I want to share my recent journey walking back home from the BTS station in the busy city of Bangkok. Living here means dealing with a mix of sweltering heat and rain, but rain or shine, I stick to my routine of walking home.
Bangkok has this unique way of making you feel like you're walking on the sun's surface! The sun was blazing high this week, casting its heat all around. A 1.6 km walk might be easy, but it's definitely a challenge with this intense heat.
As I walked along my usual route, I noticed my own shadow tagging along. Capturing that fleeting shadow in bright sunlight is usually a challenge, but today was different. I found the perfect shot – my shadow walking beside me on the hot pavement. The sun was intense, creating a beautiful play of brightness and shadow. I couldn't resist capturing the moment, even though there were probably many people on the street staring at me.
Living in Bangkok has its challenges, and the weather is one of them. I've learned to embrace it all.
It's funny how the simplest things can turn into a bit of an adventure – unexpected moments, simple joys, and the shadows that accompany us on our everyday journeys. The next time you find yourself walking under the scorching sun, take a moment to look down and appreciate the beauty in your own shadow. You might just discover something amazing right at your feet.
Until next time, keep walking and keep discovering!
Finally sharing my long overdue post! I completed my first half-marathon in ages. 😅 While I've tackled a few full marathons before, the full vs the half marathon is a whole new ball game. The strategy, energy levels, and the entire experience differed significantly.
Photo by: May
A huge shoutout to the BOSCH Charity Run 2023. Completing the BOSCH Charity Run 2023 in Sattahip, Thailand, on its 100th Anniversary became more than just a race—it was a celebration of health, sustainability, and personal achievement.
This event tested my running prowess and contributed to a noble cause. I was particularly impressed by BOSCH's commitment to health, environmental sustainability, and their ingenious use of recycled PET plastic bottles for our race shirts and medals.
Photo by: May
Admittedly, I didn't check the race route beforehand, and the unexpected elevation proved to be a formidable challenge. However, the breathtaking views along the way made the uphill battle entirely worthwhile. I tackled the hills like a champ and was rewarded with the privilege of running through the Ramayana Water Park for free—an unexpected treat!
Source from: BOSCH Charity Run 2023
I finished strong with a time of 2:13:58, surprising even myself, given the challenging elevation. Landing in the 9th place in the women's category was an unexpected bonus, though no podium moment. However, the cherry on top was securing one of the exclusive 100th-anniversary pillows—a quirky and cherished memento.
I was amazed to see so many food stalls on race day. Though I was too exhausted to indulge, I did manage to grab all the drinks while waiting for the crowd to thin out, making it easier to get a Grab home.
Photo by: May
A massive shoutout to the incredible photographers who tirelessly captured every moment of the race. Their enthusiasm and dedication to getting shots of all the runners made the event even more memorable for me. I'm grateful for every snap the photographers took—I loved every single one!
With this, I am looking forward to more runs in the coming year, preparing myself for the hope that each race will bring a new opportunity to do even better.
My recent trip to Sindhuli East, Nepal, organised by World Vision (WV) Singapore, proved to be an eye-opening experience. I would like to thank both WV SG and WV Nepal for their incredible dedication to this community. My main motivation for embarking on this trip was to gain a deeper understanding of the initiatives that have been established in this community and, of course, to visit my sponsored child.
Sindhuli East, in Nepal's Central Development Region, is 150km east of Kathmandu. It covers 235 sq km of challenging, hilly terrain cut by river valleys, making the land largely unsuitable for farming. The area faces frequent natural disasters such as landslides, storms, floods, earthquakes, and fires, posing a continuous risk to its people.
Off-road adventure with 4WD SUVs conquering the rugged mountain terrain
The objective of this Area Programme was to empower children, families, and communities to collaborate in enhancing the quality of life for the most vulnerable group, which is the children.
The 6-day trip proved to be an incredible experience despite the many hours of travel required to reach the Area Programme. The journey was undeniably worth it. The first two days were dedicated to travelling. We embarked on an exhilarating "road trip" from Kathmandu to Sindhuli East, involving roughly 10 hours of travel via bus and jeep. The bumpy ride through the rough and undeveloped roads added an adventurous touch to the trip.
Our first visit was to a lower secondary school, where the sight of the Principal, teachers, and eager students excitedly awaiting our arrival was genuinely heartwarming. We were welcomed warmly, each of us adorned with a traditional flower garland. The school tour revealed significant efforts to enhance educational opportunities for the children, including the establishment of a library. It was inspiring to learn that some children endure hours of travel over challenging roads and weather conditions to reach their school. Their resilience is truly commendable. The school is in need of support to renovate a wooden classroom, which suffers from leaks during the monsoon season and excessive cold during winter, affecting the student's learning experience. Another issue I observed was the lack of sufficient lighting in the classrooms. I hope these issues can be addressed for the benefit of the children.
A warm welcome from the Principal, Teachers and students of Shri Ni Ma Vi Langurdandan Lower Secondary School.
The wooden classrooms waiting for a transformation
Enthusiastic students dedicated to their studies in humble wooden classrooms.
Where knowledge begins – A cosy library
A cheerful group photograph with students, the Principal, and teachers at Shri Ni Ma Vi Langurdandan School.
The school also hosts an outreach clinic supported by World Vision under the nutrition programme. The clinic operates twice a month to monitor children's growth. It serves as a focal point for training the mother group, actively participating in Positive Deviance/Hearth sessions. These sessions aim to educate mothers on the importance of a diversified diet, preparing nutritious meals from locally available resources, monitoring children's growth for their well-being, and providing Antenatal Care and Postnatal Care.
Mother groups participating in the Positive Deviance/Hearth program
We visited one of the community's most vulnerable households, where livelihood support and business recovery assistance were extended to local families. In this initiative, families were beneficiaries of livestock support, including goats and pigs, along with comprehensive training in proper care and housing for these animals. While some families chose to keep these animals for breeding and income generation, others opted to sell them to fund their children's education.
The Livelihood Support to MV households.
Besides we also had the opportunity to visit the irrigation support site, where we met the dedicated members of the producer group and were introduced to the Savings for Transformation group, all led by dedicated women. These women met regularly to discuss cultivation practices and marketing strategies. Their commitment and progress were truly empowering. The Savings for Transformation group's ability to increase savings from 5 rupees to 50 rupees demonstrated the significance of savings and reinvestment. I was thoroughly impressed by these women's resilience and determination.
The strength and resilience of empowered women in our Producer and Saving for Transformation groups.
Our next stop was a secondary school that had been declared a Child-Friendly Local Governance (CFLG) ward. Earning this title involved meeting stringent criteria related to child protection issues, such as addressing child marriage, child labour, dropouts, and child development. The visit was an unforgettable three-hour experience, filled with warm welcomes. We had the chance to learn about the school's initiatives and captivating performances. Witnessing the national anthem being sung left me inspired. This school has achieved significant milestones and truly deserves the CFLG recognition.
Proud students of Shree Janapremi Ma Vi Syangti Secondary School
The highlight of our visit was witnessing the dedication to creating a comfortable space for girls during menstrual discomfort, complete with beds and necessary amenities. This initiative aimed to encourage girls to continue attending school, even when faced with physical discomfort, and educate them and their parents on managing these challenges, which was an eye-opening experience.
The comfort and support resting room
However, this school also expressed the need for support to create a safer play compound. As it is located on high ground, the current activities area poses safety concerns for sports activities, and installing a proper playground and barbed wire would allow students to play and practice safely.
The current activity area which facing safety concerns for sports activities.
On the fifth day of the trip, I finally had the privilege of meeting my sponsored child. Despite the considerable distance, I am immensely grateful she made the journey to see me. Through our translator, I discovered she takes two hours daily to walk to school. Despite her shyness and unfamiliarity in conversing with strangers, I cherished the opportunity to get to know her better. I had brought some gifts for her, and we enjoyed playing games and making cards for each other, thanks to the thoughtful initiative of WV SG. What really impressed me was when I discovered her ability to read and pronounce every word I had written in English on the card I made for her. While there might have been a few words she didn't fully understand, I believe this is just the beginning of our journey toward better communication. I am so proud of her!
As the saying goes, "Time flies when you are having fun. " After our lunch date, I bid farewell to my sponsored child.
A heartwarming moment with my sponsored child
As the trip concluded on the sixth day, we left with a sense of fulfilment, knowing that our visit had made a difference. Our stopover at Bhaktapur Durbar, a beautifully restored historic site, added a touch of magic to the journey.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
This trip gave me invaluable insights into the remarkable initiatives by World Vision in Sindhuli East and introduced me to new friends among the trippers who shared this unforgettable experience. It was a life-enriching experience filled with inspirational encounters and a renewed sense of hope for the community's future. Although the key challenges have not been fully overcome, the initiatives in place are making a positive difference. This effectively conveys our journey's impact, the local people's resilience, and the hope for a better future. I would like to thank WV SG, WV Nepal, and all those who support such significant work in this area programme.
Trippers Assemble! Where Friendships Thrive, and Purpose Unites Us.
I would also like to thank Christine and Shan Ying for capturing the moments and Elynn for initiating and coordinating the thoughtful goodies.
Interested in learning how child sponsorship can make a difference? Visit World Vision Singapore 🧡:
I am most proud of the personal growth and development I have achieved in my life. Over the years, I have worked hard to become a better version of myself, learning from my mistakes and continuously striving to improve. This journey of self-improvement has not only benefited me but has also allowed me to make a positive impact on those around me.
Photo by: May
One of the areas I am particularly proud of is my commitment to giving and child sponsorship. By contributing to the well-being of less fortunate children, I have had the privilege of being part of their journey towards a brighter future. It is a source of immense pride to witness the positive changes in their lives and know that I have played a role in their development.
In the midst of my efforts to make a difference, I have also realised the importance of having time for myself. This self-care aspect has been an integral part of my journey. I have dedicated time to nurturing my own well-being, ensuring I have the energy and enthusiasm to continue contributing to the causes I care about. It is a delicate balance that I have managed to maintain, and it is a source of pride to prioritise both my personal growth and the growth of those I support.
Additionally, I have made a conscious effort to cultivate a love for reading. It has allowed me to expand my knowledge, gain new perspectives, and find inspiration in the written word. This newfound passion for reading has been a significant part of my self-improvement journey, helping me evolve as a more well-rounded and enlightened individual.
Overall, I take immense pride in my journey of personal growth, involvement in giving and child sponsorship, dedication to self-care, and commitment to reading. These elements have collectively shaped me into a person I am proud to be today.
My first Chosen experience has been something I’ll never forget. This year, I feel incredibly honoured to be part of T’s life through World Vision’s Chosen programme. T, a bright and lively 5-year-old from Bangladesh, has chosen me to walk alongside her on her journey, and I’m truly grateful for the connection we now share.
Looking back, I’ll admit I didn’t dare allow myself to be chosen before, and I was wrong to think that. It wasn’t until my trip with World Vision to Cambodia, hearing some of the trippers share about the excitement and significance of children having the power to choose, that I understood just how meaningful this experience is.
The Chosen programme isn’t just about us supporting a child—it’s about giving them the chance to take control of their own story. When a child chooses who they want to walk with, it empowers them in a way that’s so much more meaningful than I ever imagined.
T’s decision to invite me into her life has been such a humbling experience, and it continues to inspire me every day.
T, thank you for choosing me. It’s a privilege to be a part of your journey, and I’m excited to see where this path takes us.
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be chosen by a child, I encourage you to look into the Chosen programme. It’s a journey you won’t forget and one that will change you in ways you can’t imagine.
Life has a way of teaching us its most profound lessons when we least expect it. One of those lessons came through witnessing my mother's journey, especially during her final moments. It was a lesson about the preciousness of family time and the deep regret I felt for not having cherished it more when I had the chance.
Life often keeps us busy, with our attention divided among numerous responsibilities, commitments, and ambitions. In pursuing our dreams, we sometimes forget the very foundation that supports us — our family. It took a wake-up call to realise the significance of spending more quality time with my family.
Image created with Microsoft Designer
My mother's impending health challenges served as a stark wake-up call. Knowing that her time with us was limited made me reevaluate my priorities. I wished I had recognised the importance of family bonding earlier without needing a reminder of life's impermanence.
Our presence, our time, is one of the most valuable gifts we can give our family. It's not about grand gestures or extravagant vacations; it's about the everyday moments we share, the conversations over dinner, the laughter during family mahjong nights, and the support we offer during challenging times.
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the demands of work, personal goals, and social activities. However, it's crucial to strike a balance and ensure our family doesn't take a back seat. Allocating dedicated family time on a regular basis is a choice we won't regret.
Family time isn't just about being physically present; it's about being emotionally present as well. These moments create lasting memories that will be cherished long after our loved ones are gone.
The lesson I learned from my mother's situation is clear: the time we spend with our family is a treasure. It's a lesson I wish I had fully grasped earlier. If I could turn back time, I would have devoted even more moments to creating memories and strengthening the bonds with my family.
With my mother's passing and the geographical distance that separates me from my siblings, staying connected has become even more crucial. Thankfully, we live in an era where technology has made it easier than ever to bridge the physical gaps that may separate us.
Let us not wait for wake-up calls. Prioritise family today and ensure our time together is filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. My life has been a whirlwind of change, from moving to a new country to embracing a new relationship. Amidst it all, my fitness journey took a backseat. I blamed myself for not being disciplined enough and for my love of food. But today, I want to share how I'm rediscovering my passion for fitness and making positive changes, one step at a time.
Before the changes swept me off my feet, I was dedicated to my fitness routine. Running, marathons, and staying active were not just hobbies but a way of life. Then came COVID-19, which upended everything I believed in.
Moving to Bangkok brought new challenges. Finding the right gym and adjusting my workout routine wasn't easy. I had to adapt, and my fitness journey took a hit.
I decided to stand by my partner through his health and wellness journey, even though it meant adjusting my own habits. It was a difficult decision, but I wanted to support him every step of the way.
Six weeks ago, something clicked. Both my partner and I realised it was time to prioritise our health. We gave up alcohol, revamped our diets, and committed to regular workouts. It was a turning point we'll never forget.
Over the past six weeks, we've made incredible progress. Our dietary changes, increased exercise frequency, and a renewed commitment to fitness have transformed us physically and mentally.
I'm hopeful and determined as I prepare for an upcoming full marathon. My changes propel me forward, and I'm eager to see the results.
Image created with Microsoft Designer
This journey taught me consistency, support, and self-awareness are the keys to success. If you're facing similar challenges or changes in your life, remember that it's never too late to make a positive change.
My fitness journey has been a rollercoaster ride, but it's a ride I'm determined to enjoy. I'm grateful for the support and motivation I've found along the way, and I'm excited to see where this path leads me.
Share your story with me if you've experienced similar life changes or fitness challenges. Let's embark on this journey of self-improvement together, one step at a time.
The best piece of advice I have ever received was "be like water." Often attributed to Bruce Lee, this advice is significant as it emphasises adaptability, flexibility, and resilience in life.
Water possesses the remarkable ability to assume various forms, whether it flows serenely as a river, crashes forcefully as waves, or settles tranquilly in a still pond. Likewise, embodying the essence of water in life means cultivating adaptability to changing circumstances, embracing the ebb and flow of existence, and mastering the art of surmounting obstacles.
Photo by: May
To be honest, it does take time 'to be water'. In the past, I grappled with stubbornness and a limited perspective that hindered my ability to think creatively and consider the bigger picture. Consequently, my work often became unnecessarily stressful, and I occasionally found myself trapped in inescapable corners where I couldn't breathe. My resistance to change compounded my challenges and impeded my ability to navigate life effectively.
However, the concept of "be like water" has transformed my approach to life. I've learned to emulate water's ability to navigate around obstacles, yielding to the currents of change rather than resisting them. This shift has fostered a newfound openness to fresh ideas and diverse viewpoints, enabling me to think more creatively and perceive the broader context of situations.
This advice has instilled in me the importance of embracing change rather than opposing it, ultimately allowing me to harness it to my advantage. Like water, I strive to navigate life's challenges by adjusting my approach while remaining true to my core values. Whether confronted with adversity or enjoying success, I aspire to be like water—resilient and adept at overcoming whatever life presents.
Life is a journey filled with lessons, some learned through joyous moments and others through challenging experiences. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, we often stumble upon profound insights that shape our perspectives and priorities. The lesson I wish I had grasped earlier is the unselfish power of gratitude. This became clear to me during the passing of my beloved mother.
Growing up, like many young children, I often took the love and sacrifices of my mother for granted. I was oblivious to my mother's countless hours working tirelessly to provide for our family. She cooked, cleaned, worked, acted as our chauffeur for all our school activities, and did everything she could to ensure our needs were met and our dreams were supported. But in my youthful ignorance, I failed to appreciate her efforts.
One of the most profound lessons I learned from my mother's passing is the importance of expressing gratitude for the people and blessings we have in our lives while we still have the chance. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but taking a moment to express gratitude can make a world of difference in our relationships and overall well-being.
My mother was always there for us, putting our needs above her own. She led a simple life, constantly striving to make ends meet and provide for her four children. While she seemed to find some enjoyment in her work, I believe it wasn't necessarily her dream job. She remained in the same job for over 30 years, prioritising stability and a guaranteed retirement fund over pursuing her aspirations.
She carried her burdens silently. Despite her challenges, her acts of generosity and compassion made a difference in the lives of those around her. This taught me that kindness is a powerful force that can bring positivity and happiness.
I deeply regret not learning the lesson of appreciation earlier in life, before her passing. However, her legacy lives on through the profound wisdom she imparted through her sacrifices. Today, I honour her memory by expressing gratitude, finding balance in my life, embracing simplicity, and spreading kindness wherever I go.
It all began with a simple memory, one that had long been tucked away in the corners of my mind. Back in 2019, a running friend approached me with a request to support her in a fundraising campaign to raise funds for children to have access to clean water through World Vision Malaysia. Without much thought, I donated, never fully realising the impact it might have or where this small act of generosity would eventually lead me.
Fast forward to today, and that seemingly insignificant gesture has evolved into a profound journey of child sponsorship, one that has touched my heart in ways I could have never imagined. It's a journey that has reshaped my perspective on giving, community, and the immense power of human connection.
As I reflect on how it all began, I can't help but feel grateful for that initial nudge towards generosity. Little did I know that this single act of kindness would become a defining chapter in my life, leading me to connect with remarkable young children from another part of the world, each with their own stories, dreams, and aspirations.
My journey into child sponsorship didn't begin with a grand plan or a deep understanding of the impact I could make. Instead, it was a moment of reflection that prompted me to explore child sponsorship through World Vision.
I did some research on the organisation's mission and values, learning about its commitment to improving the lives of children, families, and communities. The idea of forming a lasting connection with a child, walking beside them on their journey, and contributing to their well-being became increasingly appealing. It was a chance to not only offer financial support but also to build a meaningful relationship, share experiences, and witness firsthand the transformative power of compassion and support.
With this newfound sense of purpose and the desire to make a difference, I took the step to sponsor several children. Two were from Cambodia through World Vision Malaysia, one from Nepal, and one from Cambodia through World Vision Singapore.
My decision to sponsor children from Cambodia and Nepal was not arbitrary. It was deeply influenced by my experiences visiting Siem Reap in Cambodia and Nepal. In both places, I witnessed firsthand the challenges these children faced, especially in terms of education and poverty.
In Siem Reap, Cambodia, I saw the determination of young minds eager to learn, but I also saw the lack of resources and opportunities that held them back. Education was the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, and it became clear to me that this was an area where my support could make a significant impact.
Similarly, I witnessed the resilience of children and families living in impoverished conditions in Nepal. Poverty, often a barrier to education, limited their potential. It was at that moment that I knew I wanted to focus not just on providing financial assistance but also on empowering these children with access to quality education, a stepping stone towards a brighter future.
Photo by: May
As I reflect on this incredible journey that started with a simple act of kindness, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunities it has afforded me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these children.
Achieving my CPT certification is a significant milestone, a testament to the countless hours of study and unwavering dedication I poured into this endeavour. It signifies my commitment to helping others lead healthier lives. However, as I held that certification in my hands, I couldn’t help but wonder, “What’s next?”
While I’m brimming with brilliant ideas about the positive impact I want to make in the fitness world, I find myself standing at the crossroads of uncertainty. I’m currently living in a new country, far from the familiar surroundings and friends I once had. It’s just my partner and me on this adventure, holding onto the dreams and hoping for stability.
I’ve been diligently attending PT classes and immersing myself in my studies, absorbing as much knowledge as possible. But as any aspiring professional knows, the real world can vastly differ from textbooks and theories. It’s common to feel like a small fish in a big pond, especially when starting anew in an unfamiliar place.
Nevertheless, I firmly believe that dreams are worth pursuing, even when the path ahead appears unclear. I hold onto my vision of making a positive impact on people’s lives through fitness and personal training. With dedication, perseverance, and the right opportunities, I am confident I can turn these dreams into reality.
As I continue charting my course in this new chapter, I’m also exploring avenues to give back to the community. While I wait for the perfect opportunity to launch my fitness initiatives, I’ve embarked on a journey of charity work—a passion that had long remained dormant.
My demanding work schedule in the past had consumed much of my time, leaving little room for thoughts of giving back. While I had contributed to UNICEF Malaysia, I often wondered about the tangible impact of my contributions. Then, a memory resurfaced—there was a time when I donated to a charity organisation through a running friend several years ago.
I decided to trace back to the charity organisation I had contributed to, and it marked the beginning of my journey as a child sponsor. I took the step to sponsor several children, and it’s been an incredible honour. Through this journey, I’ve had the privilege to connect with these remarkable young children. We’ve exchanged heartfelt letters and shared experiences, and in doing so, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profoundly positive impact the contributions have on their lives.
In my next post, I’ll share more about this heartfelt journey into child sponsorship and the immense joy it brings me to make a meaningful difference.
My incredible journey has carried me from the couch to the finish line of marathons. Back in my school days, running was a common activity, often a part of PE classes and annual sports days, though I never thought of myself as a particularly skilled runner.
My journey into the world of running began in late 2012, all thanks to an invitation from my sister and her friend to join them in the Penang Bridge Marathon's 10km fun run. I embarked on this adventure with no prior training whatsoever. It was a daring move, and to my surprise, I conquered my very first 10km run. Although I walked like a crab the next day, that memorable day marked the rekindling of my love for running.
I became addicted to the thrill of running and soon found myself registering for more running events in Penang. However, my passion had to make room for weekend studies, so I couldn't be as active as I wanted to be until 2014. It was during this time that I mostly participated in 10km events. In 2016, I took on my first half marathon, and that's when the real adventure began. And from that moment, there was no turning back. I've completed a grueling 50km Ultra Marathon, conquered 45 Half Marathons, and 9 Full Marathons to date. I take immense pride in the numerous trophies I've earned from the many local races I never backed down from—until the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges, including lockdowns in Penang, which imposed restrictions on outdoor activities. However, I was determined to keep running. I even tried running indoors, even if it made me look like a mad person. Despite the limitations, my passion for running remained unwavering.
During those runs, I couldn't help but ponder questions about the art of running, such as the right footwear, effective workouts, injury prevention, and optimal training methods. My running friends were a great source of wisdom, even though they weren't professionally certified. Their insights fueled my interest in fitness and the need to understand it better.
An important turning point in my journey came from a place of deep concern. I witnessed my beloved grandmother's health decline due to limited mobility, primarily caused by knee pain. Her frail body and delicate skin were powerful reminders of the significance of staying active, building our muscles, and looking after our overall health. Her struggles began in her late 60s, and she gradually reduced her movement around her late 70s, particularly after a fall. She became hesitant to move, and the arrival of Covid-19 further exacerbated her condition, causing her to age significantly, with arthritis adding to her challenges.
Fast forward to 2021, still serving as a CFO and juggling responsibilities among 4-5 offices in the Asia region, I stumbled upon an opportunity that felt like destiny—a Personal Trainer course offered via Zoom online study. It was a perfect fit. I signed up, eagerly attended classes, immersed myself in self-study, and my interest in fitness deepened further. I found myself brimming with ideas and aspirations to leverage this newfound knowledge to help others lead healthier lives.
My aspiration is clear. I will use my passion for fitness and personal training to make a positive impact on people's lives.
I hope you enjoyed reading about my experiences and motivations. Thank you for joining me on this incredible adventure. Stay tuned for more stories, insights, and inspiration on my journey from the couch to becoming a marathon runner and an aspiring fitness trainer.
Together, we'll discover the joy of a healthy lifestyle, one step at a time.
Some decisions in life are straightforward, while others are agonisingly difficult. I've realised the latter can test your determination, shake your confidence, and challenge your very sense of self. One such decision that I grappled with and continue to reflect upon was my resignation from my CFO role.
For over 2 decades, I had dedicated myself to a career that was defined by determination, hard work, and unwavering commitment. Climbing the corporate ladder, I achieved a position many aspire to reach. But success, as they say, comes with its own set of burdens.
In the corporate world, I encountered my fair share of challenges. The politics, the pressure, and the relentless pursuit of profit all took a toll on my sense of fulfilment and purpose. I was caught in a web of what I've come to call "corporate nonsense" that often left me questioning the very essence of my work.
The turning point in my journey came when I lost my mother. She had devoted her entire life to supporting our family, as my father wasn't around often, leaving little time for her to enjoy the fruits of her hard work during her retirement years. I deeply admire my mother for shouldering these responsibilities so gracefully. However, just six months into her retirement, she received a devastating cancer diagnosis.
I couldn't help but feel immense guilt and frustration for not being able to afford the treatment that might have saved her life. This experience became a profound awakening for me. It made me realise that no matter how hard you work or how much you earn, time and health are precious and cannot always be controlled or bought.
The decision to step away from my CFO role was not made hastily. It took me five years of careful consideration and diligent planning to ensure that I had worked hard and saved enough for my future. This decision bore the weight of many years of effort and accomplishments, but it also held the promise of something deeper—a golden opportunity to redefine my life on my own terms, unburdened by the constraints of corporate life.
The internal battle I wrestled with was overwhelming. In the initial weeks of not working, I relished the break, but as the months passed, a sense of shock and guilt set in. I grappled with the feeling that I wasn't contributing and feared stagnation. I had always been active, but the constraints imposed by the pandemic limited my options. The fear of the uncertain future, self-doubt, and the persistent question of whether I had made an enormous mistake haunted me daily. It was an ongoing struggle, with my rational mind conflicting with the desires of my heart.
In the end, what allowed me to come to terms with my choice was recognising that it was a conscious decision to embark on a path aligned with my core values—a path where I could seek fulfilment beyond the restrictions of the corporate world. This realisation spurred me to begin planning and enrolling in courses to further my journey.
For more than two decades, I embarked on an incredible career journey that took me from a humble low-level position to the esteemed role of CFO. I have always been driven by a strong work ethic, determination, and the pursuit of financial security. My journey began in less privileged circumstances where I tirelessly supported myself due to financial constraints that prevented my further education, a sacrifice I made for my siblings. Despite the challenges, I worked my way up, earning degrees and achieving professional success.
However, life has a way of presenting us with unexpected opportunities and moments of reflection. About 9 ago, I experienced a profound loss when my beloved mother passed away. This event marked a turning point in my life. It was then that I began to reassess my priorities and question whether the path I had been on was truly fulfilling.
As I ventured into my 40s, I made a courageous decision. I left my high-paying job as a CFO to embark on a new chapter, one filled with purpose, personal growth, and the pursuit of passions I had long set aside. It was a daunting step to leave behind the comfort and security of a successful career, but deep within, I knew it was the right move for me.
Transitioning into running my own small business has been both challenging and rewarding. While I now focus on part-time administrative support work, it has opened up opportunities for me to explore my interests and truly live out my values. With each passing day, I find myself more fulfilled and motivated to make a difference in the lives of others.
This courageous step has allowed me to break free from the confines of the corporate world and embrace a life that aligns with my true passions. While the path may be uncertain at times, I am grateful for the opportunities that lie ahead. Through hard work, determination, and an unwavering belief in myself, I am confident that this new chapter will bring about personal fulfilment and growth beyond measure.
I've always been passionate about fitness, but the path forward was unclear. Recently, I've taken steps to turn that passion into a potential career. I'm currently attending personal training sessions to enhance my own fitness and to gain the skills and knowledge required to become a certified trainer. It's a journey of self-improvement that I'm excited about.
Learning is a lifelong endeavour, and I am committed to staying informed and up-to-date. I have enrolled in numerous online courses and educational programs to expand my horizons and ensure that I am always growing, both personally and professionally.
Through this blog, I hope to document my experiences, insights, and lessons learned as I navigate this new chapter of my life. My goal is to inspire and connect with others who may be on similar journeys or who simply seek a fresh perspective on life.
Thank you for joining me on this adventure. I look forward to sharing my thoughts, experiences, and the joy of discovering what truly makes life meaningful.
Welcome to my blog! I’m May, and this is a place where I open up about my journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and living life to the fullest. As someone who’s naturally outgoing but can feel a bit shy in new situations, I’m looking forward to connecting with you and growing together through this space. Here’s a glimpse into my story and the experiences that shape who I am.
