Quarantine Schedule
Wow. It’s been a month in quarantine. How is everyone feeling? I definitely have my days, but I feel extremely blessed that I am safe with my family at home. I’ve been enjoying working outside and brushing up on my cooking skills. Today, I’m sharing how I’ve been staying productive and what my days consist of. But honestly, there are days where I don’t have a schedule and that’s ok too!
Planner
I’m super old school when it comes to planning. I still use a daily planner and highlighters to keep me in check. Right now I’m lucky to be working from home. But with my two jobs, it’s hard to stay on track sometimes. When planning out my week, responsibilities that are a priority are at the top of my list and once I finish them I put a little checkmark. So satisfying. My planner also has a spot for 'Weekly to do’ and ‘Notes.’ Sometimes if I have a lot of things to do that day I will fully plan my day with times to make sure I get everything done. Target has great planners for cheap!
Have a routine
I try and wake up every day from 8 to 9 am. One thing I love doing in the morning is my skincare routine. Cleanse, cc serum, sunscreen. It brings back some normalcy to my life. On days I have to do Zoom meetings I do my everyday makeup routine to feel put together. Once I do that I get dressed (cute loungewear, of course), head downstairs, make a cup of coffee, then I get my day started. If I work out, it’s in the afternoon. Then when I’m done with work, I shower and watch a series with my family. We’ve watched a couple since quarantine. “Hunters,” “Zero Zero Zero",” “Designated Survivor” to name a few. Days are never exactly the same but parts of this routine have been an everyday thing for me.
Staying active
Honestly, I haven’t been the best at this. At the start of quarantine, I was going on runs and working out in my living room. But for the past two weeks, I haven’t been doing a lot of physical activity. Today I started working out again which felt great. I really just listen to my body but also I remind myself that I do want to be somewhat active during this time. I use the app OpenFit. (Fun fact: You might see a familiar face ;) I did a few a workout videos with them back in 2019. Also, who misses 2019?) They have great programs with 21 or 30 day plans. Ranging from pilates to 30 minute cardio videos. They also provide meal plans. You do have to pay, but I think it is pretty affordable and worth your while if you utilize it. Don’t be intimated by people who are working out every day, it doesn’t mean you’re less productive! I always suggest doing what works for you and what will make you feel good.
Here is my written out schedule! Again, things change day to day but I love writing out my schedule on cute templates! I used canva.com for this one.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Another year full of life lessons, lots of love, and growth. Just some highlights of my year… I met some amazing people, traveled a bit, danced a ton, and learned a lot about myself. I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful holiday! See you all in 2019. Xo, P
b-day thoughts
I just turned 26 this past Monday. WHOO! I’m sure like everybody else a lot of reflection and evaluation comes when your birthday rolls around. To give you a little background… my birthday last year was nothing like this year. I had just gone through a break-up with someone I was with for five years, so I was in a different headspace. I was worrying about what would happen in year, what my future would hold, and scared about this life change that I was going through. I know there’s a discussion on if we change or if we evolve and I think it’s a little bit of both. That breakup changed me in a way that I am so grateful for. I mean the list can go on and on but that’s not what this post is about. I know it’s extremely cliche to say… but I truly believe that things happen for a reason. At the time I think it was hard for me to admit but I think that was the best thing to have happened to me. It was the first time since I was 17 that I was able to be selfish and only think about myself. I was able to make decisions that only affected me and in a way I felt liberated! Also, if you’re wondering - I still absolutely 100% believe in love. My friend asked me that not too long ago and I didn’t even hesitate! Anyways, I’m getting off topic but 25 brought me so many amazing things, people, and experiences. To highlight a few, I met some amazing people that I hope to be lifelong friends, got a coaching job, and started my blog! I also learned that it’s ok to let go of things that aren’t meant for me anymore. I promised myself that this year I would invest in more things and people that make me happy, tell the people I love that I love them and support them in what they do, say yes to more experiences, and to be/love myself! I apologize if this post is kind of all over the place but not going to lie so was being 25! HAHA! I’m still figuring it all out and I am ok with that! What I do know for sure, is that a year flies by! If you’re going through something just know that time heals all and that change makes us grow. xo, P
thank u, next
Totally joking with the title of this blog post haha! Anyways, I had the sudden urge to write about what I was thankful for. Of course like everyone, I am always thankful for my family, friends, health, the fact that I get to do what I love everyday, etc. But I wanted to write about some other things that I am grateful for that are usually seen as a negative and how changing your perspective can change it into a positive one. So here it is 3 things I am thankful for.
I’m thankful for heartbreak - Now, this doesn’t have to mean heartbroken by a person. Even though I have had my fair share of heartbreak. You could be heartbroken because you didn’t get that job you wanted or that you didn’t reach a certain goal. Whatever it is having my heart broken has taught me a couple things. One being, that some things aren’t meant for you or that people/experiences sometimes have an expiration date. And that’s ok. For example, a friendship that I cared about and wanted to maintain but didn’t feel appreciated or loved back. Which, you can’t expect everyone to treat you the way you treat them. But that heart break taught me that it’s ok to let go of things that aren’t for you anymore. Another thing heart break has taught me is that I’m stronger than I think. As harsh as it sounds, sometimes you just gotta move on and know that everything will work out!
I’m thankful for failure - I’m sure like most people… no one likes to fail. I think for me it’s a pride thing. You don’t want anyone to know that you failed at something. BUT WHO CARES?! “We learn from failure not from success.” So whatever you feel that you failed at, have it teach you what you’re passionate about or inspire you to do something else that you love!
I’m thankful for my stubbornness - So, I turn 26 this year. Whoop-whoop! If you don’t know, I don’t have a full-time job; I have three part-time jobs that I love very very much. Like most parents, my mom/dad have encouraged me to get a full-time job so I will have health insurance. Literally, when I turned 25 they were already bugging me about finding a full-time job. And of course, that is the more convenient way of having health insurance but I realized I wouldn’t be happy doing that. I know this is cheesy and cliché but life is too short to not do what makes you feel alive! Bet on yourself and be stubborn with accomplishing your goals! I may not be rollin’ in dough right now but I know that with hard work and a happy heart I will be successful.
So there ya go! I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Give extra love to your loved ones! Also, I’d love to read what you’re thankful for! Leave a comment down below (:
xo,
P
LONDON TOWN
I got to go to London for a few days and wanted to share some pictures from my trip! These pictures don’t do London justice but hopefully you can see how beautiful and quaint the places are. If you ever get to go to London I highly highly recommend. I got to see the Tower Bridge, Notting Hill, Oxford Street, Buckingham Palace, and perform at Wembley Stadium (which was pretty epic). I stayed at the Landmark London and it was magnificent. I plan to go back for a trip or to live their temporarily! Special thank you to my friends for taking these pictures of me (: I wrote down a couple outfit details for those that are interested!
White top/paperboy hat/beige sweater: H&M
Black coat: White Fox boutique
Plaid blazer: Revolve
Fanny pack: Target
PALM SPRINGS
This past weekend I had my annual family trip with my cousins! It's a new tradition that we started. We airbnb'd a house in Palm Springs and had a blast. We laid by the pool, played card games, and explored downtown a bit. I wish I took more pics but I wanted to be in the moment and spend time with my family (:
Swimsuit: ASOS
Sports bra: Nike
Leggings: Lululemon
White blouse: Topshop
Denim shorts: Abercrombie
PRO DANCE
Minus having some dance experience, wearing the correct outfit, covering your tattoos, etc. I’m sharing three factors I think it takes to be on a professional dance team. PROTIP, make sure you THOROUGHLY read rules, tips, and information on the team auditions you will be attending. Everyone loves when you do research and come prepared ;) Lastly, I am saying all of these tips in the NICEST and LOVING way possible which may not seem like it because you can’t hear my tone. If you know me you know that being on a professional dance team has been one of the most amazing experiences so I take this seriously but also know that this job isn’t for everybody - and that’s ok! If this is one of your dreams and you’ve been trying out but haven't made a team yet… don't give up! Work on your craft and keep going!
HARD WORK/WORK ETHICS
One of the biggest misconceptions about being on a dance team or being a dancer is that it’s easy. Some people may think that it’s just about being pretty. But it is so much more than that. Dancers are athletes, they’re ambassadors to an organization, they’re sisters to their teammates, and they're also role models for people who look up to them. I know it seems like a lot but all of that work is worth it to have an experience and memories of a lifetime. With that being said the road to becoming and staying on a dance team is not easy. One of the factors is HARD WORK. Side note: I can only speak on the team that I was on and the one I am currently on. But having a full-time or part-time job then going to practice for 3-4 hours is hard work. It takes the right mind set to focus at practice, to know the designated routines, and to learn new ones. Also, most of us have lives outside of being on a team. One of my former teammates was a nurse, one had a full time job in marketing, I was a full-time student commuting 1-2 hours to practice or games. We all juggle being on a dance team with having lives and that takes HARD WORK. With that you have to have great work ethic. To be able to receive critiques and to always want to be better - that is going to give you the right mindset to be on a team.
CHARACTER
I was recently asked, “what characteristics does your coach look for?” It comes down to being a good person, having great work ethics, and working well with others. I think sometimes people forget that being on a pro dance team is still a job. Just like any job you have to have the qualities I mentioned. I would ask yourself, “Am I patient?” “Do I like to follow rules?” “Do I want to devote my time this team?” Because basketball season is long and you spend a lot of time with your teammates/coach. There are some sacrifices that need to be made but it is so worth it! Having a great attitude is also extremely important. I mean come on, who wants to work/dance with someone with a bad attitude?
TIME MANAGEMENT
As I stated earlier, all my former/current teammates have jobs outside of being on a professional dance/cheer team. This job isn’t a full time but sometimes it feels like it. Just to give you an idea of my schedule, when I was on the Warriors Dance team I was in school full-time and a dance teacher. Currently, I am on an NFL cheerleading team and I have two other jobs - one as a song team coach for a high school and a personal stylist! In addition, I’m doing my blog which isn’t a job but it takes up some of my time! I’m also signed with a dance agency so I go on auditions from time to time. How do I balance it all? It’s about being organized and making sure you can handle what you put on your plate. I actually love being busy. It makes me feel accomplished and happy. Do I run on 5-6 hours of sleep some days and feel like giving up? Absolutely. But the love I have for my jobs/dreams outweigh all of the sleepless nights, back pain, and being MIA during some social occasions. BUT being on a dance team is DOABLE! I did it for five years and still had a life!
QUESTIONS
“What does your schedule look like on a typical game day?”
When I was on the Warriors dance team I had school full-time. So a typical game day for me was commuting to school at around 6:00AM, class until 2:45PM, drive to the arena, court rehearsal from 4:00-5:00PM, then get ready for game/work on homework until game time at 7:30! Games would usually end around 10:00PM-ish.
“What do you do before auditions to get in the right mindset? (meditate,etc.)”
I don’t usually meditate before auditions and to be honest it doesn’t really work for me. I love reading inspirational quotes or watching an inspirational video/sermon. But my tip to get in the right mindset when you’re there or the night before is to tell yourself “you got this!” At the end of the day if you do your best and show up that’s an accomplishment in itself. Also, PRO TIP: Focus on yourself when you’re learning and go full out as many times as you can so you get the choreography into your body!
“Does the Warriors team do weigh-ins?”
So this is a touchy subject especially with all the lawsuits. I can only speak on the team I was on and I am going to tell you the perspective that I have on this. First off, dancers are athletes. We are expected to perform a certain way to workout, to maintain our physique, AND our health. Put this into perspective… do you expect Stephen Curry or Lebron James to not be in their best shape? No. They are expected to workout, to have a certain weight for their height, etc. The team that I was on gave us tools to accomplish our fitness goals. To answer the question about weigh-ins, they weren’t “weigh-ins.” We were expected to maintain our weight throughout the season and work on our fitness goals that were fit for our body type. I think as dancers, we need to stop tip-toeing around the subject and realize that this is a job and a part of this job is having a certain body type. Does that make it unfair? No. Because we can’t expect someone who studied journalism to have qualifications to be a doctor. That doctor went to school, did the work, paid their dues, and will have higher pay than the journalist. PRO TIP: your mindset is everything. If you have a negative outlook on this subject then I wouldn’t audition for pro teams. YES, EVERY BODY TYPE IS BEAUTIFUL! But there are jobs and expectations for everything in life. Those who work to get to a certain goal deserve that spot/dream.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
It’s not about wearing the sequined outfits or getting "glammed" by the best glam squad, or gaining followers/wanting to post on social media (if that’s your purpose then please don’t try out). It is about being a part of a sisterhood, gaining a new family, and being a part of something bigger than yourself. So if you’ve been hesitant to audition because you’re too scared, or you feel like you’re not good enough… I say tell yourself that you GOT THIS. Believe in yourself and your dreams. Yes, someone can have a six-pack, someone can nail all the interview questions, but does that make them you? No. You are uniquely beautiful and that is more than enough. If you have any other questions feel free to comment down below! I hope this helps you aspiring dancers out there! Xo, P
David
This is David. You may be wondering what David has to do with my blog. Well, David taught me a vital life lesson that I think everyone should be reminded of from time to time. He had a huge impact on my life and I wanted to share my experience with him. David was a teenage boy who I had the honor of meeting during my second season on the Warriors Dance Team. He was diagnosed with a sickness that would soon take his life. One of his requests was to meet the Warriors Dance team. I remember thinking “why?” and “what is so special about us?” I think sometimes we forget or don’t realize that our jobs or in my case being on a dance team/ambassador to a huge organization has a powerful meaning to others. I’ll never truly understand but I am so glad to have met David that day. My teammates and I only got to hang out with David for about an hour but that hour with him changed my life and the way I thought forever. While hanging out with David we asked about his life, how much he loved the Warriors, and he told us about his experience at the Dubs game he went to. But it wasn’t the stories he was telling us that were memorable… it was his perspective that made me reflect on my life. Everything he said was full of joy and happiness. He wasn’t dwelling on his sickness or how he didn’t have a long time live. David taught me two valuable lessons. ONE - the impact you can have on someone can be life changing and to always lead with love. SECOND - he taught me that perspective is everything. The way we think can alter any experience we have. After meeting David… I told myself that I would do my best to always think positive, to be grateful for what I have, and to always look at the glass half full rather than half empty.
25 facts about me
Since this is one of my first blog posts, I decided to write facts about myself to share pieces of my life! Why 25 facts? I just turned 25... well in December. So why not, right? I hope you enjoying learning a little about me!
My birthday is December 17th.
I am from the Bay Area but live in Los Angeles.
I have been dancing since I was seven years old.
My favorite color is red.
I hate mushrooms and olives.
My drink of choice is wine. (any color)
I have a brother and a sister.
I'm full Filipino.
My favorite piece of clothing is a t-shirt.
My favorite food is sushi.
I'm an online stylist!
My favorite TV show growing up was 'That's So Raven.'
I was a pro-NBA dancer for five years.
I love listening to 90's music.
I can't leave the house without wearing earrings.
My favorite animal is a dog.
I have four tattoos.
I have a blue belt in Karate.
I have been to China and the Philippines three times.
I have a big family.
I am a coffee and tea addict.
I graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor's degree in Public Relations with a minor in Communications.
I am Catholic.
I love hanging out with my family and friends.
I love traveling.