We all have unique beliefs and ways to gather news and information. Lifehacker has a series called, “How I Work“; Oprah is known for her “What I Know For Sure“; and Bianca Gonzales writes for Philstar for “10 Things.”
So if you met the person you admire, the best thing to tell them is: “I’m a fan of your work. How do you learn?” From today onward, I’m starting a series asking people this question, starting with me.
How I Learn by Crystal Superal
What Inspires You?
This quote from Mother Theresa: “You cannot always do great things, but you can always do small things with great love.” I always remember that when I’m overwhelmed.
Describe a typical day.
I wake up at 5:30AM to get ready for work. First on my plate is producing a sports commentary, “Hacksaws Headlines.” Then throughout the day, I gather news topics related to our show. I scan the internet for the most important topics of today.
One of the most important habits for me is my afternoon nap. Then at about 5PM, I read, workout, or usually take my brother Wolen out to explore San Diego. Weekends are reserved for cleaning, pampering, and errands.
What do you check or read everyday?
Lifehacker – I cannot emphasize how big of a fan I am of Lifehacker. I love their productivity hacks, and recently, their posts about finance and marriage.
Who And What Do You Follow?
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Brainpickings – exceptional content day in and day out. |
Maria Popova of Brainpickings (Art, Science, Culture) – most remarkable universal content for visuals and literary types.
Jean of Extrapetite (Fashion) – I credit her for streamlining my wardrobe.
Trent of Simple Dollar (Personal Finance) – I’m constantly astounded by the depth and gravity of his daily blog.
Gretchen Rubin of Happiness Project (Productivity, Happiness) – Her book is funny, backed with research, succinct and relevant.
99U (Creativity) – constantly injects me with fresh ideas.
Those are the main ones but I also regularly check Lynne Rosetta Casper of Splendid Table. Her foodie podcast is incredibly enriching. A few years ago, I discovered Rick Steves of Traveling With Rick Steves. He inspires me to backpack in Europe.
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Carlos, a renowned Manila tour guide (left) and Sarah, a businesswoman/host/model. |
Lastly, my two favorite Filipinos are true to their authentic voice, courageous and improves the Philippines everyday: Carlos Celdran and Sarah Meier.
What Influences You The Most?
My fiancé, Jovi Neri. He is the most stable, happiest, and least neurotic person I know. My theory is because he pursues personal fulfillment, which as experts say, is the core of happiness. Our recent conversation involved wiring funds internationally. I just wouldn’t have mapped it out as clearly without him.
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Forthright, irreverent, logical and bold. My future husband is one I’ve always admired. |
Other than Jovi, I’m addicted to reading. You could see that from all the sites I follow! Plus I read several books a month. Current on my shelf is Joan Didion’s, “A Year Of Magical Thinking” about death and grief, and Oprah’s surprisingly pleasant book on happiness.
What Is A Book Or Movie That Changed You?
Who Would You Like To Learn From?
For writing, Ray Bradbury. I still haven’t known anybody who respected and found joy in writing as much as he did. For traveling, Rick Steves – man’s an empire. And I’m still looking for someone to emulate in terms of a whole, fulfilling life.
Do You Have A Sacred Daily Ritual?
When I sit down to eat, I look at my plate and figure out how nutritionally balanced I can make it. I protect my sleep, and I stretch or exercise everyday. I believe it all starts with taking care of yourself, otherwise you can’t for other things.
What’s A Turning Point For You?
Learning about Don Miguel Ruiz’s “Four Agreements” at a young age.
What Essential Things Do You Need To Do Good Work?
1. Yellowpad for free writing.
2. A Macbook is fast, light and beautiful for creative work. Then I upload or organize my files Google+ and Drive.
3. Car. I live for novelty and my car has enabled me.
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My life has exponentially gotten better now that I’m free to go wherever and whenever I want. |
What Do You Know For Sure?
If you do not have time for these then you’ll definitely have time for illness later on. The three pillars of health: stress, food and exercise.
I’d love ___ To Answer These Questions.
Jovi Neri, of course.