Some people are lucky enough to have successful jobs at an early age, but others are just getting started and have to gather the courage to take the first step toward success.
Some were on the edge of giving up, believing that life was not going their way. However, many people can attest to the saying “it’s greater later.”
Eduard Bañez, who left Philippine showbusiness in his 30s, believes it’s never too late to pursue one’s passion. Waiting for it only makes it sweeter. He took a deep breath, made preparations, and began working for an American firm after leaving the country.
Bañez, like others, struggled with self-doubt, fears, and uncertainties before discovering his inner strength.
“Is it too late in my life to start a career and succeed?” was the first question he asked himself.
Bañez believed that becoming an artist was his life’s calling because he was used to doing so in the Philippines. However, life took a turn.
“At first, I was enjoying the showbiz scene in the Philippines. I enjoyed the rehearsals, shootings, and facing the cameras. Until I recognized that it was not for me. But that is simply the world redirecting my life,” he said.
He added, I’m sure maraming makaka-relate sa akin. ‘Yung buong akala mo, ‘yun ang career mo, pero hindi pala. Siyempre masasaktan ka sa una. Pero ganoon talaga. Tuloy lang. Hindi dapat matatapos ang buhay.”
Bañez, a late bloomer, finds it fascinating to see his own personal growth and success later in life. He also stated that people should never overlook late bloomers.
“I almost gave up, but I’d like to encourage those who are starting later in life that it’s never too late. There is no “magic number.” There is no set timeframe. There’s no formula. You really have to trust the timing. So, what if it is too late? A win is a win, no matter how late it is,” he shared.
“Sa simula, mapi-pressure ka talaga lalo na kung nakikita mo ‘yung mga ka-edad mo na successful na. Pero you have to turn off the noise. Focus on yourself. Focus on what you can do. Gawin mo lang challenge ‘yun,” added Bañez, who also owns a business.
Bañez believes age is simply a number. One should never set a goal for a specific age.
“It wasn’t until my 30s that I started traveling, living overseas, and developing an understanding of myself and my role in the world. And it wasn’t until my forties that I realized the true significance of pain and loss that I believed I’d never recover from,” he opened up.
“Hindi mo talaga alam kung saan ka dadalhin ng panahon. Masuwerte ‘yung iba na maaga nilang nakita ‘yung success. Siguro nga pinagplanuhan nila ‘yun. Pero naniniwala ako na you don’t have to set a plan. Love what you do. Be excellent. And be intentional,” he added.
Bañez currently supports some charity initiatives in the Philippines. He stated that despite his success, he never forgets to share his blessings with others since it adds meaning to his life.
“At the end of the day, it is the people you touch and help who make life meaningful. Who would have believed that I would be this comfortable in life? Blessings were meant to be shared,” he ended.
Bañez enjoys his current life in America, but believes there is still more to life.
