The Struggles of a Virtual Assistant: A Realistic Guide for Aspiring VAs

We all know that nothing comes easy in life, and the role of a Virtual Assistant (VA) is no exception. Before reaching the fulfillment and success we desire, we must walk a path filled with hard work, patience, and perseverance. And let me tell you, it is not a road that’s easy to travel. For those who dream of becoming a VA, it's important to understand the struggles and challenges that come with the job. Only then can you truly be prepared for the journey ahead.

I have several friends who work as Virtual Assistants. They inspire me to dive into this world as well. However, before I could start daydreaming about the perks and financial independence that come with being a VA, they made sure to enlighten me about the challenges that lie ahead. They shared their own experiences and cautioned me about the realities of virtual assistant life. Through their advice and some additional research, I’ve compiled a list of common struggles faced by many VAs. If you’re an aspiring VA, this list will help you understand what to expect, and hopefully, prepare you for the challenges ahead.

1. Not Having the Right Tools or Profile

Every industry has its own set of requirements when it comes to hiring candidates, and the VA industry is no different. Initially, I thought I could simply send out my resume and wait for an interview. However, I quickly learned that my friends spent a considerable amount of time and effort building the right profile before applying for VA jobs. This included undergoing specialized training, refining their skills, and carefully selecting the right niche. A generic resume simply won’t cut it in the competitive world of virtual assistance. It’s crucial to invest time in preparing a solid portfolio and gaining experience, even though free or low-paid opportunities, before applying for your dream job.

2. Dealing with Rejection

Rejection is an inevitable part of the job application process, whether you’re applying for a VA position or any other role. Simply submitting an application doesn’t guarantee you’ll be selected. You’re just one candidate among many, and clients or employers will go through their own process of elimination to select the best fit. While rejection can feel personal, it’s essential to remember that it’s not. It’s a part of the process. If you’re rejected, don’t take it to heart. Instead, ask for feedback so you can improve your applications for the next opportunity. Keep applying, and don’t let rejection hold you back. As my mentor always says, “It’s not a rejection, it’s a redirection.”

3. Encountering Scamming Employers

For new Virtual Assistants, one of the most disheartening experiences can be encountering a scammer. I have a friend who was ghosted by her client after just a month of working together. She couldn’t do anything about it except move on and chalk it up to experience. Unfortunately, this kind of situation happens more often than we’d like to think. To avoid falling victim to scammers, it’s essential to undergo proper training. Training will help you understand what to look for in a reliable client and what warning signs to watch out for. Additionally, research online and learn about the red flags that indicate a potential scam. Protect yourself by using the internet to your advantage.

4. Salary and Time Negotiation

Once you get through the interview process and start negotiating the terms with a client, don’t just accept everything they offer. It’s tempting to say "yes" to everything, especially if you're eager to land your first client, but as a Filipino, we tend to undersell ourselves. We’re used to saying yes, even when we know the quality of work we can deliver, or when we’re asked to adjust our schedule to accommodate the client’s needs. While it’s great to go the extra mile, it’s equally important to negotiate your salary and time commitment fairly. Take the time to watch videos, read articles, and learn about best practices in salary and time negotiation. Knowing how to position yourself properly will increase your productivity and ensure that you’re compensated fairly for your hard work.

5. Internet Connection Issues

In the Philippines, the internet speed is known to be a bit of a challenge, especially when compared to other countries. According to the Speed Test Global Index, the country ranks 49th with an average speed of 91.56 Mbps as of July 2023. For virtual assistants, this can be a significant hurdle, especially if you live in rural areas with unreliable electricity and frequent blackouts. Poor internet connectivity and unstable power supply can greatly impact your ability to deliver work on time. To mitigate these issues, consider investing in a backup solution, such as a mobile hotspot, and choose a location with a more stable internet connection if possible.

6. Miscommunication

Even though we speak and understand English, communication can still be a challenge, especially for Virtual Assistants. Without face-to-face interaction, it can be difficult to gauge the tone and intention behind a client’s words. This often leads to misunderstandings. To excel as a VA, you need to go beyond speaking and focus on active listening. Make sure you fully understand your client's goals and preferences. Build a strong communication foundation by asking clarifying questions and confirming details. In the VA world, listening carefully can give you a major advantage in delivering high-quality service.

7. No Renewal of Contracts

One of the most disheartening things that a VA can face is a client not renewing their contract. There can be many reasons for this: performance issues, mismatched work dynamics, budget constraints, or even personal reasons. While it may sting at first, it’s important to remain professional. Don’t jump to conclusions or assume the worst. Instead, ask the client for feedback on what went well and what could be improved. If a contract isn’t renewed, use it as an opportunity to evaluate yourself and improve your skills for the next client. Building strong relationships and trust with clients is key to securing long-term partnerships.

Conclusion: Embrace the Struggles and Stay Committed

There are many other struggles VAs face, and each individual will encounter their own set of challenges. But these are some of the most common hurdles that aspiring Virtual Assistants should be prepared for. I’m not sharing this list to discourage you; rather, I want to help you set realistic expectations and mentally prepare you for the road ahead. No journey is without its bumps, but it’s those challenges that help us grow. Failure is often the friend of those who aim for success.

As you gain experience and persevere through these struggles, you will begin to see the rewards of your hard work. The virtual assistant industry offers immense opportunities for personal and financial growth. So, don’t give up! Keep pushing forward, and one day, your success story will inspire others to embark on their own VA journey. The road may not always be smooth, but the destination will be worth it.

Bulalacao: The Story behind the Name and History

Today, I found myself pondering about where Bulalacao got its name, and the story behind it is even brighter than I expected. Our little town across the coast, tucked away along the shores of Oriental Mindoro, isn’t just a paradise of beaches and hills; it has a name inspired by something as mystical as a shooting star—or bulalakaw, as we call it in Filipino.

The story goes that the early locals here would often see meteors coming down across the night sky. Without the modern lights we have now, the stars and meteors must have lit up the night with a kind of magic you don’t see as often today. These “falling stars” were awe-inspiring to the people in town, who believed them to be magnificent guidance and wonder from the heavens. They saw these meteors as blessings, even symbols of protection, and found themselves naming the town after these flashes of light. Every time I think about that, it feels like a reminder that nature holds beautiful surprises—maybe even a bit of magic—for anyone who’s awed by looking at it.

But it’s unique name is only part of the story. The people here, especially the tribes of Mangyan, have been connected to this land for generations. The Mangyan are the indigenous people of Mindoro, and the traditions they passed down have big impact on the culture of Bulalacao. They have their own language, customs, and crafts, like beautiful weaving and basket-making that visitors love to take home as souvenirs. Their weaving, in particular, is something I admire—each piece they make feels like a small tribute to their heritage and connection to the land. Seeing them in town, it gives the feeling of carrying pieces of history that they’re willing to share with anyone who is curious to see and listen. When tourists buy these crafts, they’re not just getting a souvenir; they’re supporting a part of Bulalacao’s history and helping keep these traditions alive. There’s a comforting knowing that the old ways of life are still present here, quietly creating their influence into everyday life.

As time passed on, Bulalacao didn’t just stay a hidden village of stars and local tribes. The ideal position located along the coast, it swiftly became a stop for neighboring country traders, like Malay and Chinese merchants. They’d barter food with each other and in due course it grew into a spot where different culture collides beautifully. Even today, you can sense the fuse of influence in our daily life.

Then came the Spanish. Like many places in the Philippines, Bulalacao was touched by Spanish colonial influence. My ancestor also is a Spanish man who settled here and became a businessman who barter goods to neighboring provinces. The Spanish missionaries introduce Catholicism, building churches that still stand today and some that didn’t stand the storms of life can be seen through beautiful ruins that brought pride and addition to the meaningful history of the town. Some of our festivals, like fiestas that celebrate patron saints, have roots in this era. Our patron Saints is Peter and Paul and our church is even named after them. Even though we took on some Spanish customs, the town didn’t lose its original character but rather blend magnificently with them. The indigenous Mangyan culture stayed strong, and even as Catholicism became a part of life here, the two cultures didn’t just clash but accept each other, embracing the change thus creating the unique blend that makes Bulalacao as colorful as it is today.

Living in Bulalacao, you get to see all these layers of history woven into daily life. Until today, our town lived a quiet, slow and humbled life, you can see that majority of people paid their dues through farm, fishing and making crafts, living the way our ancestors lived for a long time; even my family has roots in both fishing and farming, and those traditions are highly respected and still shape a lot of our daily life here.

But over time, we are not blinded by how the world embrace industrialism and technology and as we progressed in our own endeavors and making a valuable contribution to catch up with fast paced change in our country, people outside of Bulalacao started noticing its natural beauty and we take an advantage of the strength that we have. More tourists began visiting and experience the town’s natural attractions and became the focus of eco-tourism efforts, and now we have visitors coming to experience the quieter, more natural side of the Philippines. Even though tourism has grown, and you can see the evolution of the town, Bulalacao remains very much connected to its roots. While tourism is adding to our community, the local government and community have made a real effort to promote sustainable tourism that respects the environment and the town’s heritage. As it embraces change, it still holding on to what’s important and that is not forgetting where we came from and still values the history that this place builds for a long time.

But Knowing all that I know about my town, I feel so proud of where I come from. Bulalacao isn’t just a town— it’s a legacy, shaped by the people who lived here long ago and those who still call it home today. The name itself inspired by a heavenly body is not the only wonder about this place. It’s the accumulation of what makes this place a beautiful place to live and experience, that is culture, people, and history all together. I like to think that maybe those first people who lived here felt the same excitement and connection as I do today.

So, Bulalacao isn’t just a name on a map. It’s a reminder of where we come from, of the beauty in nature, and of the resilience of the people who have kept this place alive through all the changes. Next time I’m out under the stars, I know I’ll look up with a little more gratitude. And maybe, if I’m lucky, I’ll see a bulalakaw streak across the sky, just like those who named our town did so long ago.

The Hidden Gem of Oriental Mindoro: Discover the Beaches of Bulalacao

If you're after hidden beaches, clear waters, and a bit of adventure, Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro is the place to go. This quiet little town isn’t as busy as some of the bigger beach spots in the Philippines, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway. Here’s your guide to some of Bulalacao’s best beaches and islands – places that offer natural beauty and a chance to unplug.

1. Buyayao Island is a true island getaway that feels like a private paradise. The beach has soft white sand mixed with small pebbles, and the waters are clear and calm – ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The coral reefs are right off the beach, so you don’t need to go far to see colorful fish. You can get there if you will ride a boat for an hour from the Bulalacao Port, things to be remember is you must bring all your necessity you will need for the day, plenty of foods and water because there are limited stores and facilities in the said island. You can do snorkeling to check out the coral reefs, swim in the clear water and hike a little for the view of the coast. This is a great spot if you want some privacy and time with nature.

2. Aslom Island is a home to its famous stunning sandbars that stretch out during low tide, making it feel like you’re walking on water. The sand here is white and powdery, and the shallow, clear waters are great for a refreshing dip. It’s only about a 30-minute boat ride from Bulalacao Port. Ask your boat operator about the best time to visit, as the sandbars are best seen at low tide. You can relax on the sandbars, swim in the shallow water, and take some amazing photos. The sandbars are perfect for sunbathing and chilling out with a good book.

3. Suguicay Island is a local favorite for picnics and snorkeling. It has a little bit of everything – calm waters for swimming, reefs for snorkeling, and simple huts where you can set up for a picnic. This is a popular spot for families and groups looking for a relaxing beach day. It’s only about 20 minutes by boat from Bulalacao, making it one of the quicker trips. You can snorkel near the shore to see coral and fish, rent a cottage for a picnic, or just enjoy the beach. Suguicay has a relaxed vibe, making it a great spot for a day trip.

4. Target Island is the best for camping and stargazing if you’re up for an adventure. This island is rustic and peaceful, with wide, sandy stretches perfect for setting up a tent. It’s quiet, which makes it ideal for stargazing. You’ll spend a 45-minute boat ride from Bulalacao Port. Since there are no amenities, be sure to bring all the basics, especially if you’re camping overnight. Spend the day swimming and exploring, then set up camp and enjoy the stars. The beach is quiet and undisturbed, so it’s perfect for anyone looking to really get away from it all.

5. Tambaron Island is known for its beautiful beaches and rock formations. It is a mix of soft, sandy beaches and interesting rock formations, making it a great choice for both relaxing and exploring. The unique rocky coastlines also make for great photo ops. The travel time is a 30-45 minute boat ride from Bulalacao Port. You can relax on the beach, explore the rock formations, and bring a camera for some unique shots. It’s a great spot for a peaceful beach day.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Bulalacao’s Beaches is to get to the port early to arrange your boat. The locals are friendly and will help with any questions about boat schedules and prices. These islands are mostly undeveloped, so bring food, water, sunscreen, and anything else you’ll need. So don't forget to pack your essentials. Also, these islands are beautiful and untouched, so please take any trash with you and keep them clean. There's limited phone signal on some islands, making it a great time to fully enjoy the scenery and relax.

Bulalacao’s beaches offer a refreshing change from the busier tourist spots. With beautiful views, quiet surroundings, and friendly locals, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge. Grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover these hidden treasures in Oriental Mindoro!

The Struggles of the Mangyan People in Bulalacao

Today, I had an eye-opening conversation at the hospital with one of our patients’ family members. Most of our patients here in Bulalacao are from the Mangyan communities—the indigenous people of Mindoro, who mostly live up in the mountains. This family member shared with me some of the challenges they face every day, and it really hit me just how tough life can be for them here.

Getting to the Hospital Isn’t Easy

Healthcare is a major struggle for the Mangyan. They live so far out, often deep in the mountains, and reaching the hospital is no quick trip. Many rely on traditional medicine, which can work in some cases, but not for serious health issues. When they do manage to make it down here, treatment costs are often too high for them to afford. Thankfully, there’s a program now called Galing at Serbisyo para sa Mindoreño Action Center (GSMAC) to help cover these costs, but that doesn’t solve everything. The journey alone can be a huge barrier.

School Isn’t Always an Option

Education is another big hurdle. The schools in Mangyan areas are small and have only a few teachers. I’ve met some young MangyanEducation is another big hurdle. The schools in Mangyan areas are small and have only a few teachers. I’ve met some young Mangyan kids who are so curious and eager to learn, but they don’t have the same resources as other kids here in town. The local government is trying to help by building more schools and hiring teachers who are willing to learn Mangyan dialects to help the kids understand lessons better. Little by little, more Mangyan kids are finishing high school and even college now. Education is a big thing to accomplish—it’s what can help them shape their future and protect their culture.

The Language Barrier     

  Another thing I hadn’t thought about before is the language barrier. Most Mangyan speak their own dialects, which is a big part of their identity. But when they go to school, deal with healthcare forms, or do official paperwork, everything is in Filipino or English. It’s more than just about speaking the language—it’s about being able to fully participate in things that impact their lives.                     

Land and Identity

Then there’s the issue with land, which is one of their biggest struggles. For the Mangyan, land is everything. It’s where they farm, make their crafts, and connect with their past. But over time, others have come in and claimed parts of their ancestral lands, often with legal documents that the Mangyan don’t have. Without proper paperwork, many Mangyan families lose their land. It’s heartbreaking because, for them, it’s not just losing land—it’s like losing part of who they are. Some laws have been put in place to protect their land, but making those laws work is a whole other challenge.

This is just some of the struggles that I know but despite all of this, the Mangyan people are incredibly resilient. There are now accessible organizations working to help with healthcare, education, and land rights, and Mangyan leaders are stepping up to make sure their voices are heard. Little by little, things are improving, and they’re gripping tightly of hope of the better future.

Talking to that family today made me appreciate the Mangyan people so much more. They’ve been here for generations, and they’re still here, strong and proud, holding on to their culture. If you ever get a chance to visit Bulalacao, I hope you get to meet the Mangyan people and hear their stories. Every craft, every story, every tradition is part of a heritage that deserves our respect and support. 

Exploring Puerto Galera: Essential Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Puerto Galera, located on Mindoro Island in the Philippines, is a paradise known for its beautiful beaches, rich marine life, and active nightlife. If you're planning a trip to Puerto Galera, here are some helpful travel tips and advice to help you make the most out of your experience.

1. Getting to Puerto Galera

One of the first things to think is how to get to Puerto Galera. The most plausible route is through Batangas Port with easy accessibility, with several options for travel:

By Private Car or Bus: From Manila, it’s about a 2-3 hour drive to Batangas Port. If you’re driving, plan for toll fees along the way. For those without private transportation, there are a lot of buses leave regularly in a fixed time from Manila to Batangas. Some of the famous terminal is located in Buendia and Cubao.

Ferry Options: When you reach Batangas Port, you have two options for ferries. You can hoose between fast ferries, which are quicker but cost more, and traditional bancas (outrigger boats) for a more budget-friendly, scenic ride. There are three different ports to land it is Sabang, Muelle and White Beach. Make sure you choose the port nearest to your accommodation so you can save some hassle and extra payment for additional commutes.

Timing and Reservations: Ferries carry out an operation in a daily basis, but schedules can change due to unpredictability of the weather. It’s wise to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season of travel (April, Holy Week, Christmas and weekends), to avoid long line, long waits or fully-booked boats.

2. Where to Stay: Choosing the Right Beach

Puerto Galera has a variety of beaches, each with its exotic vibe and attractions. Here are some popular choices:

v  White Beach: It is popular for younger traveler and group. It caters a lot of accommodation choices for it is filled with beachfronts hotel, resort and budget friendly rentals. It is known for its lively atmosphere, White Beach is the perfect spot if you’re looking to enjoy nightlife, bars, and beach parties.

v  Sabang Beach: Sabang is more laidback beach than White beach but is it also have the bar, the resort and restaurant like the White beach offers.  It is a perfect choice for a dive! It’s a great base if you’re looking to explore Puerto Galera’s world-class dive sites, with many dive shops and schools filling to all experience levels.

v  Talipanan Beach: This beach is ideal for couple or individual who is more looking for a quiet escape and prefer a secluded experience. But it has fewer intimate resort and restaurants but is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty without the crowd.

3. Must-Try Activities and Experiences

Puerto Galera offers activities for all types of travelers. Here are some top recommendations:

v  Diving and Snorkeling: It has over 30 dive sites and caters different levels from beginner to advance and is known for a colorful marine biodiversity including the famous Coral Garden and Shark Cave. Snorkeling is also an option with clear water and easily accessible boat transportation.

v  Island Hopping and Beach Picnics: Experience and explore the nearby islands like Haligi Beach, Bayanan Beach, and Sandbar Island. You can easily rent a boat and some boats offer guided tours and packed meals, so you can enjoy a picnic while soaking in the stunning views.

v  Tamaraw Falls and Aninuan Falls: If you want to take a detour from beaches you can try and visit the Tamaraw Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, or Aninuan Falls for a more secluded nature experience. Both are accessible from Puerto Galera by tricycle or motorbike.

v  Nightlife and Fire Dancing: The nightlife scene in White Beach is lively and is  famous for its nightly fire-dancing shows and beachfront bars where you can sip on cocktails and enjoy live music.

4. Travel Essentials and Tips

To make your trip to Puerto Galera as smooth as possible, here are some useful tips:

v  Bring Cash: Most of the local establishment are cash only, there are ATM Machine but they can be limited and hard to find depending on where your current location be, although some hotels and resorts accept credit cards it is best is you bring sufficient cash to cover your stay.

v  Pack Essentials: If you are planning for a beach experience don’t forget to bring sun screen, your swimwear’s, and gears, you can save money and refrain from buying that could cost you more and if you’re planning to hike and explore waterfalls, pack a water shoes to make your excursions easier and comfortable. Make sure to pack medicine just in case there’s an emergency.  

v  Respect Marine Life and Nature: Be mindful of your impact on the environment. There would be guidelines so listen or take time to read. Puerto Galera is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve so they been strict and protective of the place. You can help the place by following the rules and not throwing garbage’s randomly especially on the beach.

v  Check Weather and Seasons: There is the best and worst time to visit a place, you can research so you can fully enjoy the whole experience. If you want to avoid heavy rains and is fan of outdoor activities it is best to visit the place during dry season which is November to June. But if you still want to visit during rainy season check the weather forecast in advance so you can avoid any delays in your travels.

Whether you're an adventurer, a party-goer, or someone seeking tranquility, Puerto Galera offers something for everyone. With these travel tips you are now all set to enjoy Puerto Galerta’s beaches, dive sites to the fullest so pack your bags, bring a sense of adventure, and get ready to experience this tropical gem! 

Why Korean Dramas Are So Addictive and What Sets Them Apart

There is no denying that the K dramas have an undeniably charm that keeps people on their toes wanting one episode after another. If you find yourself staying up late again saying “just one more episode and then go to sleep” only to find out that you are starting to hit play again. And if you have not watched yet, you better be and if you did already you know exactly what I’m talking about. So, what is it about these shows that pulls us in? Here’s a look at three big reasons why K-dramas are so addicting and why they stand out from the crowd.

1. Characters You Can't Help but Root For

One if not the best things about K-dramas? The good looking characters. They’re so much more than just your typical leads they have layers.  You’ll find yourself getting attached to them hate them, feel all the feels and even make you appreciate the flaw. Talk about great casting for the character. K-dramas often introduce us to underdogs, lovable goofballs, mysterious types, or fierce heroines who fight for what they want. You see and feel the familiarity, like you’re right there beside them as they struggle, grow, and learn. And the side characters? They’re just as great! I certainly have a second lead syndrome. Instead of just being background props, secondary characters have their own stories and captivating charm, quirks, and sometimes, a surprisingly a story that can stand on its own. This kind of depth makes it easy to connect with the whole cast and adds an extra flavor to the story that keeps us coming back. When you’re that invested in the lives of these characters, there’s just no way to stop you from binge watching.

2. Plot Twists and Emotional Rollercoasters

I think the plot twist of K-dramas is either going to be an applause or a total frustration for the viewer. They have perfected the art of surprise in unfolding unexpected plot twist. Whether it’s a hidden identity, relationship betrayal, double personality or sudden confession or anything that flips the whole story and give a different direction, these twist keeps us wanting more.

And let’s talk about the emotional range in these dramas. K-dramas have a unique way of mixing romance, comedy, historical, fiction and heartbreak, sometimes all in the same episode. I get this feeling when I watched Legends of the Blue Sea. One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying, and then—boom!—you’re swooning. The storytelling keeps you emotionally invested, and that slow-burn romance? Pure gold. That one small gesture, like a simple hand-hold seems like you have already felt a real love. It’s a whole relatable journey and it’s addicting and sometimes I felt immense disappointment when they decided to have open endings that leave me dumbfounded.  

3. Seeing the culture and aesthetic of Korea into picture

K-dramas are more than just entertainment—they’re a window that gives you a little peek into Korean culture, and they bring out the charm and sell the strength of being able to relate into the minds of the viewer. From traditional values, family relationship, going through introduction of food scenes that will make you curious and gets you hungry all weave into the beauty of the story.  And let’s not forget the stunning visuals! Whether it’s a bustling city backdrop, cozy countryside, or a traditional palace, every shot looks like picture perfect that can be used into the hallmark cards. And don’t even get me started on the fashion! Those outfits are to die for and worth a watch all on their own.

Plus, let’s be real—K-dramas offer an escape and comfort from the world of stress, busy schedule and reality of the chaos of the world. They let us get lost in a world that’s both different and familiar, where love conquers all, good usually wins, and even the sad moments somehow feel beautiful. It gives you a beautiful distraction and help you see why life is worth living even if you have a lot of struggle to conquer.

At the end of the day, K-dramas are more than just shows—they’re an experience. They’ve got everything you want, heart, humor, drama, and a whole lot of soul. So if you find yourself deciding whether you’ll hit “Next Episode" at 2 a.m., don’t worry—you’re not alone, I too sometimes choose one episode over sleep. Because once a K-drama gets you, there’s really no turning back. Get ready your popcorn, your comfortable blankets and dive in, because with K-dramas, every episode is a wild ride worth taking.

Is Manifestation Real?

“What you think you become.” I heard a lot of this when I encounter manifestation messages on the social media platforms. Some says it works, some says its witchcraft but before we have a debate on which is which lets try to understand what manifestation really is. Manifesting is the process of intentionally embedding the thoughts and images of the life we desire into our subconscious allowing various cognitive brain network to be activated and work in sync.

So there is a science that support the reliability of its existence and impact to human being. It often associated with positive self-talk, religious practices and motivational driven messages promoting success and personal development. Despite facing skepticism, it strive to this day. You can see and hear people’s testimonies proving its validity and how it changes their lives for the better. Others lit their skeptic mind and think it just their marketing strategies to lure many people into entering manifestation program. In 2006 ‘The Secret’ came out and sold 30 million copies and even named one of the most successful self-help book of all time!! Amazing isn’t? I first watched it through a CD from my sister’s collection. In the movie The Secret, they gather people as a teacher and a testimonies that it works and how it is a way to success and happiness, even the CEO of the Chicken Soup Jack Canfield is there to talk about how the secret to manifesting help him achieve his goal. I have been mesmerized how convincing they sounds like. I even tried it myself but somehow I can’t get to where this successful people is. I think hard on why I always fail and even blamed my analytical and logical mind why my new biases can’t get through my subconscious. The secret discloses that to achieve all of your desires you need to practice visualization, induce positive feelings and let go. Even Esther Hicks who is a motivational speaker, those who is in the manifestation knows her so well for her lesson on vibration and vortex is there to tell you how to work through the secret. Manifestation spread quickly not just in movies but also in books that sold millions of copies worldwide like Think and Grow Rich, Wishes Fulfilled, The Game of Life and How to Play it, The Law of Attraction, Becoming Supernatural and many more and if you will research some of the authors of manifestation goes way back 1900’s and still gaining popularity in the digital age penetrating social media like a craze. You can see people teaching manifestation in Instagram, Youtube, Tiktoks even in podcast in Spotify where I found ‘The Manifestation Bestie’ by Flora Szivos. She uploaded podcast on different Universal Law and how you can apply it in your life, she suggest one on one coaching if you want in depth understanding of your manifestation. Manifestation is witchcraft as proclaimed witches online promote manifestation, they introduce neo-pagan Wicca, rituals, amulets and occult products as a support so that you can achieve your desires quickly. Now as the New Age movement way back 1960’s find its way to persevere to this day as it ‘s practices is now widely accepted in our society manifestation is now associated with astrology, numerolog,y pagan practices, reiki, tarot cards, angels, chakras deep cleansing, crystals and traditional psychotherapy promises to provide awakening and inner peace. . Christian reject the idea of Law of Attraction as it contradicts the teaching of God as it promotes the idea of you are God yourself. Manifestation is mathematical as it is associated with angel number, signs and special numerical frequencies. Manifestation is complex as we see it. It has paradoxes and exceptions.

As we talk earlier the correlation of Manifestation backing up by Science is because it involves our belief, mindset and behavior. It also supported by our self-fulfilling prophecy from the collected evidence conforming our cognitive biases. Many claimed that despite having scientific significance supporting that it’s real, some psychological scientist will tell you that it is based on pseudoscience. They claim to be scientific and factual but they’re not actually based on scientific evidence. Some critic says that positive thinking alone will not change your 3D reality in an instant and make us more complacent instead of pushing us to work for our goals. While optimism makes you feel good at the moment you need energy to make your dreams come into fruition. If you just think you will be successful and still expect to make it come true without putting any effort you will put yourself into failure and depression. In addition, instant success is considered to be less fulfilling than the success you earn through hard work.

In conclusion, there will always going to be two side of a coin  It’s all right to think that Manifestation is real and it is also okay to think that it is not real as long as your beliefs works for you. Wherever stand you choose to accept, be firm. There is no right and wrong on how you live your life as long as you are not putting other people at risk. Just do everything in moderation and know that everything excess is bad for you.

Losing Femininity: The Era of Masculine Female Dominance

As women continue to break barriers and redefine what it means to be powerful and successful, there's something happening that’s worth taking a closer look at: the way we’re shifting our ideas of femininity. Women have fought long and hard for equality—gaining the right to vote, pursue careers, own property, and make choices about their own bodies. These wins have been huge and life-changing. But lately, the rise of “strong, independent women” has made me wonder—are we losing touch with what it means to be feminine in the process?

For centuries, women were expected to embrace certain traits: nurturing, emotional openness, and maybe even a bit of submission. These were seen as "feminine" qualities. But with the feminist movements of the 20th and 21st centuries, women started rejecting those expectations. They embraced strength, independence, and a new version of what it means to be powerful. And you know what? I think that’s been amazing in so many ways. The world is seeing more women in leadership roles, in the workplace, and in spaces that were once dominated by men. It’s inspiring to see women thrive in all kinds of careers, from CEOs to scientists to political leaders.

However, here's where it gets tricky: with all this empowerment, there’s been a noticeable shift toward women embracing more traditionally masculine traits—assertiveness, competitiveness, emotional stoicism—and letting go of some of those more traditional feminine qualities. And while that’s helped women take charge in professional spaces, it’s also left me wondering: Are we losing something important in the process?

The Rise of the Masculine Woman and What That Means for Femininity

Look, I’m all for women owning their power. I’m proud of how far we’ve come. But as more women embrace their "masculine side" and move into spaces traditionally held by men, I can’t help but feel that something is being left behind. When you hear the phrase "strong, independent woman," it often comes with the idea that you need to be tough, self-sufficient, and even unemotional. While these traits are empowering, they sometimes come at a cost.

For many women, this has led to feelings of burnout, emotional isolation, and loneliness. There’s an unspoken pressure to "do it all"—to excel at work, manage a home, keep relationships together, and still be seen as a role model of strength. It’s no wonder so many women feel like they’re running on empty. And while it's empowering to be independent, there's a growing realization that sometimes, women just want to step back and embrace their softer, more nurturing side too.

Ironically, the "strong, independent woman" narrative has left some women feeling exhausted and longing for a simpler, more traditional lifestyle—one where they can embrace their femininity without the weight of constant expectations.

Are We Losing Touch With Traditional Femininity?

It’s clear that the feminist movement has brought massive change and great progress for women. But could it be that we’ve swung the pendulum too far in one direction? The more women embrace masculinity—whether it’s in the workplace or their personal lives—the more it seems like we’re losing touch with the traditional aspects of femininity that many of us still value. Traits like nurturing, empathy, emotional openness, and, yes, sometimes even vulnerability, are becoming more rare.

And let’s be real—this shift has also affected the men around us. As women become more masculine, the men who once embodied traditional masculinity are now being labeled as "toxic" when they don’t fit into the new narrative. We’re seeing gender confusion on a larger scale, and in many ways, it feels like both men and women are losing their sense of self.

The Impact on Family and Relationships

Now, let's talk about something else that’s been changing: the family unit. Traditional families, where gender roles were more clearly defined, are on the decline. Divorce rates are higher, and many women, despite their career success, feel like they’re struggling to balance everything.

I recently came across a TikTok video where a woman said she wanted to go back to the 1950s—back when she could stay home, take care of kids, and embrace a simpler, more nurturing role. It was a bit surprising to hear, especially since it came from someone who had achieved a lot in her career. But it struck me as a sign of how many women are feeling overwhelmed by today’s expectations of success, independence, and emotional strength.

This desire to return to more traditional roles doesn’t mean we’re "giving up" on feminism or rejecting progress. It’s more about acknowledging that we can have it all, but sometimes we need balance—and that balance means embracing both sides of ourselves. Some women may want to embrace their nurturing qualities, while others might feel more at home in a career-driven role. Both are valid and important.

Men’s Roles Are Changing Too

And let’s not forget about the guys. As women become more dominant in some spaces, it’s created an identity crisis for many men. There's this push to redefine masculinity, but it often comes at the expense of real, positive traits of masculinity. Men who are strong, assertive, and protective are now sometimes criticized for being "toxic." But that doesn’t help anyone, especially not men, who are struggling to find a place in this new world.

This shift in gender dynamics can sometimes make both men and women feel like they have to change who they are to fit a new mold, which leads to confusion and frustration. There’s a real need for a balance that allows both men and women to thrive—without completely rewriting what it means to be a man or a woman.

Finding a Balance

So, what’s the solution? I think it comes down to finding a balance between the two extremes. Women shouldn’t have to choose between being powerful in their careers and embracing their femininity. Likewise, men should be able to express masculinity in healthy, non-toxic ways without being shamed for it.

The truth is, the feminist movement has helped us break free from old, limiting roles, but we don’t have to throw away everything that came before. Women can be both strong and nurturing, independent and connected. Men can be both tough and emotionally available. And, most importantly, we should all feel free to define ourselves in ways that feel authentic and true to who we are—without the pressure to fit into a one-size-fits-all box.

Wrapping Up

At the end of the day, the goal is freedom—freedom for women to be empowered in all aspects of their lives, and freedom for men to embrace their own masculinity without fear of judgment. It’s not about rejecting one thing for another; it’s about finding harmony. We don’t have to lose femininity or masculinity in the process of progress. Both can coexist and thrive in a world where people are encouraged to be their true selves.