February went by so fast I can’t even remember what I’ve actually done.
Me, pausing long enough to appreciate the stillness.
There was a short getaway to New Zealand with my boyfriend, and then it was Chinese New Year — which I decided to stay away from this year. A quiet CNY. I don’t really celebrate it anymore, and I shared why in another post.
New Zealand was beautiful. There’s still so much I would like to explore, and I know I will go back someday.
It was a short trip, too short. 😬
A bit of looking around.
A bit of walking.
A bit of running.
Amazing view of Lake Tekapo. Even more beautiful in person.
A photo taken during our boat ride along Milford Sound.
One of many beautiful views we passed on the drive to Christchurch.
Then we flew back to Bangkok.
I had a week of work that kept my brain occupied. After that, I tried to return to my normal routine. Quiet mornings with coffee. Reading again. No rushing. That part felt good.
Then I tried to run properly again.
But I couldn’t run much.
Somewhere along the way, I probably picked up a minor running injury. I tried managing the load and running through it.
There’s been persistent pain along my left shin, especially after impact. My right plantar has been flaring up on and off. I saw a physio when it first started, but the pain came back.
I’ve rested. I’ve adjusted. I’ve done what I could.
Almost everything — except properly following up.
I kept telling myself I would wait until I flew back to Singapore for follow-up treatment. Maybe it sounds a bit silly. Still, if I’m honest, waiting isn’t helping. Even walking is painful now.
So I’ve decided to see a physio here tomorrow.
Sometimes discipline isn’t about pushing through pain.
Sometimes it’s about pausing and fixing it properly.
I don’t like slowing down. But maybe this is also part of training.
It’s something I’m still learning — even though I’m always the one saying I should listen to my body.
After sharing how my running journey started and where I am now, this felt like the right next step. Nothing loud. Nothing flashy. Just giving my running a bit of direction again.
AI-generated image
All three runs on the calendar are ballot races. I know how lucky I am to even get a spot, so I’m genuinely grateful. No expectations, no entitlement. I'm just thankful for the chance to stand on those starting lines.
Putting these dates down isn’t about making big promises. It’s about giving myself direction without pressure. Training steadily. Respecting my body. Allowing recovery. Accepting that some weeks will be better than others.
There may be a few more races along the way if one becomes available and timing allows. No fixed plans. Just joining when it feels right.
For now, it’s simply about showing up and seeing where the road takes me.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
