Don't miss this GrabCar User Life Hack!

I am such a huge fan/ loyal user of GrabCar. With a lot of promotions, safe and reliable rides, one cannot deny the fact that it is more practical to just use the app than drive your own car (in most cases.) 

If you are not familiar or not sure what I am talking about Grab is Southeast Asia's leading ride-hailing platform. It solves critical transportation challenges and makes transport freedom a reality for 620 million people in Southeast Asia. If you are interested, you can download the app for free from Google Play or IOS store. Click here to download the Grab app. 

Now, here's the fun part. As I mentioned, grab has a lot of promotions and you can check the notifications tab in the app these promo codes as well as your phone messages since Grab also sends SMS for updates. For new users, you may use this Grab promo code: GRABFREE (not sure if it's still valid but this code gives you a free ride up to Php 300 off) 

And that's not all, did you know that you can enjoy cashback on every GrabCar ride booked via the ShopBack Mobile App? Yes, you get a Php 5.00 rebate for every GrabCar booked aside from the promotion or discount code that is applied directly to your GrabCar fare. 

Source: www.shopback.ph

So, just like Grab, Shopback is an app that you can download Google Play or IOS store. and you may download it here.

Now, you must remember that in order to get the rebate, you have to open your Shopback app first, click the RIDE button then, you will be routed to the Grab app. Once the Grab app opens, use as usual. Keep in mind to never open the grab app directly since you won't be eligible for the rebate. You may also read the full terms and conditions here.

As a smarter shopper, let us fast track your rebate points and get a bonus of Php 100 if you sign-up to Shopback via this link. Shopback does not only provide rebates for Grab but also to other sites such as Lazada, Hotels.com, Zalora, Althea and a lot more. Your rebates can be paid via Paypal or Bank Deposit. 

Do you have any questions? Feel free to comment below. 

How to disable video autoplay in facebook?

With the constant updates and new features introduced in Facebook, most of us are left with no choice but to simply accept the changes. 

One change that I really did not like was the autoplay feature of the videos, Since I am a scaredy cat, I could not help panic when horror clips play automatically. I hate it more when the spammy adult content videos circulating the network would also play on its own. I could not imagine when kids borrow phones and can see adult content. It's just too risky and scary for parents. 

So, if you are wondering if you can disable the autoplay feature of our facebook video? Well, I am so glad that yes, we can and it actually pretty simple. 

Just follow these steps:

1. From the top right of Facebook, click and select Settings.
2. Click Videos in the left menu (normally below the support inbox link) 
3. Check Autoplay Videos settings and select Off.

Is it easy to display the autoplay feature? If yes, please share this post. 

Do you have any other facebook related questions, feel free to comment it below and we'll try to feature the answers. 

How do you view your facebook birthday video?

I had a blast celebrating my birthday and overwhelmed by the birthday greetings from family, friends, and clients. Though we may say that facebook was primarily responsible for reminding them about your day, still I am very grateful that they took the time and effort to send me a private message or write in my timeline. I even have one client and friend, Sha Nacino who is a well-known inspiration speaker and author, the Founder of the 90 Day Book Writing Challenge who took the time to shoot a video for me. I am so touched. :) 

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who sent their gifts. I couldn't be more blessed. Anyway, going back to the original purpose of this post is how to view your facebook birthday video. 

Technically, it is a video from facebook that will show on the top of your timeline the day after your birthday to highlight photos and messages from friends. Though it will automatically show on your timeline, one may realize that after viewing it, you may have no idea how to view it again. 

So, thank you Facebook for the wonderful birthday video. You have indeed become a big part of how people celebrate birthdays over the years.

The Future is Awesome: Samsung Happy Home

The Back to the Future Movie Day was celebrated in the US last October 21, 2015. Who would have known that the 1989 movie will give us a glimpse of what our future will look like? Flying cars and floating highways maybe far from reality but I’m sure these pictures will refresh your memory.

                                           

Up-close visual experience using VR glasses 

Crisp Sound and Visual Effects

Extra Large TV Screens

Put them all together, just like what Doc said, "Great Scott! Here is the Samsung SUHD." VR glasses may have its limitations, but the visual up-close experience, crisp audio, and size of the screen will definitely bring the house down. Samsung Ultra High Definition is a new range of 4K Ultra HD TVs. SUHD raised the bar of home entertainment solutions using nanocrystal technology to make the body of the TV lighter and thin, but yet powerful enough to produce 64 times more color expression than a regular TV.

SUHD TV will bring your viewing experience to a whole new level. It also has a stylish curve sound bar equipped with multi-channel speakers and side speakers that enhance the surround sound for a heart pounding and eye popping TV experience. To top it all, Samsung Wireless Audio 360 produces balanced sound in all directions that you can maximize through its built-in WI-FI technology. I’m telling you seeing this bad boy first hand in action was a blast. 

Yeah! That’s me, on a pink shirt, guilty as charged

Aside from home entertainment system, Samsung also expands their artillery in making the perfect happy home by upgrading the lifestyle of Filipinos. Close to the idea of a retractable voice activated fruit basket from Back to the Future 2 movie. Samsung revolutionized the “fridge within the fridge” design, providing plenty of room in their Food Showcase Refrigerators.

Cooking became more exciting because of Samsung's Smart Oven. Do you still remember how Marty’s mom hydrated the pizza in the movie? That’s nothing compared to what Samsung Smart Oven can do. It is truly an all in one cooking solution with a health conscious system that allows the oil free frying and grill thanks to its Slim Fry Technology.

Another thing that Samsung wanted to address is the cooling system inside our homes. Living in a tropical country, high temperature and humidity affect the comforts of our homes. Once again, Samsung has one more trick up their sleeves to aid this need. Using the latest technology, Samsung created AR7000, an air conditioner that features a triangular design enabling quicker, further, and wide cooling. It also features the “Virus Doctor” that filters and keeps the air clean.  And the best part, it has a WI-FI function that will allow you to control it anytime, anywhere.

From the living room, into the kitchen, out to the backyard, Samsung is still on top of its game in dealing with your dirty laundry. Understanding the pain that you go through every time you sit or squat just to do your laundry, they have created the Samsung Activdualwash, which fused ergonomic design with the state of the art technology. It has a dedicated built-in sink, washboard and water jet built right into the washer making your laundry experience less tedious.

Generally, having all of these is part of one's dream home enabling families to comfortably lounge around the house and enjoy life's simple pleasures such as watching TV, munching on comfort food and making chores easier. A perfect showcase that families can enjoy conveniences and possibilities that are made by Samsung. This is something that we can all look forward to. 

So, don’t miss the chance of seeing up close these great innovations perfect for your #happyhome at the Samsung Happy Home Roadshow at Ayala The North District Point Bacolod until October 25. Just like what Dr. Brown said, the future has finally arrived.  

You may visit also the Samsung Philippines’ fan page or follow them on twitter @samsungph for more information. Full details and product images are available at www.samsung.com.ph

Book Review: Break Free by Don Soriano

2017 is a promising year for me. I have claimed that it is going to be a great year to start building our dreams and working on our life goals. Goals which included career growth, passion projects, addressing business needs, family plans and most importantly personal growth and development. 

Our goal is not really about getting filthy rich but it's about living comfortably, having genuine peace of mind and breaking free from the financial worries. In 2016, I learned the having a proper mindset is the key to a successful life. Thus, I have committed to invest in myself more by following inspirational people and reading self-help books. 

Break Free by Don Soriano

I was fortunate enough to get a copy of Don Soriano's book, Break Free. It talks about the principles to get from employee to employer in 3 years or less. I said to myself, "This is perfect. Just what I exactly needed." 

Readers are expected to read the book in 1 hour though was able to finish it in 45 minutes (Yes, I timed it. + you wouldn't want to stop reading it until you finish the book.)  

Though it's a quick read, the book provides very helpful and practical tips. It is very straightforward making it a perfect gift to stubborn and lazy readers. 

The book is not only about giving you tips on what to do but it also makes you think and realize your current situation, unacceptable excuses while inspiring you that you can still change your life and break free. (So, yes if you are stubborn and full of excuses, then this book would talk some sense into you.) 

I believe that everyone should read this. We should all realize the value of financial education and proper money management. 

Don Soriano's Break Free will teach you:

• Why you should not quit your job now? 
• What is the key to happiness? 
• How can you learn and grow more?
• How will your environment affect your success in life?
• And a lot more 

Currently, they are not yet available in major bookstores but you can order it online at www.facebook.com/iamdonsoriano for only Php 300.

About Don Soriano

If you are wondering, Don Soriano is a successful businessman who is a part owner of a branch of an international restaurant franchise and the franchisee of several Mr. Softy Ice Cream food carts. He is also a trainer and speaker who empowers people in business, personal finance, investments, and leadership. 

Visit www.donsoriano.ph/donspeaks if you would like to invite him as speaker in your future events. 

Celebr888 Chinese New Year with a Samsung TV

This Chinese New Year, Samsung brings in good luck through its “It’s time to Celebr888” promo. From January 23 to February 19, score huge discounts on the following Samsung UHD TV models:

·         Php 7,000 off on Samsung 40-inch UHD TV

·         Php 13,000 off on Samsung 55-inch UHD TV

·         Php 21,000 off on Samsung 65-inch UHD TV

These discounts will let the whole family welcome the Year of the Rooster with a next-level home entertainment from Samsung. The UHD TV’s stunning 4K resolution, which is 4x better than Full HD, provides dramatic details and crisp images. Let the kids enjoy their most favorite shows with Samsung UHD TV’s spectacular picture performance through accurately blending primary and secondary colors. Techies in the family will surely appreciate its Smart TV features, allowing them to access favorite program choices, live TV, video on demand, apps, and social media in one easy-to-browse navigation experience.

Complement the upgraded family’s viewing experience with cinema style sound by adding Samsung Soundbars in your entertainment area. Enjoy up to 40% off on Samsung Soundbars (Flat Soundbar HW-K360, Flat Soundbar HW-K450, and Flat Soundbar HW-K550) when you take home any Samsung TV. With these deals, having a theater experience at home is now possible.

Celebr888 and reconnect with family and friends in style as you welcome a new beginning. Avail of these deals by heading to the nearest Samsung authorized dealer. For more details, visit the Samsung Facebook page or samsung.com/ph/offers.

Why we took the "Big Leap?" - A Story About Freelancing

A lot may have heard stories about people working from home or freelancing nowadays. A few years back, "freelancing" was not really a "positive" thing. It referred to people who did not have a stable job and is just doing any form of "raket" with no structure, no standard pay rate to earn a living. 

Currently, freelancing is now considered a career option. With all the technological advancements and everything going digital. Online freelancing or online work became a big hit that it has inspired professionals and corporate employees take the "big leap." Freelancing took a bigger meaning as it now considered "Working in Freedom."

Freelancers have different reasons why they decided to take on this different career path. Some of which are the following: 

"The convenience of having your own personal freedom, daily expenses and significant cuts on overhead costs are some of the benefits I enjoy when I started working from home - all of these without sacrificing family relationships," says Angel Salamante, an Inside Sales Agent from Bulacan 

According to Jocelyn Medina-Ihalas, a Virtual Assistant and Mom of 3,

"I started working from home due to the flexibility of working hours without neglecting my role as a parent."

"To be more productive and happier in a way that I can do multitasking - doing household chores, working and spending more quality time with my family especially with my kids." added Mylin Soriano, Virtual Assistant - Quality Analyst, Mom of 2.

On the personal note, I choose to start working from home because I can no longer tolerate the stress, traffic, and pollution to commute to and from work everyday. I keep getting sick and had very frequent asthma attacks. However, despite my health condition, I had to do something and need to continue to become productive.

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How to start? Where to begin? Is this even real? These are the questions I had in mind when I started my own freelancing career. Honestly, it was not easy but I was fortunate to meet the right people to guide and inspire me on what to do. The WAHMderful Weekend organized by WAHM Manila has literally changed my life. It is because of them that I realized that having a mentor and a support group is very crucial.

Thus, it has been part of our advocacy under The Purple Secretary to promoting more earning opportunities by empowering individuals from places where there are limited jobs offered as well as to provide support to parents who are not able to work due to family obligations. One of our objectives is to help guide "newbies" in avoiding online scams or being duped by others who present networking as an online job.

Last January 21, The Purple Secretary co-presented by Dojo 8 Coliving Space held the "How to Start Your Home Based Career Seminar." The learning event focused on the basics of starting one's home based career including different work-at-home career options, tips on getting started and information on where and how to apply. We also discussed current trends, pay rates and challenges faced by online workers. 

It was a sold out event and we are very happy with the overwhelming turnout of participants. I realized that there are a lot of individuals in Bacolod who are interested to also take the "big leap." Hearing personal stories from the participants made me realize that this is more than just a learning event. It is about changing other people's lives, improving family relationships and building our own community of freelancers in Bacolod. 

This promising start would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, Nacho King - SM Bacolod, Lord Byron's Back Ribs Bacolod, Flip and Color, My Little Ikbi and Bacolod DIY Party Rentals and media partners When in Manila, Sigrid Says and Mea in Bacolod. 

To all the participants, sponsors and partners - let me take this opportunity to thank you again for supporting the event. #bacolodworkathome 

THANK YOU (From Someone Who Lost and Found The Christmas Spirit)

Christmas is my favorite time of the year - a time where people are happier, friendlier and more excited. My Christmas has always been magical. I look forward to the great food shared with my family during Noche Buena as well as get excited to wrap and open gifts. I grew up believing in Santa Claus that as early as November we start writing our letters. Christmas mornings had left me breathless as I get my Christmas wish. It was just so wonderful that I was even more excited for Christmas than my own birthday. 

However, life is not perfect. A lot of things happened. At the age of 10, my parents separated. At Age 15, I found out the truth about Santa Claus and at the Age 20, I started living on my own that most of the time I can't go home for Christmas because of work.

Despite everything, I had loved and cherished all my Christmas memories. As a young adult, I was trying so hard to bring back the Christmas joy. I decorated my little apartment by putting up a Christmas tree, dressed my dog in a Santa outfit and prepared the same food that my family usually prepares for Christmas. Unfortunately, it was not the same. 

Later on, Christmas felt more like a chore where we just look forward to 13th month pays and Christmas bonuses. The season's highlights were just about Christmas shopping, company parties, and the dreaded Christmas rush. It is the time of the year where we notice that there is no more Christmas air. December just started to get warmer. Perhaps, I had lost the Christmas Spirit. 

But 2016 is different. This year, I would like to thank my parents for giving me the best Christmas ever. After 22 years, I have finally celebrated Christmas again with my mom and dad. 

We took a break from work and was able to fly home for Christmas. 

We did not have many gifts. I did not write or wait for Santa Claus but I was complete. My parents are not back together and they still have their reasons for the separation but they have opted to spend Christmas because of me. So, Mama and Papa -Thank you for giving me the chance to have this treasured moment. Plus, a family picture that I could keep forever. 

I realized that Christmas is not about material things. It is about being with your loved ones, being nice to others and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. 

If you are just like me who has lost the Christmas spirit, don't lose hope. We all have the chance to find it again by searching for the true meaning of the season. Let us open ourselves to pleasant encounters, thoughtful deeds, and forgiveness. 

I hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

Reward Yourself with Samsung’s Big Score in 11 Stores promo

Time to check this year’s resolutions – have you kept your promises, even over-delivered on your goals? Your accomplishments, both small and big victories, should be rewarded.

Get the home entertainment upgrade you’ve always desired and be rewarded for it, as Samsung brings the “Big Score in 11 Stores” promo. From November 30 to December 4, score big savings and premium rewards when you buy select Samsung TVs, such as Samsung Curved SUHD, SUHD, and UHD, in 11 Samsung dealers nationwide.

More than uncovering a new dimension viewing experience with Samsung TVs, here are other treats Samsung has in store for you after a year of hard work:

• Take home a free Samsung Galaxy S7, Galaxy A7, Galaxy Tab A or Samsung Soundbar. Select Samsung TVs will let you own powerful gadgets, such as Samsung Galaxy S7, A7, or Tab A that can help you work smarter, or a Samsung Soundbar to complete the upgraded entertainment experience.
• Enjoy up to 60% discount on Samsung Soundbars. This year, transforming your entertainment room to a cinema-like zone can become a reality. Pair your Samsung SUHD TV with a Samsung Soundbar, Curved Soundbar, or Dolby Atmos Soundbar to bring home the cinema experience. Beautiful inside and out, these Samsung Soundbars will prove why they are better than typical home theater systems and perfect pair to your Samsung TVs.
• Win other premium surprises. Lastly, Samsung SUHD TV buyers will get a chance to win other Samsung premium items. This includes the Samsung Wireless Audio 360 R1 to enjoy a 360 perfectly balanced sound or Del Monte Christmas Packages to add to the Christmas fare.

The participating dealers are SM Appliance in SM Megamall; Abenson in Ascott Bonifacio Global City; Automatic Center in SM North EDSA; Anson’s The Link in Makati; Robinsons Appliance in Robinsons Magnolia in Quezon City; Savers Mall in Balibago, Pampanga; Addessa Galleria in Urdaneta, Pangasinan; First Family Appliance in Parkmall, Cebu; Metro Plaza in Gaisano Mall, Davao; Imperial Mega Showroom in Iloilo; and Solidmark in Limketkai Mall, Cagayan de Oro.  

End the year strong on a happier note and inspire the family to do bigger things next year with these rewards. For more details, visit the Samsung Facebook page or log on to samsung.com/ph/offers.

The Real Score about Working from Home

Working from home is very common nowadays. With an opportunity to earn a decent pay without living the comforts of your home, it is indeed a very attractive option. 

As a virtual assistant since 2014, I am very happy and content with my career decision. Saying goodbye to the corporate world has like the best thing since it provided me more time to pursue my personal goals and passion. Working from home meant that I do not have to worry about travel time to and from the office. In return, it has allowed me to have time to blog as well as put up several online shops. 

I must admit that starting out was a bit of a challenge since I really do not know where to begin looking or even how to land my first client. Though there were a lot of online communities or Facebook groups about working from home, it is very unfortunate that there are scammers all around. Sadly, you can even read reports about "networking" disguised as an online job that gave out disappointment to hopeful individuals. 

No offense to those in the networking business, it is a real business model but there is no need to offer it as something else so that people would attend or show up during presentations. 

So, if you are wondering what is working-from-home all about? Let me share some learnings and realizations based on my personal experience. 

1. You do not need to pay to start working. 

Yes, working from home should NOT entail registration fees. I have never paid anything to my clients for them to give me a job. Every job seeker wants a job to get paid and not the other way around. 

If they insist that they are legitimate but requires payment, please go and find another one. There are thousands of online jobs for you without you paying them. 

2. Stop looking for easy jobs. 

Think of yourself as a professional who is privileged not to report the office but the expectations regarding your quality of work and output is totally the same. If you want to get a decent pay, then make sure your job or responsibilities is worth your pay. 

If you want to succeed in this industry, go beyond data entry jobs. The opportunities are endless. 

3. If it's too good to be true, it's not true. 

Have you ever read a post about getting paid in dollars for simply watching videos or earn $25 to answer one survey? If you come to think of it, who would spend money that big for that? What's in it for the business that can afford to give you the high payout? 

On the other hand, I will tell you that there are survey sites who are legitimate, however, please do not make this as your main source of income. On an average, you can earn Php 250 pesos (in cash or gift certificates) in 2-3 months. If you are interested, you can send me a PM on facebook so I can give you more details. 

4. Working from Home is not for everyone. 

I believe that working from home is not for everyone. Working at home entails a lifestyle change and proper mindset. Successful work at home professionals are self-motivated. It does not have the usual fun office atmosphere. Only a few companies have Christmas parties or get-togethers since workers come from different locations.

However, if you choose this career route, I guarantee that it's life-changing and 100% worth your time. Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to follow, The Purple Secretary in Facebook for tips and updates. 

How to get a copy of your NSO Birth Certificate and NSO Marriage Contract?

Val and I will be renewing our passports next month and as a requirement, we need to submit a NSO copy of our birth certificate since we still do not have e-passports. Also, since I will be updating my name to my married name, I also would need to submit a NSO copy of our marriage contract. 

For those who will be getting their NSO documents here in Bacolod, please take note that they have moved from the back of the Capitol/ Plaza. The new National Statistics Office (NSO) here in Bacolod is located at the back of Mcdonalds East near Eastwest Bank. 

The process of securing the documents is very fast and easy. 

1. First, fill out the request forms. Request forms for birth certificates are colored white while forms for marriage contracts is pink. 

Some of the information that you need are the following:

A. Birth Certificate

1. Name

2. Date of Birth

3. Place of Birth

4. Father's Name (including middle initial)

5. Mother's Maiden Name

6. Is it late registration? 

7. Purpose of Request

B. Marriage Contract

1. Name of Husband

2. Name of Wife

3. Date of Marriage

4. Place of Marriage

5. Purpose of Request

2. Make a payment. Fee for NSO copy of birth certificate and marriage contract is Php 140 each.

3. After payment, wait for your name to be called at the releasing section. Based on our experience, it only took us 20 minutes before we got our documents. 

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Make sure that you have a government issued ID to be presented upon claiming. 

Tips:

1. Come in early as they are giving out numbers. 

2. In the afternoon, they can still accommodate clients even if they don't have numbers provided that there are only few people waiting to be served. On most cases, cut off time is at 4pm. 

3. Don't forget to bring a valid ID. In cases that the request will be made through a representative, make sure to send an authorization letter and both your valid IDs. 

Tips on How to Save Money

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% mine.

With the rising prices of commodities, it is a must for every household to utilize money saving schemes. This may be employed in different ways such as decreasing consumption, switching to a cheaper brand or by looking for bargains and discounts.

Personally, I opt to save by looking for the best deals, bargains, and discounts. Also here are some tips at you can use to save money. 

1. Shop ahead of time. 

When I need to purchase something, I make sure that I shop ahead of time to give me ample opportunity to look around and compare prices. Whether we admit it or not, if we are in a rush to purchase something and have no choice, we just don't care how much it will cost. 

Not to mention, we may even have to spend extra for expedited shipping. 

2. Buy in bulk

Yes, purchasing bigger quantities gives us discounts and most of the time it comes out really cheaper. The only disadvantage is if we do not have enough funds for it. 

3. Use coupons

This one is my favorite because of Groupon Coupons. With Groupon, you can get the best deals discounts and freebies. They have a lot of brands/ stores included in the list plus it is so easy to use. The system allows me to directly search what I am looking for or sort it by location. 

Here are some of the current deals in Groupon Coupons

1. 50% off at Shoes for Crews

2. Clinique's Free 7-Piece Gift With Any $27 Order

3. 50% off Prints at Walgreens

4. Macy's: Up To 60% Off + EXTRA 10–15% Off
5. Kenneth Cole: Up To 50% sitewide
6. Medifast: Get $15 off on new plans. 

Just visit the site to see what other amazing offers they have also don't forget to share your best coupon finds at the comment section below.