2024 Week 19 Update

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!

2024 Week 17 Update

Today’s quote is by American writer, publisher, and philosopher known for his inspirational essays and aphorisms, Elbert Hubbard, who often explored themes of individualism, self-reliance, and the pursuit of personal excellence. Hubbard’s quote underscores the detrimental impact of excessive fear and self-doubt on personal growth and fulfilment. He suggests that allowing fear of failure to dominate one’s mindset can prevent them from taking risks and pursuing opportunities, ultimately hindering their potential for success and happiness. The quote encourages individuals to accept that making mistakes is a natural part of life’s journey and that dwelling on the possibility of failure can impede progress and personal development. Hubbard’s words advocate for courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace challenges and uncertainties. By reframing mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth, individuals can navigate life with greater confidence and optimism. This is something very similar to what someone told me recently, so this is going to be my new mantra from now on!

I mentioned last week that I was going to be talking to a career coach for an introductory session. I did that this week. While the coach I spoke to was wonderful, doing this in the long run may be very expensive, so I am thinking of doing a couple of sessions, including a resume overview, to see if that would work out.

GG’s exams are done, so she is enjoying herself by watching shows on Netflix and looking for internships. Let’s hope she finds something she enjoys doing. As for BB, it’s the same as last week. I will probably have something new to report only after he joins his unit after training.

That’s it from me this week. Keep smiling and stay positive!

2024 Week 16 Update

Today’s quote by former American President and one of the men I look up to, Barack Obama, resonates with me, given my state of mind these days. The quote emphasises the importance of using failures as a learning opportunity rather than allowing them to negatively impact one’s self-perception. It suggests that instead of viewing failures as a reflection of one’s identity, one should see them as valuable experiences from which to gain wisdom and improve. It’s about shifting the perspective from a fixed mindset, where failures are seen as insurmountable, to a growth mindset, where challenges are embraced as chances to develop and strengthen one’s abilities.

So how can you do that? Instead of brushing off failures, you should take the time to reflect on them. Ask yourself what went wrong, what could have been done differently, and what lessons can be learned. Embrace the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed. See challenges as opportunities to grow, rather than obstacles that define you. After a failure, identify specific areas for improvement and set goals to develop those skills. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from others. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights into areas you may not have considered. Persistence is key. When faced with setbacks, remind yourself of the progress you’ve made and the lessons learned along the way. Recognise and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. This helps build confidence and reinforces a positive association with learning from mistakes. And lastly, remember that it’s about shifting your perspective to view failures not as a negative reflection of your abilities, but as stepping stones to success. Now all I need to do is remember this. Should I print this out and put it above my desk? Maybe I will!

This week, as a way to reframe my failure, I did something I have never done. I reached out to a career coach and will have my initial introductory session next week. And if I am convinced this is the right thing to do, I will pay for a few sessions to see if I can turn things around.

GG just finished her second-semester exams and it’s been a hit-and-miss so far. Some papers went well and some were not so good. BB is fine at camp and is now in his second month of training. After three months of training here, he will move to his unit for a month of on-the-job training. He is happy at camp, because not only is it close to home, but since he is doing engineering work, he feels he is learning something useful.

Please send positive energies my way as I attempt to find a new job in my fifties!

2024 Week 16 Update

Today’s quote is from the pioneering French fashion designer and businesswoman who revolutionised women’s fashion in the early 20th century, Coco Chanel. Known for her timeless designs, including the iconic Chanel suit, little black dress, and Chanel No. 5 perfume, she redefined notions of style, elegance, and femininity. Coco Chanel’s quote suggests that a mindset of perseverance, determination, and unwavering belief in one’s abilities can lead to success. Chanel implies that those who approach their endeavours with confidence and resilience, without dwelling on the possibility of failure, are more likely to achieve their goals. The quote underscores the importance of taking risks and pushing boundaries in the pursuit of success. By focusing on their vision and abilities rather than potential setbacks, individuals can overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable feats. Chanel’s words highlight the power of self-belief and a clear sense of purpose in driving success. By remaining steadfast in their goals and refusing to be deterred by setbacks, individuals can turn their aspirations into reality.

In other news, there’s no change from last week. I am still applying for jobs and while people are sympathetic to my situation, there’s no traction happening. I haven’t scored a single interview yet, but I have not given up yet and am still optimistic that things will turn around soon. BB & GG are doing fine, GG is busy with school and BB is busy with camp.

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced his intention to step down from his position on May 15, 2024, paving the way for Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to become Singapore’s fourth prime minister. The transition is expected to be smooth, with Wong’s extensive experience and leadership qualities well-positioned to guide Singapore through its next chapter. It also probably signals elections are coming soon. I hope the elections are held after GG & BB turn 21 and get their names in the electoral register so they can also cast their votes.

Take care and I’ll be back next week!

2024 Week 14 Update

The author of today’s quote, Richie Norton, is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker known for his insights on entrepreneurship, personal development, and resilience. Today’s quote encapsulates the ideas of renewal, resilience, and embracing change. Norton suggests that each day’s end, symbolised by the sunset, presents an opportunity to reflect, let go of the past, and start anew. It’s a chance to reset our mindset, intentions, and direction in life. The quote highlights the cyclical nature of life, where endings are not permanent but serve as preludes to new beginnings. Just as the sunrise marks the start of a new day, it also represents a fresh perspective and a chance to approach life with renewed energy and optimism. Norton’s words encourage a mindset of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges or setbacks. By viewing each sunset and sunrise as opportunities for growth and transformation, individuals can navigate life’s ups and downs with greater optimism and purpose.

I’ve had a chance to reflect on the loss of my job and I have come to terms with it. So this week, armed with a rewritten resume, I’ve started searching for new positions. And this time, unlike previous times, a few people have come forward to help. So I am cautiously optimistic that the universe has something great lined up for me. The children are busy with school and training. They are happy doing what they are doing.

And that’s all from me this week. Keep smiling, embrace change and remember, tomorrow is another day!