Irish playwright, poet and novelist, known for his sharp wit, flamboyant style and brilliant conversational skills, Oscar Wilde’s quote suggests that the voluntary reading we do out of personal interest and passion shapes our character and intellect more profoundly than required reading. Wilde emphasises the importance of reading out of personal choice and curiosity. This type of reading often reflects our true interests, passions, and values. The quote implies that the knowledge, ideas, and perspectives we gain from this voluntary reading have a significant impact on who we become, especially in situations where our natural tendencies and instincts come to the fore. Wilde’s words suggest that what we choose to read in our leisure time can deeply influence our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours, ultimately shaping our identity in ways that compulsory reading might not.

S and I are still sick. My cold has gone, but there’s a bit of phlegm in the throat which is just not going away. If you have any remedies that work, please let me know.

My job search is still going on, but in the last two-plus months, I have not had a single interview call. I am still trying to be positive, but how long this will take, I don’t know.  

Life has become boring these days and in the last week, I had zero motivation to write. How the days passed is still a mystery!

And on that note, have a wonderful week people and stay positive!

Tig Notaro is an American stand-up comedian, writer, and actress known for her deadpan delivery and unique comedic style. Her quote highlights the significance of incremental progress and perseverance. Notaro emphasises that even the smallest, seemingly insignificant steps can lead to substantial progress over time. Consistent effort, no matter how small, contributes to long-term success. The quote acknowledges that these steps may be uncomfortable or challenging, but facing and overcoming this discomfort is essential for growth and achievement. Notaro’s words encourage patience and persistence, illustrating that accumulated small actions can lead to significant outcomes and distances, both literally and metaphorically.

Earlier this week, Lawrence Wong was sworn in as Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister, succeeding Mr. Lee Hsien Loong. At 51, he is the first Prime Minister born after Singapore’s independence, symbolising a generational shift in leadership. The ceremony took place at the Istana lawn and was a significant event, marking the transition from the third-generation to the fourth-generation (4G) political team. This was the first swearing-in ceremony I watched in Singapore. Our former prime minister was sworn in in 2004 and with twin infants at home and a full-time job, I doubt I had time to even breathe. In his inaugural speech, PM Wong emphasised unity and the collective effort to build a brighter future for Singapore.

I start my unemployment days this week and hope it is a short-lived one. I am also working with a career coach, so hopefully, I will be able to erase mistakes from my resume and get interviews soon. To date, I have applied to more than 60 positions, but have not received a single interview call, and have been mostly ghosted.

That’s all from me this week! Stay positive, as I am trying to be and keep smiling!