I grew up living with the traditional definition of success – finish school, get a good job title, own properties, run a business and stand up on your own. 

In reaching those goals I set small goals for myself (too small like getting a perfect score every quiz and giving my best everyday at work). I worked hard. Stay focused on the goals. Built good relationship with my peers. I would like to think that I excelled in everything that I did. Somehow I always knew that success means doing what I love more (and staying in bed when I still want to sleep) 💤😀 . I took risks. I left my job in one of the best companies in the world. I challenged myself that I can do it.  [Read a part of my story here]

But at some point in my life I stopped dreaming. Or maybe I felt that my dreams are not big enough. I always let the future surprised me. 

In this generation that is fueled by passion, sky is the limit when it comes to plotting goals and dreams. 

It was a timely event as the world’s best-selling water, Aquafina launched the #BestBeginsNow campaign which aims to help today’s youth to reach their fullest potential through learning from a series of talks by experts who have inspired to reach their best. 

The Beauty Like a Queen area was graced with the presence of  Pia Wurtzbach, Michelle Gumabao and designer Francis Libiran joined by Jonas Gaffud and Albert Kurniawan who shared how one will feel more confident in his/her own looks and also shared tips about choosing a personal style. 

I am always inspired with Pia’s determination to win the Miss Universe title. Putting myself into her shoes, I felt that after a series of rejection, I would just give up and focus on other things. Her story will always be my inspiration to keep going when the future presents me with rejections and fails. 

The Make It Trend area for content creation showcased food styling with Hey Handsome chef, Nico Santos and food stylist Chichi Tullao who demonstrated how simple dishes could come to life with a bit of imagination. Social media maven and award-winning entrepreneur Martine Cajucom, on the other hand, spoke about personal branding and how one could use it to their advantage. 

Hosts Sam YG and Suzy Gamboa took centerstage in the Host Like a Pro segement as they both talked about hosting, mentoring up-and-coming Magic 89.9 junior jocks focusing on maintaining composure during live shows and keeping the conversation flowing to avoid dead air. 

It was a very meaningful event that somehow inspired me to set new goals for myself.   It is a great reminder to not be complacent and always keep striving to improve ones’ self. 

Best Begins Now. Do Not Delay Your Dreams. 

What keeps you going? 

Follow me @ruthilicious.