Moving from the quiet life of Quezon Province to the bustling streets of Manila, I discovered that true growth begins the moment we step outside our comfort zones.
By Cathlyn Cabrera
Entering the corporate world has drastically changed my lifestyle. As a probinsyana girl from Quezon Province, moving to Manila felt like stepping into a whole new world. I quickly realized that if I wanted to grow in my career, I needed to embrace this shift with open arms.
Living independently in the city was the toughest initiation into adulthood. Suddenly, I had to cook my own meals, wash dishes and clothes, search for a comfortable place to stay, and nurse myself back to health whenever I got sick. These weren’t just tasks—they were life lessons that taught me responsibility and resilience.
During my first week, culture shock hit me hard. Heavy traffic, chaotic crowds, and even hearing stories of snatching incidents left me overwhelmed. But I took a deep breath and reminded myself: “This is part of the reality of life.” Manila tested me in many ways, yet it also shaped me.
Living far from family means taking care of your physical and mental health while staying productive at work. It requires discipline, resilience, and self-motivation. Over time, I realized that I could adapt—and even thrive—in this environment.
One friend constantly encouraged me, saying: “Dream big, Lyn, and you’ll be a good marketer.” Those words became fuel. I worked hard, surrounded myself with the right people, and reshaped my lifestyle. I believe that when you surround yourself with five good people, you become like them.
“Living far from family requires discipline, resilience, and self-motivation.”
I’ve learned to run errands alone and value my personal space, which helped me build independence and inner strength. Yes, I’ve changed my lifestyle, but in return I’ve become stronger, more ambitious, and more determined.
“Surround yourself with five good people—and you’ll become one of them.”
The corporate journey is not easy. But by embracing challenges, staying focused on our goals, and pushing beyond our boundaries, we move closer to the success and fulfillment we dream of.
