3 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU START BUSINESS

Posted at 02/07/2015 12:24 PM
(Editor's note: The Business Mentor invited Caren Kate Cu, an engineer turned entrepreneur, to share her insights. Cu is currently the owner of The Purple Maiden, a weight management and spa center; Purchase Manager of NMCCC, their family business and a Speaker and Trainer for iLearn Philippines. She also founded The Happyness Project, a non-government Volunteer organization focusing on feeding malnourished children in the country.)
MANILA, Philippines - 2015 is the best time to do the plans that we made last 2014 about our dreams that we thought of last 2013. Make sense? It may February but is still the 2nd month of a brand new year.
New years have always been fascinating for me as it brings out positivity in a lot of people. What’s interesting is the New Year’s resolution of which majority starts but not everyone is able to finish, like losing weight or starting a business.
When people ask me for advice on how to start their own business, I realized, that a lot of people fail to start or start but never get to finish because they’re asking the wrong question. Worse, they don’t even ask questions.
FIRST QUESTION
You see, the first question should be – What is the mindset of an entrepreneur?
I remember, when I was starting, I would wake up early, work on my part-time job in the morning and work on my business after lunch until night. Talking to clients, delivering orders, upgrading my services, studying about systems, attending seminars, looking for mentors until it all becomes automatic for me.
I understand that the first few years are critical; it was okay for me to not have a car, cut down on my expenses and just focused on developing my business and myself. In the outside, being an employee seemed like a better idea than where I was but I knew that I was building my foundation so that in five or more years, I can have whatever I want.
The truth is, buying your inventory, or getting your own franchise or putting up that four-corner shop office does not make you an entrepreneur overnight. I learned that it is my mind, which determines my business success.
Entrepreneurship is never about having money to start, but having the right mind to understand it. The first year is all about learning. You may earn a few but it should go back to the business and invested into learning more about your chosen field. A lot of people make the mistake of spending their first profit that they end up broke in the first year of business. Delayed gratification is important.
“Be willing to do what other people won’t do so that later on, you will be able to do what other people can’t.”
Caren Kate Cu is seen attending a South East Asian Convention in Singapore about business success with author Jack Zufelt in 2010.
SECOND QUESTION
What is the heart set of an entrepreneur? It’s okay to be afraid, if you haven’t been scared, then you’re not human. Everyone makes mistakes. The only person who doesn’t are those that never tried.
Am I scared? Of course I am. Did I fail? Yes, it took me two failed businesses and a lot of debt to finally succeed. Given that, do I still recommend being in business? Yes, but only if you are willing to go through breakdowns because that’s the only time that you’ll experience breakthroughs. A lot of people stop at the first sign of failure. What’s worse they stop even before they start because the people around them – family and friends – tells them it’s impossible.
True, failure, rejections and making mistakes are painful, but it won’t kill you. I’ve had a lot of experiences where orders were taken back, nothing was coming in and creditors are calling. I just kept on. I always remember my mentor telling me, “You act as if your heart is brittle when it is made to handle a million heartbreaks.” It is okay to be afraid or to fail, just do it anyway.
I chose to be with successful and positive people and let go of the negative ones even if they are my family. I am doing it for them anyway. If you want to succeed as a singer, ask a successful singer. If you want to succeed as a writer, ask a successful writer. If you want to succeed in business, whom do you ask? Your co-worker or sister who don’t even has his or her own business?
“People ask me, what if you fail? I reply, what if I succeed?”
The founder of The Happyness Project Organization which helps feed malnourished children in the country
THIRD QUESTION
Lastly, one should ask – What are the skillset needed for me to succeed in this business?
Before I went into business, I was a university professor, a planning engineer then an account manager. The skills I needed on how to do those jobs well were different. So, it is just common sense that business also has different skill requirements.
Yes, passion and doing what you love is important, but if you do not know how to manage your finances, do basic accounting or work on sales and marketing then you will end up just breaking even or worse, closing down. I learned that the hard way.
I smile when people tell me “I want to do business but I don’t want to sell”. How is that even possible? You can’t expect customers to call you the minute you set up your business. It’s part of the deal. I am not an employee anymore who should focus only on one area.
As the owner, I should oversee everything: purchasing, inventory, systems, customer service, and salary of my people, taxes. The difference between an expanding business and a failing one is the ability of the owner to learn more skills as they go along.
“If you are not growing and learning, then you are dying.”
In the end, it’s all about preparing and taking action. Be careful, though about preparing too much. Don’t aim to learn everything before you start.
The best lessons are learned on the battleground. You can only learn how to swim by jumping on the water. It’s not going to be easy, but it’s going to be worth it. It’s high time you succeed and give back to the world. Good luck to your 2015 and see you in the beaches of the world.
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For questions and more information, you may contact Armando "Butz" Bartolome by email:philfranchiseguru@gmail.com or on Twitter (https://twitter.com/philfranguru). His website iswww.gmb.com.ph

Top 10 Philippine Hotels Outside Of Metro Manila

With the traffic in Manila expected to get even worse in the coming years, most of us just desperately want to get away from it all and take a nice, relaxing vacation… forever. Okay, maybe not that long.
If you’ve memorized when the long weekend holidays are for 2015 and are now in the middle of planning multiple weekend getaways or maybe even week-long breaks, this list should come in handy.
Here’s what looloo reviewers rated as the top 10 Philippine hotels outside Metro Manila for 2014.

10. Acuatico Beach Resort & Hotel

Number of Reviews in 2014: 12

Average Rating for 2014: 4.40 / 5.00

Acuatico Beach Resort & Hotel is just 2-3 hours away from Manila. One of the most popular beach resorts in Batangas, Acuatico is famous for its infinity pool which provides a breathtaking view of the Tayabas Bay. The best part? Their infinity pool comes with a sunken bar in the middle of it! After all, what is better than chilling in the pool than chilling in the pool with a drink in your hand?
Acuatico Beach Resort, Batangas, Philippines
If you don’t like staying in a man-made body of water and would rather be one with nature, Acuatico isn’t called a beach resort for nothing. Just a couple of feet away from the hotel is the white and sandy beach of Laiya. Get your dose of exercise by kayaking and using their pedal boat for free… or just find a beach chair and chill some more. We won’t judge.

Acuatico Beach Resort & Hotel

Laiya, San Juan,
Batangas, Philippines
+63 2 892 7577 | +63 928 854 3849

9. Pico de Loro Beach and Country ClubNumber of Reviews in 2014: 29
Average Rating for 2014: 4.04 / 5.00

Batangas, also known as the “cradle of heroes and nationalists”  seems to have been a popular destination this past year as another resort from this province makes it to the list.
Hamilo Coast Pico de Loro Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines
Photo from picosandshotel.com
Owned and developed by the SM group, Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club is a members-only beach club located in the 5,800-hectare Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas.
An ideal weekend destination, it’s impossible to run out of things to do when you visit. From looking at their beautiful 4-hectare man-made lagoon to going bowling to playing beach volleyball (they even have a basketball and tennis court) to even hiking, there is something to do for everyone in the family or barkada.
If you’re not a member, don’t worry! As long as you know someone who owns a unit here, you can still visit and enjoy the country club. There are also Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club unit owners who rent their units out to non-members. If these two options aren’t possible, you can always book a stay at Pico Sands Hotel, also located in Hamilo Coast.

Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club           

Hamilo Coast, Nasugbu,
Batangas, Philippines
+63 2 503 6048 | +63 917 580 9360

Agoda



8. Thunderbird ResortsNumber of Reviews in 2014: 17
Average Rating for 2014: 4.24 / 5.00

Known to Derek Ramsey and Anne Curtis fans as the location for the 2011 box office hit No Other Woman, Thunderbird Resorts is also popularly known by its guests as the “Greece of the North.”
Inspired by the beautiful Oia, the most famous village in Santorini, Greece, guests are welcomed with picturesque, whitewashed and blue-domed architecture set against the backdrop of the West Philippine Sea. After you’re done appreciating the beautiful scenery, you can go cycling, head to San Juan (15 minutes away) to go surfing, hit the greens and play golf, or try your luck and go to Thunderbird Resorts’ Fiesta Casinos.

Thunderbird Resorts                                                     

Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando City
La Union, Philippines
+63 72 888 7777 | +63 917 586 5178
Agoda


7. The Manor at Camp John HayNumber of Reviews in 2014: 17
Average Rating for 2014: 4.25 / 5.00

If you’re tired of the hot and humid weather in the Philippines, head up north to Baguio and check yourself into The Manor, a hotel beautifully set in the midst of towering pine trees. Opened in 2002, this classic European manor-inspired hotel is located on the southeastern side of Baguio called Camp John Hay, a 690-hectare area built during the American occupation as an R&R (rest and relaxation) facility for their military.
Its luxurious ambience requires no air conditioning units — all you have to do is open the hotel room windows to let the fresh, cool air in. For the vacationer with a sweet tooth, reviewers also mention the freshly baked raisin bread and strawberry shortcake from the hotel bakeshop.

The Manor at Camp John Hay                                    

Loakan Road, Baguio City,
Benguet, Philippines
+63 74 424 0931 to 43
Agoda


6. Costa PacificaNumber of Reviews in 2014: 14
Average Rating for 2014: 4.43 / 5.00

Costa Pacifica has only been open for about two years but some reviewers are already calling it “the best resort in Baler.” Based on the reviews we’ve read, it looks like Costa Pacifica quickly figured out the winning combination of offering great service, good food (reviewers love their pizza!), and spacious rooms – all in a top-notch location in Baler, Aurora.
The hotel has over 100 suites, two pools, a restaurant, and quick access to Sabang Beach, a popular surfing spot in Baler. Known to also have that “chill tropical vibe,” it’s the perfect place to retreat to after a tiring day with the waves.

Costa Pacifica                                                                          

80 Buton St., Sabang Beach, Baler,
Aurora, Philippines
+63 2 576 4555 | +63 917 853 6040
Agoda


5. Two Seasons Boracay ResortNumber of Reviews in 2014: 13
Average Rating for 2014: 4.62 / 5.00

Conveniently located along Boracay’s Station 1, Two Seasons Boracay is just steps away from the famous white beach. Depending on which room you pick, you can even watch the famous Boracay sunset in the comfort of your own hotel room.
Two Seasons Boracay
Equipped with its own private pool, large bathrooms, minimalist room designs, and all at reasonable rates, it is wise to book your stay months in advance – especially since they only have 34 rooms.
And let’s not forget about their food. They’re known to have the “best Four Cheese Pizza on the island.” If pizza is too common for you then you’ll have to try their crazy yet much-raved about Oyster Sisig. Good food, spacious rooms and a top location at reasonable prices are just some of the things that make Two Seasons Boracay a highly rated hotel.

Two Seasons Boracay Resort                                         

Station 1, Boracay,
Aklan, Philippines
+63 36 288 4384 | +63 917 327 7346

Agoda



4. Baguio Country ClubNumber of Reviews in 2014: 14
Average Rating for 2014: 4.59 / 5.00

A club founded by Governor General William Cameron Forbes during the American occupation, Baguio Country Club has been around for over 100 years. Its name being synonymous with prestige, tranquility, and exclusivity, it has continued to attract VIPs and guests looking for that perfect vacation in the City of Pines.
Baguio Country Club
Photo from bcc.com.ph
From the breathtaking views to the heated pools to the magnificent golf course, staying at the Baguio Country Club is filled with numerous amenities matched with impeccable service — all designed to give you a rewarding experience.
If you are lucky enough to be a member or be sponsored by one, you can choose to stay in any of their cozy rooms (ranging from deluxe rooms to presidential suites) or if you’re with a larger group, stay in one of their cottages for that ultimate vacation house experience in Baguio.

Baguio Country Club

Baguio Country Club Rd., Baguio,
Benguet, Philippines
+63 74 619 2050 to 64 | +63 74 619 6843




3. Las Casas Filipinas de AcuzarNumber of Reviews in 2014: 13
Average Rating for 2014: 4.68 / 5.00

A refreshing addition to this list is Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (when translated, roughly means “Philippine Houses of Acuzar”) – a heritage hotel in Bagac, Bataan that should be on top of any history buff’s bucket list.
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan
Jose “Jerry” Acuzar is the architect/art collector behind Las Casas Filipinas and the painstaking relocation of the heritage houses you’ll find on this 400-hectare property. The 27 heritage houses dating from the 18th to 19th centuries come from all over the country creating a unique heritage park that not only takes you back in time but also gives you a tour of different places in the Philippines.
You can book a room or even a house (up to 7 bedrooms!) and get a feel for what life was like in the Philippines without cars, malls, or *gasp* the internet. See the Las Casas Filipinas staff dressed in Filipinianas and revolutionary garb. Tour the area and not just learn about Philippine history, but actually see it.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Bagac, Bataan, Philippines
+63 2 332 5338 | +63 2 332 5286
                                       Agoda


2. Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island CebuNumber of Reviews in 2014: 14
Average Rating for 2014: 4.73 / 5.00

From Bataan’s Philippine heritage hotel Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, we fast forward to the Swiss-based Mövenpick Resort & Spa in Mactan Island, Cebu. Opened in 2013 with a ₱500 million transformation, it was even the 2nd most Googled local destination in the Philippines for that same year.
High ceilings, interiors that are predominantly white with pops of blue and turquoise, Chopard toiletries, a private beach — everything about Mövenpick is modern. Designed for the active adult, they offer yoga, pilates, and Zumba classes. At night, after you marvel at how even more beautiful the place becomes, you can head to the Ibiza beach club, an outdoor lounge and bar housing world-class talent.
And if you have kids, not to worry. According to one reviewer, Mövenpick is at the same time, a “very child-friendly place.”

Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu                                    

Punta Engaño Rd., Mactan Island,
Cebu, Philippines
+63 32 492 7777
Agoda


1. Shangri-La Mactan Resort and SpaNumber of Reviews in 2014: 16
Average Rating for 2014: 4.77 / 5.00

The hotel with the highest rating for 2014 on this list, Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa in Cebu doesn’t just stop at offering their guests spacious rooms and excellent service; they also make sure that all their guests – including children – will stay happily busy and entertained for days.
Mactan Shangri-La Resort and Spa, Cebu, Philippines
Photo from shangri-la.com
Suffering from a terrible case of #SepAnx is completely normal since this resort has everything you’ll ever need in a vacation. A 350-meter white-sand beach ideal for lounging, a 6-hectare marine sanctuary for the aquatic animal lover, countless water activities like windsurfing, diving courses, and glass-bottom boat rides for the adventurous, a three-floor arcade and water playground for the children… that’s not even half of what’s on their list of things you can do. It’s not surprising that some reviewers find that a three-day stay here isn’t even enough.
With a massive renovation costing over ₱700 million that was completed in 2013, Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa is serious about being one of the top vacation destinations in the country.

Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa

Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu,
Cebu, Philippines
+63 32 231 0288

SOURCE: http://insights.looloo.com/top-10-philippine-hotels-outside-of-manila/?utm_source=outbrain&utm_medium=cd&utm_campaign=all

Eggs - Cholesterol and Weight Loss

Do you eat eggs? If not you may want to consider adding this protein packed food to your meal plan.

Eggs and diabetes 


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I love eggs! Do you love eggs? A recent study conducted on egg consumption and individuals with Type 2 Diabetes may cause you to reconsider eggs for your breakfast. 
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The study 

140 overweight people participated in this study and they were divided into 2 groups, group 1 was a low-egg group, consuming less than 2 eggs per week, group 2 was a high egg group that consumed 2 eggs per day at breakfast, 6 days a week for 3 months. The study was conducted on individuals with pre-diabetes or type 2 Diabetes. 
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Education provided

Participants in the study received monthly nutrition education for better foods to choose for individuals with diabetes, and were told to focus on good unsaturated fats vs saturated fats. 
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Results

This study found that there was no significant difference in “good” HDL cholesterol between groups. And those that were in the high egg group actually had a trend toward HDL improvement. 

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Less hunger, more fullness

Individuals in the low-egg group were instructed to eat as much protein as the high egg group. Even though they were consuming the same amount of protein, the high egg group reported less hunger and greater fullness or satiety after meals. This may be beneficial in individuals trying to lose weight.