"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in getting up every time we do." - Confucius
When your baby learns to take her first step, she will most likely fall initially. As a parent, you will very likely encourage her to try again. You will lend her a hand to hold on to and gradually let it go, until she can stand on her own. When she is ready, she will lift her foot again. A fall on the bum, or sometimes a knock on the head, is common. But you can observe that she will get up and keep on trying again and again. Then, finally, when you do not have your video camera ready to shoot that prized moment, she manages her first step.
Everyone of us has that quality to never give up since birth. After learning to crawl, we learn to walk, then climb, kick, run, swim, cycle, etc. No matter how many times we fall when we learn to ride the bicycle, we will pick it up and carry on even when our legs have scratches here and there. Why do we keep trying? Because we have a strong desire to be able to do something well. Because we believe in ourselves, that we can do it.
Each time we fall, we learn something new. It is the things that we learn that help us improve to overcome the challenges that we face. With the lessons learned, it not only builds up our knowledge but also our character. We become stronger mentally. When we face our fears again, it becomes easier to manage them.
If you have fallen, whether in business, career or relationships, think of the baby in you. Think of how you managed to take that first step into the world. A baby never gives up, why should you? Get up and keep on trying. Your first step is not far away.
Greater Minds
How To Have More?
"To have more, become more." - Jim Rohn
Two good friends grew up in the same neighbourhood, went to the same school and graduated with flying colours. They found jobs without much problem but realised that they would had to go separate ways. Kenneth was posted to work overseas in a multinational company, while Duncan got a software engineering position in a local startup. As excited as they were with their future, they had a hard time bidding farewell to each other.
Eight years later, Duncan spotted Kenneth sipping latte at a Starbucks cafe in Sydney airport. They were overjoyed to see each other and spent the next couple of hours catching up on old times. Duncan is now the R&D Manager in his first job. He flew to Sydney to attend an exhibition on communication technologies and source for new ideas. He is happily married, with two kids. Kenneth, meanwhile, was into his fifth job working as a technical support staff in an insurance company. He shared his stories with Duncan on his retrenchment from his first job, to his firing of his boss in the last job. His stories could almost fit into a "101 reasons for finding another job" bestseller.
While Kenneth spent the last few years blaming other people, the boss, the company, the government and the environment for his failure, Duncan used his time to beef up his skills. Knowing that he needs to stay up-to-date with technology to progress in his career, he constantly attended seminars and conferences to acquire new knowledge and network with his peers in the industry. He even took up a part-time course and is certified in key skills that are highly valued.
The answer to be more successful in life is to become more. More skillful, more knowledgeable, more caring, more jovial, more thoughtful and the list goes on. Develop a habit of always wanting to improve yourself. Smile more, be cheerful. It helps, whether you are working as a cashier or a salesman. Stand tall, do not hunch. Speak out, not mumble. It shows you have self-confidence. Spend more time on your personal development. It will help you to have more.
Two good friends grew up in the same neighbourhood, went to the same school and graduated with flying colours. They found jobs without much problem but realised that they would had to go separate ways. Kenneth was posted to work overseas in a multinational company, while Duncan got a software engineering position in a local startup. As excited as they were with their future, they had a hard time bidding farewell to each other.
Eight years later, Duncan spotted Kenneth sipping latte at a Starbucks cafe in Sydney airport. They were overjoyed to see each other and spent the next couple of hours catching up on old times. Duncan is now the R&D Manager in his first job. He flew to Sydney to attend an exhibition on communication technologies and source for new ideas. He is happily married, with two kids. Kenneth, meanwhile, was into his fifth job working as a technical support staff in an insurance company. He shared his stories with Duncan on his retrenchment from his first job, to his firing of his boss in the last job. His stories could almost fit into a "101 reasons for finding another job" bestseller.
While Kenneth spent the last few years blaming other people, the boss, the company, the government and the environment for his failure, Duncan used his time to beef up his skills. Knowing that he needs to stay up-to-date with technology to progress in his career, he constantly attended seminars and conferences to acquire new knowledge and network with his peers in the industry. He even took up a part-time course and is certified in key skills that are highly valued.
The answer to be more successful in life is to become more. More skillful, more knowledgeable, more caring, more jovial, more thoughtful and the list goes on. Develop a habit of always wanting to improve yourself. Smile more, be cheerful. It helps, whether you are working as a cashier or a salesman. Stand tall, do not hunch. Speak out, not mumble. It shows you have self-confidence. Spend more time on your personal development. It will help you to have more.
Ask Quality Questions
"Quality questions create a quality life. Successful people ask better questions, and as a result, they get better answers." - Anthony Robbins
When my doctor informed me that I had cancer at the end of last year, I was surprised. I paused to gather my thoughts. What is going on here? What does this mean? How will this affect me? What are the treatments available? Will I be able to continue doing what I like? How will my family and friends take this piece of news? What kind of support is available to me? Will my insurance be able to cover most of the cost of my medical bills? Questions after questions kept flowing from my mind. There were just too many questions I had to ask but I did not had the answers there and then. In fact, I looked for additional questions to ask by researching websites, like the US National Cancer Institute. I gathered and posed those questions to my oncologist the next time I went for my appointment. And I received the answers that I wanted to guide me through my decision making and what to expect as I went through my treatment.
Had I asked poor questions, I believe the outcome for me would have been different. What if I had asked, "Why me?" or "Why now?". My mind would have then raced to look for answers on why I am the victim of this dreaded disease. I would be finding answers on why the world seems to be unfair. Perhaps, it would lead me to think that only old people should be getting sick, not me. Or I would think that this will severely affect the current lifestyle that I am enjoying.
Why do we make poor decisions? Because we have poor answers. And the reason for getting answers that do not help us at all, is due to the questions that we ask ourselves. If you phrase your questions with the aim of getting positive outcome, then you will be rewarded with wisdoms that will point you to the right direction. Avoid asking questions that seek reasons for situations that have happenened, at least not when you are looking for solutions. Those questions can be reserved until later, when you are doing a post-mortem to understand what mistakes you made in the past and learn from your mistakes.
When my doctor informed me that I had cancer at the end of last year, I was surprised. I paused to gather my thoughts. What is going on here? What does this mean? How will this affect me? What are the treatments available? Will I be able to continue doing what I like? How will my family and friends take this piece of news? What kind of support is available to me? Will my insurance be able to cover most of the cost of my medical bills? Questions after questions kept flowing from my mind. There were just too many questions I had to ask but I did not had the answers there and then. In fact, I looked for additional questions to ask by researching websites, like the US National Cancer Institute. I gathered and posed those questions to my oncologist the next time I went for my appointment. And I received the answers that I wanted to guide me through my decision making and what to expect as I went through my treatment.Had I asked poor questions, I believe the outcome for me would have been different. What if I had asked, "Why me?" or "Why now?". My mind would have then raced to look for answers on why I am the victim of this dreaded disease. I would be finding answers on why the world seems to be unfair. Perhaps, it would lead me to think that only old people should be getting sick, not me. Or I would think that this will severely affect the current lifestyle that I am enjoying.
Why do we make poor decisions? Because we have poor answers. And the reason for getting answers that do not help us at all, is due to the questions that we ask ourselves. If you phrase your questions with the aim of getting positive outcome, then you will be rewarded with wisdoms that will point you to the right direction. Avoid asking questions that seek reasons for situations that have happenened, at least not when you are looking for solutions. Those questions can be reserved until later, when you are doing a post-mortem to understand what mistakes you made in the past and learn from your mistakes.
Achieving Greatness
"Greatness is only achieved in the absence of fear" - Author unknown
I often ponder on how Neil Armstrong
managed to walk on the moon. Can you imagine that was done 40 years ago from today? What was the level of technology like then? I guess even a basic laptop computer that you use now will have better performance than whatever they used on board Apollo 11. So, how did they (Buzz Aldrin, Michael Collins, Neil Armstrong) get to the moon? And what drove them to do it?
Before 1969, no one has landed on the moon, although they were flights that orbited it. If you look at the history of space exploration, you will realise that it is not a ride on a train and there were plenty of risks. Failures that resulted in loss of communication with the crafts were common, failed launches, landings and many others. With all the known and unknown risks, why did the 3 astronauts still attempted to reach the moon?
President Barack Obama called the astronauts "Genuine Heroes".
"It is because of the heroism, the calm under pressure, the grace with which these three gentlemen operated, but also the entire NASA family that was able to, at great risk oftentimes and with great danger, was somehow able to lift our sights - not just here in the United States, but around the world," said Mr. Obama.
They calculated the risks that they had to take and overcame their fear to achieve a historic feat. You do not have to reach the moon or Mars to achieve greatness. But whenever you want to achieve more than what you have now, the first step is to remove all fear from your heart. Whether it is starting a new business, venturing into a new industry, conquering the highest peak, saving the world from global warming, it all starts with courage. You can have the perfect plan and strategies, but if you do not possess the courage to act, all your planning will be of no use.
I often ponder on how Neil Armstrong
managed to walk on the moon. Can you imagine that was done 40 years ago from today? What was the level of technology like then? I guess even a basic laptop computer that you use now will have better performance than whatever they used on board Apollo 11. So, how did they (Buzz Aldrin, Michael Collins, Neil Armstrong) get to the moon? And what drove them to do it?Before 1969, no one has landed on the moon, although they were flights that orbited it. If you look at the history of space exploration, you will realise that it is not a ride on a train and there were plenty of risks. Failures that resulted in loss of communication with the crafts were common, failed launches, landings and many others. With all the known and unknown risks, why did the 3 astronauts still attempted to reach the moon?
President Barack Obama called the astronauts "Genuine Heroes".
"It is because of the heroism, the calm under pressure, the grace with which these three gentlemen operated, but also the entire NASA family that was able to, at great risk oftentimes and with great danger, was somehow able to lift our sights - not just here in the United States, but around the world," said Mr. Obama.
They calculated the risks that they had to take and overcame their fear to achieve a historic feat. You do not have to reach the moon or Mars to achieve greatness. But whenever you want to achieve more than what you have now, the first step is to remove all fear from your heart. Whether it is starting a new business, venturing into a new industry, conquering the highest peak, saving the world from global warming, it all starts with courage. You can have the perfect plan and strategies, but if you do not possess the courage to act, all your planning will be of no use.
Be Happy
"Be happy about what you have, instead of being sad about what you don't have." - Author unknown
I have a nice home, a beautiful wife, lovely kids and a decent job.
I am thankful that ...
I have a nice home, a beautiful wife, lovely kids and a decent job.
I am thankful that ...
- we are a close-knit family
- they are all healthy
- we have the time to play and mingle together
- we live in a safe environment
- I can see their smiles and hear their laughter
Fail To Plan
"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail" - author unknown
How many times have you set goals and did not accomplish anything at the end of the day? Is it because your targets were too ambitious? Maybe, but let's say they were realistic. Then, what went wrong? After setting your goals, did you set up a plan to achieve your goals? If the answer is no, then chances are that your goals were just mere dreams or illusions.
When you were in school, you probably wanted to do well in your studies and pass exams. You did not plan to fail. Your plan was to study hard, do your home work, attend classes and ask questions. That helped you graduate and get the necessary qualifications to get a decent job. As you enter the workforce, you probably wanted to show your employer that you are a good worker. You start planning to climb the corporate ladder. Do you notice the similarities, whichever stage of your life you are at? When you decide to start your own business, it all boils down to careful and meticulous planning. No banks or venture capitalist will loan you any funds if you do not have a business plan.
If you do not plan to fail, start planning for your future now.
How many times have you set goals and did not accomplish anything at the end of the day? Is it because your targets were too ambitious? Maybe, but let's say they were realistic. Then, what went wrong? After setting your goals, did you set up a plan to achieve your goals? If the answer is no, then chances are that your goals were just mere dreams or illusions.
When you were in school, you probably wanted to do well in your studies and pass exams. You did not plan to fail. Your plan was to study hard, do your home work, attend classes and ask questions. That helped you graduate and get the necessary qualifications to get a decent job. As you enter the workforce, you probably wanted to show your employer that you are a good worker. You start planning to climb the corporate ladder. Do you notice the similarities, whichever stage of your life you are at? When you decide to start your own business, it all boils down to careful and meticulous planning. No banks or venture capitalist will loan you any funds if you do not have a business plan.
If you do not plan to fail, start planning for your future now.
Life's Challenges
Life always seem like an uphill challenge, especially when you are facing a hurdle after another. But that is because we tend to see things from the bottom. Try changing your perspective. Look at things from the top. It will then be a more enjoyable, smoother and fun ride downhill all the way.
Do Something Wonderful
"Do something wonderful, people may imitate it." - Albert Schweitzer
After a long and tiring day out with the kids, my wife finally got the chance to settle down on the sofa. We switched on the television and began what has became second nature, that is, channel surfing. Watching dinosaurs come alive in a museum was not really our type of movie, so we moved on. By chance, we stumbled upon a charity show called TrueHearts organised by Community Chest of Singapore. It was a fundraiser event for needy Singaporeans.
It has been a while since we last watched any charity events on tv. The negative news of the old NKF scandal a few years ago and the more recent news linked to a venerable monk who headed the Ren Ci charity fund and hospital had dampened our confidence. As a result, we tend to be more cautious towards any fund raising activities. How do I know if the organisation or the people running it are trustworthy? How do I know that the money I donate are used properly for the people who deserve it? These are basic questions that come to mind when such negative news happen in a supposedly "clean" country like Singapore. There are always bad apples around. We just need to weed them out.
There will always be people around who believe that it is worth doing what is right, especially for others who deserve help. And I believe this is what drives organisations and people to keep on serving the community. And when you believe that someone is doing the right thing, there is a tendency for you to follow their steps. Watching the fund raising show on television must have triggered something in my wife's mind. She just popped out her phone and dialled the 1900 number shown on the screen. That was a small deed but it was started but someone who did something wonderful.
Have you done something wonderful?
After a long and tiring day out with the kids, my wife finally got the chance to settle down on the sofa. We switched on the television and began what has became second nature, that is, channel surfing. Watching dinosaurs come alive in a museum was not really our type of movie, so we moved on. By chance, we stumbled upon a charity show called TrueHearts organised by Community Chest of Singapore. It was a fundraiser event for needy Singaporeans.
It has been a while since we last watched any charity events on tv. The negative news of the old NKF scandal a few years ago and the more recent news linked to a venerable monk who headed the Ren Ci charity fund and hospital had dampened our confidence. As a result, we tend to be more cautious towards any fund raising activities. How do I know if the organisation or the people running it are trustworthy? How do I know that the money I donate are used properly for the people who deserve it? These are basic questions that come to mind when such negative news happen in a supposedly "clean" country like Singapore. There are always bad apples around. We just need to weed them out.
There will always be people around who believe that it is worth doing what is right, especially for others who deserve help. And I believe this is what drives organisations and people to keep on serving the community. And when you believe that someone is doing the right thing, there is a tendency for you to follow their steps. Watching the fund raising show on television must have triggered something in my wife's mind. She just popped out her phone and dialled the 1900 number shown on the screen. That was a small deed but it was started but someone who did something wonderful.
Have you done something wonderful?
Value Of Life
"It is not what you get, but what you become." - Jim Rohn
When you achieve the goals that you set, the important outcome is not about the goal. Whether you set a goal to have your first million or to setup a charity, at the end of the day, you will realise that it is not just about reaching your goals. Think of what you have gone through to get what you want. Probably you would have started learning how to run a business on your own, how to read financial statements, how to sell your services, how to negotiate, etc. It takes time to reach your goals. The process that you go through is definitely more valuable, as these form part of your lifelong learning skills.
When you achieve the goals that you set, the important outcome is not about the goal. Whether you set a goal to have your first million or to setup a charity, at the end of the day, you will realise that it is not just about reaching your goals. Think of what you have gone through to get what you want. Probably you would have started learning how to run a business on your own, how to read financial statements, how to sell your services, how to negotiate, etc. It takes time to reach your goals. The process that you go through is definitely more valuable, as these form part of your lifelong learning skills.
3 Steps To Re-build Courage
"All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney
The difference between those who made it compared to those who did not, could sometimes be attributed to just courage. It makes a huge difference when it is time to make a decision whether to jump on board the ship or let it sail off into the vast ocean. With courage, the heart rules over the mind. Logical reasoning takes a step back. You just know that you have to do it, or else you will remain where you are for the rest of your life.
Is courage an in-born skill or learned over time? It is both. As a child, there is no lack of courage in you. Most likely you would have taken the first step as soon as you had the energy to lift up your feet. An open flame would not have stopped you from reaching out for it, though you would have learned that it was painful afterward. As you grow up, so do your "courage". You begin to defy instructions from your parents or teachers. The more you attempt to do things out of the norm, the better you become at making those decisions. However, over time, some kind angelic soul will tell you that is not right to do the things you did. Sometimes you listen, most of the time you do not. Without realising it, you gradually take more time to ponder before making decisions. You learn how to hesitate. When you reach adolescent, logical reasoning becomes your mastered skill, while courage sits in the back burner.
If you have lost your courage, can you re-discover it? The answer is a definite yes. Here are 3 steps that you can take to get acquainted again with the skill that you have in yourself:
The difference between those who made it compared to those who did not, could sometimes be attributed to just courage. It makes a huge difference when it is time to make a decision whether to jump on board the ship or let it sail off into the vast ocean. With courage, the heart rules over the mind. Logical reasoning takes a step back. You just know that you have to do it, or else you will remain where you are for the rest of your life.
Is courage an in-born skill or learned over time? It is both. As a child, there is no lack of courage in you. Most likely you would have taken the first step as soon as you had the energy to lift up your feet. An open flame would not have stopped you from reaching out for it, though you would have learned that it was painful afterward. As you grow up, so do your "courage". You begin to defy instructions from your parents or teachers. The more you attempt to do things out of the norm, the better you become at making those decisions. However, over time, some kind angelic soul will tell you that is not right to do the things you did. Sometimes you listen, most of the time you do not. Without realising it, you gradually take more time to ponder before making decisions. You learn how to hesitate. When you reach adolescent, logical reasoning becomes your mastered skill, while courage sits in the back burner.
If you have lost your courage, can you re-discover it? The answer is a definite yes. Here are 3 steps that you can take to get acquainted again with the skill that you have in yourself:
- Start small - Never been able to ask for a date with that dream partner? Get some friends together and organise a group outing, then invite your partner over. It will be easier than to ask for a one-to-one candlelight dinner. As time goes by, take it a step further from group outings to double dating, then go solo.
- Learn from others - If you cannot push yourself to making decisions that are critical to your success, fret not. Instead of starting your own business when you are not ready, why not learn from someone who has started it? Learn how he start-up his business, how he prepared a business plan, where he found customers, who he obtained investments from.
- Set goals - Write down your short and long term goals on paper. When you write them down, you will become more committed to achieve them. When you feel that you lack the courage to take that step forward, look at your goals. Do you truly want to reach your goals? If yes, what are you waiting for?
Value Of A Man
"The value of a man resides in what he gives and not in what he is capable of receiving." - Albert Einstein
Come Christmas every year, children around the world look forward to opening their presents from their beloved grandparents, parents, relatives and friends. With the genius of marketing people, this annual religious event has been turned into a huge money spinner for many businesses. Think toys for boys and girls, gadgets for the big boys and carats for the ladies.
Although my family and I are not Christians, we could not resist joining in the fun every year. We prepare nicely wrapped gifts a few weeks' in advance for our children. We do not have any Christmas tree (yet). So, we normally place the gifts beside a tall audio speaker, which is the closest thing that we can get to a tree. When it is time to unwrap what are in the boxes, the innocent smile and pleasant surprise from their little faces never fail to warm our hearts.
Lavishing gifts on others is probably one of the easiest act that we can all do, if you can afford them. But the story above is not to illustrate on how you will be valued in life. There is more to it that we can all contribute to the world and society that we live in. You do not have to be the next Mother Teresa, Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, Gandhi or Bono. But every little act that you do that improves the lives of people, helps solve some challenges, take some pain away, make burdens lighter, goes a long way.
We all have a gift in us but the value of that gift is only realised when we let it out.
Come Christmas every year, children around the world look forward to opening their presents from their beloved grandparents, parents, relatives and friends. With the genius of marketing people, this annual religious event has been turned into a huge money spinner for many businesses. Think toys for boys and girls, gadgets for the big boys and carats for the ladies.
Although my family and I are not Christians, we could not resist joining in the fun every year. We prepare nicely wrapped gifts a few weeks' in advance for our children. We do not have any Christmas tree (yet). So, we normally place the gifts beside a tall audio speaker, which is the closest thing that we can get to a tree. When it is time to unwrap what are in the boxes, the innocent smile and pleasant surprise from their little faces never fail to warm our hearts.
Lavishing gifts on others is probably one of the easiest act that we can all do, if you can afford them. But the story above is not to illustrate on how you will be valued in life. There is more to it that we can all contribute to the world and society that we live in. You do not have to be the next Mother Teresa, Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, Gandhi or Bono. But every little act that you do that improves the lives of people, helps solve some challenges, take some pain away, make burdens lighter, goes a long way.
We all have a gift in us but the value of that gift is only realised when we let it out.
Life Choices
"Life offers us choices but the decision lies in our own hands." - Author unknown
The life story of Mother Teresa of Calcutta never fails to inspire people. She dedicated her whole life to serving humanity by caring for the poorest of the poor in the slums of Calcutta. It was during an annual retreat in 1946, when she stepped out of her convent, that she witnessed the suffering and poverty that left a deep impression on her. Two years later, she was granted permission to leave the convent and devoted herself to working amongst the poorest.
Mother Teresa may not be with us now. But the decision she made at that time left an unforgettable legacy for all and her work is continued by many who shares in her vision.
The life story of Mother Teresa of Calcutta never fails to inspire people. She dedicated her whole life to serving humanity by caring for the poorest of the poor in the slums of Calcutta. It was during an annual retreat in 1946, when she stepped out of her convent, that she witnessed the suffering and poverty that left a deep impression on her. Two years later, she was granted permission to leave the convent and devoted herself to working amongst the poorest.
Mother Teresa may not be with us now. But the decision she made at that time left an unforgettable legacy for all and her work is continued by many who shares in her vision.
Live Your Dreams
"Don't just dream of the life you want, start living your dreams." - Author unknown
Many of us have dreams of living a fabulous lifestyle, in a luxurious beach house on an island of our own. We dream of being millionaires, being able to travel anywhere, whenever we want, savour exotic delicacies, dress in sparkling jewelry, riding in a limousine and the list goes on. It becomes a different story the moment we wake up. Poof! The dream disappears almost instantaneously. And we will almost always wished we could continue sleeping.
It does not always have to be as extravagant as the example earlier. But dreams and wishes we all have. It could be as simple as wishing that you can get your hands on that cool new Honda Insight hybrid car. Anything beats having to squeeze with the crowd on a bus in the wee morning when you are rushing for work.
The challenge with most of us is that our wishes remain as they are, just wishes. Have you thought of what if you can really turn your wish into a reality? Is that really possible? Why not? Do you really think that Warren Buffet became a billionaire with the help of a genie from a old lamp? No. Likewise, Anthony Robbins became a successful author and speaker because he believed he can convert his dreams into reality.
If someone who delivered newspapers as a boy, and another who worked as a janitor can achieve their dreams, why not you? So, do not throw away your dreams just yet. If you have a burning desire to achieve it, you will realise it. We will explore this further in another article, starting with goal setting.
Many of us have dreams of living a fabulous lifestyle, in a luxurious beach house on an island of our own. We dream of being millionaires, being able to travel anywhere, whenever we want, savour exotic delicacies, dress in sparkling jewelry, riding in a limousine and the list goes on. It becomes a different story the moment we wake up. Poof! The dream disappears almost instantaneously. And we will almost always wished we could continue sleeping.
It does not always have to be as extravagant as the example earlier. But dreams and wishes we all have. It could be as simple as wishing that you can get your hands on that cool new Honda Insight hybrid car. Anything beats having to squeeze with the crowd on a bus in the wee morning when you are rushing for work.
The challenge with most of us is that our wishes remain as they are, just wishes. Have you thought of what if you can really turn your wish into a reality? Is that really possible? Why not? Do you really think that Warren Buffet became a billionaire with the help of a genie from a old lamp? No. Likewise, Anthony Robbins became a successful author and speaker because he believed he can convert his dreams into reality.
If someone who delivered newspapers as a boy, and another who worked as a janitor can achieve their dreams, why not you? So, do not throw away your dreams just yet. If you have a burning desire to achieve it, you will realise it. We will explore this further in another article, starting with goal setting.
Sorrow Leads To Strength And Wisdom
"Things are never as bad as they seem. The situations that cause us sorrow are the same ones that introduce us to the strength, power and wisdom that we truly are." - Robin Sharma, from the book Discover Your Destiny with The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari.
This can never be more true than what I am going through now. When I told my wife that I had cancer a few months ago, she was shocked in disbelief. It was difficult to accept the news when I told her over the phone. We were both not prepared. What do we do now? We have two young children who have not even started primary school. I have insurance policies but they would barely last my family a few years if a worst case scenario happens to me. A lot of different thoughts rushed about randomly in our minds.
After we received more information from my doctor, we calmed down a little. Not that there is a 100% cure but that we became more knowledgeable about my condition. With a better understanding of the treatment that I have to go through, we could plan how to go about our lifes for the next phase.
I realised that nothing is thicker than blood. My family rallied behind me. My wife asked for work-from-home arrangements from her employer to accompany me whenever I went to hospital. My mother flew in from my hometown to stay with us, to help out with preparing more nutritious and healthy home-cooked food for me. My friends prayed for me. My colleagues volunteered to back me up at work, so that I can rest and recover quickly.
With all the support and well wishes, I feel truly blessed to have all these people in my life. It makes me even more determined to battle my cancer and bounce back. My sincere thanks to all.
This can never be more true than what I am going through now. When I told my wife that I had cancer a few months ago, she was shocked in disbelief. It was difficult to accept the news when I told her over the phone. We were both not prepared. What do we do now? We have two young children who have not even started primary school. I have insurance policies but they would barely last my family a few years if a worst case scenario happens to me. A lot of different thoughts rushed about randomly in our minds.
After we received more information from my doctor, we calmed down a little. Not that there is a 100% cure but that we became more knowledgeable about my condition. With a better understanding of the treatment that I have to go through, we could plan how to go about our lifes for the next phase.
I realised that nothing is thicker than blood. My family rallied behind me. My wife asked for work-from-home arrangements from her employer to accompany me whenever I went to hospital. My mother flew in from my hometown to stay with us, to help out with preparing more nutritious and healthy home-cooked food for me. My friends prayed for me. My colleagues volunteered to back me up at work, so that I can rest and recover quickly.
With all the support and well wishes, I feel truly blessed to have all these people in my life. It makes me even more determined to battle my cancer and bounce back. My sincere thanks to all.
Shortcut To Success
"There is no shortcut to success. It is all about hardwork, perseverance and much more." - Author unknown
Many of us hope to get a lucky winning number when we buy a lottery and hope for early retirement. Imagine if you strike a jackpot of $3 million. What will you do with the money? Invest part of it, buy a new house, go on a grand tour, treat your family and friends to a 10-course dinner in a 5-star hotel? But what is the probability of winning. Some kind soul did a calculation for Singapore Toto and found out that there is only a 1 in 8,145,060 chance of winning the jackpot. Therefore, even if you buy a ticket for every draw in your lifetime, chances are you may not be the lucky one. But you can still buy it, just keep your hopes very low. If it strikes, take it as a bonus but do not rely on it to become successful in life.
One of my favourite action hero is non other that Jackie Chan. His life story was a path strewn with challenges. He started learning kungfu with his father at a very young age and spent 10 years at China Drama Academy where he learned martial arts and acrobatics, among others. From there, he built his foundation and it instilled a sense of discipline in him. He only started his acting career at age of 21 but it did not took off instantly. Through sheer hardwork and perseverance, it took him time to establish himself in the movie industry in Asia. And it was another hurdle when he attempted to break into the US market. But he did not give up. As of today, he is internationally recognised as a superstar. Some of his successful films include Police Story, Rush Hour and Shanghai Noon.
Many of us hope to get a lucky winning number when we buy a lottery and hope for early retirement. Imagine if you strike a jackpot of $3 million. What will you do with the money? Invest part of it, buy a new house, go on a grand tour, treat your family and friends to a 10-course dinner in a 5-star hotel? But what is the probability of winning. Some kind soul did a calculation for Singapore Toto and found out that there is only a 1 in 8,145,060 chance of winning the jackpot. Therefore, even if you buy a ticket for every draw in your lifetime, chances are you may not be the lucky one. But you can still buy it, just keep your hopes very low. If it strikes, take it as a bonus but do not rely on it to become successful in life.
One of my favourite action hero is non other that Jackie Chan. His life story was a path strewn with challenges. He started learning kungfu with his father at a very young age and spent 10 years at China Drama Academy where he learned martial arts and acrobatics, among others. From there, he built his foundation and it instilled a sense of discipline in him. He only started his acting career at age of 21 but it did not took off instantly. Through sheer hardwork and perseverance, it took him time to establish himself in the movie industry in Asia. And it was another hurdle when he attempted to break into the US market. But he did not give up. As of today, he is internationally recognised as a superstar. Some of his successful films include Police Story, Rush Hour and Shanghai Noon.
Burning Desire
"Every adversity brings with it the seed of an equivalent advantage" - Napoleon Hill
From his burning desire to challenge the doctor's opinion that his newborn son might be deaf and mute for life, Napoleon Hill constantly sought a way to help his child in understanding sound without the aid of ears. With a very strong believe, they managed to overcome the odds. Read more about this from his timeless classic, "Think and Grow Rich".
From his burning desire to challenge the doctor's opinion that his newborn son might be deaf and mute for life, Napoleon Hill constantly sought a way to help his child in understanding sound without the aid of ears. With a very strong believe, they managed to overcome the odds. Read more about this from his timeless classic, "Think and Grow Rich".
Don't Change The World
"If you can't change the world, change yourself." - Author unknown
It is always easy to blame others when life does not turn out the way that we want it to be. Blame the government when taxes go up. Blame the transport authority when toll prices increase. Curse at your boss when you get retrenched.
Does putting the blame on others help solve any problems? Does it make you feel better? Will the situation improve? No, no, no. Instead of pointing the finger at someone else, we have to look inwards to ourselves. Start asking positive questions.
What can I do to generate more income when taxes increase? What other skills do I have to earn a better living? Will starting up a new business help to alleviate some of the new taxes?
When toll prices are raised, can I use public transport? Can I car pool with my colleagues if I still love to ride in a private car?
If I am retrenched, is it because my skills are not relevant to the company anymore? How should I upgrade myself?
The world has more than 6 billion people across more than 192 countries in the world. It is impossible that you can influence that many people to change their thoughts. But if you focus on improving yourself, you will start seeing the world differently.
It is always easy to blame others when life does not turn out the way that we want it to be. Blame the government when taxes go up. Blame the transport authority when toll prices increase. Curse at your boss when you get retrenched.
Does putting the blame on others help solve any problems? Does it make you feel better? Will the situation improve? No, no, no. Instead of pointing the finger at someone else, we have to look inwards to ourselves. Start asking positive questions.
What can I do to generate more income when taxes increase? What other skills do I have to earn a better living? Will starting up a new business help to alleviate some of the new taxes?
When toll prices are raised, can I use public transport? Can I car pool with my colleagues if I still love to ride in a private car?
If I am retrenched, is it because my skills are not relevant to the company anymore? How should I upgrade myself?
The world has more than 6 billion people across more than 192 countries in the world. It is impossible that you can influence that many people to change their thoughts. But if you focus on improving yourself, you will start seeing the world differently.
Concentration
"The best advice I ever came across on the subject of concentration is: Wherever you are, be there.
When you work, work. When you play, play. Don't mix the two.
Give whatever you are doing and whoever you are with the gift of attention.
On the way to work, concentrate on the way - not the work.
Pay attention. Don't just stagger through the day."
- Jim Rohn
Prevention
"Prevention is better than cure." - Author unknown
We have all heard of this idiom since our school days or from someone we know. It is better to take care of ourselves before something dreadful happens. Almost everyone knows about this universal truth but how many of us practise it in our day to day life? When you were in your teens, do you keep your face clean everyday or wait until acne start breaking out before rushing out to the pharmacy for the latest facial cleanser/toner/moisturiser package? "Oh, it won't happen to me.", is such a common excuse to ignore this.
The reason why I chose this as the first thought of the day is that I had ignored this simple truth myself. At age 38 now, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is a cancer of the lymph nodes. It came as a shock to me, my family and my close friends. I have been generally healthy my entire life, except for the occasional flu, cough, fever. I am a non-smoker and eat a healthy diet, with moderate intake of fast food, junk food and alcohol. However, I realised that I do not have a regular exercise regime. In fact, I had not have any regular exercise since I left high school. Had I been doing some form of regular exercise, be it brisk walking, swimming, working out at a gym, would my current situation been prevented? Maybe. Even a slight maybe would be a bonus.
Imagine if I had paid a few hundred dollars for a gym membership, took an hour every 2-3 days for a full workout. Compare that to the few thousand dollars that I have to pay for my medical bills now, the frequent hospital visits for chemotherapy, lost of time with family and friends.
Practise this simple universal truth now. Do not wait for mishaps to happen to you.
We have all heard of this idiom since our school days or from someone we know. It is better to take care of ourselves before something dreadful happens. Almost everyone knows about this universal truth but how many of us practise it in our day to day life? When you were in your teens, do you keep your face clean everyday or wait until acne start breaking out before rushing out to the pharmacy for the latest facial cleanser/toner/moisturiser package? "Oh, it won't happen to me.", is such a common excuse to ignore this.
The reason why I chose this as the first thought of the day is that I had ignored this simple truth myself. At age 38 now, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is a cancer of the lymph nodes. It came as a shock to me, my family and my close friends. I have been generally healthy my entire life, except for the occasional flu, cough, fever. I am a non-smoker and eat a healthy diet, with moderate intake of fast food, junk food and alcohol. However, I realised that I do not have a regular exercise regime. In fact, I had not have any regular exercise since I left high school. Had I been doing some form of regular exercise, be it brisk walking, swimming, working out at a gym, would my current situation been prevented? Maybe. Even a slight maybe would be a bonus.
Imagine if I had paid a few hundred dollars for a gym membership, took an hour every 2-3 days for a full workout. Compare that to the few thousand dollars that I have to pay for my medical bills now, the frequent hospital visits for chemotherapy, lost of time with family and friends.
Practise this simple universal truth now. Do not wait for mishaps to happen to you.
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