Your mantra for the week: “Optimism opens the gates to endless blessings.”

I call IAMISM a Course on Happiness. It may sound like a new philosophy, but in truth, it has many similarities to old teachings that have helped bring happiness to one’s life.

One of the most important principles in IAMISM is self-sufficiency—one needs to live comfortably and not be financially dependent on anybody. However, good health becomes first priority when you are not whole and healthy. Please note that self-sufficiency assumes that there is a surplus in one’s earnings, which provides one with “ample means” and a desire to live long enough to enjoy it.

Another factor that contributes to living a happy life is to have a virtuous character— being honest, honorable and persisting in integrity.

The next relevant component is having an agreeable personal appearance. It opens doors to success and recognition, and gives pleasure to people you work with.

I would like to share a technique that will surely make you appreciate yourself further. For 24 days before going to bed, make a list of compliments to yourself for your accomplishments of the day.

The list can include: I complimented the traffic policeman for his good work; I bought myself the shirt I had been admiring; I sat at the Pen Lobby and had the greatest cup of coffee; I watched a spectacular Philippine Ballet Theatre presentation; I wrote a lot of thank-you letters today; etc.

And, finally, as you go through life, be a blessing wherever you go.

No estrangement

Last month, the papers came out with an announcement from the Puno Law Office that Metrobank Group chair George S.K. Ty and daughter Margaret Ty-Cham are estranged.

Recently, I got a call from Margaret, who denied the estrangement.

She said, “I love my father and I am proud that he has just been bestowed the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening the economic relations between Japan and the Philippines.

“I have no idea why such an announcement was made,” she pointed out. “I firmly believe in the idea that ‘No one in this world can love a girl more than her father.’”

Ano kaya ang Puno’t dulo nito?

Delectable dinner

And speaking of fathers and daughters, Mario Katigbak’s daughter Anya Katigbak-Cajucom, senior vice president for marketing at HSBC, efficiently assisted in the launch of HSBC’s “Premier MasterCard: Your Essential Travel Partner” at a cocktail dinner in the ballroom of Ascott Hotel, Bonifacio Global City.

The fortunate users of HSBC credit cards get three times more chances to win fabulous prizes from Rustan’s—a business-class trip for two to London and three other destinations.

HSBC president Wick Veloso and retail banking and wealth management head Kris Werner welcomed the guests.

Mario was aglow with pride at his daughter’s success in a prestigious company like HSBC. When we congratulated Anya for a job well done, she smiled and said, “Well, when I’m at my best, I am my father’s daughter.”

Holding balls

November seems to be the chosen month for holding balls. There are so many to attend, I have decided I will just be happy with two.

E-mail the columnist at [email protected].