Life’s tough, and Filipinos know this better than most.
From juggling bills, dealing with unexpected expenses, and keeping food on the table, the struggle can feel endless.
So, how do we turn these challenges into something good? How can we rise above?
Let’s look at someone who did just that—Henry Sy Sr., the man behind SM Malls and BDO.
His story isn’t one of luck or riches but of hard work, grit, and refusing to give up, even when things were hard.
Henry Sy’s journey has a lot to teach us about resilience and pushing forward when life isn’t easy.
Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities
Henry Sy came to the Philippines with almost nothing. He had big dreams but barely any money.
His first business was a tiny shoe store, and it wasn’t easy.
He faced language barriers, struggled to make a living, and hit countless roadblocks.
But instead of giving up, he used each challenge to fuel his ambition.
Think about your own struggles—whether it’s paying bills, dealing with a sudden repair, or stretching your paycheck to the next.
These things feel like walls blocking us, but maybe we can look at them differently.
For instance, when unexpected expenses hit, it could be an opportunity to try something new—like starting a side hustle or selling unused items for some extra cash.
If your job feels like a dead end, investing time in a new skill or even a hobby might lead to new opportunities later.
It’s not about pretending everything’s fine; it’s about seeing the small cracks where you can find some light.
Dream Big, Even When It Feels Out of Reach
Henry Sy didn’t just want to own a shoe store. He dreamed of creating something big and lasting.
In fact, he took risks by buying properties when the economy was rough and people were afraid to invest.
This wasn’t just about making money; it was about building a legacy and thinking far into the future.
For many of us, just surviving day-to-day feels like all we can do, but a small step towards saving can make a big difference over time.
Did you know that only about 20% of Filipinos have any emergency savings?
Even just setting aside a little each month can create a cushion for tough times, giving you some peace of mind and a little breathing room when life throws a surprise.
READ: Rainy Days Don’t Wait: Why Every Filipino Needs an Emergency Fund Now
The Importance of Community
One of Henry Sy’s secrets was understanding the value of people.
He built his business by listening to his customers, building strong partnerships, and creating a sense of community.
In Filipino culture, bayanihan—or coming together to help one another—is something we understand well.
Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for support. Even just talking about financial worries can lead to helpful advice or solutions you hadn’t thought of.
When we work together and share ideas, we find ways to make things easier.
It’s not about taking advantage of each other but about lifting each other up.
If you’re struggling to make ends meet, a friend’s advice or help with a side hustle can be the boost you need.
READ: Finding Hope and Help in Financial Hardship: Your Guide to Overcoming Tough Times
Hard Work is the Only Real Shortcut
Henry Sy believed in working hard, not looking for shortcuts.
When he opened his first shoe store, he put in long hours and focused on making it better little by little.
And eventually, all that hard work paid off.
We’re often told that there’s an easy way to success or that we should “work smarter, not harder.”
But for many of us, hard work is the only way.
Whether it’s sticking with a job that’s tiring or taking on extra hours to make ends meet, the grind can feel endless.
But, like Henry Sy, showing up and doing your best every day can lay the groundwork for something great.
It may not happen overnight, but it sets you on a path.
The Joy of Giving Back
Despite his wealth, Henry Sy believed in giving back. He didn’t forget where he started and always wanted to help others.
For many of us, money is tight, but there are still ways to give back that don’t cost a cent.
Share your time or knowledge—maybe help a friend learn budgeting tips you’ve mastered, or support someone starting a small business.
Helping others doesn’t just benefit them; it creates a ripple of kindness that can return to you in unexpected ways.
If you need help getting your finances in order, I’ve got you covered! You can sign up for my email list to download free budgeting templates and receive regular tips on managing personal finances.
Living Simply is the Real Key
Even with his huge success, Henry Sy led a simple life. He didn’t chase after luxuries but focused on his family and his business.
In today’s world, it’s tempting to keep up with trends—having the newest phone, the latest gadget, or following every trend.
But what really matters?
Is it the stuff we own or the experiences we share with loved ones?
By choosing simplicity, we save more, stress less, and find more meaning in life.
Building Your Financial Resilience
So, if life hands you some lemons, remember: you can always turn them into valuable lessons, just like Henry Sy did.
Success doesn’t mean having everything figured out from the start—it’s about learning, trying, and finding what works for you.
Every step you take will bring you closer to your dreams.
Keep pushing forward, take those small steps, and know that your path to resilience and success is just getting started.
Happy 100th Birthday Tatang!
As we celebrate what would have been Henry Sy’s 100th birthday today, October 15, it’s a wonderful opportunity to honor his incredible legacy.
His journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most influential figures in Philippine business reminds us all of the power of resilience, hard work, and vision.
This article serves not only as a tribute to his remarkable life but also as an invitation to each of us.
Like Tatang, we have the potential to turn our challenges into stepping stones for success.
Let’s commemorate his centenary by embracing the valuable lessons he left behind—lessons that encourage us to build our own paths, create positive change, and give back to our communities.
Together, let’s honor his spirit by striving for financial resilience and nurturing kindness, just as he did throughout his life.