My Journey in the Amazing Thailand Marathon 2024

Last Run of the Year. The Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok is an annual event held in Bangkok, and it's one that I've always looked forward to. Before COVID, it was usually held in February, and I'd participate every year. But like so many events, things changed after the pandemic, and the marathon was shifted to December. It's been years since I last ran this race because it always clashed with the Singapore Standard Chartered Marathon (SCSM). So, this year, I decided to skip SCSM and experience it again.

Photo credit AMTB 2024 Official Photographer: A crowd of runners

The race pack collection took place at Central World Life, and when I arrived, I was surprised by the long queue. Since it was a weekday morning and the first day of collection, I didn't expect such a large turnout. Despite the crowd, the process went smoothly, and everything was well-organised. There were several shops selling running shoes, sportswear, energy bars, and other race-related merchandise. It was a great experience, with plenty of options for runners to stock up on what they needed.

Fast forward to race day, I took a Grab over to MBK. The flag-off was at 2 am, and honestly, I wasn't fully prepared for this. I knew it was a bit reckless—jumping into a marathon without proper training, especially after recovering from a sprained ankle. But my goal was simple: survive and finish within six hours.

The start was chaotic, with both half and full-marathon runners starting together. I was in Pen 4, which meant a long walk to the starting line. As soon as the flag went off, we slowly began to move forward. However, with the timing tracker positioned further ahead, it took a while before I could actually start running at my own pace. The congestion made it challenging to find a rhythm early on. While the energy was great, the crowded start made it hard to settle in.

The event was well-organised, with water stations providing small bottles every 2 to 2.5 km. It was convenient and helped keep things clean, but it was not the most eco-friendly setup. Plus, it became a bit of a slipping hazard, with runners tossing bottles and caps without much care.

I hit a mental block earlier than usual—somewhere between 12 and 13 km. By the time we hit the 18 km mark, where the route split for the half and full marathoners, I seriously considered taking the shorter route. The temptation was real. But I reminded myself why I signed up for this and pushed on. From that point, it was a mix of running and walking along the elevated road, battling cramps in both my legs and stomach while trying to enjoy the experience.

When mental block hits, the sunrise reminds me to keep going. 

The sunrise might have been stunning, but the heat was no joke. 

By sunrise at 6:05 am, Bangkok's skyline was breathtaking, but the heat was brutal. By 6:45 am, it felt like I was being roasted alive. Still, I kept pushing forward, and after what felt like an eternity, I crossed the finish line at 5:23:14.

The finish line was a relief, but it also came with a bit of chaos. With runners from all categories finishing together, it got crowded, making it hard to navigate through the area. I had to squeeze around sweaty runners to make my way through. However, the post-race resting area was amazing, with a wide spread of food to refuel and recover, although it was packed with people trying to grab their share. Despite the chaos, it was all part of the experience, and it definitely made me appreciate the small victories of completing the race.

A huge shoutout to the Thailand Tri-league, the volunteers who kept us hydrated and motivated, and the photographers who captured every sweaty, determined moment.

It wasn't my smartest race, but I'm proud of myself for not giving up. Sometimes, it's not about perfect preparation or chasing PBs—it's about showing up, pushing through, and proving to yourself that you can do hard things.

What about you? Have you ever tackled a challenge you weren’t fully prepared for, but still managed to push through?

May x  

The Opportunity to Keep Learning

In a previous post, I shared how appointing myself as my company’s Data Protection Officer (DPO) started as a simple compliance task. But along the way, I realised it was more than just ticking a box—it was an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge.

Today, I received an email from PDPC Singapore about their upcoming complimentary webinars and workshops for DPOs. Their goal? To help DPOs like myself facilitate safe data use within organisations while staying up to date with evolving regulatory requirements. And honestly, I’m grateful for the chance to continue learning.

Running a one-person business means staying up to date with regulatory changes can be tough—especially when time and cost are factors. That’s why free resources like these are a welcome surprise! These sessions will be a great way to deepen my understanding and ensure I'm handling data protection correctly.

Image generated by Microsoft Designer

Want to Join?

If you're a DPO or simply interested in data protection, you can register your interest via PDPC’s official link to receive updates on upcoming sessions. It’s a great (and free!) way to stay informed. 😊

I’m excited to learn more and share insights along the way. Let’s see where this new responsibility takes me next!

Have you attended any of these sessions before? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

May x

A Proud Finish: Garmin Run Asia Series 2024 Thailand

The Garmin Run Asia Series is a collection of running events held across different cities in Asia, bringing together runners of all abilities. From half marathons to 10Ks, it’s all about encouraging an active lifestyle and creating a sense of community. This year, I had the chance to take part in the Garmin Run Asia Series Thailand Half Marathon, and here’s how it went...

Race weekend kicked off with the Race Pack Collection the day before. The whole process was smooth and well-organised, making it easy for runners to collect their bibs and explore the event area. There were various stalls selling running gear, hydration products, and race merchandise, creating a lively atmosphere. One of the fun surprises was a mini challenge by Garmin, where runners could participate in a quick activity to win small prizes. I queued for about an hour, gave it a go, and won a Garmin cap—definitely worth the wait!

Then came race day.

Photo by Garmin Official Photographer: The energy at the start line was amazing!

I completed the Garmin Run Asia Series Thailand Half Marathon 2024 yesterday morning! It was a race I’d been looking forward to, especially after weeks of recovering from a sprained ankle. I wasn’t sure if I could run the whole distance, but I knew I wanted to be at that start line. Just being there at Rajamangala National Stadium, surrounded by thousands of runners, made me proud to have shown up—even if I ended up walking the entire way, which I had planned for in case my ankle acted up. With a COT of 3:30 hours, I knew I could still finish, even if it meant walking.

A huge thanks to my partner for waking up at an ungodly hour to drop me off at the venue. Having that support made all the difference. I started in Pen 1, which was both exciting and intimidating. Everyone around me looked focused and ready to race, and I felt the pressure creeping in. If I held back, I would probably get pushed along by the crowd, so when the gun went off, I just started running… and kept going.

I went into this race with only one goal—to finish safe and strong. Pace didn’t matter today; I just kept praying my ankle wouldn’t give me trouble, especially on the hilly sections. My mind kept calculating backup plans—worst case, I would walk. But surprisingly, my legs kept going. I only stopped briefly at the hydration stations for a quick sip before pushing on.

Photo by Garmin Official Photographer: Crossing that finish line was the best part of the race

The 21.1 km route took us through the streets of Bangkok, but it wasn’t the most scenic race I’ve done. What stood out, though, was the incredible organisation. The hydration stations were well-placed, the volunteers were encouraging, and the atmosphere was electric. But what do I love most about running in Thailand? The post-race experience. Finishing a race here isn’t just about crossing the timing mat—it’s a celebration. The post-run spread was next level—food, drinks, desserts—everything a runner could ask for after a long, exhausting run. I was so drained that I could barely decide what to eat first!

This race reminded me why I love running events—the adrenaline, the energy of the crowd, and the feeling of pushing through doubts to finish strong. It wasn’t my fastest race, but it meant a lot to me. Getting through it, despite my uncertainties, was a win in itself. Now, I can’t wait for the next one!

A massive thank you to Garmin Thailand for putting together such a well-organised event, the dedicated crew and volunteers for making everything run smoothly, and all the photographers for capturing all the race-day moments. You guys made this an unforgettable experience! You guys rock!

Now that it’s over, I’m left thinking about what’s next. What about you—have you ever pushed yourself in a way you didn’t expect? I’d love to hear your stories and experiences!

May x

How Appointing Myself as DPO Became a Learning Opportunity

So, why did I appoint myself as my company's Data Protection Officer (DPO)?

Image created with Microsoft Designer

Back in August, I received an email from PDPC Singapore reminding me that my small company had yet to register a DPO with the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC).

Since I run a one-person business, I wasn't exactly panicked. But something needed to be done, especially when I received the Final Reminder on 17th September. After all, it's mandatory for all organisations to appoint a DPO and make their business contact details publicly available. So, I decided to do it just to fulfil the requirement.

After giving it some thought, I realised that this wasn't just about ticking a box for compliance. It was actually an opportunity to learn something new.

Since I no longer work in the corporate world, I'm not always up to date with the latest regulatory changes. Understanding data protection and compliance has become a valuable skill, especially as businesses—big or small—handle more personal data. This felt like the perfect chance to stay current and gain insights into an important aspect of modern business.

Soon after receiving the email, I started getting marketing messages from agencies offering DPO-as-a-Service—basically outsourcing the role for a fee.

Out of curiosity, I reached out to a corporate secretary to inquire about the pricing. Unsurprisingly, the fees weren't cheap. That's when I had a thought: Could I appoint myself as the DPO?

I checked the official PDPC website (https://www.pdpc.gov.sg), which outlined the responsibilities of a DPO:

• Ensuring PDPA Compliance
• Fostering a Data Protection Culture within the organisation
• Handling Data Inquiries from customers or authorities
• Advising Management on data protection risks
• Liaising with PDPC when required

Since I was running a one-person business, I figured—why not? I could handle these responsibilities myself, and it wouldn't hurt to gain some knowledge along the way.

After registering, I was automatically a part of the DPO community, gaining access to benefits such as:

• Free access to workshops & resources
• Latest updates on PDPA & compliance
• Exclusive networking events with other DPOs
• Insights on data breaches & prevention strategies

I also plan to take the Fundamentals of the Personal Data Protection Act (2020) course soon, just to get a better grasp of the requirements.

So, here I am—officially my own DPO. What started as a compliance task has turned into a valuable learning opportunity. Let's see where this goes!

A Quick Disclaimer

This is based on my personal experience and understanding of the DPO registration process. If you're running a business and need to register, I'd recommend checking official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date requirements. You can visit:

• PDPC website
• ACRA BizFile+

At the end of the day, what seemed like just another admin task turned out to be a chance to learn and stay updated—which, for a one-person business like mine, is always a plus.

Let's see where this new responsibility takes me!

May x

I’ve Been Chosen, Again!

Exactly one year ago, I had the privilege of taking part in my first Chosen experience, and it’s been a journey I’ll never forget. Today, I’m incredibly honoured to be chosen by M, my fourth sponsored child through World Vision’s Chosen programme. This connection means so much to me, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside her on this journey.

Why did I choose to be Chosen?

Chosen is such a beautiful and empowering programme. It gives children the incredible power to make a choice—the choice of who will stand by them and support them. Instead of waiting to be chosen, they are in control of their futures, allowing them to decide who will walk with them. This small but powerful act gives them dignity and confidence in a world where they often feel powerless.

What makes this moment even more special is the story behind it. After visiting Mongolia and seeing life in Selenge firsthand, I became aware of the difficulties faced by children in different parts of the country. I heard about M’s Area Programme and the challenges she faces, and I felt an undeniable pull to act. When M selected me, it felt like fate—like it was meant to be.

To top it all off, M and I share the same initial and birthday month, which adds an even more meaningful layer to our connection. Sometimes, it’s the small details that remind us how everything is so perfectly aligned.

M, I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of your journey. It’s an honour to walk alongside you and support you in whatever way I can. I’m looking forward to seeing how our paths develop together.

To all who are reading this, have you ever imagined what it would feel like to be chosen by a child? It’s an incredibly meaningful experience that can truly change lives. If you haven’t had that chance yet, maybe it’s time to see if a child chooses you.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Chosen programme or how you can get involved, I encourage you to check out World Vision’s website. It’s a wonderful way to create a lasting impact on a child’s life.

May x

A Journey of Impact: Meeting My Sponsored Child in Mongolia

It's been a week since I returned from Mongolia, but the memories remain fresh in my mind. This was my third trip with World Vision Singapore, yet each experience feels new in its own way. Visiting the communities, meeting the people, and witnessing the impact of sponsorship firsthand reinforced why I continue to be part of this journey.

Mongolia is a land of vast open spaces, rolling steppes, and a deep-rooted nomadic culture. The weather was just great—probably because I've gotten used to the cold seasons—but there were moments when the sun warmed our faces, and in the next, strong winds sent chills down our spines. But what truly stood out was the resilience and hospitality of the people we met.

The trip to Selenge was unforgettable, made even more meaningful by the warmth, friendliness, and incredible talents of the people I met along the way. I travelled with 21 other trippers, and we began our adventure with a nearly 13-hour flight to Ulaanbaatar. After a day of exploring the city, shopping, and enjoying dinner together, we hit the road the next day, embarking on a six-hour journey to a remote town. The scenery was breathtaking—endless stretches of green and distant mountains that looked like something out of a painting. It was so peaceful and beautiful that it was hard to find words to capture its true essence.

Captured this along the way on our bus journey. I'm not sure exactly where I am, but the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

I have to be honest; no camera can truly capture the view the way your eyes do. 

We met with the local governor and attended a graduation ceremony for a community development program, which equips people with skills, resources, and training to become self-sufficient. Seeing their achievements was truly inspiring. Later, we visited a local school, where students showcased their talents with a lively judo performance—an impressive display of energy and skill.

These young faces in traditional Mongolian attire made our arrival unforgettable. 

Met these amazing young judo athletes during my trip. Their dedication and passion for the sport is truly inspiring. 

Day 3 was particularly eventful. We toured a school dormitory and learned about an innovative water sanitation and hygiene programme. During the visit, we were introduced to a traditional Mongolian game called shagai, which is played with ankle bones (sheep or goat ankle bone). It's more than just a game; it's a cultural tradition passed down through generations. 

The talent and spirit of these students are truly something special. 

Visited the new WASH programme facility today. I’m so glad the children now have a better place to use. The old facility had them walking out from the dormitory, which was a real challenge during the cold winter months. It’s heartwarming to see the positive change. 

The ankle bone game, or shagai, a traditional Mongolian game.

In the afternoon, we visited herder families supported by World Vision, gaining insights into their way of life. I even had the chance to try horse riding and scooping cow dung (yes, really!). Being inside a traditional ger was an eye-opener, making me wonder how they endure the harsh winters.

Getting a firsthand look at the daily life of a herder’s family

The view and the traditional ger feel like a scene from a painting.

Unfortunately, the day took an unexpected turn when I sprained my ankle in a fall. The pain was intense, and I feared it might be broken. The nearest hospital was two hours away, and even then, there was no doctor—only nurses. After an X-ray, we had to search for a pharmacy to get the necessary medication. The situation was overwhelming, but I was incredibly grateful to Claire and the World Vision Mongolia team, who stayed by my side, ensuring I was comfortable and supported. Their kindness made all the difference during such a challenging moment.

On Day 4, despite my injury, I didn't want to miss out on any part of the trip. We visited the local World Vision office for a briefing and then went to a library to meet savings group members. The success stories shared were uplifting—these groups empower individuals to take control of their finances and build supportive communities. Some even use their savings to assist members in times of need, reinforcing resilience and solidarity.

Later, we attended another graduation ceremony for beneficiaries who had completed a livelihood training programme. One of the stories that stood out was of Bumaa, who participated in a life skills training course in sewing and now runs her own business. Her words, "Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime," resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the lasting power of education and empowerment.

Bumaa's amazing story

We also had the chance to visit some of the most vulnerable families, witnessing the immense challenges many face. Many are grappling with generational poverty, alcohol addiction, and limited access to resources. We visited one family whose middle son was in the hospital for appendicitis, and the eldest son shared their story with us. The condition of their ger, which had been damaged by the mother's outbursts, was heartbreaking. There was little support available to address deeper issues like rehabilitation services, which could truly make a difference in such situations.

One of the MVF houses — not in the best condition

Before we left, we took a detour to the Russian border for a cheeky little adventure just before calling it a day.

The border

Day 5 started with a visit to a familiar place—the hospital where I had been treated for my ankle. It looked completely different from my last visit! This time, we were there to hear students share how they had benefited from the Health Education Programme, which empowers the younger generation with crucial knowledge.

Then, we also visited a school to learn about their Child Development Club, which includes sports, arts, and life skills training. What stood out to me was their inclusion of children with special needs. I had the opportunity to sit with an older student who taught me how to make handicrafts, a way of developing motor skills. It was a heartwarming experience, and I truly enjoyed my time with him.

In the afternoon, we split into two groups for volunteer activities with local CSO members. I joined the painting team, while others took on the challenging task of building a ger for a vulnerable family. Once we finished, we went to check on the progress of the ger and witnessed its handover ceremony. One of our fellow trippers even sponsored the boy who would be living in the new ger—a touching moment that highlighted the lasting impact of this trip.

Day 6 was the highlight of the trip, which was meeting my sponsored child. I had been looking forward to this moment for so long, and it exceeded all my expectations. She spotted me first during an icebreaker game and came straight to my side. My heart was filled with joy. We spent hours playing games, singing, and dancing, and with Uuree as my translator, I learned more about her life and family. Her determination and competitive spirit reminded me so much of myself. Saying goodbye was tough, but I will always treasure the gift and letter she gave me—a truly touching moment.

After our emotional farewell, we visited Saikhanii Khutul National Park near the Russian border. Despite my sore ankle and fear of heights, I couldn't resist taking in the breathtaking views. The hike was tough but absolutely worth it.

That evening, we gathered for a farewell at the hotel, saying our goodbyes—not just to fellow trippers setting off on their own journeys but also to the incredible World Vision staff who made this experience possible.

Looking back, I feel so incredibly grateful. Meeting my sponsored child and seeing the impact of World Vision’s work firsthand was deeply moving. It’s one thing to hear about these efforts but another to stand in the very places where change is happening. The resilience, warmth, and strength of the people I met left a lasting mark on me.

Before leaving, I made a decision that felt right in my heart. A new Area Programme was being established in Dornod, Mongolia, and World Vision Singapore organised a Chosen programme. After witnessing the challenges families face, I knew I wanted to be part of the journey ahead. Since it was also the last day for registration, I signed up before I left. Because even the smallest steps can make a difference, and this trip was a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to create meaningful change.

If you’re interested in making a lasting impact and changing the life of a child, consider sponsoring today. Visit the World Vision website to learn more and join this meaningful journey.

May x

Every sip tells a story

This morning, I was on my own and decided to go for my usual coffee fix. With a very random thought, I took a photo of my coffee and added a caption before posting it on my Instagram. Each sip of my coffee seemed to tell a story.

Photo by: May

So, what’s the story behind your coffee? For me, it represents a quiet moment in a busy world. It’s about taking a brief pause to appreciate the simple joys, like enjoying a warm drink alone and reflecting on what really matters. This morning ritual is a small yet comforting reminder of my wish for a life filled with peace, love, and care. 

In a world that often feels too busy and stressful, I’ve started to crave a life where the focus is on what’s truly important. I don’t need anything fancy or grand. What I truly want is to live without stress, without too much drama, and to cherish the simple things.

I dream of a life where I can follow my passions, feel fulfilled, and help others be happy too. I imagine a world where everyone is content and where people are kind and supportive of each other. Less politics, less noise—just a life where we can all chase our dreams and enjoy the simple pleasures.

As I sip my coffee and look at the photo I posted, I think about this quiet wish. I imagine myself surrounded by people who care about me, people who support my goals. I want to wake up every day knowing that I’m working towards something meaningful. It’s not a big dream, but it’s one that makes me feel at peace.

Life will always have its challenges, but I find comfort in knowing that I’m aiming for a life filled with peace, love, and happiness. 

So, what’s the story behind your coffee? Maybe it’s a reminder to enjoy the small moments and appreciate the simple things in life. Let’s cherish these little joys and remember that often, they are the simplest things that bring us the greatest happiness.

May x

Overcoming fitness setbacks and getting back on track

Sometimes life throws us curveballs😭. For me, this happened in June, a week after the big event. I fell ill and struggled to recover, especially with all the travelling. This made it hard to get back to my fitness routine. Even simple tasks like walking up the stairs felt challenging. Hence, missing the Gold Coast Marathon wasn't that bad.

Image created with Microsoft Designer 

So, after about 6 weeks off, returning to my fitness routine was more challenging than I expected. I didn’t feel motivated to start running or doing intense workouts. The most I could manage was walking.

Restarting a fitness routine after a break was difficult, but I’ve learned that patience and consistency are crucial. It’s important to listen to my body and set realistic goals. Small steps, like daily walks, gradually build my stamina and confidence 🙄.

Taking things slow and combining it with my reading routine has made getting back into fitness slightly easier. If you face a similar setback, remember that progress doesn’t always mean pushing hard; sometimes, it’s about making steady, manageable steps.

May x

How a New Habit Improved My Quality of Life

Finding habits that genuinely improve our quality of life can be challenging, especially with the busy responsibilities of daily working life. One habit that I have found to make a significant difference is reading.

Image created with Microsoft Designer

Over the past few months, my life has been hectic. Despite my best intentions, carving out time for reading often felt like a luxury I could not afford. However, I have discovered that even brief moments spent with a good book can offer substantial benefits.

I have always had an interest in non-fiction, romantic comedies, and mysteries. Recently, I have broadened my reading interests to include science fiction, fantasy, and philosophical fiction. Each genre offers a unique perspective and provides a refreshing break from my daily routine.

Undeniably, I have faced challenges with this new habit. Finding time to read consistently has been difficult, and I have struggled with patience when a book does not immediately captivate me. I have had a few books that ended up as "DNF," as I sometimes find it hard to push through if the book is not engaging.

However, I have learned that flexibility is key to making reading a regular habit. Even if I cannot read every day, I make an effort to pick up a book whenever I can. Whether it is a few pages before bed or during a short break, these small moments of reading contribute to a greater sense of relaxation and mental improvement.

Incorporating reading into my routine, even sporadically, has enhanced my quality of life. It offers a mental escape, fosters creativity, and provides a chance to unwind from the daily grind. I hope to continue making reading a more regular part of my day and encourage others to explore this habit as well. Sometimes, small changes can lead to the most significant improvements in our lives.

May x

Travel Hiccups: Lessons Learned from a Disappointing Experience

I was really looking forward to running the Gold Coast Marathon, but unfortunately, my excitement turned to disappointment due to a series of unforeseen issues.

Photo by: May

I applied for an ETA to enter Australia, expecting the same swift approval I had experienced in the past. However, this time, the process took 4 days instead of the usual seconds. My application wasn’t rejected, but I received an email stating that it could not be finalised at that time. I was instructed to submit additional information through ImmiAccount, including a copy of my passport biodata page and evidence demonstrating my intention of a temporary visit. 

Also, it requires proof of employment in my home country, a bank statement showing sufficient funds to support myself during my stay, and details about my family background. It was a horrendous experience. I was forced to cancel my trip because the ETA was approved just a day after my scheduled flight. This delay had a domino effect, leading to the cancellation of both my flights and hotel bookings.

In an attempt to make the best of a bad situation, I contacted the marathon organisers to ask if they could courier my running bib to me. I knew I wouldn’t be able to collect it in person or sell it, so I was willing to pay for the service. Unfortunately, my request was turned down. This left me not only disappointed but also out of pocket for a significant amount of money.

Looking back, I realise the importance of applying for travel documents well in advance. The lesson is clear: don’t wait until the last minute, especially when it comes to something as important as an international marathon.

To make matters worse, I fell ill after attending the trade show in Singapore. I suspect it might have been COVID-19. On the bright side, missing the marathon meant I could recover without the added stress of travel and racing.

Though I’m still unhappy about the whole experience, I’m trying to focus on the positives. Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges our way, and all we can do is learn from them and move forward.

May x

My Recent Work Adventures

My last post was about the Paris Marathon. Since then, I’ve been travelling a lot for work and also taking some time off for a holiday.

Photo by: May

About a year ago, I started working with a company I had previously worked with. They reached out to me for a short 3-month project, but the scope expanded, and so did my contract. Even though marketing isn’t my strongest area—despite having a master’s degree in it—I’ve been handling it as best as I can.

I was particularly busy preparing for a major event in Singapore in June. It was my first time managing such a large event with a 54 sqm booth, thousands of visitors, and hundreds of exhibitors. I wanted to make sure the company was well-represented and not embarrassed.

I’m proud of how I managed much of the work independently, with guidance from the client’s corporate MarComms team to ensure we followed their branding. Being able to make decisions on my own has been a great advantage and has helped me work more efficiently.

Additionally, I’m pleased that the company offered me a permanent position as my contract is coming to an end. Although I had to turn it down because it’s not the path I want to pursue, I’m glad my work was valued. I hope that once the new person joins, I’ll have some time to reflect and learn from this experience.

I’m looking forward to sharing more updates and hope that after my contract ends, I’ll be inspired to get back to blogging regularly after having taken a break since my last update.

May x

My Experience at the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris 2024

 Why did I decide to sign up? Well, it was something on my bucket list.

Photo by: May

The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris on 7th April 2024 marked a significant milestone for me—a check off my bucket list. Initially invited by my partner's brother, who unfortunately backed out, I decided to go ahead with this journey alone. My partner decided to go to the Hong Kong Sevens 😒. Despite being a bit of a lone ranger, it was a fulfilling experience and a satisfying achievement.

Photo by: May

Arriving in Paris 3 days before the event was a smart move, allowing me to combat jetlag and acclimate to the local weather, even if it meant spending a bit more on accommodation. Picking up my race bib at Porte de Versailles on Friday was smooth, although the language barrier made things a bit tricky. Nevertheless, I enjoyed exploring the expo, or "The Run Experience Fair," which was well-organised and engaging.

The flag-off for this race felt a bit strange to me. We were all given colour coding, and I expected the flag-off time to be as stated. I arrived an hour early to check things out and found myself in the pen 10 minutes before the scheduled start. Little did I know, I waited 40 minutes before we began. And during that time, I had already loaded up on a pack of gel... 🙄🙄🙄

Anyway, I'm incredibly grateful to have made it to the finish line. My finished time was 5:07:46. There was a moment when I doubted I could. Mentally, I hit a wall around 23km, but thanks to the encouragement from my sisters, I found the strength to push through. The weather was okay, with a light drizzle towards the end, and running past Paris landmarks was truly enjoyable.

Source: https://www.schneiderelectricparismarathon.com/en/information/route-and-profiles

The spectators' enthusiasm brought some challenges. The route wasn't fully barricaded, resulting in encounters with pedestrians, children, and even cyclists crossing the path. Despite these obstacles, the energy of the crowds, with cheering sections and musical bands, was uplifting.

Photo by: Marathon-Photos.com

Running on cobblestones proved to be physically demanding, and the elevation added another level of difficulty. By the time I reached 36km, my legs were protesting. Luckily, they did not completely give up, and I started walking.

At 40km, I started picking up speed until I crossed the finish line. The congestion of people around the timing mat made the final moments a bit chaotic.

Nevertheless, completing this race was a bucket list achievement for me. I want to extend my thank you to the organisers and all the volunteers for their efforts and dedication in making this event possible.

Done and dusted.

May x

Through Corporate Highs and Lows

Today, I'm feeling like sharing a bit about my journey in the corporate world – no fancy words, just real talk.

I started at the bottom, just like most of us do. A junior staff at 19, finishing high school, coming from a not-so-well-off family, and struggling financially at home. It wasn't easy. I worked and studied part-time, knowing that without a certification, I wouldn't get anywhere. I worked the hours, learned the ropes, and slowly climbed the ladder. Over two decades, from one rung to the next, I made my way up.

With every step up, I expected things to get better. I became a manager and landed the title of Regional Finance Director. Sounds impressive, right? But let me tell you, the higher you go, the harder it gets. Does the big title and big money really make up for the stress and health trade-off? Something to think about. My mum worked her entire life, and in the end, she didn't get to enjoy the other half of her life. Even after almost 10 years, I'm still angry with myself about it.

More responsibility meant more work piled up. There was no balance between work and life. Late nights at the office became the norm, and family time became a distant memory. It just didn't feel right.

The higher up, the more I felt stuck in red tape. Decisions took forever, and creativity was suffocated. Then there's office politics – a game I never wanted to play but found myself in. It's draining, to say the least. I thought climbing the ladder meant leaving these games behind, but they only got more complicated.

Reaching the top didn't mean having a say in things. Micromanagement became the new normal. I craved autonomy and the freedom to make decisions, but the higher I went, the more control I lost. At one point, a subordinate, unaware of the full picture of the company's financial situation, undermined me and went to higher management to report me. They believed her, started an investigation, and later found out it was all one-sided. She got terminated for defamation, and I didn't feel sorry for her because her head had grown bigger than mine at that time. I was losing hope in that company after 7 years of broken promises by the holding company, which brought unnecessary stress and damage to my name. I felt unappreciated.

I always believed in doing things right, but somewhere along the way, the company's values and my own started drifting apart. It became more about profit and less about people. It just didn't sit well with me.

I joined a new startup owned by a close friend and was really happy working with them because it felt like family. Of course, I had a nice title - CFO doing the same job as before. I made it clear I would leave after 2 years once the company stabilised, but due to Covid and the company's growth, it extended to 3 years. Then, new shareholders joined, taking a bigger share.

So, here's the real deal. After all those years, I decided to step down from my big job. Why? Because it wasn't fun anymore. The joy of work was gone. The stress, the politics, the never-ending workload – it just wasn't worth it.

Leaving the big company was scary, but it was also liberating. Now, I'm exploring new paths, looking for work that aligns with my values and returning to a life that makes sense.

Why share all this? Because I know I'm not alone. Many of us go through these struggles in the corporate world. It's okay to admit it and make a change.

Remember, it's your journey. Don't let it be defined by titles or fancy offices. Find the joy, keep it real, and enjoy the ride.

Image created with Microsoft Designer 

Cheers to new beginnings,

May x

Reflecting on 2023 and Embracing Transformation in 2024

 

Photo by: May

I know this post is late, but I will share my reflections anyway. 😊

As I sit down to contemplate the year that has just bid us farewell, my heart overflows with gratitude for the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped my 2023. The highs and lows, unexpected twists, and moments of sheer joy have etched an indelible mark on my heart.

In 2023, my heart found fulfilment in sponsoring more children and visiting them in different corners of the world. Witnessing the impact of these simple acts of kindness was humbling and profoundly rewarding. However, the year also presented challenges. Battling through my first encounter with COVID-19 reminded me of the fragility of health.

As the calendar flips to 2024, a renewed sense of purpose propels me forward. Learning from the past, I am determined to live healthier, reignite my passion for marathon running, and strive towards a lofty goal – completing an Ironman before I turn 50, a challenge I eagerly embrace at the age of 43.

My focus for 2024 extends beyond personal milestones. I aspire to inspire those around me to adopt healthier lifestyles. I hope to create a community dedicated to fitness and well-being through training updates, motivational stories, and encouraging words.

In the spirit of giving, I plan to initiate a fundraising effort. While the cause remains undecided, the goal is clear—making a positive impact. Additionally, visits to my sponsor child in various locations will continue, fostering the connections forged in 2023.

Looking ahead, the dream of completing all 6 major marathons takes shape. The plan is to achieve this milestone before reaching the age of 50. As the journey unfolds, it becomes not just a pursuit of medals but a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and the joy found in every step.

Join me on this expedition of self-discovery, resilience, and pursuing a healthier, more fulfilling life. Let's make 2024 a year of positive transformation—one step at a time.

May x