Welcome to Muntinlupa City for a quick reality check. In a world of high-tech gadgets and ‘smart’ tactics, I’m constantly reminded that my best plans are no match for Mayet’s ‘Ancestral Intelligence.’ Today’s mission: Trying out a new strategy without getting roasted by the boss of the house.
Lola Mayet: “Melvyn, I gave you a list. Why are you buying an artisanal, organic, fair-trade bag of coffee beans that costs 500 pesos?”
Lolo Melvyn: “Because the bag looked professional, Mayet! It had a very high-quality seal and a sophisticated design. I thought it was a strategic upgrade for our mornings.”
Lola Mayet: “It’s not a strategic upgrade; it’s a budget-breaker. We need the brand that is on the list. You are supposed to be the ‘Security Consultant’—secure our savings, not destroy them on beans!”
Lolo Melvyn: “I… I will conduct a tactical retreat to the correct aisle.”
The Savage Reality: The most dangerous place for a husband is an aisle where he thinks he’s being “strategic” instead of just “shopping.”
Tactical After-Action Review (AAR)
Whether you’re in a boardroom or a grocery store, there is a recurring struggle between Efficiency (doing things fast) and Effectiveness (doing things right). I often mistake “shiny and impressive” for “necessary and correct.” In business, this leads to bloated budgets; in marriage, it leads to Lola Mayet having to correct my tactical blunders.
It’s easy to get distracted by the “bells and whistles” of life. We want the best, the brightest, and the most “optimized” version of everything. But sometimes, the most grounded, reliable option—the one on the list—is exactly what the mission requires.
- To the Boomers: We’ve earned the right to buy the “nice” things, but let’s make sure we’re still listening to the budget-conscious wisdom of our partners.
- To the Millennials & Gen Z: Don’t fall for the “aesthetic” trap. Whether it’s a coffee brand or a career move, ensure you’re prioritizing value over the marketing polish.
My challenge to you today: Before you make your next “big” purchase or decision, ask yourself: Is this a strategic upgrade, or am I just buying the ‘shiny’ version?
Deepen Your Strategy: For more on making better decisions and managing life’s complexities, my book, “The Art of Smart Tactics,” helps you separate the noise from the signal. Find it at https://melvynccvalenzuela.com