Big congrats to Alex Eala and the Philippines! Her win today (August 25, 2025) reminded me of something I’ve been learning over the years: SELF-BELIEF MATTERS.
Winning in life—defined as living the life we want—is deeply tied to how much we believe in our own capabilities.
Whether Alex won or lost, she already earned my respect. Her discipline, grit, and perseverance got her to the world stage. That alone is a win. So what’s stopping us from chasing our own version of that?
I used to be confident—maybe even too confident—back in elementary and high school. I joined and won provincial math and science quiz bees, beauty pageants, and drum and lyre band competitions as the band mistress. I thought I was always the best.
But college humbled me. I wasn’t always the smartest anymore. Some days I was at the top of the class; other days, I was at the bottom. Sometimes, I even worried if I’d graduate at all.
Fast forward to the corporate world—especially at Analog Devices—where I met some of the most knowledgeable, technical, and confident engineers and professionals. I used to joke, “I wasn’t born confident,” or “Where can I buy confidence?”
But after moving through different roles and teams, I finally understood: confidence comes from alignment. You feel confident when you’re doing what you’re meant to do—the thing that makes you want to wake up, dress up, and show up. Some people find it early in life, like Alex with tennis. Others, like me, find it much later.
I’m grateful to those who believed in me when I couldn’t. Their support amplified the small voice inside that says: You are capable. You have something beautiful to offer the world.
And if you need a little boost today:
I—and my two cats, Yuki and Nagi—are rooting for you!
