Monday (181004):
Monday blues... and what a way to start the day by being stuck at the banks (take note its plural!). This incident really made me rethink about 'fight or flight' situation (aptly put, HW). Went office feeling jaded. Was glad to get a follow-up sms on an offer; will see her soon. Went home early to break fast with my family.
Tuesday (191004):
Worked from home today. Felt better being home (somehow the vibe in the office was not positive). Was happy that one of the blogger commented on "Get Real" that he prefers bloggers who are not self-depreciating. Totally agree; I'd rather read a blog that veers towards current affairs or at least something profound than some mindless blabberings. I had to inform mum about the state of my company; as expected, she was worried. Reassured her that there is a time and place for everything and that this is just a test from the Almighty.
Wednesday (201004):
The meeting went well in the morning and got a call for another offer (will have to meet the lady tomorrow during lunch time). Work wise, had to update a client on the progress of the project schedule. The morale in the office was low (need an update from CEO soon!)
Thursday (211004):
The lady was also a diver, small world! However, have a strong feeling she was penalizing me for my take on money - true money is important in a rewarding job but to me working with a progressive company is more important coz of the learning curve I will take away with me. Differing in opinion is alright; as they say 'diversity breeds creativity' but somehow I don't think that rings through here for her... Time will tell. Was told to prepare a presentation but I doubt I want to pursue this offer.
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
Saturday, October 16, 2004
Democracy?
Friday (151004):
When you thought that the end is near, a miracle happened, Subhan Allah (God is Great)! Going in to the staff meeting was the best thing that happened to me today. For once, I saw the 'person' my CEO was since we started this company. I was so glad that he wanted to hear our point of view and took the time to find an alternative, Alhamdullilah (Thank God). From there after, you could see the spark back around the office. Although I have not recuperated, I felt much better at the turn of event. I know that there is still uncertainty but at least whatever that is to come will be way better than where we are right now...
Went home on the first day of Ramadhan feeling relieved; Surfed the net to get more info on my sideline business with the hope that we could progress further in this arrangement. My business partner told me that there was a retailer who is keen to see our stock; a possibile channel? Perhaps... There's always a reason for everything :)
Saturday (161004):
Second day of Ramadhan. Was tabulating my finances. Verdict = short! Was supposed to see my orthodontist but had to take a 'rain check' on that. Was thinking of baking cookies and cakes for Syawal but... don't think that is possible this year. Spent the day researching for more suppliers as well as ideas for the clothes line.
Sunday (171004):
Third day of Ramadhan and I learnt that when I could not process my thoughts well enough, it was better to step back and analyse the situation and think things through before making a decision; CK made me realize that I have to give more room to options (thank you CK for having faith in me as your business partner and for being open). I realized that having your own business is a new ball game all together; its not that I am fearful (hey, having some fear is good as it keeps you on your toes) of the uncertainty, just don't want to disappoint my partner in crime. Am glad that we managed to resolve the slight hiccup we have and work towards our common goal. Here's to a new lease of life! Amen.
Life suddenly seems so uncertain at all fronts but I am not about to buckle under pressure. Its important to keep a clear head (a good sense of humour helps too). No one says life is a bed of roses so I shall take life with a pinch of salt. Hikmah behind everything, Insya Allah!
When you thought that the end is near, a miracle happened, Subhan Allah (God is Great)! Going in to the staff meeting was the best thing that happened to me today. For once, I saw the 'person' my CEO was since we started this company. I was so glad that he wanted to hear our point of view and took the time to find an alternative, Alhamdullilah (Thank God). From there after, you could see the spark back around the office. Although I have not recuperated, I felt much better at the turn of event. I know that there is still uncertainty but at least whatever that is to come will be way better than where we are right now...
Went home on the first day of Ramadhan feeling relieved; Surfed the net to get more info on my sideline business with the hope that we could progress further in this arrangement. My business partner told me that there was a retailer who is keen to see our stock; a possibile channel? Perhaps... There's always a reason for everything :)
Saturday (161004):
Second day of Ramadhan. Was tabulating my finances. Verdict = short! Was supposed to see my orthodontist but had to take a 'rain check' on that. Was thinking of baking cookies and cakes for Syawal but... don't think that is possible this year. Spent the day researching for more suppliers as well as ideas for the clothes line.
Sunday (171004):
Third day of Ramadhan and I learnt that when I could not process my thoughts well enough, it was better to step back and analyse the situation and think things through before making a decision; CK made me realize that I have to give more room to options (thank you CK for having faith in me as your business partner and for being open). I realized that having your own business is a new ball game all together; its not that I am fearful (hey, having some fear is good as it keeps you on your toes) of the uncertainty, just don't want to disappoint my partner in crime. Am glad that we managed to resolve the slight hiccup we have and work towards our common goal. Here's to a new lease of life! Amen.
Life suddenly seems so uncertain at all fronts but I am not about to buckle under pressure. Its important to keep a clear head (a good sense of humour helps too). No one says life is a bed of roses so I shall take life with a pinch of salt. Hikmah behind everything, Insya Allah!
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Down, Not Out...
Monday (111004):
Was supposed to be at client's place today but client postponed meeting to Tuesday morning. As I was heading to work, alot ran through my mind - life, work, finances, education, etc. Post 30, it seems as though I have reached an impasse; its the same with the rest of my peers. Is the economy really picking up? Doesn't seem the case. The elearning market seemed to have reached a standstill. Maybe I need to restrategise in terms of my careerpath...
Tuesday (121004):
Woke up and headed to client's place in the morning. Then got back to office and had quick lunch before another meeting with client. Saw Luke online. As I was feeling bored, I started chatting online (I know it was kinda rude but can't help it, bah!). We decided to meet up with the rest the next day (kinda excited as it has been awhile since we all got together... miss them loads!). Went back feeling slightly better; sharead a cab with my colleagues.
Wednesday (131004):
Today, mum left for JB with nan. I went to work feeling down. Got sms from CY; he informed me about White Manta (frontpage news!). He also asked me if I wanted anything from Beijing. He'll be flying this Saturday and be back next Sunday. I declined any (what a sweet gesture). Also sms one of my dive buddy who just got back from her honeymoon. She mentioned meeting 'my ex' in NY but did not elaborate. Frankly, I am not keen to know more about him. Live and let live considering its all over.
Then I got a call from Luke and went down for a brief chat at Subway, Amara (sorry about the bad outcome of the interview). Decided to leave early to meet the rest for dinner. We checked out Dempsey Road and ended up at Holland Village and chatted the night away. Got home after 1am; felt tired and a little unwell...
Thursday (141004):
Was down with bad cough and runny nose; decided to take medical leave. Spoke to "Precious" (good chat) then saw Luke online (busy surfing for jobs again I see? Join the club!). Got a reply for another offer; considering... Heard that today pay cheque is in and mum's back and for once nice home cooked meal during my off day (hallelujah!). There will be a staff meeting tomorrow at 4pm; wish me luck!
Was supposed to be at client's place today but client postponed meeting to Tuesday morning. As I was heading to work, alot ran through my mind - life, work, finances, education, etc. Post 30, it seems as though I have reached an impasse; its the same with the rest of my peers. Is the economy really picking up? Doesn't seem the case. The elearning market seemed to have reached a standstill. Maybe I need to restrategise in terms of my careerpath...
Tuesday (121004):
Woke up and headed to client's place in the morning. Then got back to office and had quick lunch before another meeting with client. Saw Luke online. As I was feeling bored, I started chatting online (I know it was kinda rude but can't help it, bah!). We decided to meet up with the rest the next day (kinda excited as it has been awhile since we all got together... miss them loads!). Went back feeling slightly better; sharead a cab with my colleagues.
Wednesday (131004):
Today, mum left for JB with nan. I went to work feeling down. Got sms from CY; he informed me about White Manta (frontpage news!). He also asked me if I wanted anything from Beijing. He'll be flying this Saturday and be back next Sunday. I declined any (what a sweet gesture). Also sms one of my dive buddy who just got back from her honeymoon. She mentioned meeting 'my ex' in NY but did not elaborate. Frankly, I am not keen to know more about him. Live and let live considering its all over.
Then I got a call from Luke and went down for a brief chat at Subway, Amara (sorry about the bad outcome of the interview). Decided to leave early to meet the rest for dinner. We checked out Dempsey Road and ended up at Holland Village and chatted the night away. Got home after 1am; felt tired and a little unwell...
Thursday (141004):
Was down with bad cough and runny nose; decided to take medical leave. Spoke to "Precious" (good chat) then saw Luke online (busy surfing for jobs again I see? Join the club!). Got a reply for another offer; considering... Heard that today pay cheque is in and mum's back and for once nice home cooked meal during my off day (hallelujah!). There will be a staff meeting tomorrow at 4pm; wish me luck!
"Call on Me, I will answer your prayer" (40:60)
Sunday, October 10, 2004
Realities of Life?
Saturday (091004):
Woke up for gym and then had a quick shower and lunch before meeting CK (what is it with people and being late?! Gone are the days when professionals believe that "time is money"?) We reached an impasse in our business ideas. Have to rework the strategies (will sleep on it over the weekend; somehow I got the feeling that am the only one who really know what's going on...)
It was nice of CK to say that I have changed for the better, mellower, nicer and incredibly attractive (ok, I added the "incredibly", you got me there; Hey am entitled to some vanity some times yeah! Btw was that flirting with me?!) Its nice to meet friends once in a while and catch up and was glad CK enjoyed my company (sorry you were late for yr date. Hope you didn't get into trouble with yr girl? hahaha)
Had a nice banter with CY over sms; will see him tomorrow for badminton (Nope, am not gonna fall for that trap anymore; have resolved to remain single for a while now) ... Interestingly enough, when I got home on Friday night and was surfing the net, CY sms and asked me out for a drink at Clarke Quay; declined his offer... Besides, if you wanna date a girl, at least extend an invitation in advance (guys out there, learn from this - give the girl some 'face' will ya?) Could a guy have a platonic friendship with a girl? According to CY, its not possible...but CY, were friends so what was that all about? *confused*
Sunday (101004):
What do you make of an employee who has not seen her pay cheque for 2 months? Darn broke! I was grumbling to mum over breakfast and she asked if I am keeping a look out, duh! Suddenly I felt immersed in Harry's role in Tony Parson's "A Man & A Boy" (sans the kid, death of a family and divorce issues) .
Anyway, I went for my badminton and got to know 9 nice guys. Would have joined them for lunch if I wasn't penny pinching being broke... I think CY was a tad disappointed that we didn't get to partner for any of the doubles game; maybe next time. It was sweet of him, in between games, he asked me if I was tired, if I have my bottle of water with me yada yada yada. Its true that I am easily appreciative but I also know that I could never come in between a couple and I would want to play it safe this time round and not think about hooking up with someone just because he likes me... its got to be for the right reasons (no more giving someone the benefit of the doubt)
Guess somehow, all the past experiences have made me a little bit more grown up (pray to GOD that is so), Btw, I have finished "A Man & A Boy". Verdict = Heart warming. I learnt that if you love someone, you don't just see them as extension of yourself. You don't just love them for what's in it for you. Love means knowing when to let go and you will learn to let go coz that is part of what it means to love someone. I guess Nancy Sinatra was right when she said, "A life without love is no life at all".
At a time like this, I could hear Frank Sinatra singing:
Woke up for gym and then had a quick shower and lunch before meeting CK (what is it with people and being late?! Gone are the days when professionals believe that "time is money"?) We reached an impasse in our business ideas. Have to rework the strategies (will sleep on it over the weekend; somehow I got the feeling that am the only one who really know what's going on...)
It was nice of CK to say that I have changed for the better, mellower, nicer and incredibly attractive (ok, I added the "incredibly", you got me there; Hey am entitled to some vanity some times yeah! Btw was that flirting with me?!) Its nice to meet friends once in a while and catch up and was glad CK enjoyed my company (sorry you were late for yr date. Hope you didn't get into trouble with yr girl? hahaha)
Had a nice banter with CY over sms; will see him tomorrow for badminton (Nope, am not gonna fall for that trap anymore; have resolved to remain single for a while now) ... Interestingly enough, when I got home on Friday night and was surfing the net, CY sms and asked me out for a drink at Clarke Quay; declined his offer... Besides, if you wanna date a girl, at least extend an invitation in advance (guys out there, learn from this - give the girl some 'face' will ya?) Could a guy have a platonic friendship with a girl? According to CY, its not possible...but CY, were friends so what was that all about? *confused*
Sunday (101004):
What do you make of an employee who has not seen her pay cheque for 2 months? Darn broke! I was grumbling to mum over breakfast and she asked if I am keeping a look out, duh! Suddenly I felt immersed in Harry's role in Tony Parson's "A Man & A Boy" (sans the kid, death of a family and divorce issues) .
Anyway, I went for my badminton and got to know 9 nice guys. Would have joined them for lunch if I wasn't penny pinching being broke... I think CY was a tad disappointed that we didn't get to partner for any of the doubles game; maybe next time. It was sweet of him, in between games, he asked me if I was tired, if I have my bottle of water with me yada yada yada. Its true that I am easily appreciative but I also know that I could never come in between a couple and I would want to play it safe this time round and not think about hooking up with someone just because he likes me... its got to be for the right reasons (no more giving someone the benefit of the doubt)
Guess somehow, all the past experiences have made me a little bit more grown up (pray to GOD that is so), Btw, I have finished "A Man & A Boy". Verdict = Heart warming. I learnt that if you love someone, you don't just see them as extension of yourself. You don't just love them for what's in it for you. Love means knowing when to let go and you will learn to let go coz that is part of what it means to love someone. I guess Nancy Sinatra was right when she said, "A life without love is no life at all".
At a time like this, I could hear Frank Sinatra singing:
Someday when I'm awfully low.
When the world is cold, I will feel a glow;
Just thinking of you and the way you look tonight.
But you're lovely!
With your smile so warm and your cheek so soft;
There is nothing for me but to love you
Just the way you look tonight.
Thursday, October 07, 2004
Business Partner
Wednesday (061004):
What a day! I had a fruitful day at work; got all the tasks that I needed to do completed. I then went for the coffee session to discuss possibilities of a work arrangement with another company. Verdict = it was a replacement position. I am still considering the offer and will probably have a second round next week. Spoke to a pal and asked for her opinion as well; will probably meet her and an ex of mine next week if time permits (that reminds me, I have to RSVP for the talk by RMIT for the MBA, IT course).
After that, I met my dive buddy at his badminton session (he seems really happy to see me... hmmm) Had dinner with a potential business partner at 7pm and we discussed the possiblity of a business arranagement till 10pm; we will touch base again this Saturday to map out the blueprint. Went home feeling fulfilled; achieved alot today. Alhamdulillah!
Thursday (071004):
Forwarded some info I have researched to my business partner and will discuss online tonight. I was still toying with the idea of the work arrangement. A colleague told me it would be better than where I am now but... still undecided. Perhaps I shall sleep on it till the weekend. Had a fruitful discussion on the prototype of a client's project in the west; will be presenting that next Monday...Hmm. seems like next week will be another busy week before the fasting month begins.
Friday (081004):
Today was at work for half a day and had lunch with HW and LW (it may be LW's last day, but I got to know LW and family better). Then we headed to HP EduFest at Suntec City. It was insightful. We all headed home and when I was surfing for the exact address of Bukit Gombak CC for my badminton session on Sunday morning, CY sms and asked me out for a drink. Declined the offer (partly coz I was already home and partly coz I will be seeing him this Sunday and I already saw him on Wednesday this week).
Something in my bones is telling me that the weeks ahead will get more interesting...
What a day! I had a fruitful day at work; got all the tasks that I needed to do completed. I then went for the coffee session to discuss possibilities of a work arrangement with another company. Verdict = it was a replacement position. I am still considering the offer and will probably have a second round next week. Spoke to a pal and asked for her opinion as well; will probably meet her and an ex of mine next week if time permits (that reminds me, I have to RSVP for the talk by RMIT for the MBA, IT course).
After that, I met my dive buddy at his badminton session (he seems really happy to see me... hmmm) Had dinner with a potential business partner at 7pm and we discussed the possiblity of a business arranagement till 10pm; we will touch base again this Saturday to map out the blueprint. Went home feeling fulfilled; achieved alot today. Alhamdulillah!
Thursday (071004):
Forwarded some info I have researched to my business partner and will discuss online tonight. I was still toying with the idea of the work arrangement. A colleague told me it would be better than where I am now but... still undecided. Perhaps I shall sleep on it till the weekend. Had a fruitful discussion on the prototype of a client's project in the west; will be presenting that next Monday...Hmm. seems like next week will be another busy week before the fasting month begins.
Friday (081004):
Today was at work for half a day and had lunch with HW and LW (it may be LW's last day, but I got to know LW and family better). Then we headed to HP EduFest at Suntec City. It was insightful. We all headed home and when I was surfing for the exact address of Bukit Gombak CC for my badminton session on Sunday morning, CY sms and asked me out for a drink. Declined the offer (partly coz I was already home and partly coz I will be seeing him this Sunday and I already saw him on Wednesday this week).
Something in my bones is telling me that the weeks ahead will get more interesting...
Monday, October 04, 2004
Talent Scouted or ...?
Sunday (031004):
I spent the early part of the day finishing the fantabulous "Da Vinci Code". What an achievement for breaking some codes before they were revealed. Hey, check out the true tales. I love how Dan Brown does such an extensive research and finally piecing everything together - very intelligent indeed! Also today was a time well spent - practised on my keyboard (kinda miss Zali), updated my resume and researched for opportunities. Watched "Bicentennial Man"; besides its humane overtone, its blah! Then I started reading another book, Tony Parson's "Man and Boy". Will let you know the verdict once I complete it. . . too premature to jump to a conclusion now don't you think? ;P
Monday (041004):
The e-learning industry is really small in Singapore; what goes around comes around? Perhaps. Out of the blue, a direct competitor called my office and ask, "I know this sounds wierd, we have never done this before but are you open to other opportunities?" What an opportune time, you might say? When I asked the lady who referred her to me, she said, "I promised the person I keep this referral confidential". Somehow I have an inkling who the referee is! Nonetheless, I shall keep my options open although the mere mention of the company's name makes me squirm but like Ben used to say, "Beggars can't be choosers". Another advice from a friend was, "No harm seeing what your market value is". Perhaps she is right.
Tuesday (051004):
Another draggy day but somehow I knew I had to complete the progress report for a project before 071004, darn! The prototype review for one courseware was done without 'drama' but I am pretty sure some of the media guys 'resent' the constructive feedback given (it don't help that the morale is low right now). Then had a final few words with my respected mentor (his last day today... so sad but shall cherish all that I've learnt from this amazing talent). An ex-colleague is helping me submit my resume to her company for an opening (thank you, Rose) and I just arranged for a coffee session with the GM and HR of a direct competitor tomorrow. Wish me luck...
I spent the early part of the day finishing the fantabulous "Da Vinci Code". What an achievement for breaking some codes before they were revealed. Hey, check out the true tales. I love how Dan Brown does such an extensive research and finally piecing everything together - very intelligent indeed! Also today was a time well spent - practised on my keyboard (kinda miss Zali), updated my resume and researched for opportunities. Watched "Bicentennial Man"; besides its humane overtone, its blah! Then I started reading another book, Tony Parson's "Man and Boy". Will let you know the verdict once I complete it. . . too premature to jump to a conclusion now don't you think? ;P
Monday (041004):
The e-learning industry is really small in Singapore; what goes around comes around? Perhaps. Out of the blue, a direct competitor called my office and ask, "I know this sounds wierd, we have never done this before but are you open to other opportunities?" What an opportune time, you might say? When I asked the lady who referred her to me, she said, "I promised the person I keep this referral confidential". Somehow I have an inkling who the referee is! Nonetheless, I shall keep my options open although the mere mention of the company's name makes me squirm but like Ben used to say, "Beggars can't be choosers". Another advice from a friend was, "No harm seeing what your market value is". Perhaps she is right.
Tuesday (051004):
Another draggy day but somehow I knew I had to complete the progress report for a project before 071004, darn! The prototype review for one courseware was done without 'drama' but I am pretty sure some of the media guys 'resent' the constructive feedback given (it don't help that the morale is low right now). Then had a final few words with my respected mentor (his last day today... so sad but shall cherish all that I've learnt from this amazing talent). An ex-colleague is helping me submit my resume to her company for an opening (thank you, Rose) and I just arranged for a coffee session with the GM and HR of a direct competitor tomorrow. Wish me luck...
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