie within its slogan, but in the strong message behind it.
Some of us are quick to judge and even condemn those whose belief, orientation, physical appearance
and social status are different from ours. We don't know what the future holds and tables can turn any
moment. The person you judge now so badly could do you a huge favor in the next several years.
We only live once. Ignore the barriers that separate us, touch other people's lives in our own way, and
give them a chance to touch ours. To me, this is what it means to be human.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you believe in the power of giving? Give examples.

What barriers often separate us human beings?
How do you feel about them?
Are people being discriminated in your society with regard to religious beliefs, sexual orientation,
social status, physcial appearance, etc.?
Article No. 184: MOTIVATING THE DEMOTIVATED YOU

Corporate pundits maintain that managers should motivate employees to ensure productivity and
engagement. But what if you - the employee - despite your manager’s best efforts, still feel
discouraged and disengaged?
I, for instance, have gone through many moments of demotivation in my previous jobs. I read books
on self-help and all sorts of motivation methods. And I found two amazing nuggets of wisdom that
helped me become a better person.
Talk to Friends Outside of Work

Based on my experience, talking to colleagues at work did nothing to alleviate negative feelings. If
anything, it made me more depressed. However, the unbiased advice from my friends gave me a
better perspective on life and my situation. Just like what the Beatles said, “we get by with a little help
from our friends."
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Have Faith in Yourself
“Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your
own powers, you cannot be successful or happy.” After reading this in the book The Power of Positive
Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale, I started believing that I could achieve whatever I set my heart
on. And the results were astounding. I became a go-getter and a better employee to boot and got the
promotion I was aiming for.
But then again, these two nuggets of wisdom don't always work for everyone or in every situation.
When demotivation catches you, it only means one thing - there's a problem. Find the root cause and
take action. Social media? Hardly a solution. The hundreds of LIKES won’t make you feel better.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What usually demotivates you at work?

Does it happen often? If so, what actions do you normally take?
Who do you think is the right person to talk to about this?
How would that address the issue? Would it make you feel a lot better?
Article No. 185: DAY ZERO

Out of all the water on Earth, 97% of this is saline water (salt water) and only 2-3% is freshwater.
That’s not good considering we need freshwater for our survival. To add to this fear, the world
population continues to rise with some experts predicting that we will hit 10 billion people by 2050,
making a global water crisis a real threat.
To combat this, the city of Cape Town in South Africa introduced “Day Zero”. This is a specific date
wherein almost all of the city’s water tap will be turned off to control water consumption. There will
be active water rations, but homes and businesses will be unable to access drinking water.
To prepare for Day Zero, the residents of Cape Town started using less water than what they normally
would. Because of the people’s efforts to conserve water, Day Zero kept on being pushed back from
April of 2018 to July of 2018 to being postponed indefinitely.
Day Zero should be a reminder to everyone of how delicate our environment is. Freshwater, as one of
our main resources for living, should be conserved so that future generations will have access to safe
and clean water.
If the people of Cape Town can live off with a limited amount of water, why can’t we?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How do you conserve water at home?

Does the government have laws that protect the use of water?
How important is basic education in preserving water and the environment?
Can you imagine a world without freshwater? Think of other ways on how to conserve it.
Article No. 186: THE SUPER MARIO EFFECT
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It's a term coined by Mark Rober, a YouTuber and former NASA engineer. Simply put, Super Mario
Effect is "focusing on the Princess and not the pits, to stick with a task and learn more." He believes
that gamifying life makes one learn more and succeed more. By "gamify", he doesn't refer to the
element of scoring/losing points or competing. On the contrary, it's about persisting despite setbacks
because the focus is on the prize, not on the failure. Life gamification is seeing life's trials as obstacles
that one needs to overcome to finish the game successfully - and a game that sells well in the market
should have lots of them!
In a society where grades and marks are given much attention and value, it's worth considering that
learning (and any other task in life) is not a matter of passing or failing, but a process to achieving
success and improving oneself. If the focus is on rescuing the princess (or even just finishing a level),
then getting hit by a sliding green turtle shell or falling into a pit won't be enough of a reason to quit
the game. Instead, it will only make the next attempt better because we learn from our mistake.
So never allow yourself to dwell on failure, but set your mind on the prize. The idea is not to be
perfect, but to be better. Just think of the NBA player who missed at least 9,000 shots in his career,
lost about 300 games and failed to make the winning shot at least 26 times - none other than the
G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time) Michael Jordan. Or if you can better relate to it, just remember the
good old times with the plumber duo, the Super Mario Bros. If it were too easy, it wouldn't be a hit,
would it?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Have you ever been so engrossed with a game? How long did you play it? How far did you get? How
would you describe the experience?
When was the last time you became too hard on yourself for failing? What changes in ways or
mindset will you apply to better deal with such a situation?
What is your least favorite task at work? in life? What are some ways you can gamify them?
What is your motto in life? How does it affect the way you deal with success and failure?
Article No. 187: THE ART OF TATTOOS

I’ve always wanted a tattoo since I was a child. Sometimes, using a pen, I would draw characters and
pictures of dragons on my arm. I told my mother that I wanted to get one when I was older and she
would get mad at me. She told me that it would be difficult to find a job someday and it wouldn't look
good.
Now I’m old enough to decide. I still want to get a tattoo. I consider tattoos as a form of art because
each piece tells a story. Every style is carefully decided by the person. And this is a big decision
because it will stay on my skin forever.
In life, we all make big decisions. Our decisions could lead to success or failure. Like tattoos, there is
no going back once it has been decided. So think carefully.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Have you ever wanted a tattoo?

How does your society feel about tattoos?
What is the hardest decision you've made in your life?
What is the worst/best decision you've made?
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Article No. 188: TIME-TRAVEL
Imagine you had the ability to go back in time and change anything you wanted. You could correct
your biggest mistakes, select another career path, or pick a different partner.
However, in my case, I wouldn’t change anything. But I would go back in time just to relive the
moments with my dog, a small, black pug with the most adorable eyes. I would love to take him on
one more walk, have him sleep on my lap for one more day, and see him run around with joy when I
came home one more time.
There’s nothing that I would change or correct about my memories with my dog. I just simply want to
relive them. We often get so preoccupied juggling everything in our lives that we sometimes forget to
appreciate all the good around us. By the time we realize their true value, it’s too late. We are left
wishing for a chance to relive everything all over again.
So instead of wishing to go back in your past, let’s learn to live in the present. Love everything we
have, practice gratitude and learn to live in the moment. Your future self will thank you for this.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
If you were given one chance to go back in time, what day would you go to and what would you
change?
What is your greatest regret in life? Why?
What lessons did you learn?
How can we live life without fear of regrets?
Article No. 189: HISTORY, DOES IT MATTER?

The past is the past. Let’s just focus on the future. I hear people say stuff like this all the time. Maybe
it’s because of all the advances in technology these days. Or maybe it’s because history class was just
so boring. Whatever the reason, it’s a dangerous thought to have.
Exploring history helps us understand how we and our society came to be. Through the pages of
history, we find how the present was shaped from events of the past and crucial moments that made
change permanent. By looking back into our past, we discover mistakes that should never be repeated.
The lessons we learned even centuries ago still have value to us today.
Companies forget to learn from their successes and failures. They forget that while there are new
models of doing business, focusing on business fundamentals, as attested by history, is just as
important and relevant today. Great business, much like great nations, rise and fall because of human
decisions. History has proven that there will always be economic challenges at any period of time.
Adaptability, risk taking and frugality are some of the universal values that history resonates with us
to this day.
Even the greatest advances in science and technology cannot obscure the wisdom of history. So
before you make any significant decision that can alter the course of your life, don’t forget that history
does matter.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
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Would you consider yourself to be a person who looks back at the past or focuses on the future?
What lessons did you learn from your parents that affect you today?
What world events in our history would you consider to be important lessons?
What are some historical events in the business world that we can all learn from today?
Article No. 190: THE GAY CAKE FIGHT

“We reserve the right to refuse service.”
This is a common sign we see at restaurants, hotels and other service companies. And it’s this right
that allows businesses to refuse to serve customers who are drunk, offensive, or rude. But how about
refusing to serve someone because of sexual orientation?
In 2012, a gay couple attempted to order their wedding cake from a bakery in Colorado. However, the
baker declined to serve because “gay marriage” was against his beliefs. Rather than just looking for
another bakery, the couple took legal action, which created headlines and led to LGBT street
demonstrations.
According to a law in Colorado, the baker was found liable for sexual-orientation discrimination.
Case closed. But it didn’t end there. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the baker as it was made
clear to the gay couple that he would be happy to sell them other items or bake a “normal” wedding
cake. So, the baker welcomes LGBT customers. He was simply unwilling to use his business to
promote something that would violate his religious beliefs. This wasn’t discrimination. This was
simply freedom of expression.
As our world becomes more complex, businesses will be forced to re-evaluate their rules and
regulations and how they will be interpreted and implemented. Whether it be with race, gender, or
sexual orientation, are you and your company ready to accept diversity with open arms?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you think that businesses should have the right to decide who to serve or not?
Are you familiar with the laws in your country about discrimination (race, identity, gender, religion,
etc.) and freedom of expression?
Do you personally feel you are ready to accept diversity?
How prepared is your company, as a whole, to accept diversity?
Article No. 191: THE UNKNOWN TRAIL

I’ve always been a planner. I plan everything perfectly from my work to my vacations. Why? I’m not
sure, but I guess it just gives me a sense of safety and comfort. And on top of that, many of my friends
are this way, too.
So, it was really awkward when my friends and I decided to go on an unplanned trip through the
jungle one day. We initially followed a trail that we were familiar with, and after walking for about an
hour, we came to the top of a small mountain, from where we could see a beautiful waterfall in the
distance. However, we realized to get to the waterfall, we would need to take an unknown trail, a path
none of us had ever taken. After some deliberation within our group, we decided to try it out.
Page | 105
This may seem like no big deal, but to us at that time, we were all filled with fear, uncertainty, and
danger. As we followed this endless, swampy trail, we realized that we were heading in the wrong
direction! Our phones had no reception. The sun was beginning to set. No one seemed to know what
to do. At that point, I had regretted ever going on this unplanned trip and taking this unknown path.
Then, we saw a small river nearby. We decided to trace the river and in a few more moments, we
were beholding with our own eyes the magnificence of the breathtaking beauty of Malatan-og Falls.
I still think planning is an important skill. However, this experience has made me realize that some of
the greatest things in business and in life can only be found when you go out on a whim and take the
unknown trail.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Are you a risk-taker?

What risks have you taken in your life so far? What were the results?
What risks do businesses face?
Has your company taken some risks over the past years?
Do you agree that we need to take risks for business? Why or why not?
Article No. 192: WHAT’S “CLONING” IN CHINESE?

Cloning is the process of creating an exact genetic copy of another organism.
It was long believed that the first successful animal cloning occurred in 1996 at the Roslin Institute in
Scotland, United Kingdom. Scottish researchers accomplished it after making 276 attempts. They
cloned a sheep that they named Dolly, which became a worldwide sensation. Dolly lived for some
years and died on Valentine’s Day in 2003.
Few, however, know that the first successful cloning really happened more than 30 years before
Dolly’s existence. In 1963, Chinese embryologist, Tong Dizhou (1902-1979), successfully cloned a
male Asian carp. He published his work and pertinent findings in a Chinese scientific journal. Alas!
Dizhou would be recognized by the global scientific community. However, that’s not what happened.
As his research was only available in Chinese, his findings remain relatively unknown worldwide to
this day. If Dizhou’s work had been published in an English journal, it could have earned him global
prominence and the credit he duly deserved before he passed away.
This is just one of countless examples where great talents and achievements failed to be recognized
globally due to lack of English. Don’t let it happen to you. Don’t let a lack of English skills limit your
ability to express your opinion in a meeting, explain your products to a potential customer, or be
recognized globally.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
In your opinion, is it all right to clone humans? Do you support human cloning or oppose it?
How do you feel about what happened to Tong Dizhou?
Do you think there are technologies or products in your country that are not able to spread worldwide
due to a language barrier?
Do you ever feel that your English prevents you from reaching your full potential in business?
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Article No. 193: THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM A CHILD
I have a 7-year old daughter and it is both pleasantly surprising and amazing for me to be taught by
her. Her simple ways of doing things reminds me that sometimes life is better when we do not
complicate it. Here are the things she has taught me so far:
1. Forgive easily. It will give you better sleep.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask. Being constantly curious is the key to staying young at heart.
3. Cry openly. It’s human nature, not how old you are or what your gender is.
4. Talk to yourself more. A lot of times, you already know the answer. You just have to hear
yourself say it out loud.
5. Make time now for what you love to do. You don’t want to be too old to do it when you
finally have the time.
6. Always be honest even if others aren’t. It's sometimes so easy to lie that you even lie to
yourself.
7. Say ‘I love you’ to your parents. It will mean a lot to both of you.
As adults, we have this notion that our role is to teach our kids. However, my experience as a parent
has taught me that it’s just as important to learn from them.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Which of the lessons in the article do you agree with disagree with?
What are some lessons that you have stuck with ever since you were young?
What are some important lessons on life and business that you've learned that you would like to pass
on to the younger generation?
What are the best ways to cope with a problem?
Article No. 194: TO SERVE AND PROTECT

Each morning before leaving for work, my husband places his officer’s badge over his left chest, right
over his heart, which is a reminder that his duty comes first before anything else. And each morning, I
pray that he returns safely at the end of his shift. And of course, he always does with his head held
high and his sunshine smile which tells me he had a productive day of keeping our community safe.
This has been our daily ritual for the last 7 years.
However, one time, my husband came home with stooped shoulders and a heartbroken frown.
Although I had made it a point to never ask about his work, that day I had to ask if he was OK. He
stared down at the ground and in a soft voice told me he had testified in court and the criminal was put
away for life. I couldn’t help but think that it was good news that another criminal was off the streets.
But my husband went on to explain that the man was extremely poor with a wife and son. My
husband felt so much responsibility to the wife and son that he handed them the money he had.
Although my husband did his job to protect our community, he is the one who feels guilt. Shouldn’t
we feel good when we do the right thing? Sometimes, doing the right thing for the community is not
always the right thing for the individual. And in my husband’s line of work, it’s about doing what’s
right for the community. But that doesn’t excuse him from being compassionate. Besides he is human.
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Exercises:
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What do you think of people who risk their lives to serve their community and country?
Can you understand how the writer's husband feels? Can you understand how the writer feels?
Have you ever had to do something that hurt others?
What are some examples of government policies that serve the country but may hurt an individual?
Article No. 195: JACK OF ALL TRADES, MASTER OF NONE

Armed with my teaching license, hundreds of hours of lectures, and unstoppable motivation, I was
ready to teach my own class of kids, until I faced the cold hard fact: Teaching is hard! They don’t
listen. They are moody. They think they know everything. And I’m just talking about the parents. The
kids weren’t any better.
That’s when I met Jerome Bruner, a well-known American psychologist. He talked passionately about
how any subject could be taught effectively to any child at any stage of development. It means that no
subject matter is too difficult for children to understand as long as the teacher is able to teach in a way
that is suitable for the student’s stage of development.
This is also associated with the so-called "spiral” curriculum, something that Japan is already
utilizing. Students are presented a given set of topics that they will encounter throughout their school
life. When they revisit a particular topic, more complicated concepts are added, reinforcing their
previous learning. They are applied best to subjects like Reading, Mathematics, Science and Social
Studies.
We also have to note that this method is the exact opposite of mastery, wherein a student develops a
thorough comprehension of a particular topic before moving on. Within the education community,
there is a longstanding debate of whether it really is in the best interest of our children to groom them
to become “a jack of all trades, master of none”.
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Exercises:
Tell me about your favorite teacher in school?

What did you learn in school that has helped you in life and business?
What is your belief in the discussion of grooming children to become a "jack of all trades, master of
none".
Is there anything you would like to become a master in?
Article No. 196: BOILING FROG SYNDROME

It is said that if you put a frog in a boiling water, it will sense the imminent danger and jump out
instinctively. However, if you put it in cold water and gradually bring it to a boil, the frog will adjust
its own body temperature to make the environment comfortable for him. Eventually, it will exhaust its
energy and will be too tired to jump out when the temperature reaches boiling point. Ultimately,
boiling the poor frog to death. This is the Boiling Frog Syndrome.
The Boiling Frog Syndrome is relevant to us in life and business. Whether it’s your personal life or
work life, we inevitably encounter stress. And with some patience and flexibility, we are able to adjust
and tolerate it. However, if we do this too often for too long, we may end up like the frog in boiling
water.
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Resilience is an admirable virtue to have. It is the ability to adjust oneself to any type of environment.
It is the capacity to recover and bounce back from any predicament. The question is, do you know
when it's time to jump out?
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Exercises:
How resilient do you consider yourself to be?

Generally, do you consider Japanese workers to be resilient? Why?
Can you give a situation in your personal life or worklife where your resilience was a good thing?
Can you give a situation in your personal life or worklife where your resilience was a bad thing?
Article No. 197: HER REAL VOICE

Jean was a bit different from everyone else in the family. Her parents have golden voices and her two
brothers have magical piano fingers. All her relatives sing and play different musical instruments.
Unfortunately, Jean’s voice was high-pitched and out of tune. So her mother got her a private piano
tutor. But Jean hated it, so before the tutor would arrive, Jean would sneak out into the backyard and
climb high up into the big mango tree.
After several weeks of her parents extending their apologies to the tutor, her secret was finally
discovered and she was dragged back to the big keyboard. However, after a while, Jean kept going
back to her mango tree. Her parents were angry, but I knew what she was doing up there – she was
nurturing her creativity.
As her grandmother, I am very proud to say that it was I who bought her first typewriter. She wasn’t a
musician, but she was indeed a writer. She won over the hearts of many youngsters, years later, with
her books about fairies hiding away in mango trees.
Her words are just as powerful as the tunes the other’s carry. It’s funny to think that running away
from music was exactly what made her find her voice.
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Exercises:
What is the main message of this anecdote?

How did you choose your career?
Would you support your children no matter what career choice they may have?
Should parents make decisions about their children's lives and career?"
Article No. 198: CLOSER OR FURTHER APART?

They say technology has made life easier. Easier to work, to travel and to communicate. People can
connect with loved ones from anywhere in the world with just one click. Giant companies claim that it
can make people closer. But is this always true?
I remember spending Sundays with my family in a restaurant when I was younger. My father would
lecture me and my sister on the type of man we should marry, while my younger brother would ask
my mother who her favorite monster character was. My sister would tease my brother about his bright
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red socks and my father would tell her to stop it only after my brother would start crying. I would ask
my parents how they met and about their first date. This was real communication.
Nowadays, children and parents are on their mobile phones at the dinner table. I see children as young
as three watching YouTube videos, 6-year olds playing mobile games and teens glued to their screen
getting updated on their friend's lives on social media. Even the father is busy with his own phone
maybe doing some business as the mother carefully places the food on the table. It's quieter now than
before.
Is this really what they meant when they say that phones make everyone closer? Or has it made us
even further apart?
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Exercises:
What do you think are the pros and cons of advanced technology?
How many hours do you spend using your mobile phone in a day?
Do you think the mobile phone has made you closer to your family or friend or further apart?
Do you think people can still survive without mobile phones?
Article No. 199: THE POWER OF BEAUTY

Physical appearance seems to be a great advantage in many business situations. Be it in a job
application or promotion, being well-groomed speaks a lot about a person's personality. Even in
cartoon movies, beauty says something about the character. A beautiful princess is kind and a
handsome prince is gentle, but those with pointed noses or long chins are ill-mannered.
However, what defines beauty has evolved so differently depending on geography and culture. In
China, a girl’s beauty used to be determined by the size of her feet rather than by the beauty of her
face. So, girls would wear wooden shoes to prevent their feet from growing. In old American culture,
women were once seen more attractive when they had narrow waists. The corsets they wore to impede
the widening of the waist resulted in broken ribs and damaged internal organs. In other Asian
countries, body piercing and tattoos were aesthetic. In Thailand, women put round metal necklaces
layer by layer on their necks for them to have far from normal-sized necks. In the Philippines, our
women ancestors used to embed improvised tooth-shaped gold into their gums.
It made me realize the striking ability of culture, that sometimes despite its atrocity, it did not abash
people to conform. The perception of beauty has long been evolving. But what is really beautiful?
How far are we willing to go in our search for beauty? How much pains are we willing to tolerate to
be well-accepted by the society?
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Exercises:
In your country, what physical attributes are accepted as beautiful or handsome?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of being beautiful or handsome in your country?
What beauty routines or practices do you find peculiar? Why?
How has physical appearance of others affected your actions and behavior?
Article No. 200: WHEN IMITATION BECOMES EXPLOITATION
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Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. This is how people express admiration towards a person, a
group or a certain culture. Rastafarianism has gone far because of this. Bob Marley, reggae,
marijuana, dreadlocks, red, gold and green – these are all things associated with it and were
popularized by the mass media and commercialization. Out of the thousands of Rasta enthusiasts, how
many of them understand the meaning behind these symbols?
This trend originated from a religion in Jamaica. There is sacred spiritual belief system attached to
those symbols, not just fashion. However, many people are not aware of it. This is an example of
“cultural appropriation” or the act using symbolic items or tradition from a culture that is not your
own without understanding or respect.
Now this religion is classified as a global social movement. And this social movement turned into a
business. You can buy a lot of items in the market related to Rasta from accessories, clothing, to
music. There’s no doubt these people uplift the movement of preaching peace, unity and love through
music and fashion, but in order to honor something, one must fully understand and respect it.
It might be true that imitation is the greatest form of flattery, but what about in a commercialized
society where borrowing a culture can turn into exploitation?
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Exercises:
What are the pros and cons of commercializing cultures?

Give examples of businesses or industries that benefit from culture, tradition or religion.
What are the cultures in your country that have been exploited? How can we prevent it?
Article No. 201: OLD-TIME FOLK HOME REMEDIES

It was no surprise to me when I read in a 2015 healthcare report by a major consulting firm, that the
Philippines had one of the lowest spending on healthcare per capita in Southeast Asia. No, it’s not
because we’re super healthy. In fact, the Philippines is ranked 138th worldwide in life expectancy.
Many people just don’t go to the hospital, either because they can’t afford it or they don’t trust it. So,
what do we do when we get sick? Well, my family has the power of DIY remedies.
o For a sore throat, a cough or a hoarse voice, mix orange juice with raw egg yolk and let it
stand overnight before drinking it. I kid you not, it works wonders. The next day, I was up
early and ready to work.
o For a stomach ache or diarrhea, brew a cup of mangosteen rind in water. The peel contains
tannin that soothes any inflammation and abdominal pains. But I must warn you; the taste is
really awful.
o For a blemish-free skin, apply rotten cream milk to your face and body. Leave it for ten
minutes and then rinse. According to some friends, it’s better than any premium brand
cosmetics.
These are just three out of literally hundreds of little fixes we have in our family, handed down from
nana to momma. They are old-fashioned, maybe strange, BUT THEY REALLY DO WORK.
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Exercises:
How often do people in your country go to the hospital?

Are you worried that you rely too much on medicine?
Are you familiar with any bizarre home remedies?
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What do you think of alternative medicines or home remedies?
Article No. 202: OINK, OINK

I have always been fat. I was the fat kid that people couldn’t get enough of. I received countless
hurtful comments wherever I went. I was called a piglet, fatty, and I even had a regular harsh critic
who would shout “oink, oink”. I used to cry on the spot, but eventually I learned how to fake smiles in
public then cry behind closed doors. I’d rather have people see me as the happy fat kid than the
pathetic fat kid.
During my teenage years, I immensely hated myself. I went through drastic ways to lose weight. I was
a die-hard fan of crash diets and fad diets. That time, all I wanted was to lose weight because I
thought that maybe if I were thinner, people would take me more seriously and that people would start
seeing my other qualities.
The hate I felt towards myself lingered until my early-20’s and it affected my work performance. I
doubted my capabilities and I feared showing initiative because I was scared of being judged. One
day, I came across this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, “No one can make you feel inferior without your
consent.” This quote was life-changing. I started reminding myself that no one could make me feel
inferior unless I allowed it and that I was an intelligent and confident woman. After a while, I slowly
began believing my mantra and started believing in myself.
I am 27 now and I am still fat, but something has changed. My job performance is better now because
I do not let my insecurities stop me from doing great things. Now, I’m not afraid of what anyone says
because I know that no one can hurt me without my consent.
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Exercises:
Do/did you have any insecurities? What are/were they?

How do you think insecurities affect a person’s job performance?
How do you deal with the negative comments you receive at work? In real life?
Do you have a mantra? If yes, what is it? If no, would you like to have one and what would it be?
Article No. 203: LANGUAGE DEATH

According to UNESCO, about half of the 6000 languages worldwide may die out during the next
century. UNESCO classified 43% of all languages between “Vulnerable” and “Critical” to extinction.
Just about every educated Filipino is bilingual in Tagalog and English. Visitors to our country can
easily understand why when they see that all street signs, restaurant menus, and public rules are in
English. Even school subjects like math, science, and history are taught in English. English is all
around us in our daily lives, something that many Asian countries envy.
However, all this may also be a threat to the Filipino language. Some kids nowadays are ashamed to
use Tagalog, and some dialects in the Philippines have already gone extinct. The government even
plans to permanently remove subjects such as the Filipino language, Philippine Literature, and History
as core subjects of college curriculum. Despite many cultural organizations' efforts to save the
Filipino language, Tagalog is said to disappear in the next 100 years.
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I sometimes feel I’m faced with a dilemma. As a passionate English instructor, do I continue to spread
English as an effective means of global communication while my actions may intentionally be leading
our local language to extinction?
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Exercises:
How would you feel if your native language became extinct?

What do you think are some causes of language extinction?
Should endangered languages be preserved?
What are the effects of language death?
Do you know a dialect in your country which is no longer in existence?
Article No. 204: BALANCING HUMILITY AND CONFIDENCE

Five companies in just 3 years. I guess you can say I’m a job hopper. I’m not proud of it, but because
of it, passing job interviews have become easy for me. All it takes is the mastery of the balance
between HUMILITY and CONFIDENCE.
It’s important to show humility in a job interview because no one likes arrogance. But that doesn’t
mean to just credit all your results to the team or to others by using expressions like, “I couldn’t have
done it without my team.” or “It really was a team effort”. From my perspective, this only shows a
lack of confidence. This is a sign of someone who can’t take the initiative, someone who can’t get
things moving by himself or herself.
It’s also important to show confidence in a job interview. But that doesn’t mean to just highlight how
you saved the day by using expressions like, "My team can't survive without me.” or “If it weren't for
me, they would still be trying to figure out how to solve that problem." In my view, this person sounds
arrogant. This is someone with an attitude who might not get along with others.
So how can you still be successful in an interview while remaining humble yet confident? Well,
humility is more about an understanding of your weaknesses than it is to be modest or to downplay
your strengths and accomplishments. And confidence is more being proud of your accomplishments
than it is to take all the credit. But it’s this balance of humility and confidence that can give you edge
in any job interview.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How many times have you changed jobs? What was your experience like?
How comfortable are you taking a job interview?
What advice could you give on how to take a job interview?
How is the balance between humility and confidence relevant in other areas of business and life?
Article No. 205: THE MOST EXPENSIVE COFFEE

Would you drink cat poop coffee? This doesn’t sound appealing, but the most delicious and expensive
coffee in the world is made from beans found in the poop of a cat-like animal called Civet, sold at
around $500 per kilogram – the Kopi Luwak.
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A decade ago, I was amazed with the rareness of its production. Wild civets only eat the ripest coffee
cherries which ferment in their digestive tract. They produce special enzymes removing acidity, which
makes the beans taste smoother. These beans are eliminated together with their feces, and these feces
are collected by the farmers. Then, they are washed, dried, pounded and finally roasted. This natural
process makes the coffee expensive and superior.
I was amazed with this process a decade ago, but now, this Indonesian coffee has been
commercialized worldwide. Big coffee plantations confine hundreds of civets in tiny unsanitized
cages. These poor civets cannot choose the ripest coffee cherries anymore. They are fed with old, low-
quality cherries. The unique quality has vanished as the tradition has been faked and abused.
Now, would I drink cat poop coffee? No. The poop doesn’t turn me off, but the idea of contributing to
this cruel and fraudulent trade does.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you like coffee? Do you know how your favorite coffee is made?
Is it important to be aware of how the products we buy are made? Why?
What are some examples of traditional business/process that has been widely commercialized? Are
there changes?
What is considered to be animal cruelty in business?
Article No. 206: THE NAMES WE GIVE OUR CHILDREN

I decided to give my two children long and unique names, Joaquin Richardson and Johannes Raichu.
Yes, Raichu is the evolution of Pikachu in the Japanese Pokemon cartoon while Richardson is a long
American surname. Why did I do that? Well, in my country, anyone with a common name will likely
face delays when trying to get clearance from the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation). This has
been a long-time hassle for me and for my husband whenever we undergo job applications because of
the fifty or so people in this country with the same names as ours. Worst of all, some of those people
have criminal records which causes them to do further scrutiny.
With this, I became more interested in knowing other peculiar names around the globe. Here are some
of the most peculiar names from around the world:
o Tsianina Levounne Amberly Reese Heather Margaret Mendoza

o Drink Water Rivera
o Chris P. Bacon (crispy bacon)
o Batman Bin Suparman
o Kash Register
o Joelle Rollo-Koster
o Jurassic Park
o Sue Yoo (She is a lawyer.)
o
As I read through these silly names, I can’t help but wonder what the parents were thinking. A name
is part of each person’s identity. Even the slightest mispronunciation of one’s name will give that
person a sense of discomfort and distance. Our ears are programmed to catch even the faintest call of
our own name in a crowded room. That is how sensitive we are when it comes to our names. So a
name is much more than what others call you.
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Exercises:
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Does your name have a special meaning? Why did your parents give you that name?
If you could change your name or give yourself a nickname, what would it be?
Do you feel that a person's name is as important as the writer expresses? Why or why not?
What are some peculiar names you have heard in your country?
Article No. 207: KILLER SELFIE

We love selfies! Nowadays, all smartphones have to have a high-quality digital camera with photo
editing software and an auto uploading feature, so that you can take a cool shot of yourself, touch it up
to look like a model, and then share it with your friends on social media, all in under 12 seconds.
However, selfies don't just capture treasured moments. All too often, they capture tragedy. There has
been a sharp rise in accidents due to people taking selfies. Someone got hit by a train while taking a
selfie. A driver got hit by a truck while posting a live video of himself driving. A 15-year-old boy
accidentally shot himself while taking a selfie of himself holding a gun to his chin. Seven youths
drowned when their boat tipped over as they were standing up to pose for a selfie. And there are many
more accidents.
A 2018 study of news reports showed that between October 2011 to November 2017, there were 259
selfie deaths in 137 incidents reported globally, with the highest occurrences in India followed by
Russia, United States, and Pakistan. The mean age was 22.94 years old with male deaths
outnumbering female about three to one.
We are always excited to capture happy moments. However, unless we are careful, it might become
our last.
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Exercises:
Do you take selfies with your friends?

Are selfies causing any social problems in your country?
What other social problems have appeared due to the use of smart phones?
What laws do you think should be passed to address these issues?
Article No. 208: LOOK BELOW

Ambition for success has always been a driving force for me to do better. That was what got me to do
well in school and join a reputable company. From there, I continued to excel, as I moved up the
ranks from staff to lead to supervisor and finally to manager. Yet, I wanted more. I just wasn’t happy.
Then, at my last high school reunion, I was shocked to see that some of my former classmates had
become doctors, lawyers, and business owners. By the clothes they were wearing and the tone of their
voices, I could tell they had more money, more status, and more confidence. Why couldn’t I achieve
that level of success?
As I was wondering why to myself where I had gone wrong, I ran into other former classmates that
had been out of work for many years, or did not have stable jobs, or had lifestyles below the poverty
line. While I listened to their hardships, my feeling of envy began to change to a feeling of
appreciation for what I had.
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I then realized that instead of looking above me, I must also look below. Sometimes we get so
consumed with our ambition that we fail to appreciate what we have. When we look below, we will
become aware that we have so many beautiful and precious things to be thankful for. Sometimes,
looking below will actually lift us up.
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Exercises:
Do you consider yourself to be an ambitious person?

What is your biggest ambition in life?
What are some examples where having strong ambition led to something negative?
What are the things in life that you should be thankful for?
Article No. 209: THE PERFECT NUMBER THREE

I learned long ago that all good things come in threes. You see this all around us in our everyday
lives. Basically, we eat three meals a day. In doing laundry, we follow three basic steps: wash, rinse,
and dry. We also have three primary colors: red, blue and yellow. Fast food orders have small,
medium, and large options. Traffic signals are red, yellow, and green. In terms of events, we have
past, present and future.
You see threes in several religious beliefs, too. Christianity has the Holy Trinity- the father, the son
and the Holy Spirit. When Jesus was born, there were the three kings. Jesus Christ died on the cross at
3PM and he rose from death on the 3rd day. Buddhism has the Three Jewels: Buddha, the yellow
jewel; the Dharma, the blue jewel; and the Sangha, the red jewel. Hinduism has a triple deity named
Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer.
However, then I realized a slightly different rule of three, “3rd time is a charm”. In the story of the
Three Little Pigs, the third pig was the successful one. In the Philippine folktale, "Ibong Adarna", the
third son saves the day. In the story of Snow White, her stepmother succeeded in killing Snow White
on the third attempt. And then, there’s my personal experience. After graduating college, I failed two
job interviews but passed the third one.
Whether it is a coincidence or not, number three tends to be seen throughout history and across
religious beliefs. Number three has represented achievement, completeness and perfection. What did I
discover in this little research? I discovered that failing once or twice is not bad because there’s
always number 3.
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Exercises:
Why do you think there are so many things in our daily lives that come in threes?
Can you think of other examples of things coming in threes?
Do you believe in the rule of 3rd time's a charm?
Is there something in your life that where you failed twice but was success in your third try?
Article No. 210: JUST LIKE WINE

I don’t have the words to describe the sense of satisfaction that a glass of very nice red wine can give
you. However, I do know that wine making is a complex process and depending on how it’s done, you
can end up with a $5 wine or a $500 wine.
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It all starts with the grape. Using the best grapes in the world won’t guarantee you a great wine, but it
certainly helps. The grapes then go through a process of crushing, pressing, and fermenting. The
quality of the oak barrels to store the wine can significantly affect the quality and taste. And the final
stage involves aging, but don’t be fooled. Older isn’t always better, but a certain amount of time is
necessary to bring out the taste.
Just like wine, developing employees is a complex process. It all starts with the new hire. Someone
with the best education won’t guarantee you a great employee, but it certainly helps. The employees
then go through a process of training, learning, and gaining experience. The quality of support that we
give can significantly affect the performance and attitude of the employee. And the final stage is
tenure, but don’t be fooled. Longer isn’t always better, but a certain amount of time is necessary to
reach his or her full potential.
Whether it be with wine or people, if it’s all done right, you could end up with an invaluable asset.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Which do you prefer, wine, beer, or whisky? Why?

Do you think the company has the responsibility to develop its employees?
How does your company develop its employees?
What sort of training do you think employees need? Why?
Article No. 211: IS THE MAJORITY ALWAYS RIGHT?

The popular game-show, "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" - also commonly referred to as Quiz $
Millionaire (クイズ$ミリオネア) in Japan, demonstrates a very interesting phenomenon in crowd
psychology known as the "Wisdom of the Crowds." In the participant's attempt to answer a series of
questions, they are given three "lifelines," where one of which allows them to "Ask the Audience"
(オーディエンス) for the answer. Even though most of the audience are generally clueless about the
answer, this particular lifeline is notorious for its accuracy - bragging a very impressive 91% success
rate. The reason behind this is usually supported by the idea that large groups are often able to
collectively make better decisions than individuals working on their own.
In business, politics, and other fields, however, the opposite can also be observed. Group decisions
can often go awry, which creates the need for a strong and directed leadership. It is also the reason
behind the large demand for expertise from professional consultants.
Over the years, several studies have been made that both support or reject either of the two trains of
thought mentioned above. With the behavior and success of concepts like block-chain, focus groups,
and stock market predictions supporting the former, and the undeniable value of strong leaders and
field experts confirming the latter, it is evident that either of the two concepts are equally sound. The
dilemma, however, is identifying which decision-making strategy would fit best for a particular
organization, project, or goal.
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Exercises:
Do you think the majority is always right, or do you think that it's always better for one person to
make the final decision?
Discuss your most recent project and why you agree/disagree with the decision-making strategy that
you used.
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Has your company ever made a decision that most employees disagreed with? What are their reasons
for disagreeing?
What is your view on hiring an external consultant for advice on business decisions?
Article No. 212: FUN IN A BORING PLACE!

The library. A haven for the studious and a prison for the easy-going. Who goes to the library to have
some fun?
Well, a lot of people in Toronto, Canada. Amazingly, the city has turned its public library into a
weekend destination for families and a cool hangout for teens. Over 70% of the city’s people use the
library. And there’s much more to do than just read books. Here, you can learn how to knit clothes,
make shoes, play musical instruments, make public speeches, paint and even learn how to make sushi!
Now the Toronto Public Library is the largest local library system in the world.
However, it wasn’t always like this. As with most public libraries in developed countries, the Toronto
Public Library was seeing a gradual decline in the number of visitors each year. The operators knew
that they needed more than just a wide range of books to keep getting people to come back. So, they
utilized the latest technology and combined entertainment and creativity to catch the people’s interests
and hearts.
The people in Toronto have found a way to break the norm. Going against the norm is never easy, but
oftentimes necessary to find a breakthrough solution. Do we have the courage to break the ordinary
for something extraordinary?
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Exercises:
Have you done something extraordinary in your life? What was the result?
What are some examples of companies that were able to break the norm to find a breakthrough
solution?
What are some business norms that you feel need to be broken in your company to find a
breakthrough solution?
What are some cultural norms in your country that you would like to see changed?
Article No. 213: THE SELF-LEARNER IN ME

As a child, I always hated the water, simply because I couldn’t swim. Despite many attempts by my
father, my uncle, and my cousins to teach me how to swim, I just didn’t get it. “Do this with your
arms.” “Do this with your legs.” “Do this with your head.” All I could do was stand in the water
splashing while everyone swam back and forth.
And then a bright idea came to me. I could learn to swim by myself. I had always been a self-learner.
I had acquired most of my knowledge from reading books in the library and had picked up many of
my skills through hours of practice. How could learning to swim be any different?
So, to the library I went and read everything I could on the basics of swimming. I found out about
breathing rhythm, how to pop your head up every four strokes, the proper position of your arms and
hands, the twisting of your body, and the proper way of kicking your legs. Swimming, I found out,
was a science. On top of that, I secretly practiced in a public pool trying to replicate what I had
learned from the books. And within a few weeks, I was swimming better than my cousins.
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My experience has taught me that with many things in life, although how we are taught is important,
how we learn is far more significant.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What are some of the things that you researched and learned on your own?
Would you like to learn something new? A sport, a hobby, or to play a musical instrument?
What do you think the last sentence of the article means?
Could you teach me to do something?
Article No. 214: BETTER THAN A ROBOT

Recently, I read about Connie, a hotel concierge AI robot that will soon be introduced here in the
Philippines. It is a bipedal robot in which guests could interact with at the check-in desk. The robot
can give directions, answer basic questions, and entertain the guests, sometimes better than its human
counterpart.
As astonishing as this technology is, I can’t help but think about the adverse effects that this could
have on us both individually and as a society. Technology has the potential to replace most service
jobs including convenience store staff, restaurant servers, and shop attendants. Even highly-skilled
jobs such as translators and interpreters are at risk. Already we are seeing a decline in the ability to
socialize by the younger generation. With less interaction with real people, we are bound to see an
increase in these problems.
However, before I worry about others, maybe I need to think about my own job security. Advanced
technology is starting to creep into the English education industry as well. Whether it be advances in
translation software, e-learning platforms with voice recognition, or English speaking A.I. robots, new
products seem to be popping up every other month. But then again, my students book with me
because of me. And that’s something I’ll always be better at than any advanced robot.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How do you feel about the impact that technology is having on society as a whole and on individuals?
How do you see the English education industry changing with the advances on technology?
Do you feel your job is at risk due to advances in technology?
What do you think technology can never do better than people?
Article No. 215: HEY, ARE YOU LISTENING?

People are social beings. And that is why relationships are so important in our daily lives — at home,
in school, in the workplace, and in the community. These relationships are formed and maintained by
one very important factor: communication. However, all too often, during everyday conversations, we
see people texting, not really listening, and talking over the other person. Perhaps you’re guilty of it,
too.
However, there are some simple things we can do to foster a healthy relationship and communicate
effectively.
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1. Ask for or give full attention. A simple request such as, “Do you have a minute?” or “Can I
ask you something?” could go a long way. This gesture tells the other person that you want
their attention. And if you are on the receiving end, of course, be sure to give it.
2. Be prepared. Know what you want to say and avoid overly complex words or technical
vocabulary. A good message is a concise message.
3. Listen well and give feedback. A conversation is a two-way process. So, show you understand
or ask if you don’t.
With this in mind, "language barrier” has a whole new meaning. Just because people are speaking the
same language, it doesn't necessarily mean they understand each other. So essentially, a language
barrier can occur between two native speakers of the same language. Don’t just aim to become a great
English speaker; aim to become a great communicator.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you feel that communication between people has changed since you were a child?
Do you feel this change has impacted our relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and our
neighbors?
Share some instances in your personal or professional life wherein you had some difficulties in
communicating with another person.
What are the things that you can still improve upon to be a more effective communicator in the
future?
Article No. 216: OUTGROWING THE POT: OPRAH WINFREY

STORY
If you’re a plant lover like me, I’m sure you’ve had the experience of taking care of a small plant to
the point that it can’t grow anymore. For months or years, you gave it sunlight, water, and the
occasional fertilizer. And the plant reciprocated by growing bigger and stronger and now it has
outgrown its pot. It just can’t get any bigger unless you give it a bigger pot.
Well, that’s pretty much what happened to Oprah Winfrey, a multi-million dollar American executive,
who conquered the TV-show industry in a span of a quarter of a century. She hosted The Oprah
Winfrey Show and became one of the highest-paid TV-show hosts in history until its culmination in
2011. Could you imagine, being a revered talk show host and a staple in the daily lives of not only
American viewers but also of the whole world?
However, Winfrey who hosted her own TV show for 25 years, decided to gracefully exit, then
launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) in partnership with Discovery Studios based in Los
Angeles California. Having her own network allows her the freedom to produce shows and curate the
network according to her liking. At the moment, she is the chief executive officer of OWN and owns
25.5 percent of it.
As with plants, we all need the right environment for more growth and bigger challenge. That could
mean changing companies, moving to a different city, starting a new business, or finding a new life
partner. Outgrowing the pot is not a bad thing, of course, unless you are the pot.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you know about Oprah Winfrey? Who would you compare Oprah Winfrey to in your country?
Do you know anyone who outgrew their pot? What did that person do?
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Can you tell me a situation in your life where you felt you had outgrown your pot?
Can you tell me a time when you were the pot?
Article No. 217: MIRROR, MIRROR

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?
Haven’t we all heard of this famous Disney line before? The evil queen, hell-bent on staying the
fairest in all the land, couldn’t stop herself from checking out her closest competition by constantly
asking the Magic Mirror.
Despite her wickedness, I can’t fault her for giving in to her curiosity. Asking and knowing one’s
competition, wanting and trying to be the best, the top, the greatest, etc. – aren’t these basic
manifestations of human nature? And like the evil queen, haven’t we asked or gotten curious as to
who’s the fairest at one or several points in our lives?
But the ultimate question is, how do you respond to what you see in the mirror?
To be satisfied with your reflection in the mirror, to reach a point in life where we can say, “I am
genuinely satisfied with my life. I don’t want more” is, for me, the hardest and almost impossible goal
to achieve. It is extremely rare to find people who have found inner peace and contentment with their
lives.
So, when you feel dissatisfied or lacking upon looking at the mirror in front of you, that’s all right.
You have every right to feel so! And by all means, do what you want to do to get to where you want
to go. As long as you don’t step on others, destroy relationships, inflict pain and damage on your
journey to your goal, you are free to find the better version of yourself.
People who are on the right path say the same things about competition: The fiercest competition is no
one but ourselves. In our pursuit to greatness and excellence, we measure ourselves not against others
but against ourselves. And that is what the evil queen failed to see in the mirror and met her doom.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Who do you consider to be your competitor in business or in life?

How can envy and jealousy affect one’s life? How have they affected yours?
How do you see yourself in the mirror?
What is your favorite Disney animation?
Article No. 218: THE EYESIGHT OF A WARRIOR

Many years ago, Romans used an ancient eye test to decide if their soldiers would fight as front foot
soldiers or as archers behind them. To know how good their vision was, they needed to count the stars
in the constellation, the Big Dipper.
There are seven stars in the Big Dipper. The smallest star is called Alcor, which only few people can
see. If a Roman soldier’s eyesight was good enough to see it, he could be an archer. Warriors who
passed the test had a better chance of surviving because those with worse eyesight were designated to
the front lines and, were often killed.
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This ancient eye test is literally not applicable in the modern world. However, it can be said that our
vision of the future will determine whether we can be a star or not. Being short-sighted would allow
us to be on the front lines, but having a long-term vision would allow us to survive and reach the
highest stars.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How do you feel when you can see a sky full of stars on a clear night outside the city?
What do you think of the Romans' method of checking one's eyesight?
What are some examples of short-term and long-term goals in your life?
How can you achieve them?
Article No. 219: THE COMMENTS SECTION

One night, I found myself watching random videos on Youtube. Usually, I just jump from one video
to the next, but this particular video made me want to scroll down to the comments section. Bless the
soul of the person who invented this! Ideas and knowledge from actual people could be exchanged in
a matter of seconds! People from around the world would share relevant information and opinions for
free. Thanks, random person on the Internet!
However, as I scrolled further down, there was a comment that I found absolutely preposterous. It was
so ridiculous that my fingers just automatically hit “Reply”. “You’re stup—“, I caught myself typing
incompletely, and then I stopped. Things I would never say to a stranger. I do not usually type these
kinds of comments so why did I feel a sudden hostility against a person I had never met?
There were also others who found the comment illogical and were more than willing to say it in the
comments section. Some were mean but were really funny. Some were just cruel. Most of the
commenters ganged up and collectively insulted the original poster, but some got into a different
argument altogether.
Then, I had a revelation. The comments section was a breeding ground for cyber-bullying. Condemn
the ones who gave life to the comments section! So I deleted what I had typed and got lost in
watching another video on the Internet.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What sort of videos do you like to watch on Youtube?

Why do you think people are so much more direct with their comments on the Internet?
Are you thankful that almost everything is easily accessible through the Internet or do you agree that
there is an over-saturation of information?
Do you think that humans are naturally bullies?
Article No. 220: NO SWEAT?

Sweat shops originated in England during the Industrial Revolution referring to garment factories that
exploit workers with low wages and poor working conditions. The term "sweat shop" is still used now
to refer to a workplace with unfavorable labor practices. It is still a widespread practice not only in
garment factories but in other sectors such as in coffee farms, sugar plantations and in the agricultural
trade.
Page | 122
Conscientious consumers call for a boycott of popular clothing brands or refuse to patronize
expensive coffee made from the hard labor of browbeaten farmers. However in some cases, the
shutdown of sweat shops hurt the poor workers more than the unscrupulous factory owners. In less
developed economies, studies show that sweat shops actually contribute to the growth of the economy
and give employment to those who really need it. What we negatively perceive as sweat shops may be
the only source of income to people in some parts of the world.
We can't all go out to join protest actions, but we still have the power to advocate change by
supporting companies that uphold ethical practices. We usually have our personal preferences -- in the
brands that we buy or the coffee that we take every morning. We have a responsibility to consider the
decisions that we make every day and make sure that they are socially responsible choices.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you know how and where your favorite clothing brand or coffee is manufactured?
Would you boycott a product if you found out that a company were conducting unethical business
practices?
What are some companies that have made CSR a selling point of their brand?
What other ethical practices relating to animal testing, environmental protection or worker’s rights do
you usually consider before making a purchase decision?
Article No. 221: A NEW LANGUAGE IN TWO WEEKS

Have you ever wanted to become a fluent bilingual, or even a trilingual? To many people, it is an
unimaginable endeavor. However, there is one language that claims you can learn in 2 weeks.
Esperanto was never meant to be anybody's native tongue. It is neither a national language nor a
regional dialect. On the contrary, it is spoken across the globe. Esperanto is an artificial language
intended to bridge the gap created by language barriers. Constructed by L.L. Zamenhof in 1887,
Esperanto is one of the most successful artificial languages in the world. It aims to eliminate
misunderstandings in the scientific community and provide a neutral way to communicate
diplomatically. The language was created to be learned easily with its familiar vocabulary and basic
grammatical rules. Most of the words have distinct similarities to European languages.
But why would anyone want to study a language that very few people know? The answer lies in
Esperanto's third goal: to make study of linguistics become child's play. Multilinguals have the ability
to see patterns and changes in how language is used which makes it easier for them to pick up a third
or fourth language. By learning Esperanto in just a couple of weeks, we can all wire our brains to be
multilingual more easily.
So if you believe this theory, you may be interested in learning Esperanto just to make learning
English easier.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you think that the whole world needs to have only one international language? What kind of
language should it be?
Can you share why you are studying another language? Do you enjoy it or is it just for business?
What do you think of artificial languages? Do you know any (from books, movies, secret ways to
communicate with friends, etc.)?
Let's share our experiences in learning English.
Page | 123
Article No. 222: ARE WE ALONE?
As of August 2018, World Population Review posited that the total population of the world exceeds
7.63 billion, and this number is continuously growing each day. However, even with our inflating
populace, we still feel solitary enough to be more interested in looking for life outside earth. From
conspiracy theories, scientific discoveries, and even religious beliefs, we have various ideas about
extraterrestrial life.
The discovery of planets, star systems, and galaxies has led mankind on Earth to ask, “Is there anyone
else out there?” One of the oldest ‘answers’ to these questions can be found way back to ancient
times, embedded in our religious beliefs. Myths, legends, and written scriptures sparked our curiosity
about life in the mysterious space. The more entertaining answer is that the Government is concealing
the fact that aliens do exist. Either way, after years and years of searching for facts and confirmation,
it may seem that we will never completely find out the truth.
There's nothing wrong about discovering what's out there and reaching out to extraterrestrial beings;
however, wouldn't it make more sense for us to reach out amongst ourselves first — our fellow human
beings? We have over 7 billion people from almost 200 countries with a vast array of cultures,
customs, and values. I don’t know about you, but I find far more value in reaching out to these real
people than anyone or anything that might or might not exist.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Do you believe in life elsewhere in the universe? Why or why not?

What do you think will happen if we really discover life outside our planet?
In your opinion, which is better, discovering extraterrestrial life or discovering a solution to one major
problem in our world today? Why?
How can we more effectively relate to other people, especially to those with a culture different from
ours?
Article No. 223: ANIMAL CLOCK

As with most humans, I'd be lost without a clock. I wouldn’t know when to wake up, when to eat,
when to go to work, or when to sleep. However, we weren’t always like this. It’s our over-reliance on
time that has weakened our body clock.
Other animals are much better than we are when it comes to knowing what time it is. A recent study
published by the Nature Neuroscience found that animals are familiar with time intervals. The study
was conducted on a mouse. A treadmill was immersed in a virtual environment where the mouse
would run in a virtual hallway and stop at a door. After 6 seconds the door would open and the mouse
could get its reward.
After the mouse learned where the door was, the door was then replaced with an invisible door. And
again, the mouse would run through the hallway. What was amazing was that it stopped at the exact
location where the virtual door had been previously placed. And it would wait for 6 seconds before
proceeding down the hallway though it could not even see the door.
This experiment explains how a certain part of the brain of an animal can take note of time. One great
example is Hachiko, the famous Japanese dog that kept coming back to the same place at the same
time to greet his master, every single day.
Page | 124
I wonder what would happen if we lived in a world without clocks. Would it be havoc or would our
bodies adjust to develop the same precision as the mouse?
▼▼▼
Exercises:
How important is time in your culture? What are some examples?

Do you think our society relies too much on being on time? Why or why not?
What would happen if we lived in a world without clocks?
What other natural abilities do you think humans have lost through evolution of mankind?
Article No. 224: GOOD-FOR-NOTHING SEEDS

My son had a Science project to germinate pumpkin seeds. So together, we got a flower pot, some
soil, and planted the seeds. However, after two weeks, the seeds did not show any sign of growth. My
son ended up presenting these good-for-nothing seeds while his other classmates flaunted their full
grown plants. My son came home disappointed, and threw the seeds in the yard.
After several weeks, to my surprise, my son and I saw some little buds sprouting from the place my
son had thrown the seeds. As each day went by, the stems grew and the green leaves unfurled. Soon
after, the good-for-nothing seeds had grown to become a full-grown, healthy plant. We realized then
that nothing was wrong with the seeds. It was just that the conditions in the yard including the soil,
temperature, and amount of water were more suitable for the seed to grow.
In this life, achieving our goals may sometimes seem impossible. However, much like the pumpkin
seeds, our lack of achievement may sometimes be due to the conditions we are faced with. However,
one big difference is that seeds are powerless in terms of changing their environments. We as people
aren't.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
Tell me about the kinds of science projects that you had to do in school? What did you learn from
them?
What are some examples or companies or people who achieved great success due to the right
conditions?
What are some examples where you changed the condition or situation you were faced with to
achieve success?
Article No. 225: FROM PALATABLE TO PUNISHMENT

Every Friday, Filipinos have a staple dish called the “ginisang munggo” or sautéed mung beans.
While it was never confirmed as to why it was always served and eaten on this day of the week
among the local food stalls, it provided a guarantee to us that we ate something healthy at least once a
week.
What I like about mung beans is their versatility. Plants need soil to survive but this particular type of
bean can grow on a piece of wet tissue and without any sunlight. Just keep the tissue damp and in
three days you will see the sprouts growing out of it. With these emerging sprouts you can make
Page | 125
another dish like spring rolls or stir-fried beans with tofu - an addition to its array of healthy options.
It is also rich in folate, which is good for pregnant women.
Although I only have praise for mung beans now, my memories of them as a child are quite different.
What kids today don't know is that mung beans were used as a form of punishment. I remember
kneeling on top of a handful of these beans and they were painful, more painful compared to stepping
on Lego blocks. It was definitely a lesson learned for me after seeing the dents made by these beans to
my knees!
It’s funny how my hatred for these beans as a child have become one of respect. So for better health
and discipline, try our mung beans.
▼▼▼
Exercises:
What are some foods that are considered to be healthy in your country?
Is there a vegetable or food that you are proud to spread to others around the world?
How were you punished during your childhood?
What are some examples of things that you hated as a child, but have respect for them now?
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Table of Contents

Article No. 1: THE DIAMOND IN YOU..............................................................................................8

And then the thought just hit me.

Article No. 2: HOW YOUNG ARE YOU?

Article No. 3 THE PRESENT LIFE OR THE AFTERLIFE?

Article No. 4: ABOUT CATCH AND SUCCESS

Article No. 5: ABOUT TURTLES AND BUSINESS

Article No. 6: ABOUT STRAWBERRIES AND TECHNOLOGY

Article No. 7: STANDING FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN

Article No. 9: THE STATUE INSIDE THE STONE

What's the most difficult part when training someone?

Article No. 10: INSPIRED OR DESPERATE?

Article No. 11: SIMPLE IS COOL

Article No. 12: THE TOUGHEST JOB

What's the toughest job in the world?

Article No. 13: LIFE OF A SMOKER

Roses are red

Article No. 14: WHO AM I?

Article No. 15: 5 THINGS I'D LIKE TO DO BEFORE I DIE

1. Travel along the coast of Japan in a camping car after I retire

Article No. 17: TO MY PAST SELF

Dear Past Me,

So, you’re interested in Canada, eh? Here’s a basic guide:

“Eh” – Used to get confirmation or an opinion.

What is your image of Canada?

Article No. 19: WORK TO LIVE OR LIVE TO WORK?

Article No. 20: THE MISSING PIECE

Article No. 21: THE REAL YOU

Article No. 23: MIYAZAKI - THE MAN WHO EMPOWERS

Article No. 24: THE SECOND BEST

Article No. 25: THE BEDS OF LIFE

Let's take a journey of the different beds of life...

Article No. 26: SOME WORDS DON'T RHYME

Why does "wood" rhyme with "could"

I hope I don't sound funny

cat - bat - sat - rat - hat - fat - mat

Article No. 27: WHAT’S WITH THE IDIOMS?

Truth be told, I myself am ‘at sea’ about it.

Article No. 28: BABABA BA? BABABA

In an elevator, someone asks, “Bababa ba?” Another person replies, "Bababa”.

Bababa ba? Bababa.

Article No. 29: SUPER IS BETTER! OR IS IT?

Have you ever wanted superpowers?

Would having superpowers make your life better?

Article No. 30: THE HAMSTER WHEEL

Article No. 31: THE LAW OF ATTRACTION

Subject: RSVP: Life's 40th birthday

See you soon.

Article No. 33: THANK YOU FOR THE IRRITATION!

"How Pearls are Formed." https://pearls.com/pages/how-pearl-are-formed. Accessed: August 24,

Who is the most irritating person you've ever met?

Article No. 35: DO YOU LIVE OR JUST EXIST?

Article No. 37: I LOVE YOU

Article No. 38: PALINDROMES: THE ENGLISH KAIBUN

So, what is a palindrome?

Here are other examples:

(word) wow; peep

Article No. 39: MY IDEAL MATE

Article No. 40: ABOUT PAPER AND THE SPEED OF CHANGE

If you fold a piece of paper, it becomes 2 pages thick. Of course.

You know, this reminds me of the speed of change nowadays.

Article No. 41: WABI-SABI: THE PERFECT IMPERFECTION

Article No. 42: FOR THICKER FLOW, MAKE THAT HOLE