Why Life Isn’t Just a Game of Chance

Alright, let’s get real for a moment. If you’ve ever heard the phrase “bilog ang bola,” you know it’s a classic Filipino saying that translates to “the ball is round.” It’s often used to suggest that life is unpredictable, that fortunes can change instantly, and that you should just sit back and let fate do its thing. But here’s the hard truth: this mindset is a trap, and it’s time we stop using it as an excuse for inaction.

The Myth of the Round Ball

Let’s break this down. The idea that “bilog ang bola” implies that life is a game of chance, where you just wait for your lucky break to come rolling your way. Sometimes you're on top, sometimes you're in the bottom. Oftentimes, it is accompanied by another cheesy quote "bahala na si Batman" that refers to the idea that life is what it is - whatever will be, will be. It’s a comforting thought, isn’t it? But here’s the kicker: while luck does play a role in life, relying on it is like playing a game of roulette with your future. Spoiler alert: the house always wins.

In the Philippines, this belief can be particularly damaging. Ever wonder why the lives of some Filipinos have not changed? It’s because they’re so fatalistic, clinging to age-old promises from politicians who keep robbing them of their chance at a good life. This isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a societal one. When we collectively buy into that myth, we’re essentially giving ourselves permission to be passive participants in our own lives.

Just to let you know, gambling plays a significant role in Filipino culture whether you like it or not. Whether it's cockfighting or illegal numbers game, people indulge in that one way or the other. The idea of gambling your life choices on chance is nothing surprising.

The Reality Check

Let’s talk numbers. According to a study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, only 10% of Filipinos believe that hard work leads to success. The rest? They’re banking on luck, connections, or some divine intervention. But here’s the reality: hard work, determination, and strategic planning are what truly lead to success.

Take a look at successful Filipino entrepreneurs and professionals who have made a name for themselves. They didn’t just sit around waiting for the ball to bounce their way. They hustled, they networked, and they took risks. They understood that while the ball may be round, it’s up to them to kick it in the right direction.

Dumbing Down Society

Let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: the corrupt system that’s dumbing down society. We’re living in a world where the game is rigged in favor of the rich and powerful. Politicians make promises that never materialize, and the average Filipino is left feeling disillusioned and powerless. This environment breeds a sense of hopelessness, where people still cling to tired old beliefs, expecting change to magically happen without any effort on their part.

It’s time to wake up and smell the coffee. The system is designed to keep you in your place, and if you’re waiting for someone to hand you a better life, you’re going to be waiting a long time.

Taking Control of Your Destiny

Here’s the thing: life is not just about waiting for opportunities; it’s about creating them. When you embrace the idea that you have control over your life, you start to see the world differently. You stop waiting for the ball to roll your way and start actively seeking out the goals you want to achieve.

Want to land that dream job? Don’t just hope for it. Polish your resume, network like your career depends on it (because it does), and apply relentlessly. Want to start a business? Don’t wait for the perfect moment; start small, learn as you go, and adapt.

The Shift in Mindset

So, how do we shift this mindset? It starts with recognizing that while life may be unpredictable, your response to it doesn’t have to be. Here are some steps to help you break free from the “bilog ang bola” mentality:

• Set Clear Goals: Define what success looks like for you. Write it down, visualize it, and make it your mission.
• Take Action: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start taking small steps toward your goals every day. Progress is progress, no matter how small.
• Embrace Failure: Understand that setbacks are part of the journey. Instead of seeing them as signs of bad luck, view them as opportunities to learn and grow.
• Surround Yourself with Go-Getters: Your environment matters. Surround yourself with people who are ambitious and proactive. Their energy will inspire you to take action.
• Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. This will reinforce the idea that your efforts lead to results.

The Ball is in Your Court

At the end of the day, the “bilog ang bola” myth is just that perpetuated myth that lived past its shelf life. Life may have its ups and downs, but it’s not a game of chance. It’s a game of strategy, hard work, and determination. So, let’s stop waiting for luck to come knocking at our doors. Instead, let’s take control of our destinies and kick that ball in the direction we want it to go. Remember, the ball may be round, but your future is in your hands. Don’t let a corrupt system or outdated beliefs hold you back. It’s time to take charge and make your own luck.