My Identity

I'm halfway from reading Suleika Jaouad's memoir, Between Two Kingdoms. At 22 years old, Jaouad's life changes once she's diagnosed with cancer. So far the book talks about life, death, and identity. 

As I grow older, my identity changes. 

A friend told me to look back at your past for every decade in your life (not every year). I'm 36 years old. That's almost 4 decades of my life.

Imagine if I get to connect and hangout with 26 year old self, 16 year old self, and 6 year old self. I would really love to. That would be highly unlikely.

26 year old self was still going to school while working as a pizza delivery driver. I was embarrassed whenever my peers talked about life and career. I would just change the topic. The highlight of my life in 2013 was becoming an awkward prankster on YouTube. One video went viral for a few days.  

16 year old self had a huge ego and temper with severe anxiety. I hated class presentations. I had a fear of public speaking. I was afraid to ask out my high school crushes. Luckily, I did have friends. The worst part of my life was on Saturday, May 17, 2003. My sister died. She was my best friend.  

​6 year old self was a shy, quiet kid. I struggled with reading comprehension. I was forced to learn. At the time, learning was boring. Because everything was new to me. I needed time to process. This was the most naive part of my life.

Let's talk about me now.  

I enjoy connecting with people. I have long-time friends in the Bay Area. My friends describe me as an open, kind man. I have charisma and empathy.

​I'm family-oriented. For now I live with my parents. I'll be staying in the Bay Area long term. I still love to travel for fun. That'll be part time. 

I'm single. I haven't found a life partner yet. I can't force the issue though. Relationships come unexpectedly. I believe that finding a partner comes with timing, luck, and hard work.

I'm a risk taker.

​I started a junk removal business I Junk It in 2019. Also I would take and sell stuff from I Junk It clients through Facebook Marketplace. Since 2021 I work as a server/cashier for my cousin's filipino food truck, Cooked By Gio. I'm a referral real estate agent. I refer an agent to family, friends, and relatives. Once a home closes, I get a referral fee. I'm an airport driver on the side.

I love to take care of the body. Outside of work, I play tennis and basketball for fun and cardio. I hit the sauna after a workout. It removes toxins in the body and relaxes the muscles. 

I'm a YouTuber. Other than this blog, my YouTube channel is my personal journal. I share stories, moments, and experiences. My goal is to connect with people. I ask deep, meaningful questions. I learn something new as well. 

My identity changes throughout my journey.

I wonder what my identity will be in 2033. Time will tell. We shall see.