Monad

Our Wedding Day

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:01:00 +0000

Wonderful photography of our wedding day by the PeepingThom team:

http://thepeepingthom.com/

We will select the best ones to post on our blogs... =) =)

Wedding Colours

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Our wedding preparations are more intense as the date draws near...

We're proud to complete a tough task today ~ Wedding Photos Selection!

Among the 230+ shots that we took last week, we are supposed to select at least 30+ photos... The last time, we chose 130+ photos... unwilling to let go of many nice shots...

Things changed today... Just before I leave office, my boss Gerry presented me a brilliant "Top 10" solution... Looking at this mind-stretching task, he suggested that we work backwards to pick the first top 10 shots... then we work out again to pick the rest towards over 30 from there.

It works perfectly well, and most important of all, we have happily selected our best 30+ poses!

This time round, we are really amazed by our selection process... Now, we understood that it is not about showing-off more photos to the world, which is quite common among newly-weds, but it is really about picking our best ones, knowing that we cannot possibly include everything...

Learning Point ~ No matter how many photos you took, there will always be top 10 shots that you like best!

All Thanks to Gerry! =) =)

On the same day, we are excited about collecting our wedding invitation cards at Mandarin Oriental...

It's in our wedding theme colours ~ Red & White

Now, we're ready to fly off our wedding cards!

Paris in Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

We had a great time over dinner hosted by my boss and his wife.

It's very thoughtful of him to reserve a table at a nice vegetarian Chinese restaurant.

They are simply an amazing couple...

Almost 30 years in marriage, and still very loving!

At a point, my boss describes how it feels when one goes to a workplace in two extremes, imagine either spring in Paris or summer in Mumbai...

Life's really short... I would choose to be in Paris during springtime...

Learning the Art of Joyful Living

A Day of Smiles!

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Today's photography session is a highlight of our wedding preparations.

We have went through a series of apparel changes for different sets of phototaking.

It was interesting to see how my bride put on her make-up and outfits for the poses we put together.

Indoor studio shots are focused on designed backgrounds, among those, it's interesting to see how I looked in the traditional Chinese set.

Outdoor freestyle shots are to capture natural green landscapes and sunset by the sea, hope to see our best shots in the waterfalls.

For the whole day, we are communicating with the photographer and his constant words about putting on a big smile or "笑开" is still ringing in my mind...

Although some areas are not perfect, we are happy that most of it went well except for the weather which we have no control.

We are looking forward to view our wedding photos next week! =) =)

Wedding Jewellery <<四点金>>

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

A touch of Chinese wedding tradition...

四点金 (Si Dian Jin) ~ Love, Commitment, Devotion, Trust

In the old days, when matchmaking and arranged marriages were a way of life in China, the bride and groom were not allowed to meet each other until the wedding night.

So, to show his sincerity, the groom would send a gift of four gold items to his bride-to-be 14 days before the wedding.

The gift consisted of a necklace, a bangle, a pair of earrings and a ring, also known as 四点金 (Si Dian Jin).

Our family celebrated the 44th National Day together and we bought the traditional wedding jewellery for my bride-to-be. Everyone's joyous and excited about our upcoming wedding. =) =)

Learning Journeys ~ Lead-Across Principles

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

The Principles 360° Leaders Practice to Lead Across

By John C. Maxwell

"Follow me, I'll walk with you"

What distinguishes a merely competent leader from one who goes to the next level?

To make it to the next level of leadership, a leader must be able to lead other leaders - not just those below them, but also those above and alongside them. To succeed as a leader who leads peer-to-peer, you have to work at giving your colleagues reasons to respect and follow you.

How do you do that? By helping your peers win, your organisation win and yourself.

Lead-Across Principle #3: BE A FRIEND

We often consider ourselves to be many things to the people who work alongside us - but we may forget to be one thing that every person wants: a friend.

1. Listen!

The entire process begins with listening... Ralph Nichols said "The most basic of all human needs is the need to understand and be understood."

2. Find Common Ground Not Related to Work

Unfortunately, for many people who work together, that's all they seem to have in common... Frank Clark said "To enjoy a friend, I need more in common in him than hating the same people."

3. Be Available Beyond Business Hours

True friendship means being available... If you won't do anything outside working hours, then your relationship will probably never evolve beyond the confines of the work arena.

4. Have a Sense of Humour

It's often found that humour can quickly bond people who might not otherwise have a lot in common... Victor Borge said "Laughter is the closest distance between two people"

5. Tell the Truth When Others Don't

Your best friend is the one who brings out the best within you. Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your friend is to tell them the truth. Not everybody is willing to do that, because they don't want to risk the relationship... An Eastern Proverb says, "A friend is one that warns you"

Lead-Across Principle #4: AVOID OFFICE POLITICS

"Playing politics" is perhaps changing your normal self to gain an advantage with whoever currently has power. In work environment, it may mean to suck up to the boss, constantly changing positions to get to the winning side, or using people for personal gain without regard for how it affects them. Political people are fickle and opportunistic, doing what is expedient in the moment to win, regardless of what's best for their peers, employees or organisation.

Two Ways to Get Ahead

People Who Rely On PRODUCTION

~ Depend on how they grow

~ Focus on what they do

~ Become better than they appear

~ Provide substance

~ Do what's necessary

~ Work to control their own destiny

~ Grow into the next level

~ Base decisions on principles

People Who Rely On POLITICS
~ Depend on who they know
~ Focus on what they say
~ Appear better than they appear
~ Take shortcuts
~ Do what's popular
~ Let others control their destiny
~ Hope to be given the next level
~ Base decisions on opinions

When "political people" progresses with their desire to advance, they sometimes appear to get ahead, but their gains are always temporary. In the long run, integrity, consistency and productivity still pays off - in better teamwork and most importantly, a clear conscience.

If you have played office politics in the past, perhaps you saw others do it and you thought that was what you had to do to advance in your career. Or maybe you did not have confidence in yourself because you weren't growing, and your skills were not advancing. You may not have done it maliciously, but for whatever the reason, if you have played office politics, you can be certain that you have betrayed the trust of some of your coworkers. And you will probably have to go to those people to apologise and seek reconcillation. That may be hard, but if you desire to lead across, you will need to do it to regain credibility from your peers.

To avoid difficulties in getting entangled in office political web, here are some tips:

1. Avoid Gossip

It's been said that great people talk about ideas, average people talk about themselves, and small people talk about others. That's what gossip does. It makes people small. There is really no upside to gossip. It diminishes everyone, including the listener.

2. Stay Away From Petty Arguments

In work environments, there are always past grudges, on-going feuds and petty arguments that run like currents through the organization. Wise leaders in the middle of the organization avoid getting sucked into these currents, even if they think they can resolve them. As the saying goes, a bulldog can beat a skunk in a fight anytime, but he knows it's just not worth it. That's the right attitude.

3. Stand Up For What's Right, Not Just What's Popular

While wise leaders often sit back and listen, they must also stand up for what's right, even when such a stand is unpopular. Use the Golden Rule ~ "In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you." When someone is being treated in a way that you would not want to be treated, then it's time to stand up.

4. Look At All Sides Of The Issue

Before you have an argument with your boss, take a good look at both sides - his side and the outside.

5. Don't Protect Your Turf

Politics is often about power. Political leader protect whatever is theirs for the fear of losing power. They fight for their budget. They fight for office space. They guard their ideas. They hoard their supplies. If it belongs to them, they protect it. People who want to lead across should take a broader view. They look at what's the best for the team. If they have to give up some space to help the organization, they do it. If it makes more sense for another leader to accomplish a task that they have done in the past - and if some dollars from their budget goes to that leader - they deal with it. What matters is the team.

6. Say What You Mean, And Mean What You Say

Leadership is about building trust with people. When asked what he considers as the most essential qualification as a politician, Winston Churchill said "It's the ability to foretell what will happen tomorrow, next month and next year - and to explain afterward why it did not happen." If you want to develop trust with others, you must be more than competent. You must also be credible and consistent. The way to achieve those qualities is to make sure that what you say, what you do, and what you say you do all match. If you do that, the people who work with you will know they can depend on you.

Wedding Banquet Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Oriental has prepared a preview session of our wedding banquet.

It's classic wedding theme of "Happiness" is warm and elegant.

Our families gathered to taste the dishes that we've selected.

The signature dishes from Chef Roy was excellent indeed.

After the rounds of comments, we've decided on the menu items.

I hope to have more interesting varieties for vegetarian dishes.

The traditional dessert is still my best choice among all...

Hands in Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:59:00 +0000

On this day, we met an important 'school teacher' for the first time... she's a stern character with a good sense of humour... and she will be the one that solemnise our marriage.

We've noted her points attentively and submitted our marriage application online... all done on the same day!

During this session with our solemniser, I've realised that in the process of marriage, there are important principles to be observed and it is a lifelong learning journey as a couple.

The voyage start... after our vows... 'Yes I Do' and 'Yes I Will'...

Here are some key principles of a marriage:

The Art of Marriage by Wilferd A. Peterson

The little things are the big things...

It is never being too old to hold hands.

It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once a day.

It is never going to sleep angry.

It is at no time taking the other for granted; the courtship should not end with the honeymoon, it should continue through all the years.

It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.

It is standing together facing the world.

It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family.

It is doing things for each other, not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice, but in the spirit of joy.

It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.

It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo or the wife to have wings of an angel.

It is not looking for perfection in each other.

It is cultivating flexibility, patience, understanding and a sense of humor.

It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.

It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.

It is finding room for the things of the spirit.

It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.

It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal, dependence is mutual and the obligation is reciprocal.

It is not only marrying the right partner, it is being the right partner.

Learning Journeys ~ Laws of Teamwork

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 15:59:00 +0000

The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork
By John C. Maxwell

To achieve great things, you need a team. Building a winning team requires understanding of these principles. Whatever your goal or project, you need to add value and invest in your team so the end product benefits from more ideas, energy, resources, and perspectives.

1. The Law of Significance

People try to achieve great things by themselves mainly because of the size of their ego, their level of insecurity, or simple naiveté and temperament. One is too small a number to achieve greatness.

2. The Law of the Big Picture

The goal is more important than the role. Members must be willing to subordinate their roles and personal agendas to support the team vision. By seeing the big picture, effectively communicating the vision to the team, providing the needed resources, and hiring the right players, leaders can create a more unified team.

3. The Law of the Niche

All players have a place where they add the most value. Essentially, when the right team member is in the right place, everyone benefits. To be able to put people in their proper places and fully utilize their talents and maximize potential, you need to know your players and the team situation. Evaluate each person's skills, discipline, strengths, emotions, and potential.

4. The Law of Mount Everest

As the challenge escalates, the need for teamwork elevates. Focus on the team and the dream should take care of itself. The type of challenge determines the type of team you require: A new challenge requires a creative team. An ever-changing challenge requires a fast, flexible team. An Everest-sized challenge requires an experienced team. See who needs direction, support, coaching, or more responsibility. Add members, change leaders to suit the challenge of the moment, and remove ineffective members.

5. The Law of the Chain

The strength of the team is impacted by its weakest link. When a weak link remains on the team the stronger members identify the weak one, end up having to help him, come to resent him, become less effective, and ultimately question their leader's ability.

6. The Law of the Catalyst

Winning teams have players who make things happen. These are the catalysts, or the get-it-done-and-then-some people who are naturally intuitive, communicative, passionate, talented, creative people who take the initiative, are responsible, generous, and influential.

7. The Law of the Compass

A team that embraces a vision becomes focused, energized, and confident. It knows where it's headed and why it's going there. A team should examine its Moral, Intuitive, Historical, Directional, Strategic, and Visionary Compasses. Does the business practice with integrity? Do members stay? Does the team make positive use of anything contributed by previous teams in the organization? Does the strategy serve the vision? Is there a long-range vision to keep the team from being frustrated by short-range failures?

8. The Law of The Bad Apple

Rotten attitudes ruin a team. The first place to start is with your self. Do you think the team wouldn't be able to get along without you? Do you secretly believe that recent team successes are attributable to your personal efforts, not the work of the whole team? Do you keep score when it comes to the praise and perks handed out to other team members? Do you have a hard time admitting you made a mistake? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to keep your attitude in check.

9. The Law of Countability

Teammates must be able to count on each other when it counts. Is your integrity unquestionable? Do you perform your work with excellence? Are you dedicated to the team's success? Can people depend on you? Do your actions bring the team together or rip it apart?

10. The Law of the Price Tag

The team fails to reach its potential when it fails to pay the price. Sacrifice, time commitment, personal development, and unselfishness are part of the price we pay for team success.

11. The Law of the Scoreboard

The team can make adjustments when it knows where it stands. The scoreboard is essential to evaluating performance at any given time, and is vital to decision-making.

12. The Law of the Bench

Great teams have great depth. Any team that wants to excel must have good substitutes as well as starters. The key to making the most of the law of the bench is to continually improve the team.

13. The Law of Identity

Shared values define the team. The type of values you choose for the team will attract the type of members you need. Values give the team a unique identity to its members, potential recruits, clients, and the public. Values must be constantly stated and restated, practiced, and institutionalized.

14. The Law of Communication

Interaction fuels action. Effective teams have teammates who are constantly talking, and listening to each other. From leader to teammates, teammates to leader, and among teammates, there should be consistency, clarity and courtesy. People should be able to disagree openly but with respect. Between the team and the public, responsiveness and openness is key.

15. The Law of the Edge

The difference between two equally talented teams is leadership. A good leader can bring a team to success, provided values, work ethic and vision are in place. The Myth of the Head Table is the belief that on a team, one person is always in charge in every situation. Understand that in particular situations, maybe another person would be best suited for leading the team. The Myth of the Round Table is the belief that everyone is equal, which is not true. The person with greater skill, experience, and productivity in a given area is more important to the team in that area. Compensate where it is due.

16. The Law of High Morale

When you're winning, nothing hurts. When a team has high morale, it can deal with whatever circumstances are thrown at it.

17. The Law of Dividends

Investing in the team compounds over time. Make the decision to build a team, and decide who among the team are worth developing. Gather the best team possible, pay the price to develop the team, do things together, delegate responsibility and authority, and give credit for success.

Corporate Journeys ~ Glimpse of the Past

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Looking back in life... some situations always serve as learning points:

Nervous in Power: Sometimes, when nervous-minded people held positions of power, it's a mental challenge trying to work with them. When cornered in situations, they will use threat tactics to find their way out... Perhaps it's a habit or just to prove their authority within the office... But the question remains whether are such tactics effective? There are unknowns within the gaps created by such erratic behaviour. Initially, new team members are likely to be shocked and just give in under pressure. The experienced ones understand the 'emptiness' behind those threats and chose to ignore it, and move on in a logical way that conforms to the big picture in corporate objectives. In reality, no one really subscribes to the stressful way of nervous-minded management, but had to put up with it for the sake of their own safety.

Learn the traits of successful corporate leaders: Keep an open mind and listen to feedbacks. When negative situations arise, put that self-induced anxiety aside and keep calm, the sky won’t fall. Try not to take the easy way out. Be a courageous leader to stand in front and bear full responsibility. Look at the pride of Japanese corporate leadership culture where the head always takes complete responsibility. Focus your attention to identify and analyse the true gaps, instead of picking on 'commas' and 'full-stops'. Implement realistic plans and face up to the changes required. Patiently manage the dynamics in the process of improvement, as some things simply doesn't happen overnight. Learn to value every team member with respect and sincerity. Work closely with the team and always be the last one to leave. Build real team cohesion and treat everyone just like a family member. Reduce the office espionage and neutralise unnecessary politics. To really understand the voices on the ground, you must plug your ears to the ground instead of listening to 'informants'. Take the lead by sharpening your management skills and do more self-study to gain insightful industry knowledge. As a leader, you must prove yourself to be better than anyone else. The journey ahead depends on the leader’s mental model for guiding the rest. Always remember that respect is to be earned, and not to be demanded.

Chaos in Ranks: In a corporate ladder structure, the ranks play an important role to keep the interlinking sections connected. When the top ranks are uncertain in direction and had dubious integrity, the morale in the mid and low ranks will be affected. When that happens, people responded differently. Some in the mid ranks chose to stay quiet and stick to the corporate guidelines, not particular about the upward movement. But some would do everything to ensure the top shines, so as to move up the ladder each year. The low ranks are probably the hardest hit, as they are the operational frontlines to everything. Highly tensed, they are facing piling workloads, diminishing motivation, and sometimes unnecessary abuses from supervisors. When more upward movement occurs, the low ranks expect more talkers than workers. The situation soon becomes more unstable when the top ranks do not have a practical sense about actual resource limits. There is a difference between giving people the right stretch to enhance their capability and the inappropriate pressure that will cause explosion. The sensible ones among the ranks chose to depart rather than to explode.

Strengthen the roots, straighten the trunk, and the branches follow: When the strong branches broke away from the trunk, there must be good reasons behind it. There is no use trying to deny or put on a temporary cover-up. It's just a matter of time before you face the same situation again. Be brave to deal with the facts directly, cut the unnecessary acts, find the root causes and evaluate the possible solutions. For example, let's use cancer as an analogy. The treatment process for cancer is the most effective at the early stages when certain symptoms are detected. However, when the cancer cells start to spread throughout the body and the condition was detected only at the advanced stage. There is very little any doctor can do to stop it. Therefore, it's essential to construct a preventive management system that will detect early signs of fissure through on-going personal engagement with the ranks. At any point, success should be appreciated and failures should be managed with professional guidance. It’s part and parcel of the corporate learning journey… When people look at career progression, there are other key factors involved. It's more than just salary and promotion… Firstly, the big picture about aligning to the corporate mission... Followed by the foundation on operational structures, strategic directions, policies, business process improvement, integrated admin support, staff benefits, etc. Next is the functional software about leadership quality, working-relationships, self-development opportunities, etc. Finally, when it comes to workload management, it has to strike a good work-life balance. If your cup is always full, there is no more space for anything else… Wouldn’t it be wiser to maintain a half-filled cup, knowing what to do next according to priority and provide some space to handle more?

At the Top: The view at the ship’s bridge may be somewhat different from what was imagined. To keep the ship stable and running, the captain’s job is to ensure that ranks are cohesive, strong and capable. In line with the big picture, the captain should be able to read the bearings on the map and plot the directions so that the ship steers clear of danger while progressing towards the target destination. How do we identify the traits to become a successful captain?

Excel as a leader by setting the right example: At the bridge, the captain's mental model is the key towards success for the entire voyage. Therefore, the fundamental working principles are important as it determines how the ship would function in unity. The most effective way is to set themselves as model examples for the team to follow. The captain is supposed to be a natural team-builder who works out the specifications of the team's formation and competency requirements for the tasks. It's essential to build and connect the team members in a cohesive way through role modelling… ‘True unity is the greatest strength'.

On the Ground: Among the ranks, it's common to find some ambitious individuals who aim for the sky. It's good to have highly-motivated and capable individuals that help to foster a positive spirit of competitiveness among the ranks. On the contrary, it works differently if there are sly individuals who chose to overcome others using whatever means it take to rise above the rest.

The law of Karma works fairly, you'll reap what you've sowed: There is no definite right or wrong, it's a matter of going through the karmic cycle. Sometimes, the measure of ranks based on meritocracy and tangible achievements are not sufficient. Sharpen your radar and observe the inner side of those 'potential performers' carefully. Listen to their opinions and connect to their thought processes. Will they become true leaders with respectable morals? Or would they cause discord and unrest among the ranks in a discreet and camouflaged way that impresses the top with 'good team leadership skills'? In some cases, the lines are too fine to be detected, but one day you shall find out their true colours.

The Balancing Act: In times of chaos, when a new team was formed to steer the ship along with old and new sailors on-board... the challenges faced are multi-dimensional, both internally and externally. Everything sets on the tight rope and it is a balancing act. The type of character that the captain appoints as assistant on-board the bridge holds the responsibility to mould the teams of sailors. Typically, a good team should feel relaxed, focused, motivated and happy working towards the same goal as everyone else. The captain should work closely with the assistants, laying the foundation of team building and setting the long term objectives. Planning is not enough, executing the plans and making it work is crucial to the overall mission’s success.

To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan but also believe: A pragmatic captain knows that it is impossible to always achieve 100% success. However, the captain will be able to clearly draw the lines of achievement, as there are some vital guidelines towards accomplishing tasks. In most cases, people may not know how much you've achieved, but it's how well you've achieved the goals that really impressed people. Which is more important? Methodology or Result? A true captain will know the answer.

Theory vs Practice: Sometimes, in the state of chaos, it can be very difficult or almost impossible to apply learnt concepts in practice. The most challenging part lies in the ability to respond accordingly when the situation arises and not get carried away. In most cases, people are absorbed into the situations and the thinking processes get distorted. It takes a lot to build a strong mental foundation based on righteous moral principles, before putting it into practice. Try taking the first step to identify the gaps and continue to make positive changes to yourself and people within your own organisation.

Life's short, do things simple and cherish what you have now: Although life is time-limited... the difference lies in how well you've spent your life and bring brightness into others' lives... You will always be remembered in other's hearts. Theory is the principle, practice is the real work to be done. Try using the 70/30 rule where 70% is actual practice and 30% is supporting theory. Within the 70%, you should expect to do a lot of thinking to transform principles into reality. In life, it’s important to get things done, but it's equally important to do it in a morally righteous way. Think straight… Work simple… Overcome challenges… Close gracefully… Whenever you look back in the past, you should also see how fortunate you have been… It's natural for people to plan ahead for the future to do it better everyday... But few are able to grasp the present and cherish everything they have on hand now!

Moving Ahead: In corporate journeys, it's always good to find time and space to reflect on the past happenings and evaluate how to improve yourself and make life better for all. Everything happen for a reason and everyone has a role to play in a corporate environment. It's like butterfly effect. I've managed to overcome the barriers and charted my own career directions. Well-integrated in a new team, I felt relaxed and a clearer mind to focus on my tasks. The path forward is much brighter and more defined, like I always believe...

"Things can only get better after you have reached ground zero"

Right-Hand Man

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 15:59:00 +0000

SELECTING A RIGHT-HAND MAN

Choosing the perfect right-hand man is like choosing the perfect suit. You want him tailored to your specifications, you want to be able to breathe and be comfortable when he is around you, and when you need him to make you look good, you want to know you can rely on his quality and polish.

So where do you find this magical right-hand man? It's not going to be in a Cracker Jack box. A right-hand man will usually come from your inner circle or be someone you've known for a long time. A right-hand man is someone you need to trust almost implicitly, so a history between you is very important.

You want to know if the guy is willing to get his fingernails dirty for you or how he handles himself under bright lights. You can't do that with someone who is newer to your life than your last pair of underwear.

WHY HE'S IMPORTANT

So why do you need a right-hand man? Well, because you can't do it all yourself. If you have ambition and you want to grow, you eventually need help. You need to surround yourself with people you can rely on, people you know will keep the boat sailing straight.

Chosen well, a right-hand man will act as your interim replacement, your diplomat, your man of the "people," your ear to the ground, your enforcer, and your sounding board. Chosen badly, he can make you look stupid, weak, diminish your standing, and cause dissent in your ranks.

A right-hand man is crucial to expanding your power base. He can strengthen your position as leader, give you credibility, and act as an advisor. He won't replace you, but during short periods of time, he can take your place and act as your proxy.

RIGHT-HAND MAN'S TRAITS

So what are the traits of a good right-hand man? I'd like to think the most important is that he'll be your enemies' enemy first and foremost. If the people you can't stand can't stand your right-hand man, you're on the right path.

Character traits he should possess:

Loyal: He has to be loyal to you, and be 100% behind you. You don't want any eager beavers getting your back. Trusting him is paramount.

Complementary Characteristics: I'm not saying he has to be your polar opposite, but he shouldn't be your twin. If you are the big picture, he should be all about the details. If you like to lead with an iron fist, he should enforce with soft words. Short temper for you, patience for him.

Competent: If your right-hand man is a cafone , the rest doesn't matter; your right-hand man has to know what he is doing and be able to do a good job, or else you might as well put a monkey up on the throne while you're out of town.

Quiet Leader: Ideally, your right-hand man isn't necessarily the screamer, he is a behind-the-scenes kind of guy that leads by example and not with his mouth. Doesn't always happen if your right-hand is named Dino and is 6'6", 250 pounds.

Gets His Hands Dirty: He has to be willing to do your dirty work. Sometimes you can't get involved and you have to do the good cop/bad cop thing; you should be the good cop and he should be the one person no one messes with.

He's respected, quiet and never expects to take over...

Respected by Others: It's easy to forget that if your right-hand isn't considered a right-hand man by others, he won't get too far. He has to be respected and seen as your worthy sidekick.

Silent in Support: Like loyalty, every disagreement he might have, he tells you in private, never in front of others, even if you insult him.

Isn't Too Ambitious: Sure, he has to be able to stand in as your substitute, but he has to know you are not replaceable. If he gets ahead of himself, he can start plotting your downfall. As your right-hand man, he has front-row access to your weaknesses. He should use that position to act as your consigliere , not to undermine you.

Takes Care of Your Needs: Whether someone needs to be taught a lesson, or you need a broad to relieve your "tension," a message sent or extra cash flow this month, he will tell you "it's done," and get it done. You don't have to repeat things, you say it once and he takes care of it.

Well-Spoken: People will assume he speaks on your behalf, so he can't be an illiterate buffoon. If you cringe when he speaks, he might not make a good representative.

MAKE YOUR CHOICE WISELY

Choosing a right-hand man isn't something you should take lightly. Some people take years before settling on the right person. It doesn't mean you can't have people around you that you trust and who do a good job for you, but it means no one will ever ascend as your successor.

Choose a right-hand man wisely, and you will grow, it's that simple. Frankly, we all need one. They take care of the details while we focus on dominating the world. Just make sure he doesn't turn into Brutus.

Watch your backs and keep your noses clean.

Adapted from AskMen.com

Family United

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 30 May 2009 15:59:00 +0000

In Chinese, the above line simply means 'Family United'...

However, it can be tough to fullfil the conditions of family unity...

Although everyone's writing is different, but the meaning is the same...

This piece of calligraphy stood high on the wall in my paternal family hall. It meant to serve as a reminder to all family members on the immense meaning beyond those unique Chinese characters. Everyone counts in terms of how we should act and work along with each family member towards unity and harmony as our family's core values.

Long Summer Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:59:00 +0000

It's sunshine after the rain...

I've planned for this long summer vacation... specially reserved this period for my personal projects... Spend quality time with my family and loved ones... Visit some beautiful places in Asia... Enjoy a relaxing break and prepare myself for the new challenges ahead...

Time to Set Sail!

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Wed, 20 May 2009 15:59:00 +0000

The day has come to bid farewell to my fellow colleagues…

I felt heartened to receive a memorable Hallmark card from our boss that reads “Specially for Keng Wee”… It's inside was imprinted with everyone’s expressions and well-wishes for me…

Thank you and full salute to my fellow colleagues for the good old days!

It’s time to set sail again towards a new direction in my “Zen” quest…

Next Intuitive Move

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:59:00 +0000

I've decided my next career move to be...

Biomedical Manufacturing Industry

This time, my considerations have changed...

In my previous jobs, I've observed that Asian-dominated office tends to develop 'complex human dynamics'. Sometimes, things goes beyond logical comprehension. I m concerned with the office environment as it doesn't work for me to get trapped in political webs.

I m definitely moving forward.

Although a few may not understand the reality behind my move... but I know what works well for me. It's a straightforward move for a conducive and flexible working environment where I can devote my efforts wholeheartedly.

Meanwhile, I've received encouragement and support from colleagues and industry partners regarding this career move. I m fortunate to have options at this time and looking forward to join a new European office environment. If this job suits well, I'll continue to stay on permanently... There are others with similar sentiments and planning to move out when the right opportunity comes.

For this change, my concern is centred on the 'human' aspects.

More importantly, there are some key elements that underpin my career decision as I've realized that a successful leadership within the organisation is not only crucial to my career development, it also makes an impressionable difference to my life's outlook.

An ideal role - Top of the list is personal job satisfaction, a key factor for long-term sustainability as the job matches up towards one's career objectives with potential progression pathways. For a professional job that touches the lives of people, it is an important responsibility as such human relationships tends to go a long way. A managerial role in business development will enhance practical in-depth understanding of the industry's value chain, focusing on building customer relationships and drive the business collaborations with partners along strategic areas of growth.

An ideal boss - Someone who believes strongly in family values. Being understanding, caring and respects everyone in the organisation, just like a closely-knitted family. Knowledgeable and capable of charting future directions and implement plans. Practices good professional ethics consistently and set realistic targets. Possess excellent skills in teambuilding, business networking and presentation. Charismatic, firm and fair leadership based on high moral principles and able to demonstrate competence through exemplification. Being able to always communicate with a gentlemanly humour can be entertaining as it could relieve tensed nerves at work. The leader should be someone whom you can trust and feel securely protected. This person will motivate you to stick through the thick and thin together as a team and willingly go the extra miles to help everyone achieve total success for the organisation.

An ideal environment - A simple and effective working structure such that the overall workflow efficiency is optimised with minimal hierarchical layers involved. Work-life balance, where the job allows balanced integration between one's work priorities and personal commitments. Last but not least, it's about working relationships. I value the establishment of long-term working relationships with respectable boss, colleagues and industry partners... Positive human dynamics helps to keep things moving forward.

The wishlist goes on... but my bottomline is to stay motivated on the job in a simple and encouraging environment... working with straight-thinking people... that's where I can perform best and everyday is a positive learning experience.

Among my options, I've chosen one with the right fit.

I Trust My Intuition

Freedom Is My Lucky Charm

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Looking up into the bright sunny sky, I paused to ponder…

A charming daisy fluttering in the cool summer breeze…

In life, it is fortunate to have a choice of freedom by virtue,

It's truly my lucky charm… =)

Survival At Work

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:59:00 +0000

STRENGTH & PASSION THROUGH SURVIVAL

I’ve lived through things I would never have thought I was capable of,

And I’m much less afraid than I used to be.

The process of wounding awakens us to our STRENGTH.

It shuffles our values, and the top priority is never what you thought it would be.

It’s never about perfection or power.

It always turns out to be about PASSION.

Knowing ourselves to be vulnerable and our time here to be limited,

We’re freed to live more passionately and fully… than we have before,

To discover what’s worth fighting for and who we are…

True strength lies buried at the depths of any wound we've SURVIVED.

Monad Says...

Work has been a growing uphill struggle recently, but a conversation today has struck me at the edge towards an awakening decision

Sparks flew again after a flawed incident that resulted in a hard warning

Nonetheless, I listened in silence as those fiery words pierced at me

The inner sight of meaning beyond those harsh remarks set a negative tone of condemnation

Reflected upon myself as I took a long evening stroll, piecing together today’s conversation and past happenings

The message is clear that my career progression along this path will be fragmented with obstacles, hence termination would be a wiser way out

Concluded that there is no better way forward, I lay out my plans

Fortunately, the situation is not as bad as I had imagined, at least I have several options to consider

Though the timing may not be perfect for the team, but it is a rightful decision for me to take without further delay

My mind is set on the decision to quit tomorrow and move on to another new chapter in my career... to be decided soon

Nature Walk on Bridges

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Today, our division was out at the Southern Ridges...

Amidst the scorching afternoon heat, we trekked through the jungle...

It was an enjoyable outdoor trip with my fellow colleagues,

And we played team-building games at the end point, HortPark.

Our Wedding Bands

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Happy Birthday To Mum

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 15:59:00 +0000

We wish Mum a Happy Birthday, Best of Health & Always Cheerful!

Valentine's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 15:59:00 +0000

It was a memorable Valentine's Day this year...

Apart from the celebration gifts and dinner...

We've signed our wedding banquet deal at the Mandarin Oriental =) =)

Above is part of the decorative golden murals around Oriental's lobby

Astro Signature

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Astrology is the study of positions of celestial bodies like Sun, Moon, Mars etc. with respect to the zodiac and the interpretation of the effect of such celestial bodies on the events in earth in the life of an individual or a country or the whole world. Astrologers believed that the celestial bodies that influence the events on earth such as Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu all loosely termed as planets, appear to revolve around the earth continuously while always staying within the limits of zodiac.

The Zodiac is an imaginary ring in the sky which encircles our solar system like a girdle. To determine the positions of the planets on this circle we need some reference point, a point which will remain fixed while the heavenly bodies keep moving.

The astrologers selects a faraway star which remains stationary and the position of the planets were determined by referring them to this fixed star cluster. This is known as the sidereal system. Sidereal means measured by stars. The fixed star cluster chosen for the purpose is taken as the 1st degree of Aries, the starting point of the Zodiac.

With regards to astrology and career where most people are interested to know... Some astrologers refers to such material manisfestation as...

"A tree standing on the ground of material nature, bearing two types of fruit: sweet and sour, symbolic of happiness and distress. Its roots go in three direction represented by goodness, passion and ignorance. The first bird is the localized aspect of the Supreme One, referred to as the divine spirit, the Entity who needs neither food nor drink. The other bird representing the mortal, has to select his food from the offerings of the tree: a choice between distress and happiness. Sometimes he eats the fruits of happiness and sometimes the fruit of distress. Having eaten the fruits, he expands along the three directions of the roots, the modes of material existence, namely, goodness, passion and ignorance."

This individual growth is what makes two mortals dissimilar. Growth is strongly connected with past karma and guidance upbringing. The realities of life have different meanings for each individual. Why does a stable and rewarding professional relationship become distant? Why does the accommodating boss turn into a difficult task master? Why does the team lose spirit for no apparent reason?

There is no end to such questions, but all the answers can be found if the map of growth can be analyzed. Unfortunately, this is an impossible task for mortals. However, this growth can be monitored by our own efforts and choices and Astrology can be a guide that shows us our very basic instinctive tendencies. Planets and their positions give our respective Ascendants and Moon signs, along with other planetary positions. This doctrine can be a very useful friend philosopher and guide, provided we are open to accept what it shows, provided we are ready to go beyond the predictive elements.

The most important aspect of Astrology is that it shows you the mirror image of your Karmic journey. What one has to understand is that there is no black and white, no good or bad in a horoscope. Each horoscope has both good and bad, each horoscope is misaligned somewhere, which is why the person is born.

Is astrology a science? Well, this is perhaps one of the most common question posed about astrology by both groups of people - the non-believers and the rationalists who claim that astrology is bogus and that it exploits the fear and insecurity of people. The believers of astrology and the astrologers themselves stoutly defend the stance that astrology is a precise science.

Maybe both are wrong and both groups of people approach this question from a pre-defined mind set.

For non-believers, it is fashionable and politically correct to denounce any system of knowledge, which does not fit into the 19th century definition of materialism and physical science.

For astrologers, the mind set is that unless Astrology is a science, it is not respectable in today's world, and for believers, anything that is termed as science can be blindly believed or accepted.

Since the ancient times, astrology has been important and it even exists in our modern society today. Hence, it is evident that astrology is indeed relevant to humans and every individual has his or her own unique astrological signature.

Wind of Change

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Riding the Wind of Change ~ By Unknown Author

Time passes in search of a way

Through the thick forest in summer heat

A sudden gust of rising air

Came from the West

Filling with the wind of change

A bright spark glowing in the dark

Showing a path forward

The future's in the air

I can sense it near

Blowing the wind of change

It flows straight into the face of time

Like a whirlwind that sounded the freedom bell

With a peaceful mind at rest

Let the Balalaika sing again

Riding the wind of change

Em@il Excellence

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:01:00 +0000

By following these simple rules, you can reduce the number of emails sent and received by 20%.

For an average executive, that may save 15 work days per year!

Remember... Send Less – Get Less!

DO’s

Choose the Best Channel

Phone calls or personal meetings may have advantages over emails.

Know Your ABC’s

State Action required, provide Background information and Close with next steps.

Strengthen the Subject Line

Summarize purpose and urgency in the subject line to help readers prioritize.

Sculpt the Content

Keep text blocks brief. Use bullet points and numbers.

Be Culturally Sensitive

Email etiquette varies, e.g. in greeting and closing

DON’Ts

Don’t Add to the Clutter

Reduce the number of copies. Use “Reply Without Attachment” and avoid “Reply to All” where appropriate.

Don’t Let Email Take Over Your Time

Set aside a time of day for non-urgent responses. Use folders. File, delete and archive your emails regularly.

Don’t Be a Careless Writer

Write your emails thoughtfully – Remember, they could end up as exhibits in a court case or in the media.

Don’t Send Sensitive Info Without Encryption

Be aware that business critical or confidential information in an email may become public.

Don’t Send Angry Emails

Cool off first, then phone or meet face-to-face to resolve difficult situations.

Year of the Ox

noreply@blogger.com (Monad) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:01:00 +0000

In the Chinese lunar calendar, Y2009 is the year of the Ox.

The Ox, one of 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizes calm, hard work, resolve and tenacity. According to legend, the ox allowed the cunning rat to ride on its head in a race to determine the animals' order. Shortly before the ox crossed the finish line, the rat leaped off to claim victory. The Year of the Rat was marked in 2008.

The lunar new year is the biggest annual festival for ethnic Chinese, who make up about one-fifth of the world's population. It is a time of lavish spending, when loved ones exchange "hong bao," or red packets enclosed with money. But this year's festivities will likely be more subdued amid the economic slump. What's more important is that the families spend quality time together.

The year 2009 will be a daunting year as the economic situation haven't really reached the peak of the problems yet. The real impact will most likely happen during the second half of the year. But some Feng Shui masters saw a glimmer of hope. The combination of two elements changes every lunar year, and this time it's two earths, the element that represents harmony and peace. Not since 1949, when the world order was settling down after the Second World War, has an Ox Year seen two earth signs.

Perhaps, it can be a year for healing... from the turbulent events that the world has experienced.

Despite all the bad news announced, there could be a silver lining to 2009. Some Feng Shui masters believe that the Ox year could shake off its tragic yoke and unburden its woes. Maybe there could be some good news in August 2009, according to I-Ching divination.

Chinese fortune tellers and Feng Shui masters usually say "fire" - one of the five elements mystics believe form the basis of the universe is essential to financial well-being. However, "fire" is nowhere to be found in the mythology of this coming Year of the Ox, the Chinese lunar year that begins on 26 Jan 2009.

Others predicted a deepening recession, millions more losing their jobs, and stocks and home prices continuing to fall. That's more or less in line with what some economists are predicting, but some fortune tellers are throwing in other dire predictions - massive earthquakes, rising tensions among superpowers and more challenges ahead.

I always believe some part of fate is in our hands. Although we have no control over the economic downturn, but we can tune ourselves and be mentally prepared for the worst to happen. Although this may be a year of hardship filled with tough challenges and sad stories of many people losing their jobs, rising crimes, etc. We need to stay focused on our jobs, be socially responsible and helpful, also need to exercise higher caution in our undertakings and be resilient enough to make the necessary adjustments for long-term survival.

Wish Everyone Good Luck, Best of Health, Peace & Harmony! Mooo...