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1. Communicating

We take this for granted especially because talking is one of the most natural things in the world, but remember that being able to effectively communicate is a different skill altogether. As most of us know by now, how and when we say something is just as important as what we're saying.

Knowing how to communicate ideas is a good skill to learn for job interviews, client pitches, and it can even take you as far as maintaning a healthy romantic relationship. 

Try: Communicate with Impact, CCE, November 9-10, 2017, P12,800

Under the Ateneo Center for Continuing Education's Communication Excellence Series, this two-day program "helps you understand effective speaking, and then shows you how to communicate your message in the best possible way."

2. Cooking

Despite our thriving culinary industry (and expanding food delivery services), cooking is one skill you won't ever regret learning. You develop confidence in knowing that you can fend for yourself without relying on canned food, and it's something you'll be able to use at any age, wherever you are in the world. You'll also be able to serve good food to family, friends, and colleagues; and on a personal note, not only does it save you a lot of money, it also helps you control what goes into your body. 

Always start with something simple. For kitchen newbies, try chicken recipes that rely on just a bit of seasoning. Here are some easy recipes to follow! 

Try: Magnolia Chicken, in groceries nationwide

Panalo sa freshness, panalo sa lasa, at panalo sa quality! Kaya bet ni Pia ang #PambansangManok, Magnolia Chicken!

A post shared by Magnolia Chicken Station (@magnoliacsph) on Jul 20, 2017 at 3:57am PDT

3. Basic etiquette

From learning how to properly introduce acquaintances to mastering the art of fine dining, practicing proper etiquette is a good way to boost your confidence in social gatherings. It's not about establishing your status or caring about how others perceive you, but making sure that you stay respectful and courteous during major events so many people worked hard on.

Need a refresher? Check out these etiquette tips for all occasions! 

4. Dressing appropriately

Thai designers' love for printed everything ???? All over it ????

A post shared by Liz Uy ???????? (@lizzzuy) on Jun 10, 2017 at 3:55am PDT

This goes hand in hand with basic etiquette. Aside from knowing what looks good on you, it's also important to know how to dress for formal events and corporate gatherings. This is to make sure you always look presentable and professional when needed.

5. Basic first aid

This is especially helpful when you go on family trips and team building activities in isolated areas. While it's always good to have a medic with you, knowing how to treat wounds and various health problems are crucial skills to have in an emergency.

Try: First Aid PH, an app with "simple step-by-step instructions to guide you through everyday first aid scenarios."

6. Managing your finances

It takes a lot of trials and errors to determine the right financial path for you, and this is something that evolves over time. Make sure to set a budget for you to follow, as well as goals to aspire to whether you're providing for a family or fending for yourself. No excuses.

7. Negotiating 

From dealing with wedding suppliers to future landlords, haggling is definitely a skill you can only master with practice. Start by practicing at your neighborhood tiangge!

8. Mending clothes

There's no need to buy a new outfit every time a piece of clothing needs to be altered. If a loose button or a broken zipper is keeping you from reaching your savings goal for the month, it's best to just learn how to fix these little problems. To prevent them in the first place, here's how to keep your clothes looking new.

9. Self-motivating

Probably my most significant life lesson as well as my one true regret - had I known this sooner, I would have never engaged in half the dramas of my distant past ???? I would have cultivated nothing but pure positive thoughts and built a momentum of light a lot earlier. We are what we think. There is just NO way around it. It's a skill I aim to master. It allows me UNCONDITIONAL HAPPINESS. It's almost a miracle how I can have a bottomless well of pure joy even during the shittiest of circumstances ???????????? Realizing how I alone am responsible for my experience of people and of every circumstance in my life released me from the bondage of victim consciousness. No one can make me feel anything I do not choose to feel. That, to me is the ultimate power of choice ? #Grateful #supersoulwednesday

A post shared by Nadine Tengco (@nadinetengco) on Jul 26, 2017 at 7:51am PDT

By now, we all know that there are no shortcuts to success, whether it's a weight loss goal or a financial one. Learn how to manage your expectations, and push yourself to becoming the best version of yourself through practicing the art of self-motivation.

Try: I Am Not Your Guru, Netflix

10. Speaking a third language

Whether or not you dream of working abroad, learning a third language will definitely up your professional value. Here are places where you can learn the world's most used languages.

11.  Saying no

Even the people you love the most can take advantage of you when you don't know when or how to say no. This applies to toxic friends who try to pull you down or family members who rely on you for financial support a little too often. 

Remember, at the end of the day, it's not wrong to look out for yourself.

12. Navigating apps

No one expects you to be the next Steve Jobs, but knowing your way around basic tech (even just managing the apps on your phone) can save you from a lot of trouble such as hackers who use quizzes to get your personal information, or those who can tap into your device to "attack" someone else.

13. Proper planning

Another skill that is often taken for granted, mastering planning for a work presentation, an out of town trip, or even just your dinner goes a long way in time and stress management. 

Learn how to give accurate budget and time estimates, especially when working with a team, and always, always have a plan B. 

h/t: The Independent, MyDomain