Retired and Living in the Philippines, Hitting Rock Bottom, Old Dog New Tricks

[@Gebo642]

Thank you for saying that alcoholism is an affliction. It truly is. I've got it, but I have not drank in many years. I recovered. It takes guts and a little work but it's doable.

[@oldguy2764]

Great video! When you live in America, or the west, you have constant reminders of how unfortunate you are. Job sucks, he has a Mercedes, but I can’t make car payment. He just got married, my wife hates me. When you live in Southeast Asia, you are surrounded with constant reminders of how fortunate you are. They have very little food, but they still smile. They live in a shack, but they still smile. That beautiful girl just smiled at me! The choice is obvious!

[@waterheaterservices]

EXACTLY!

[@strangeinamoststrangeland4200]

Yes i miss living in PH. I just couldnt find my space living with my girl in Manila. Peoplepeoplepeople. Just cant handle it. Now in the mountains of California, I feel much more at home. Except without my filipina here my life feels empty. American women are difficult to sort through and find the jewel. Im begining to think Ill be alone forever.

[@oldguy2764]

@@strangeinamoststrangeland4200 In California, it would probably be much easier to find a man, who identifies as a woman, than it would to find a woman who acts like a woman.😂 You might try Jomtien Thailand, or even Pattaya Thailand. On the ocean, much less crowded and much more peaceful than Manila, Philippines. Much easier to get around in also.

[@kitkatz9984]

@@oldguy2764 ha ha hee hee😃

[@mikeb3419]

Thank you for this video, Paul. I'm at rock bottom right now and your words resonate with me. It's been a long time coming. I've been running and running away from myself for years. You know what running for a long time makes you? Tired. That's it. It's time for some rest, reflection, and growth.

[@WoodPicker222]

Left the rat race. Retired at 55. Lucky to have a small slice of property by the beach. Now a diy guy living alone with cats and doggies. Family comes here when they could. You’re such an inspiration Paul. Keep it up 👍🏻

[@Bulldawg1958]

Damn , u beat me by 1 year, 56 for me and zero regrets , I still drink but it’s basically nothing compared to before, anybody thinking about retiring to the Philippines, i highly recommend it, millions upon millions of beautiful available good women here, do ur research, date around to start, guard ur seed, be sensible with ur money, they don’t care about ur age, real true Love is what they want, country is reopening now, ur ss pension can be deposited by Uncle Sam straight into ur Filipino bank account on 2nd day of month, no waiting, no problems, no vax required here, businesses don’t give a shit about any stupid temporary rules ! Once you find the right one and it’s true love and you will , then marry her , get USA fiancé visa, live in Guam 3 years so she becomes USA citizen, then when u go to heaven , if married 10 years she gets ur ss pension when she turns 62 !

[@NibrocNod]

Beach house in Philippines? Sweet

[@tuforu4]

@@Bulldawg1958 ha ha ha

[@douglaswilliams4274]

I walked away from the stress at 52 and did not look back. Paul is spot on. I’m a farmer in far North Thailand and love every day.

[@strangeinamoststrangeland4200]

Im in the Sierra Mountains. Cutting firewood today. Its getting cold. Funny how you dont think about cold all summer. Now im trying to get enough wood in for winter. A problem you dont have in the PH. Soon to be snowed in with my dog and catz. Good luck out there. I tried life there but discovered it wasnt for me

[@lovecrypto6912]

when i can not fall asleep i start thinking about all the things i am grateful for .. my feet, fingernails, the bed i am laying on, the air i breathe, rain, my tongue, yada yada yada .. i find the things i am grateful is never ending and soon i am asleep. Also when i have chain or circular thinking disturbing me I thank myself for the thoughts trying to protect me but that I don't need them right now ... this helps me rid myself of those who have done me wrong, regrets, things i have done to others that were not nice ... soon those thoughts dont come back ... remember is nice to be nice !!

[@DLeske]

*Thank you Paul.* I also lost two houses after a partner in business stole all our money in the bank which resulted all our employees losing their jobs, and our business closing with total bankruptcy and let me tell you pal... *yeah. It was tough.* The hardest part was seeing all those good guys lose their jobs.

[@briandumont7272]

My rock bottom is purely emotional. Being a middle aged single dude (almost 60), the lonliness is killer. Not that I want a woman pet se, but some kind of life at least. Too old to party, too young to give up. Time is near for a channel change. Winter is here, and SAD sets in, even here in Ca. One way I can tell who is a friend and who gets me is their reaction when I tell them my plans. My good, closer friends are happy about it, as they see the hamster wheel I am living these days. 2.5 years left. Can't come soon enough.

[@strangeinamoststrangeland4200]

I hear ya brother

[@briandumont7272]

I get SAD here in Ca myself. Being on 4 10s means 4 days out of the week I spend in the office when the sun is out. Going to work in the dark and coming home in the dark sucks, but only 18 months left for me. I hear you loud and clear.

[@strangeinamoststrangeland4200]

@@briandumont7272 i miss my filipina. I miss being able to get credit for doing nothing

[@Biking360]

I feel for you friend. I used to suffer badly from SAD when I lived in the UK. I moved to Thailand 21 years ago and have never had it since. Stick with it and you'll be out of where you are before you know it. Very best of luck to you fella. JP 61

[@Mjolnher9]

If you're lonely time to get off your ass and meet people and build a social circle. No one is just going to get buddy buddy with you randomly at the grocery store. Go online, meet people, join groups. Get your ass out there and travel. Sifting around all day doing nothing will get you nothing! Honestly here in the Philippines it can get lonely too once your 'honeymoon' period ends. It's no different.

[@douglaswilliams4274]

Paul, you are an empath. You feel emotions , you have empathy, you feel others pains.

[@AidaJof]

Yes, when you hit rock bottom whether financially or emotionally there is no reason to beat yourself down; if anything, the world is giving you time to re-evaluate your life as you very well put it, from there, there's only one way and that is up. Great video, Paul.

[@GregVT]

Yay! G.aylord is back! Great video Paul 👍

[@Lifebeyondthesea]

Excellent reflections and point-on in so many areas. the key one being to let go of the painful things from the past. those things really do slowly eat away at you like termites from the inside. but it's true what you said, that once you can let that burden go you are then free to have a much lighter, enjoyable and happy outlook on life. A person is then free to focus on being a positive influence for others.

[@CurtsThailand]

Hey Paul .. Wow is what I kept saying throughout your video I'm 60 A Southern California guy You and I were on the same track I was a successful business guy lost at all in divorce Trying to figure out whether or not I wanted to build it back... Went to Thailand a few times And figured out that that's where I really wanted to be that's what made me happy... Started listening to you a few years ago Life has brought me to the fact that I'll be retiring there in a year And one of the most important things I want to do is volunteer teaching in a village Had I continued on the hamster wheel making 300000 a year No way I would have volunteered anywhere I would have continued playing the game Until I was dead Your video today confirmedI've chosen the right Path... Living on social security and a bit more But having so many more RichesThen I ever could have imagined in America Keep being real Thanks for your down-to-earth's spirit But I have to tell you…If you get a million bucks or a million subscribers And we see you in gold chains hanging From your neck driving a Bentley in the phills..were gonna have to set you straight..lol Tx brother rock on..

[@veger5872]

Why Men across America have not fought to get rid of stupid divorce laws that enslave us to an Ex that left us and still gets most of the enchilada is beyond me!

[@stevenbrowne116]

Paul, when I look back at all the bad things, what doesn't kill you really does make you stronger. What a long strange journey life is. And now when I look back... they were blessings in disguise. I am so lucky.

[@craigross341]

I was a college teacher for 24 years. I kept doing it as the job collapsed around me. It provided identity, but it was also going to kill me. I've slept more nights in the year since I quit than I did in the six or seven previously. You get into ruts unless you're very careful.

[@mypov4343]

I hit rock bottom 3 years ago after divorce. I had to totally "reset" much the same way as you describe. I tried to do something positive every day to feel better about myself and eventually got out of depression. "Letting Go" (there is a book by that name btw well worth reading), being grateful for what I have, and forgiving her AND myself helped tremendously. There are a lot of free self-help youtube videos and audiobooks, costs you nothing but your time and willingness to change. No one can do your pushups for you.

[@DoubtingThomas333]

Silver / post menopausal divorce, pretty common. Advising men not to get married in this day and age is one step in the right direction.

[@desert4seat]

Yeah, I'm in the same boat right now. I'll never forgive her, don't want to and I wouldn't even know how. I'm ok with that I guess...

[@lowes891646]

This is probably the best of all your videos. Introspection builds a wise man. I left CA on August 19, 2019. I first flew to Las Vegas for the night. McCaron is still the simplest airport in America. All my possessions were contained in a carry-on bag. I had bought a car online from a dealer. The sales guy picked me up at Dallas Love Field. When you walk away from everything, you gain freedom. Peace of mind is the byproduct. Minimalism is the result and joy is the blessing. You're a great guy, Paul. We all appreciate you more than you'll even know. I'll see you in Valencia in about a year. My best to you and Baby Mae. Stay blessed, my minimalist friend.

[@leadlearner6391]

Paul, self reflection, and being humble is so important to the way one lives their life. I am responsible for what I do; nobody else!

[@youwatchme0808]

Nice one Paul!!,,, keep these ones coming and all the best to u and Baby Mae ;0

[@franciscorascon6025]

BEST VIDEO SO FAR. FOOD FOR THOUGHT. THANKS. I'M AT THAT SPOT IN LIFE.

[@jamesdean9084]

An honest reflection in the mirror of reality at our weakest, often produces our strength. The truly important things in life can't be bought and material things are vanity. Once you lose the ego and humble yourself, life becomes clear. Thank you for sharing your heartfelt journey and God bless you.

[@mtm4a]

Paul, you are so wise, so very very wise. Thank you so much for this video. The circumstances that I have wrestled with are a little different from yours, but everything you said relates to my issues too, and I am sure that your words can relate to varying problems that so many of us have. I love your channel, whether you are being funny or more serious. You have a certain way about you that most of us, I am sure, can relate to. You are a real gem. May you continue to prosper, and fill more of our lives with humility and empathy.

[@larrylangdon3664]

Hi Paul. A fantastic clip. We have all been there sometime, you have reignited my belief that yesterday does not matter. I look forward to the future with my lovely Pinoy wife and enjoy the life the is left to live. Have a great day... Thanks Larry

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Well said

[@robertjanak1026]

Very well iterated Paul. Thank you for sharing that personal story. You undoubtedly touched a lot of people with that. So many people can relate. I am relocatioing to the Phils in the new year and look forward to getting to know like-minded people such as yourself. Cheers!

[@chrisdillon2073]

Great video today . Thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thank you too!

[@tonyd441]

you are helping alot of people by being so open and honest

[@douglaswilliams4274]

Paul, what an amazing and honest vlog. A raw and reflective look on life. You are so humble and honest. I am really happy that I found your channel. Stay Safe, and Stay Blessed ! Cheers,

[@jeffcahill5722]

Again, your humility and honesty are so welcome.

[@joeping3300]

What a timely video and topic Paul. I feel like I was really ready to hear what you had to say in this one...thanks man.

[@terrybrett80]

Another self reflection. Great video. Thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ivanperez9143]

Good Sir, I have been watching your channel for about a year, in preparation for my transition to starting a new life, and it looks more and more that it will be in the Philippines. This particular video finally made me hit the subscribe button. I identify with your story, and I appreciate your wise insight. Thank you. I should also mention that your genuine laugh is contagious.

[@Leo-ws1id]

Great video,

[@jeffsea6490]

Great video today Paul, thanks for sharing correct interesting content 👍🇺🇲

[@Fitzaism]

You tell a good story and tell it very well. I can relate to a lot of this. I turn 76 years soon and still work full time. I have to pace myself carefully but it's not as difficult as I thought it might be 10 years ago. Your next big battle will be your hardest. It's the daily battle of fighting creeping old age. So be forewarned - and check your family history. 50 per cent of your genetics come from your parents.

[@joelajeunesse1900]

Thanks Mr Paul I enjoyed your video today. Enjoy your retirement you have earned it. Hello from Southwest Texas.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thanks 👍

[@everymanhasastory]

Another honest excellent heart felt video. This is why everyone loves Paul Mcgill and his channel.

[@jarlathquinn5722]

Wow Paul, you saved the best quote till last, Hurry up and get there! Pure Genius, thank you Paul

[@danfromcanada151]

Always nice hearing your video’s

[@martinpeacocke8968]

Great video Paul. Life is about choices. Anyone can start to change their situation even if all they can do in the beginning is small changes. Change your environment, friends, bad relationships etc.etc. Most importantly begin working on yourself making better choices.

[@lavonyoung2366]

I don't know if I have ever hit rock bottom, but I have gone through some tough times. I think that we all have, but realizing that our choices got us there and that our choices will get us out. That is what is important in life. Thanks for the words of wisdom. I hope to be in Dumaguete in January. Would like to buy you a cup of coffee.

[@johnjury4334]

Thankyou for that discussion. I have been through that process my self5 years ago. Last year was a really bad year with covid and family and personal trauma. I have a condo in Thailand and came here in February to get my life back in line and refocus on myself. It has been an amazing journey and like you have realized a hand out helping someone is better than a handout grabbing the dollar. God bless man.

[@michaellukehart4276]

Thank You Paul...I'm 65. Living in Cavite...almost 4 years.. This video was Excellent... I can totally relate....

[@boogiebackues8232]

Great video Paul 👍

[@UdontHAVEaNAME]

I do appreciate your honesty! Best post ever!

[@LeahandBlair]

Some people are just able to sit and talk in front of the camera and let it all out. 😀 I very very much agree about having people around you will either lift you up or drag you down. Can you reinvent yourself in the Philippines 🇵🇭 yes absolutely, It's smiles better in the Philippines. Just stay away from cheap booze. Help people, say a few kind words, and thank God for another day. ❤

[@gailmaplesden7380]

Correct Paul you can't run away from yourself but can reinvent yourself . AA taught me a lot about the disease of alcoholism and once you have made the decision to change there are people who understand.

[@hanksandoval3466]

Indeed, sometimes when you lose everything (material), you gain everything (spiritual)

[@jeffreyblanding2623]

Thank you my friend, for you time and insight ...

[@gulfstrmcaptbob4124]

the best video you have made. God bless and thank you

[@JohnR72]

What a great testimony! Celebrate Recovery really helped me ! Praise the Lord ! God bless you!

[@MooneyOvation2]

Paul, great video. I really identified with the honesty of your thoughts. It’s great that you’ve come so far in your journey. I can only hope…Best wishes.

[@UdontHAVEaNAME]

Very helpful.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad to hear!

[@tucsonwilly]

You are a very genuine guy. I really appreciate people like that.

[@CVP83]

Great down to earth vid. Thanks for sharing Paul.

[@seanoneillsongs]

Paul, this must be among the most honest and open videos I've seen on KZbin - Been there, done that and have been wearing the t-shirt. That t-shirt is bringing me to the Philippines for the first time - mid September to mid October. First stop, a week in Leyte but I may get to to your neck of the woods if I travel. Your videos are alway interesting and yesterday, I came across and old one where you talked with my other favourite channel host - The Filipina Pea - she'd just hit her 1000th subscriber - hard working and wise beyond her years. I see she has gained a few new subscribers since then.

[@jujjeelf309]

I faced great troubles during a typical calender year five-six years ago. I found myself returning to some of the foundations of my spiritual path. I even reached out to people for help, something I had never done before. I did not give up on life, and somehow kept on striving. During those humbling times, I did not like how I felt about myself, and I could not control some of the thoughts that were raging in my mind. But it lasted just a short season. Then it was over. A new day came.

[@jeffsea6490]

*Great Advice Paul* 👍

[@theupsidetv2007]

Great video Paul. I always enjoy your videos.

[@karlhungus1879]

“It's only after we've lost everything that we're free to do anything.”. Fight Club quote. Great video and such a close match to my experience 3-4 years ago. Except unlike you, I had the alcohol scourge to fight back as well. Family genetics and dynamics are no joke. Similar to you, I had to reflect and ultimately do an intervention on myself with the Philippines as the rehab center. And I’m still in it 3 years on and still working on myself and trying to “let it all go” as you have. But those bad memories/attitudes can sneak back to front & center if not vigilant and occupied with positive/productive activity. Keep up the good work, I think your words are helpful to those that are going through what we did or still are. That said, I think its important to note that hitting bottom and coming here is not the end of the story. The battle continues, its just easier to hold the line and not lose ground.

[@stevenoliver9728]

Anthony Bourdain had his own version of that quote. "Once you've destroyed your reputation you're pretty much free to do anything".

[@jdv2020]

Keep trying, and surround yourself with positive people. Best Wishes

[@feburgos6930]

Wake up every morning with a grateful and positive attitude , I hope it will help , Brother !

[@jdv2020]

@@feburgos6930 Amen!

[@desert4seat]

Yes! They definitely can sneak back to front & center. I haven't figured out how to stop that from happening. The cut runs so incredibly deep, there's no way to ignore it.

[@PrimusMagus]

Great points... gives me more to reflect on. I'm not headed to 'rock bottom' (I don't believe) but I am seeing more things in my life I can change to leave negative parts behind and embrace the new and positive. I enjoy your videos as both entertainment, informative sessions, and examples that change can still be made at any time in life to create a better future. Keep up the good work!

[@Franco-hw7ek]

Interesting. May God bless America.

[@jameshines7116]

Thank you Paul for your wisdom and sharing your life

[@davidcraddock7011]

cathartic and inspirational

[@danielehling2367]

you are right on target about what you are saying i have been in shoes like yours and i have changed my ways what a difference it makes loving life now keep up the good content god speed

[@bigmike6853]

Great video, Paul. Thanks!

[@scottlanham2855]

My man! Be Thankful & Greatful. All the rest is gravy. Love your chanel.....

[@ronfindley2874]

Keep On Keeping On!

[@markyf963]

very true mate, iv been there and you neeed to do it yourself and at the bottom there is no other choice ,, wise words my friend

[@MrBillybathgate5]

Great insights,

[@plantworks100]

Hey Paul my dear friend, I just have one thing to Say, you are truly a awesome and decent human being. All the love and respect for you my dear friend. I will be so honored to meet you and baby Mae in person. Thank you Paul my dear friend for sharing this awesome video. Please stay safe and healthy, and God bless you and Baby Mae always.😊 😊 😊 ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

[@johndickinson186]

Good stuff Paul, thank you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Very welcome

[@garyt7232]

Thank you for sharing part of story. Sometimes someone has to hit bottom before they decide to change. Stay safe.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Very true

[@edwinmeiners8464]

Wisdom!! I could not have said it any better. Thank you.

[@nellspop1]

great video Paul. one of the sayings I hear in recovery about hitting bottom is you have to stop digging to hit your bottom.

[@ronzombie6541]

Sage advice! Glad you found your happiness.

[@Ron58ism]

Thanks Paul for another great video. I’m not at rock bottom but because of you I reviewed my spending habits while in the U.S. before coming to the Philippines. I overspend here even though it’s more expensive to live here. I realized that even though it will cost me less to live in the Philippines with the buying power that I have, I needed to think differently. I needed to remember that I am moving to the Philippines for many reasons and that the most important one is financial security. I realized that spending my money in a more rational way, and still have a good time, I could triple my buying power therefore creating the security that I desire in a foreign country . Thanks Paul

[@deliagandiongco4891]

Paul so beautiful, a narrative. Impressive indeed!!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Many thanks!

[@from77640]

Great video. Good timing for me. Thanks for this!

[@williamsinns419]

Very well said Paul thank you n God bless Happy Holidays to you n Mae

[@jimtehrani3648]

Awsome video. Deep and profound! Thanks!

[@sarabarker2219]

Very good information for all to take in , thank you SIR.

[@djc6436-e4h]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Great insights, Paul.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

My pleasure!

[@gd6938]

Hello again, Paul . . . ah, my dear sir . . . you are a gentleman and a scholar. Listening to your philosophy of Life is such a rare pleasure for me . . . and your wisdom touches me and helps me in a very practical sense and sensibility. Thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Wow, thank you

[@jasonmarcfromi1742]

Love you Paul. Your reflections are always so insightful thanks man

[@robertt6327]

Thank you Paul, I always enjoy your talks you are so level-headed and full of Common Sense. Some guys just grow old but not you you have grown old and you have become wiser

[@dannyyap5143]

Paul, awesome..just love ur youtube or podcast as u speak the living truth n how to live a good life..will always stay with ur podcast n recommend to my friends, especially the loss ones! Haha

[@davidc6897]

Remove the negative and accentuate the positive will really change your perspective and a new outlook on life. Think of what a great world it would be if everyone showed human compassion for each other!

[@offthecuffadventureswithjamie]

Thanks for sharing Paul. Words well spoken. I really appreciate your honesty and wisdom!

[@kikionthetrailoflove7036]

That was a very thought provoking self analysis.

[@williamdavis7753]

Hey Paul...there is only one way that I can put this my friend...that is some good shit!!! Your channel about the Philippines and living there as a foreigner...is by far...the best on KZbin!!! The nay Sayers can just take a long walk off a short plank... I have learned so much from you channel!! If anyone asks me what I think about your channel...I will always reply this way...GOOD SHIT!!! Peace my friend.

[@paulwoods3214]

Thank you for sharing Dr. Paul-- This time of year is a reat time for rflection and goal setting. Thanks for being you!

[@raw-earth-exploits]

The Lord Jesus Christ Bless You. Im a full time preacher and that was a message of the millennium. It was in the Philipines that I hit rock bottom 30 years ago and cried out to God. Psalm 34:6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. This scripture is truth!!!

[@kitkatz9984]

Thanks for sharing these wise words of wisdom...i am blessed 😃

[@44Todder]

Words of wisdom sir. Thank you Paul.

[@Matthew-gz4oh]

Maybe your best video Paul, and that's saying something. Thank you!

[@MJFUYT]

Wise words. From a wise man. Your message hits all the right notes. 💯

[@thedolphinDog]

Good meaningful enspiring message. No hot chicks being dangled or lame bar room jokes. Good helpful video thank you.

[@jamesduff6851]

Well said. Thanks for sharing. Peace

[@deweycampbell]

I wish you all the best Paul.

[@thomasboutin6045]

The smart person learns from their own mistakes..a wise person learns from the mistakes of others...and some people will continue to make the same mistakes again and again.