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Will Dubai make you rich?

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Will Dubai make you rich?

I often get the impression that the longer we stay in Dubai, the richer we become.

But, I say (working in) Dubai alone won’t make one rich.

Dubai, however, gives you a favorable environment to become rich. It’s up to you to maximize it.

What will determine your financial success, regardless of where you may be, are…

  • Your values
  • Your work ethic
  • Your mindset
  • Your attitude
  • Your faith

At the end of the day, it’s all about the actions you take (or didn’t take).

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We shouldn’t judge a nationality by the actions of a few

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We shouldn’t judge a nationality by the actions of a few

“Angelo is late again. I think all Filipinos are always late.” “Diego is rude! Maybe all Mexicans are rude too.” “Joe is lazy, so all Westerners are lazy.”

“Rajib is a hard worker. Maybe all Indians are hard workers.” “Kristine can sing, so all Filipinos are good singers.” “Ahmad is so creative. I guess all Arabs are creative.”

It is not fair to make sweeping generalizations about an entire race based on one’s behavior. Work ethics and actions are shaped by a variety of factors, including personal motivation, education, and access to resources, and can vary greatly among people.

Challenge stereotypes

Stereotypes are harmful and often inaccurate. It is important to avoid making assumptions about an individual based on their nationality.

These broad generalizations can cause harm, are unfair, and feed negative prejudices.

Refocus

It is more appropriate to focus on individual qualities and to recognize that skills, abilities, and behavior are also influenced by personal and societal factors, rather than by race or nationality.

If you focus on individuals, you avoid being driven by stereotypes.

We can easily be swayed by generalizations. But remember to treat everyone with respect and kindness, all the time, regardless of nationality.

This will help to foster positive relationships and prevent harmful animosities from growing even more.

So next time you hear someone say Chinese people are this and that, tell them, so as some Filipinos, Pakistanis, Italians, Russians.

All nationalities have a fair share of positive and negative traits.

It’s not about nationality.

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Photo from pexels.

How do we “unfrustrate” ourselves?

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How do we “unfrustrate” ourselves?

I brought the car to a service today and was promised to wait for 3 – 4 hours only. It ended up taking 9+ hours to complete. My day was totally impacted – I had to move some meetings and work. It was frustrating, and I was growing impatient as the hours went by.

Then I realized that getting upset and angry would not change the situation or make things go any faster. So, I told myself to stay calm and patient.

Well, sometimes things don’t go as planned, and delays and unexpected hiccups happen. While it’s natural to feel frustrated or disappointed, it’s important to stay peaceful in these situations.

If you face something similar, just take a deep breath and remember THINGS WILL EVENTUALLY WORK OUT.

Thank God I just read a related reminder that “it is wise to stay calm.”

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Meeting new people inspires us to become better

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Meeting new people inspires us to become better

Do you believe that?

I do.

That’s why I show up when there’s an opportunity – IF AND WHEN my priority allows so. Even at times the introvert in me tries to stop me.

Meeting new people, joining events for the first time, and visiting unfamiliar places are some ways to enhance our creativity that allows us to feel better and do things better.

Here I am celebrating with a very diverse #NightFam group from 20+ countries as Project Nightfall reaches a very meaningful milestone.

And true enough, having those conversations with each and everyone in the group, and hearing from Sonya and Agon once again “re-inspired” all of us on the boat.

Showing up is already one big step toward success. Woody Allen said, “80% of success is showing up.”

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Why Filipinos only mingle with fellow Filipinos?

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Why Filipinos only mingle with fellow Filipinos?

Let me rephrase that a bit, “Why do Filipinos abroad prefer to mingle with fellow Filipinos?”

My friend asked me, “Why you guys always group together? Why don’t you mingle with non-Filipinos?” I agree with what he’s trying to say.

Filipinos are not really snobs.

Because of the stigma that has been stoked by the media about life overseas, particularly the tragic circumstances of some OFWs, some Filipinos may be hesitant to approach people of other nationalities.

That’s why many of us seek that instant sense of belonging. Finding a community of fellow Filipinos can help give that feeling “at home” in a foreign land. While far from absolute truth, it has become a default that we feel ‘safe‘ when we’re with our kababayan.

But more than safety, Filipinos abroad often find comfort in being around their compatriots. It’s natural in us to seek connections with those who share a common language or dialect, cultural background, or experiences.

We love exclusive chats, eating out together, do fun activities together. Hence, Pinoy mafia!

Here abroad, there’s just something special about being able to share the same humor, news (gossip), a favorite dish, or a memory with someone who understands it on a deep level.

Other nationalities find this kind of “solidarity” admirable.

While there are valid reasons to keep doing this, it is not always appreciated especially if you are in a multicultural environment – be it in the workplace, community, or event.

People of other nationalities would also love to connect with us.

Being in this space is a great opportunity to share our culture and also gain a better understanding of the world. We could develop a more meaningful view of different cultures and ways of life as well.

I don’t see why we should limit our circle to Filipinos only. For one, we should appreciate the diversity that’s already within us. You’ll be surprised to learn that we have more similarities than differences.

Keep your clubs, group, and those Pinoy lunch-outs… they’re cool. Do not, however, restrict who you connect and immerse with.

Because in reality, that is the whole core of living in a city like Dubai.

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Photo from pexels.

There’s a Dubai-based Facebook group for giving

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There’s a Dubai-based Facebook group for giving

Found this amazing online community where members post items to give for free to those in need – particularly to maids, workers, or low-income families (or those in dire need).

Members are giving away furniture, clothing, appliances, toys, books, and even breastmilk.

This group, Little People Big Hearts reminds us that kindness can truly make a difference.

As they say, ‘No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.’ So if you have the desire in your heart to give, this platform is for you. And if at this season, you are in need, do check the group as well – you might just find answers to your crucial needs.

About Little People Big Hearts Group

According to its Facebook page, the group is “for people who wish to gift items and their time to the people often forgotten in the world. Changing the world one smile and thank you at a time.”

People who receive our gifts are construction workers, cleaners, maids, and people in need. We also send gifts to countries in need which include; India, Uganda, the Philippines, Bangkok, South Africa, and Kenya.

Little People Big Hearts

Some posts from the group

Here are examples of what people are sharing and posting in that group:

Photo from the group’s Facebook page.

We’ve been buying second hand and we’re saving money

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We’ve been buying second hand and we’re saving money

I used to not like second-hand stuff for personal reasons but surprisingly, there are many Dubai residents selling pre-loved items in really good condition.

The past 3 months, we’ve ‘hoarded’ many of them – bed frames, tables, crib and stroller of high-end brands, and some toys.

It saves us a ton of money. SERIOUSLY. Instead of paying for the price of new ones, we pay only about 10% (or even less) of the original cost. Not only that, we get to buy high-quality brands that we wouldn’t even consider buying brand new because of price.

Our conditions are simple:

  • Not used for a long time
  • Still useful
  • Clean and in an acceptable state
  • Promotes sustainability

We then clean it thoroughly before use. In the case of baby items, we brought them to a stroller spa to be cleaned and be sanitized properly.

Most of the sellers we bought from were families who only had to stay in Dubai for a short time. They had to leave the country because they are only here for a project assignment. So that speaks to why many items remain in good condition.

With careful attention to details (and a bit of interview) buying second-hand items can be a great way to save money – while still getting the items you need.

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They gave me an Iftar box even if I’m not fasting

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They gave me an Iftar box even if I’m not fasting

It is really heartwarming to see the police and volunteers giving out Iftar boxes to drivers (and passengers) in Dubai during traffic. And they give it to ANYONE, regardless if you’re driving a Sunny or a Lamborghini, a BMW, or a BMX.

This sight of sharing and giving this Ramadan is truly a good reminder that there’s still goodness and generosity among people – especially in this country.

The guy insisting that I take the box even after I politely refused (because I’m not fasting), fosters a noble sense of community and connection. May this act continue and be emulated across borders.

Thank you Dubai and UAE for showing the world how it should be done.

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Thanks for reading. Follow Boy Dubai on Facebook for more tips, relatable stories, and practical realities about living in Dubai. I only tell stories worth telling—all from experiences.

You have no idea how much you could influence others

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You have no idea how much you could influence others

I met Kumar (middle) in one of my runs. He approached and asked for a photo with me.

He said he follows me on Instagram and is encouraged by my consistency in running.

He told me that my posts inspired him to also run at least weekly, and since then he started to feel better about himself (not only in running).

Why am I sharing this?

Well, I’m just an ordinary runner. I’m not in tip-top shape. And I don’t have much following in that new Instagram account (@runboydubairun). I also told Kumar that I’m just as new in the sport as he is.

But, the consistent posting about my journey has inspired at least one person.

I once doubted myself whether I can really add value through my blogs. Until I learned not to be distracted by numbers. I always say, one positively influenced mindset is already a big reward.

So if you’re thinking about starting a blog, a channel, or any online platform, believe that we all have meaningful stories to tell – stories that may impact people in various ways. Share it away with the intention to encourage.

You have no idea how much your story could influence others.

Thank God for Paternity Leave

Ion
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Thank God for Paternity Leave

In the past, not too many companies give much importance to paternity leaves compared to mom’s maternity leaves.

With our firstborn, I only got 2 days of paid leave (That was 10 years ago).

This time, I am blessed to use 25 working days of paternity leave – thanks to our company recognizing the evolving nature of parenting. The longer leave period is a way of honoring the importance of fathers being able to spend time with their newborns.

Rightly so, we, husbands, become the number one helpmate of our spouses after childbirth – especially when the moms need to rest and have complete recovery from the labor or operation.

Longer paternity leave encourages shared parenting responsibilities – something the mothers would surely appreciate.

Fathers also experience broken sleep patterns. We have to stay up during the wee hours of the night too. We take turns in changing diapers, feeding, and singing lullabies.

Not to mention, doing more house chores than usual. And in my case, also babysit the other kids.

Imagine if you have to go back to work quickly, and spend sleepless nights to fulfill these added husband and daddy duties? So longer paternal leave is also good for mental health.

Fathers, most of the time, run errands too from the day-to-day needs to the processing of the baby’s documents such as birth certificate and passport.

Paternity leave in the UAE

In the UAE, the law says that fathers can take up to 5 days of PATERNITY leave. Another 5 days of PARENTAL leave can be used by both the father and mother within 6 months after birth. Some companies have the initiative to give more.

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