Rise To The Occasion

Five tips for making the most of your opportunities!

Ever notice how there are some people who always rise to the top? They’re probably also the same ones who manage to turn losses into wins and just keep on going. So what is it about these individuals? Are they just born with a never-ending supply of lucky breaks? Are they blessed with some sort of intangible X factor? Are they smarter, richer, more connected, and more good-looking than everyone else? Or could it be that they just know how to make the most of the opportunities that come their way? We’d hazard a guess that the latter has a huge part to play in their success— and can’t wait to clue you in on these smart and savvy habits that will help you create your own triumphs. So read on, make the necessary tweaks, and watch the changes unfold.

1 DON’T RELY ON NATURAL TALENT.

We Pinoys get a thrill out of seeing natural talent— especially if it’s displayed by our kids and grandkids. We feel a surge of pride every time we witness this born with-it skill and can’t wait for our wonder child to one day be “discovered.” Unfortunately, many of us are so won over by these natural abilities that we fail to realize they actually need to be honed and developed. We label a good singer who takes voice lessons as “trying hard” or someone who starts selling her homemade crafts as “feeling.” But what’s wrong with trying hard to perfect our skills? Or feeling things out while exploring a new opportunity? The correct answer is: Nothing at all.

MY POPE TIP: There’s no shame in trying. You might not be an overnight success, but the more you improve your skills and talents, the more ready you will be to take advantage of the big (and not so big but still worthwhile) breaks that come your way.

2 GO BEYOND CONNECTIONS.