The acquisition of government permits in this country feels like crawling through barbed wire—painful, slow, and full of hidden traps. What should be a straightforward process has mutated into a grueling obstacle course layered with redundant paperwork, delayed signatories, and the smug faces of people who know they hold power over your every next step.

The list of requirements alone reads like a cruel joke. One document demands another, which in turn requires a separate clearance from an office across town—each with its own set of signatures, fees, and arbitrary cut-off times. For ordinary folk who just want to run a small business, build a modest home, or apply for something as basic as a barangay clearance, it’s a bureaucratic purgatory.

And then comes the darker part—the part everyone knows but hardly anyone wants to talk about. Corruption doesn’t sit in some far-off high office. It lurks in the everyday desk drawers of permit offices. There are whispers, side glances, and “pa-kape lang” suggestions. I have seen it, heard it, been hinted at. A man trying to secure a permit for his eatery was told to come back “next week” unless, of course, he wanted to “speed things up.” A small brown envelope, discreetly passed, magically cleared a week’s worth of pending signatures in under ten minutes. You either play the game or wait indefinitely.

It’s no wonder people skirt around the process. Who would want to suffer through a maze only to be asked for grease money at the final door? I know families who opt not to register their backyard businesses because they’d rather not deal with the exhaustion. I know sari-sari store owners who quietly operate without full documentation, fearing not the law, but the paper chase and the draining transactions with fixers who feed off the helplessness of the uninformed. This avoidance isn’t born out of laziness—it’s a defense mechanism, a quiet protest, and sometimes, a desperate attempt to protect their already limited resources.

We can’t keep blaming the public for “non-compliance” when the system itself is often hostile, opaque, and unreasonably rigid. Try asking an office why they need a particular clearance, and you’ll either be met with a shrug or a stern “requirement po ’yan.” No explanation, no rationale—just blind obedience to forms. It feels like some requirements exist only to create jobs for more people who shuffle papers and sign things without accountability. In truth, the system doesn’t serve the public anymore. It serves itself, bloated and unbothered by the suffering it causes.

Meanwhile, those with connections skip the lines. They make one phone call and everything falls into place like dominoes—no queues, no waiting, no interrogations. It’s a parallel universe where things move with suspicious efficiency. And while the rest of us are drowning in photocopies, certified true copies, and vague requirements, the privileged few are waved through like royalty. This dual reality is one of the most painful truths of our governance: fairness exists only in speeches, not in practice.

What makes this even more frustrating is that we have the tools to fix this. Technology can automate clearances, reduce human interaction, and prevent bribery—but it remains underutilized or worse, corrupted too. A few LGUs have started to roll out digital platforms for permits, but the implementation is often half-baked, crashing mid-transaction or demanding in-person validation anyway. Instead of convenience, people are met with more confusion. It’s the illusion of progress without the reality of change.

What we need is not just simplification, but a cultural shift in how the government sees itself—not as a fortress to be approached with fear, but as a service provider to ordinary citizens. The paperwork must shrink. The explanations must flow. The processes must be transparent, timed, and free from the shadows of corruption. People will comply—not out of fear, but out of trust—if we finally build a system that serves, not swindles.

The fear of missing out (FOMO) can be a potent force, pulling us towards a constant chase for the next exciting thing, often leaving us feeling empty and dissatisfied. But escaping its grip is possible. Here are some actionable strategies to help you break free from FOMO and reclaim your happiness:

1. Shift Your Focus: From “Missing Out” to “Experiencing In”

– Reframe Your Social Media Use: Instead of passively scrolling through curated feeds, actively seek out content that inspires and motivates you. Follow accounts that promote your interests, values, and goals.

– Engage Mindfully: When you do engage with social media, be intentional about your interactions. Comment thoughtfully, connect with people who share your passions, and avoid comparing yourself to others.

– Unfollow and Mute: Unfollow or mute accounts that trigger feelings of inadequacy or FOMO. Curate a social media experience that aligns with your values and promotes your well-being.

2. Cultivate Contentment: Appreciate What You Have

– Gratitude Journaling: Take a few minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for. This practice shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a sense of contentment.

– Mindful Moments: Engage in activities that bring you joy and satisfaction, even if they seem small. Pay attention to your senses, savor the taste of your food, or appreciate the beauty of a sunset.

– Appreciate Your Progress: Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognize your efforts and acknowledge the progress you’ve made towards your goals.

3. Take Control of Your Time: Prioritize Your Values

– Schedule “No-Phone” Time: Designate specific times during the day for disconnecting from technology. Use this time to engage in activities that nourish your mind and soul, such as reading, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies.

– Set Boundaries: Implement effective time and energy management strategies by establishing clear boundaries and selectively accepting commitments that align with personal priorities.

– Plan Your Day: Schedule your day intentionally, prioritizing activities that are meaningful to you. This helps you stay focused on your goals and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the constant pull of FOMO.

4. Embrace Your Uniqueness: Celebrate Your Own Journey

– Define Your Values: What truly matters to you? What are your goals and aspirations? By clarifying your values, you can make decisions that align with your priorities, rather than being swayed by external pressures.

– Recognize Your Strengths: Focus on your unique talents, skills, and strengths. Celebrate your individuality and embrace your own path to success.

– Seek Out Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who support your values and goals. Connect with individuals who inspire and motivate you, creating a positive and supportive network.

5. Challenge Your Assumptions: Question the “Perfect” Image

– Remember the Curated Reality: Social media often presents a curated version of reality. Remember that most people are not sharing their struggles and challenges, creating a false sense of perfection.

– Seek Out Authentic Voices: Follow accounts that promote authenticity and vulnerability, sharing both the highs and lows of life. This helps to create a more realistic and relatable perspective.

– Challenge Your Comparisons: When you find yourself comparing yourself to others, ask yourself: “What is this comparison telling me about myself?” Are these feelings based on facts or simply assumptions?

Conclusion

Breaking free from FOMO is an ongoing process, requiring conscious effort and a shift in perspective. By focusing on your own journey, cultivating contentment, and taking control of your time and energy, you can escape the relentless cycle of comparison and create a life filled with meaning, purpose, and authentic happiness.
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If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the column, feel free to send an email to jca.bblueprint@gmail.com. Looking forward to connecting with you!