CREATIVITY For A Better WORLD

Transcription

MAGAZINE
GLOBAL TRENDS LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
The New
Economic
Success of
Central Asia
The Art of
Connecting
with People
Kazakhstan: The
Home of Dreams
Perfect Clarity in
Decision Making
MICA (P) 260/06/2008 S$6.90
ISSN 1793-950-X
Vol I.4 2014
CREATIVITY For
A Better WORLD
Executive Editor
Daniel Ho
Editor’s Note
Deputy Editor / Writers
Wendy Tan
Samantha Lee
Eva Berlin
NEW BEGINNING
The journey of an entrepreneur is a spiritual one. Why some
businesses succeed and many others fail is a question and a
secret that many aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners and
leaders seek to know and master. After attending recent spiritual workshops in Johor and Taipei,
I have gained insights that, like all things in this world, any success is governed by the ‘laws of
nature’ - the rules that govern all things created by God. There is a time for planting seeds and a
time for the seeds to ripen into fruits, and a time when the fruits will eventually die. To sustain,
new seeds need to be planted to replace the old fruits. Good seeds planted will lead to good trees
and fruits and vice-versa.
In this light, People Trends is planting new seeds to sustain its mission of being a force for
good with an intention and aspiration to help people and to transform the world. The articles in
this issue is a mix of old and new articles which I hope can help and inspire people who seek to
discover life’s mystery to attain a successful, fulfilling and meaningful life.
Creativity is a God-given gift, which we can learn to tap into our higher consciousness to find
ideas and solutions that contribute to improvements in our work and to creating a better life for
our loved ones and the world. Similarly, to find true happiness, we need to find the source within
ourselves to draw from its limitless reserve if we are able to do so. There are also other useful
articles on finding clarity on decision making, how to live a debt-free life and how we can connect
with others around us.
On a macro perspective, a new nation is fast developing and gaining prominence forging its
future ahead. Our feature story of Kazakhstan – the new economic success of Central Asia aims
to tell the story of this young nation. We also include an article on travel to this culturally rich
and beautiful landscaped country.
With faith and hope of a better future ahead for this world, we continue to persevere and drive
ahead with passion in our hearts.
MAGAZINE
GLOBAL TRENDS LOCAL PERSPECTIVE
The New
Economic
Success of
Central Asia
The Art of
Connecting
with People
Kazakhstan: The
Home of Dreams
ISSN 1793-950-X
Vol I.4 2014 MICA (P) 260/06/2008 S$6.90
ON THE COVER:
The spirit of the horse is recognised as energetic,
bright, warm-hearted, intelligent and capable.
It signifies unrelenting efforts to improve.
In this light, People Trends welcomes the
new year 2014 with hope and optimism.
Perfect Clarity in
Decision Making
CREATIVITY For
A Better WORLD
Designer
Bridge Graphics
Administrator
Rebecca See
Sales & Marketing
Zung Tran
Tel: +65 9852 3385
(advertise@peopletrends.biz)
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Vol 2.1 people trends magazine
1
contents 
2
05
PEOPLE
Creativity for a Better World
Creativity is not a talent, but a universal process based on
natural law. It is a blessing and we should use this gift of
Creativity for the greater good – for the creation of a better
world.
T – Holistic Remedies for Mind, Body & Spirit
08 Mandy
Holistic Remedies for Mind, Body & Spirit is the mission
of Mandy’s exclusive range of quality skincare products.
Find out Mandy’s passion and philosophy that makes her
business and products uniquely outstanding.
people trends magazine Vol 2.1
Successes
10 Unconventional
Breaking away from the stereotypical mould of success
requires more than just overcoming psychological inertia.
Relentless hard work and passion drives unconventional
businesses into potentially viable investments.
Family Business
22 Managing
A winner of the Leading CEO HR Award, Alvin Yapp shares
his success secrets on managing a family business.


14
19
24
28
36
SOCIETY
SOCIETY
TheNew
NewEconomic
Economic
Success
of Central
The
Success
of Central
Asia Asia
Celebratinghas
its 10th
Anniversary,
Kazakhstan
has
Kazakhstan
overcome
many great
difficulties
to become
manyit great
difficulties
a nation.
aovercome
nation. Today
is forward
movingtoinbecome
its mission
to continue
Today it is forward
movingand
in its
mission tothe
continue
sustainable
development
establishing
country as an
sustainable development
and establishing
the country
as
independent
and self-confident
state contributing
to improve
an independent
and self-confident state contributing to
the
world.
improve the world.
SUCCESS
SUCCESS
Finding
True Happiness
Finding
True
The
search
forHappiness
true happiness is a journey of enlightenment
The search
for true
happiness
is afirst
journey
of enlightenment
that
starts from
within.
Taking the
step involves
realising
thatpotential
starts from
within. greater
Taking the
first step involves
our
to achieve
heights.
realising our potential to achieve greater heights.
Perfect Clarity in Decision Making
Perfect
Decision
You
can Clarity
improveinyour
life byMaking
achieving a state of clarity with a
You canfive-step
improveprocess.
your lifeThis
by achieving
state
clarity with
simple
techniqueacan
be of
practised
at
a simple
five-step
This technique can be practised
any
time during
theprocess.
day.
at any time during the day.
The Art of Connecting with People
The
Art
of Connecting
People
Learn
strategies
on howwith
to put
people at ease and drawing
Learninto
strategies
on howsotothat
putyou
people
at ease and
them
conversation
can connect
anddrawing
build a
them into conversation
relationship
with them. so that you can connect and build a
relationship with them.
Living a Debt Free Life
Living
a Debt Free
Life commitments in our lives, we need
With increasing
financial
Withmoney
increasing
financialfor
commitments
in our lives,
we
wise
management
a future of financial
freedom.
need wise money management for a future of financial
freedom.
A
Balance in Work & Life
Work-Life Balance is not simply about flexible working hours.
3
45
30
39
A Balance
in effective
Work & Life
At
the core of
work-life balance is choice – personal
Work-Life
Balance
is not
simply
flexible
working
choice.
Learn
a simple
model
thatabout
can help
regain
balancehours.
in
At the
core of effective work-life balance is choice – personal
your
life.
choice. Learn a simple model that can help regain balance in
your
life.
INVESTMENT
Socially Responsible Investments
INVESTMENT
Socially responsible investors not only make profits, but also
Socially
Responsible
Investments
help to create
a better world.
Find out how this can be made
Socially responsible investors not only make profits, but also
possible.
help to create a better world. Find out how this can be made
possible.
LIFESTYLE
Kazakhstan - The Home of Dreams
LIFESTYLE
Experience
a historical land enriched by the history of the Khans
Kazakhstan
The Home
Dreams
along
the Silk-Road,
whileof
reveling
in a modernistic country
Experience
a historical
landinto
enriched
where
rockets
are launched
space. by the history of the
Khans along the Silk Road, while reveling in a modernistic
country where rockets are launched into space.
ARBINGER
people
a world perspective
The solution you never expected
SUPPOSE
the solution to
transform your
bottomline depended on
ONE thing...
Would you want to know?
THE ARBINGER INSTITUTE, SINGAPORE PTE LTD
No. 81, Ubi Ave 4, #06-23, UB. One Singapore 408830
trends magazine
JUN-AUG
2009
Tel: people
6636 3381
| Fax:
6636 1082
5
people
a world perspective
6
for a Better World
CREATIVITY is not a talent but a universal process based on natural law. By Tony Wong
What is Creativity?
Throughout my life, the theme and process of creativity has
always held a deep fascination for me. But what is creativity?
To begin with, there is the long-held view that creativity is
an innate talent present only in those who have an artistic
affinity; and that there are others who simply lack this. Here
is where I would like to break the misconception.
Creativity is not a talent, but a universal process based
on natural law. All around us in life, within each passing
moment, lies an act of creativity: a catchy melody playing
from a car radio that happens to pass by; an animated
discussion between lovers on a street corner; an industrious
student in a cafe typing words on his laptop; a baker
taking fresh cakes out from the oven; or a girl in the park
dancing to the tune of her own dreams of stardom. Life is
perpetually exploding with creative delight. Nature itself
flows through seasons. Even on a microcosmic level, atoms
are dancing to a tuneful rhythm, as are suns, stars and
planets on a cosmic one.
Artists don’t have exclusive claim to the awesome power
and beauty of creativity, and creativity does not exist solely
within the realm of paintings, songs or books. Simply being
alive as a human-being is a wondrous creative act in itself.
To move, touch, speak, smile, jump for joy, dance in delight
or even cry in sorrow are all expressions founded upon the
act of creativity.
people trends magazine Vol
JUN-AUG
2.1 2009
Many times, creativity is simply chosen thought put into
action through the power of will. It is often the natural
process of cause and effect. What is caused has an effect –
good causes create good effects; whereas negative causes create
negative effects. Creativity involves taking responsibility in
the thoughts and actions you place upon the world. It is to
understand that we are each responsible for the words that we
speak and write, the images we form, the body language we
express and the actions we commit in the world, whether we
are actively aware of this process or not.
In essence, we are creative beings, and we all have
responsibility for this creative power that influences the world
we live in, for better or worse.
Creativity and Silence
As a graphic designer, silence plays an important role in my
work. It is the mental space in which ideas and inspirations
can sprout and be nurtured - the greater the silence, the
more boundless the possibilities. Silence is where clarity
can be born, and clarity is paramount in choosing the next
direction. Essentially, silence is fundamental for creativity
to flourish.
Being of Chinese origin, and a graphic designer who is
interested in eastern culture, I have come to value the art
of cultivating silence with practices such as meditation.
Eastern philosophy understands the beauty and power
people
a world perspective
of silence, and that the void is not simply empty but full
of potential; that the space within and around a vase is
fundamental for the vase to form its shape.
The art of cultivating silence daily not only contributes to
moments of serenity, clarity and well-being in our lives, but
also acts as a gateway to wisdom that may be difficult to reach
due to the constant noise and chaos of modern life.
With the arrival of the 21st century, people are becoming
more global and universal, and we find that there is much
wisdom to share between different cultures.
One aspect which I feel is worth sharing, is to value a time
of silence each day to commune more with our deeper selves.
I believe this guides us to make better choices in both our
personal and professional lives. There is a greater wisdom
within each of us that can guide us to a better place, but
we have to have more confidence in this ability. If we are
confused about what choice or action to take next, simply
seek a time of silence. I believe that the art of cultivating
silence should be an integral aspect of our lives in the 21st
century.
Creativity and Utopia
To me, each person on our planet is a microcosm of the
grand universe – a multitude of mini-universes within
one boundless universe. And through the inherent creative
potential within each person, a unique world is formed. We
have a responsibility to tend to this personal world, but also,
on a greater level, to the world around us.
Human beings are blessed with creative potential to create
our own world, and also influence the world around us. What
is the ultimate objective of this journey? What is the ultimate
objective of creativity and the creative process?
To me, this ultimate objective is summed up in one word
- Utopia. But what is Utopia? I feel it is a place where we can
live in harmony with one another whilst striving for constant
growth and development. It is a place where we can love
without inhibition, where we can prosper without creating
poverty, and where we can celebrate and give gratitude to the
diversity and wonder of life itself. It is also a state of mind
that holds no fear, hatred or greed, but is full of delight,
compassion and joy. Utopia is a world where everyone is
encouraged to shine their unique light upon the world – a
dazzling show of humanity expressing its creative genius in
full glory.
But I believe utopia is a destination that begins with the
self - the world from within us. Without a utopia within,
how can there be a utopia around us? Utopia begins with a
personal creative choice. It starts as a beautiful seed waiting to
be sown courageously within the soil of our hearts and minds
- beginning with a revolution in our own personal world, then
spreading to our family, society, country and ultimately the
world around us.
“IT IS A BLESSING TO BE HUMAN, AND
WE SHOULD USE THIS PRECIOUS GIFT OF
CREATIVITY FOR THE GREATER GOOD –
FOR THE CREATION OF A BETTER WORLD:
A UTOPIAN WORLD.”
Human beings have the wonderful
ability to learn from the past through
memory, envision a brighter and more
beautiful future through imagination.
We also have the free will to make
better choices in our present lives
through the power of creativity, or in
other words, cause and effect. It is a
blessing to be human, and we should
use this precious gift of creativity for
the greater good – for the creation of
a better world: a utopian world. Just
imagine: six billion utopias shining on
earth must surely be a majestic sight to
behold.
people trends
Vol 2.1magazine
people trends
JUN-AUG
magazine
2009
7
people
entrepreneurial spirit
8
M
A
N
D
Y
T
Holistic Remedies
For Mind, Body & Soul
P
eople Trends met up with Mandy Leena Tan,
the founder of Mandy T Skincare, a holistic and
environmentally conscious natural personal care
Singaporean company that produces a range of products
including premium body scrubs, bath salts, body creams,
soap and bathroom accessories. The definitive edge to Mandy
T Skincare is its belief in ingredients that do not contain
parabens, artificial fragrance, colouring or chemical entities,
and are never tested on animals.
We talk to Mandy, who exudes the same kind of quality that
can be distinctly found in her skincare line.
PT: What does Mandy T represent?
Mandy: Our philosophy is to live as simply and naturally as
possible. We believe that when you substitute chemicals with
safe, plant-based alternatives and eliminating unnecessary
packaging, you are making a decision to change your life for
the better whether or not you know it. And this in turns helps
in creating a healthier, more sustainable world.
PT: How did you get involved in the
skincare industry?
Mandy: I am a marketer by training and have spent a chunk
of my career in various industries that include publishing
and luxury hospitality. I discovered my fascination in natural
skincare while on vacations to Africa, Mediterranean and
other parts of Asia. The natives believed in the healing powers
of ingredients such as shea butter, base oils, essential oils,
traditional herbs, spices and plants to rejuvenate the skin,
mind, body and spirit. Living in cosmopolitan Singapore made
me realise the danger of falling prey to the harsh chemicals
used in many commercial products in the market. I wanted
to introduce something more natural and effective, while
encouraging people to keep away from synthetic dyes and
harmful artificial ingredients.
people
entrepreneurial spirit
9
PT: What inspires you in life?
Mandy: I am most inspired by beauty, not just physical but a
beauty that is all encompassing – of the mind, body and spirit.
I am an avid traveller and always love meeting new people
and learning about them. The natural ingredients that many,
during my travels, have extolled the virtues about to me greatly
inspired me to experiment and perfect my very own formulas
for my skin and subsequently share this sense of beauty with
others.
PT: How do you set your products apart?
“WE DO NOT MAKE ANY
PARTICULAR EFFORT TO BE
DIFFERENT, ONLY TO BE VERY
GOOD AT WHAT WE DO.”
Mandy: We do not make any particular effort to be different,
only to be very good at what we do. Our products are freshly
handcrafted in small batches to ensure the highest quality of
ingredients because we want to deliver a powerful, au naturel
final product that keeps your skin fresh, healthy and radiant.
Our ingredient lists are short and easy to read – our skin is the
biggest organ in the human body and also the more visible.
You’d want to know and understand exactly what you apply
on it!
PT: What are your fave products?
Mandy: This is a tough question because each of my products
is unique and each collection creates a different experience
and mood. However, my personal favourites are from my
GODDESS Collection, which contains Sweet Jasmine & Fresh
Mint, PASSION collection, which contains Wild Orchid &
Safflowers, and also ZEN collection, which contains Green Tea
& Brown Rice.
PT: Looking forward, do you plan to branch
out into making other products? What are
Mandy T’s plans for the future?
Mandy T currently has a total of 28 varieties of bath and body
care products that consist of body scrubs, bath salts, body
cream and soap. For now, we prefer to concentrate on our stable
products.
Although the company is still young, we foresee that there is
a potential growth to expand Mandy T locally first before we
emerge into the overseas markets. We currently have six retail
partners in Singapore, including One15 Marina Club, The
Reddot Design Museum, Nana & Bird, Swagger, Willow &
Huxley and Les Affaires @ MBS.
In fact, we have already received several inquiries from several
potential distributors to carry Mandy T brand in Europe and
other regions. We are definitely interested to explore overseas
markets in the near future.
people
success stories
10
Unconventional
Breaking away from the stereotypical mould of success
requires more than just overcoming psychological
inertia. Relentless hard work and passion drives
unconventional businesses into potentially viable
investments. Nurraihan Hamid speaks to two social
entrepreneurs who stay true to their cause despite
tough times.
people
success stories
TOWARDS GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE SANITATION
Photos: Jack Sim
A
nswering the nature’s call can be a
daunting affair- especially for those
devoted to making it a more pleasant experience
for the rest of us.
Jack Sim is the founder of World Toilet
Organization (WTO), a global non-profit
body, committed towards improving toilets and
sanitation conditions worldwide.
As the vast majority cringe at the mention of
public latrines, Jack certainly did not wrinkle his
nose at the opportunity to improve lives. He was
propelled by keen interest and concern for the
neglected field of public sanitation
He first established the Restroom Association
of Singapore (RAS) in 1998, paving the path to
sustainable sanitation by raising the standards of
local public toilets.
Addressing the need for a united global effort,
Jack founded WTO in 2001 and the World
Toilet College (WTC) in 2005. The initiatives
created a synergy that encourages and facilitates
the sharing of best practices among existing
toilet associations worldwide.
What seemed like a meticulously planned
blueprint for success is in fact purely incidental.
The 52-year-old previously dabbled in
construction and real estate development until
he decided upon a more meaningful pursuit.
He shared, “At 40, I came to realise that the
rat race is pointless. I yearned to lead a greater
existence, and enjoy every minute of what I’m
doing. It’s always important to be happy.”
“Expansion plans for the business were put
on hold due to the 2001 recession. Instead of
mulling over the economy, I decided to seize the
chance to do social work.”
Despite his lack of technical knowledge and
expertise in the scientific field of sanitation, Jack
sought assistance from friends and industry
professionals. He does not consider himself an
expert but rather, someone willing enough to
take lead in an unconventional field.
He elaborates, “The world is full of experts.
But not every expert is a leader. Not everyone
is willing to take the risk in an almost obscure
subject, with almost no existing track record.”
Jack added, “On my part, I aim to consolidate
the efforts of these experts, for the benefit of
everyone. Toilets are a fundamental feature of a
society. Neglecting the need for good sanitation
may bring about detrimental health effects.”
Following the inception of WTO, he officially
declared 19 November; World Toilet Day. This
move aims to further heighten the awareness of
this humanitarian cause. It is globally recognised
and observed by industry stakeholders including
UN agencies, international aid agencies and
other key sectors.
Garnering the support of partners worldwide
was no easy feat. Jack actively participated in
various world toilet summits hosted by member
organisations, including those from China and
Korea. Their shared ideals greatly contributed in
the global re-branding of the industry.
WTO hopes to explore the dysfunctional
sanitation market for the approximate 2.6 billion
underprivileged people, deprived of proper
sanitation infrastructures. For them, hygiene is
not a great enough motivation to invest in proper
toilets. In order to counter this, WTO connects
and engages them by branding toilets as a status
symbol and an object of desire.
“Clean toilets and good sanitation is not
merely a necessity. It ensures utmost dignity in
complying with societal norms and acceptable
hygiene standards.”
A self-professed dreamer, Jack utilises his
resources to materialise his ideas, as dependence
on donations alone is not enough to address the
problem of such magnitude and scale.
To date, WTO has organised eight successful
World Toilet Summits and two World Toilet
Expo and Forum, in ten cities around the world.
Each summit explores critical issues concerning
11
WTO Founder, Jack Sim.
toilet and sanitation including technologies,
development, funding and maintenance, among
others.
In line with this, the world’s first WTC was
set up to ensure that industry partners comply
with strict standards set out by WTO. It
provides training in maintaining a sustainable
sanitation system.
Jack’s relentless pursuit of passion is nothing
short of inspirational. The father of four
encourages his children to explore career options
that they would enjoy, as opposed to one that
pays the most.
“I give them the autonomy to do things they
like. They must enjoy what they do. As parents,
we impart the necessary values so that they’ll
make informed decisions.”
LEFT: WTO aims to introduce
acceptable sanitation standards
globally, and improve existing
infrastructures, for greater hygiene and
efficiency.
people trends magazine SEP-OCT 2009
people
success stories
12
T
he simple life comes at a price; as proven by
soul mates, Ivy Singh Lim, and her husband,
Lim Ho Seng, who gave up their respective highflying careers for the road less travelled- literally.
The duo moved to Singapore’s Kranji
countryside in pursuit of the simple life, away
from the shackles of material extravagance- and
traffic. They took to farming, relieving the
childhood joy of tending to their garden, in
this case, a 10-acre property, leased from the
Singapore Land Authority (SLA) for 20 years, at
S$60,000 a year.
Commercial viability aside, Bollywood
Veggies Organic Farm thrives on the hard work
and dedication of its staff, and the love of its
ingenious founding farmers.
Touted as one of the most visited ‘lifestyle
farms’ in Singapore, it is also recognised as the
largest local producer of organic bananas and
papayas. Another main attraction is its Food
Museum, opened strictly by appoinment.
Co-owner, and President of the Kranji
Countryside Association, Singh Lim, 60,
previously helmed her family’s property business,
before deciding on retirement.
Taking a leaf from the existing bed-andbreakfast model in the English countryside, her
unconventional lifestyle lends itself to a unique
Singaporean brand of agricultural charm.
“We need to think of something we can call
our own. Just as how the French and Japanese
have distinguished themselves through their
cuisine.”
As such, Bollywood Veggies tap into various
initiatives to enhance visitors’ experience. Its
Poison Ivy Bistro attracts throngs of followers
every weekend, eager to sample homemade
gastronomical delights, and fresh produce.
Since its inception, the Bistro has injected a
much-needed catalytic boost to the area’s smalllot farming. However, long before operations
began, Singh Lim had to obtain clearance from
the Urban Redevelopment Authority before being
granted permission to run the eatery.
Following Poison Ivy’s success, farms in the
vicinity began implementing similar strategies
including setting up of retail space and organising
educational programs to reach out to nature
enthusiasts. Such initiatives offer a viable source
of alternative income for the small-lot farms,
whose profits derive mainly via direct marketing.
For Singh Lim however, the intangible benefits
outweigh everything else.
“I want to help equip Singaporeans with fine
skills that are almost impossible to replicate with
a machine.”
That concept sparked the idea of launching
a cooking school, specifically for promising
individuals or rather, budding chefs, who lack
proper educational qualifications.
She shares: “I was very fortunate because I
came from a very privileged family. I never had to
worry about money (or the lack of it). Having said
that, I’m always willing to help in any way I can.”
As a social entrepreneur, Singh Lim places
great importance in taking time off to be actively
involved in various activities, as opposed to
merely being generous with cash or material
contributions. Bollywood Veggies allows her to
achieve just that.
With intentions beyond personal satisfaction,
Singh Lim firmly believes that being in the
natural setting of countryside, imparts muchneeded values in today’s society.
“Every weekend I see extended families joining
our farm tours. Kids today are hardly exposed to
nature. I relish in sheer pleasure when I see them
genuinely engaged, interested and curious about
plants and insects.”
In all, the couple chalked up close to S$2
million to build a house and lay sewer pipes on
their new house. Staff salaries and other running
expenses currently amount to S$20,000 a month.
Evidently, it was all worth it.
Photos: Ivy Singh Lim
FARM INVESTMENT REAPS FRUITFUL REWARDS
society
building a nation
14
ASTANA:
The New Economic
Success of
Central Asia
society
building a nation
K
azakhstan has overcome many great
difficulties to become a nation, as of
December 16, 1991, that believes in
sovereignty, freedom and openness
to the world as its founding principles. Today
it is forward moving in its mission to continue
sustainable development into the 21st century
while building on existing achievements.
Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev
(inset photo) has had a strong part to play in
establishing the country as an independent and
self-confident state.
The Customs Union of Belarus, Kazakhstan
and Russia was realised on January 1, 2010
between the three respective states. President
Nazarbayev was an active member in initiating
this union, viewed as a first step toward
forming a broader European Union-type
economic alliance of former Soviet states.
Since the creation of the Customs Union,
trade among the three countries has doubled
due to post-crisis recovery and also through
reducing non-tariff barriers as well as common
tariffs to some extent. Created on the basis of
the Customs Union, the Common Economic
Space is seen as the next step of economic
integration. The Common Economic Space
is space, composed of the territories of the
Parties (the Republis of Belarus, the Russian
Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan),
where the unified economy regulation
mechanisms function, based on market
principles and harmonised legal norms, where
the unified infrastructure exists and where the
coordinated tax, monetary, financial, trade and
customs policy is implemented, which allows
free movement of goods, services, capital and
labour force.
In his address for Strategy Kazakhstan
2050, President Nazarbeyev pledges to
further strengthen the Custom union and the
Common Economic Space, going on to add
that the government’s next aim is to create a
Eurasian Economic Union in consensus with
their partners while respecting full political
sovereignty.
President Nazarbeyev also put forward
the initiative of conducting a forum of world
and traditional religions in the capital of
the Republic of Kazakhstan, city of Astana.
The main priorities of the Congress include
upholding a statement of peace, concord
and tolerance as stable principles of human
existence, achieving mutual respect and
tolerance between religions, confessions,
nations and ethnoses and expressing their
opposition to trials that use the religious beliefs
of people for escalating conflicts and military
actions.
15
society
building of a nation
The aim of the First Congress was to
seek universal guidelines in the world and
traditional forms of religions, as well as creating
permanent international interdenominational
institutes to realise the religious dialogue and
accept coordinated decisions. This year the
Congress celebrates its 10th Anniversary.
The ATOM Project, which stands for
Abolish Testing: Our Mission, was launched
by President Nazarbayev at a parliamentary
assembly in Astana. He introduced it at the
opening plenary session of the assembly to an
audience consisting of participants from over 70
parliaments from around the world, including
nuclear allies and states that possessed nuclear
weapons.
With this move, President Nazabayev has
put Kazakhstan at the forefront of such world
humanitarian efforts by bringing the world’s
attention to the catastrophic consequences that
the use of nuclear weapons have had on nearly
two million of its people. The ATOM Project
THE ATOM PROJECT,
WHICH STANDS FOR
ABOLISH TESTING:
OUR MISSION, WAS
LAUNCHED BY PRESIDENT
NAZARBAYEV AT A
PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY
IN ASTANA.
is an international petition campaign intended
to unify global public opinion against nuclear
weapons testing, as President Nazarbeyev said
during the launch, “We have an opportunity to
remind the world about the tragic consequences
of the nuclear testing, and push the global
community towards more decisive actions to
achieve the definitive ban of such testing.”
President Nazabayev has led Kazakhstan in
putting its best foot forward by hosting Expo
2017 in the capital of Astana, giving the world
an opportunity to discover this young nation
filled with potential. Expo 2017 will mark the
first time that a major international exhibition
such as this will take place in one of the former
Soviet Republics.
Serving to highlight the energy and
environmental issues that Central Asia face
while attracting the world’s best experts on
energy efficiency technologies, Kazakhstan and
the city of Astana is especially well suited to
host Expo 2017, it being a new capital city that
is leading an economic revolution in Central
Asia.
President Nazabayev has guided Kazakhstan
into leaving its mark on the international
environmental scene, consequently building
global awareness of the region’s energy and
environmental challenges.
Photos: Ivy Singh Lim
16
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Top
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1
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success
success
mind, body & spirit
mind, body & spirit
19
19
The search for happiness
is a journey of enlightenment
that starts from within.
Taking the first step involves
realising our potential to
achieve greater heights.
By Tony Wong
N
Finding True
HAPPINESS
ow that humanity has entered the 21st century, we
are at a major cross-road. We face many questions
and challenges that will define the light of our
generation and that of future generations to come. What
is certain is that there is great change on the horizon. To
modernise a Shakespearean phrase for our generation: ‘To
change or not to change: that is the question.’
One key fascination for me is the subject of ‘happiness’. Were
our parents’ generations happier than our generation? Will
future generations be happier than us? What defines ‘happiness’?
How can we embrace this concept throughout our lives?
Can we ever proclaim our happiness with
true conviction?
AN AGE OF TRADITIONS
I feel like I am standing in the middle of a mountain slide
with my parents below me in the distance and my daughter
just ahead of me. I can already see the path my parents have
taken by the footprints left in the snow, but the path for my
daughter has yet to be taken. The mountain peak where the sun
shines most brilliantly can be symbolic of reaching the peak of
happiness. Each generation has the responsibility to pass on the
baton for greater happiness to the next.
Our parents lived in such a different world from what we
live in today. It was a world of traditions, of world wars and of
mechanical technology. Walls of countries were much more
concrete, roles were more defined and education was more
privileged.
Take my parents for example. They were born in the
countryside in Hong Kong and never went to school. Their
marriage was an arranged one, so they had little opportunity to
get to know each other before making their pledges. My father’s
childhood was devastated after losing his parents in World War
II. On a positive note, since Hong Kong was a British colony
at the time, they emigrated to England in the 1960s. Looking
at their lives, it was one filled with hardships and limited
opportunities. Were they happy? I think they were just too busy
trying to survive on a day-to-day basis. Whatever happiness
they could find was through the traditions of the family. But
soon they discovered that their children were growing up in a
rapidly changing world.
success
mind, body & spirit
THE PLAYSTATION GENERATION
20
Looking back at my own childhood, I certainly feel I was given
much more from my parents than what my grandparents had
given to them. I received a proper education, enjoyed a life
without any world wars and arranged marriages were certainly
not on the agenda.
Mine was also a generation of the rapid march of technology.
Colour TVs to LCDs to plasmas... tape players to Walkmans to
iPods... Acorns, Apples, Ataris, PCs to laptops, and, of course,
the World Wide Web. We devour information like fast food.
Our generation is obsessed with speed and instant gratification.
If in doubt, Google! Too tired to shop? eBay it! Mp3, DVD,
PS3... three letter acronyms seem to be the limit for our shortfused attention span.
Our age is an age of choice. What would our parents
think? They must think we live in a wonderland of luxurious
convenience. A place more fertile for happiness to blossom
compared to their era. But are we?
Technology has enabled near-instant communication to
almost anyone in the world but has ironically, made us more
isolated than ever before. Traditional communities have been
replaced by virtual ones. The ‘now’ generation has become an
impatient one. Innocent silver-screen movies have mutated into
angst-ridden and superficial high-definition ones. A plethora
of saturated choices has led to confusion and a lack of real
direction. Like a child set loose in a candy shop, excess sugar
inevitably leads to indescribable feelings... and repeated bouts of
stomachache.
Look at children of the Third World. Despite their underdeveloped countries devoid of mp3s, iPods and technological
sophistication, sometimes their smiles seem a whole lot more
genuine, warm and spirited than those of people from the
prosperous nations. Yes, material comforts all contribute to a
better life, but have we missed something along the way in this
quest? Does its destination truly bring us sustainable happiness?
SEEKING THE SOURCE
Whatever age we live in, before we can become happy, we need
to understand what it is and where it comes from. Is the source
of happiness to be found at the core of our way of living, in
our current life systems and lifestyles? Take, for example, the
medical world. Medical advancement in the western world has
reached levels probably highest in all human history. This level
of sophistication should mean our hospitals are quieter places
and humanity is a healthier race, but our hospitals are busier
than ever. New diseases and health problems are spawning
faster than doctors can find a cure – if indeed, there exists one.
Maybe it is a sign that effective solutions can only be found
by looking deeper... that the seed of real happiness lies not at
the pinnacle of physical refinements and perfection, but in the
depths of who we are.
THE GREAT RIVER OF HAPPINESS
Happiness is emotive. It does not happen between robots, no
matter how uncanny they can mimic humans. That is simply
because they do not have emotions; they don’t have a soul.
Robots cannot be happy or sad, for that matter.
It is clear that a key influence in our happiness is through
our relationships. Being emotionally connected to one another,
whether through words, expressions, touch or simply being
in each other’s presence, is just as vital for humans as water,
food or sleep. It is a basic necessity of living. It helps to combat
loneliness, confusion and boredom that life can sometimes be,
especially in our modern age.
But all too often, just as our relationships can bless us
with joy, they can also be a source of sadness. Why does a
relationship that was once full of good words, affection and
laughter suddenly change into something ugly and disastrous?
Usually, the reason lies not with the other, but within
ourselves. When our giving has changed into a conditional
form of expectation – it is a simple mistake we all make. For
to give with expectations is the turning point of our happiness
to sadness. But once we begin to give happiness to others
without expecting anything in return, and to keep the cycle
flowing, we begin to feel happiness within ourselves. It is like
releasing a gushing fountain that knows no bounds. When we
make efforts to make others happy as our primary intention,
happiness can be sustained without fear that it will ever run
dry. Then, we are in control. We find the source. We become
the great river.
Our emotions with each other reveal that we are not just
separate physical creatures, but deeply interconnected with one
another. It is a paradox that cannot be understood rationally
or intellectually: that we are individuals but also we are one.
It becomes the great reason to bring happiness to each other –
for to make others happy is, in reality, bringing happiness to
ourselves too.
“THE SEED OF REAL HAPPINESS LIES NOT AT
THE PINNACLE OF PHYSICAL REFINEMENTS AND
PERFECTION, BUT IN THE DEPTHS OF WHO WE ARE”
20
people
success
happiness
mind, body & spirit
again at the gate of a world that is waiting for its treasures to
be found. Who does not want to know of all the mysteries
and wonders of existence? Who does not want to become
enlightened? For an enlightened mind is one with a state of
bliss. It is a path only those who do not value happiness would
ignore.
ULTIMATE HAPPINESS
21
HAPPINESS OF THE MIND
Another area that has a powerful influence on our happiness
is our mental well-being. We each have a mind that needs
to be stimulated, to learn, to know and to express itself. Our
mind has been created to be naturally curious and creative.
Look at children before they are conditioned into our world
of traditions and rules. They embody these traits with natural
grace and spontaneity, and that is a great source of happiness
for them.
The mental window in which we view the world and
our relationships in it is a major determining factor to our
happiness. It is the difference between a mind succumbed
in darkness and one that has a guiding light. Inevitably, we
each need to face the fundamental questions in life: Who
am I? Where did I come from? Where am I going? Are we
just physical? Or are we spiritual beings? Is life finite and
meaningless? Is love eternal and real? Does God exist? Our
answers define the path we take in life; our path in life defines
our happiness.
Those who procrastinate on this quest can never be truly
happy, for how can we have peace of mind without knowing
truth? A mind that has suppressed its inquisitive nature exists
in a comatose state. But it can be an exhilarating journey to
summon the courage to question everything you thought you
knew about life with a clean state of mind. To seek and listen
attentively to what others have to say with an open heart. To
explore the wisdom of the ages with reverence. To become a
seeker of truth with passion. To become like innocent children
During the course of our lives, we experience peak moments
of happiness where we feel like soaring: our first love, the day
of marriage or becoming a parent. But there is a happiness that
supersedes even these precious moments: an ultimate happiness
not quite of this world, but very close to our hearts.
It is what we were born for... our reason for living. It is the
canvas upon which we choose the colours to paint. It is the
sheet upon which we inscribe our lyrics. It is our life work.
Within each human heart is a seed. This seeds contains
the blueprint of our life work. It was planted before we were
born and waits for the right moment to sprout. If we listen
attentively, we can catch a clue, but it is easy to ignore its calling
while surrounded by the noise of life. But to ignore the calling
is to give up the possibilities of ultimate happiness. When
we meet someone who aspires to a great dream and struggles
through many obstacles to make it into a
reality, it becomes a guiding light for the
rest of us – it reveals the true power of the
human spirit. A dream manifested in this
world becomes a memory that is cradled
by the human heart and is not easily
forgotten. We all know the wonder of
following a dream, but only a few take up
the challenge to devote their whole lives
to it. It takes great courage to accept the
calling as we first need to overcome the
fears and doubts that block our way.
But life is for dreams; and dreams are
for life. A human life without a dream is
no life at all. The grandest human dream
always contains a seed that blossoms
for the happiness of others. This is an
eternal dream... It is the ultimate dream
of happiness... for past generations gone,
for our current generation to aspire to and
lives on for future generations to come.
“A HUMAN LIFE WITHOUT A DREAM
IS NO LIFE AT ALL.”
Tony Wong, a former graphic designer, is now a dedicated member and
staff of Happy Science. Tony credits much of what he has learnt about
happiness to Happy Science and its founder, Ryuho Okawa, whose
teachings he has been studying for over eight years now.
21
people
successful ceo
Managing
FAMILY
30
22
people
successful ceo
BUSINESS
A winner of the Leading CEO HR Award,
Alvin Yapp shares his success secrets
on managing a family business.
By Eva Berlin Fransiskus
T
he NUS graduate spent 9 years in product
development and innovation for Singapore Airlines,
as well as managing the airport operations globally,
before joining BusAds Pte. Ltd. The company was founded
by his father in 1983. “I joined the family business at 34 years
old as I knew it was necessary to be familiar with the business
when I am in my 30s,” Mr. Yapp says.
With his years of experiences in various business fields,
Mr. Yapp, who won the Leading CEO title in Singapore HR
Awards 2011, learned that team work is the backbone of a
company. It is important to not only talk about teamwork,
but also to practice it. The management and staffs should
always be treated as a part of the team. However, “recognizing
them as individuals with individual needs” is also crucial. His
secret in bringing BusAds through the recent recession is to
“communicate clearly all recession plans and policies to staff.”
Having worked in MNCs and now directing an SME, what
would be the key differences in human capital management
and their critical success factors? “SMEs has zero ‘fat’,”
Mr. Yapp says, referring to people who are not productive.
“Every employee is critical and essential. In an SME, there
is no space for deadwood.” In an SME like BusAds, the
involvement of a CEO is personal as he also acts as the Chief
Human Resource Manager. A CEO must walk the talk, Mr.
Yapp said. Although it does take time, effort, and energy,
“being involved means really being involved.” Managing an
SME is also trickier in the sense that the HR policies applied
would have quicker reactions. “Things happen much faster
in an SME,” Mr. Yapp says, “and the impact is felt much
greater.” The advantage is that feedback also travels faster. Mr.
Yapp thus pays special attention in communication between
the immediate managers and supervisors, as well as between
them and him.
Under his leadership, one of the more well-known policies
in his company is the strictly work-free weekend. This policy
means the management is firmly forbidden to talk about
business during the weekend, bringing a good balance of
work and personal life to its employees. These are probably
what led BusAds to be awarded Employee Relations & People
Management honour in the HR Awards 2011.
“Your people are your assets. Invest in
them. They will be the best investment
you’ll ever make.” - Mr. Alvin Yapp
CLOCKWISE FROM
OPPOSITE LEFT:
BusAds specialize
in outdoor and
mobile media.
Advertisements by
BusAds also include
those on buildings,
during events, and
in bus stops all over
Singapore.
23
31
success
decision making
Perfect
24
CLARITY
in Decision
Making
By Luda Kopeikina
E
very day, business leaders make decisions that impact hundreds,
even thousands of people. While this seems a daunting task, the
good ones make it look easy. These leaders can make million-dollar
decisions based purely on the information presented to them and their
own gut feelings. What you can’t see, behind these seemingly effortless
decisions, is their continued discipline in scrutinising their decisions, and
their commitment to keep improving on what they’ve done in the past.
These leaders, through practice, possess a clarity that allows them to make
powerful decisions with ease.
Recent research shows you can learn to attain clarity with similar
ease by relaxing your body and clearing your mind, so as to focus on
the issue at hand. By shifting to a higher level of coherence, you can
sweep away all thoughts that limit your decision-making skills. It also
makes you a more powerful leader. Clarity enables you to project your
commitment onto a chosen path and also eliminate confusion within
your management team. It saves time by focusing your energy on
moving forward with implementation, rather than stalling yourself in
decision-making mode–a frustrating state that drains energy.
success
decision making
3
Calm your mind
To calm your mind, pick a word or phrase that has meaning
to you and repeat it as your mantra. For example, in
Hinduism and Buddhism, people use the word “om.” But you
can choose any word with a positive meaning to you. Then
repeat this word silently to yourself as you breathe naturally.
When other thoughts come to your mind, passively dismiss
them and return to your repetition. Continue this practice
for as long as it takes to reach a calm state of mind. You will
probably need anywhere from five to 20 minutes.
You may also want to try the countdown method to reach
a calm state of mind. This technique is simple enough – just
countdown from a specified number all the way to one. Allow
yourself to focus only on your counting. At first, you should
ideally practise this exercise when you wake up in the morning
or right before you fall asleep at night, because reaching a
calm state is easier at these times. However, when you have
gotten a hang of the exercise and can achieve a calm state with
You can improve your leadership and decision-making skills a shorter countdown, you can practise this technique at any
time during the day.
by achieving a state of clarity with the following five-step
Start at 100 and count down to 1. After a week or so, cut it
process
down to 50, and then 25. Soon you’ll be able to reach a calm
state after just five counts.
Prepare
First, eliminate all distractions by turning off your radio,
telephone ringer, and computer monitor. Get into a
comfortable seated position, but avoid being too comfortable.
You want to relax – not fall asleep.
Next clear your desk. Put everything away except for a pen
and a clean sheet of paper, in case you may want to pen down
any interesting thoughts you have during the exercise.
Finally, tell yourself you are ready to experiment and have
fun with the clarity exercise. Initially, you may find it easier to
focus when you close your eyes and tilt them upwards about
twenty degrees behind your eyelids.
1
2
Physical relaxation
The first part of this step is to relax every muscle in your
body. Start with your toes and slowly release all the tension in
every muscle of your body, from your feet, ankles and legs to
your abdomen, chest, hands, arms and back. Progress slowly,
working your way up to your neck and face. As you do this,
say to yourself, “my muscles are getting relaxed.”
The second part of this step involves deep breathing
techniques similar to those used in yoga. Inhale with your
abdomen first. Then as your breath is pulled in, inhale with
your chest and shoulders. Don’t try to hold your breath, but
exhale in the reverse order. Start with your shoulders and
chest, and then allow your abdomen to relax at the end of the
cycle. Assume a breathing rhythm that you find comfortable,
but try to exhale for twice as long as you inhale .
Allow your mind to focus completely on the rhythm of
your breathing, and take as many breaths as necessary to feel
completely relaxed. If you are already calm and focused, you
may only need a few breaths to relax. But if you are tense, you
will probably need many more.
“WHEN YOU HAVE ACHIEVED
A CALM STATE WITH A
SHORTER COUNTDOWN,
YOU CAN PRACTISE THIS
TECHNIQUE AT ANY TIME
DURING THE DAY.”
25
success
decision making
4
26
Clear your mind
You can clear your mind by acknowledging your thoughts
and using visualisation. To acknowledge your thoughts,
propose to yourself, “I feel totally fine and joyful about how
my life is going.” Inevitably, an unresolved issue will pop into
your mind to discredit this statement. When this happens,
acknowledge the thought, but don’t expand on it. Simply
acknowledge it and set it aside.
Then say to yourself, “Besides this issue, I feel totally
fine and joyful about how my life is going.” If another
contradiction pops into your mind, repeat the process of
acknowledging it and setting it aside. Eventually, you’ll
have an imaginary stack of unresolved issues that you’ve
cleared from your mind and plenty of space to devote to the
issue at hand.
To clear your mind with visualisation, imagine you are
surrounded by a large sphere of light. Every time a thought
pops into your head, put it outside the sphere. Continue doing
this until you reach a state of no thoughts.
5
Charge up
This step builds on your relaxed state by increasing your
coherence level on the emotional scale, so that you can
focus on the issue at hand. You can achieve this greater
focus by recalling a time when you felt great exhilaration
and satisfaction after achieving something. Perhaps you felt
exhilarated after running a marathon or completing a large
project. Whatever you choose, make sure it is among the most
exciting and satisfying achievements in your life.
Now imagine that this event is happening again, and
recall all the thoughts and feelings going through your head
at the time. If you were running a marathon, think about
the rhythm of your feet hitting the pavement and visualise
the other runners around you. If you were working on
an important project, think about the calm silence in the
office after everyone went home for the day, and the taste
of the coffee that kept you going long into the night. Use
these images to reignite your feelings of excitement, self
empowerment and success.
CLARITY FOR YOUR FUTURE
After following these five steps, you will feel mentally and
physically relaxed. Your mind will be clear, focused and ready
to take on the rest of the decision-making process which I call
the “Clarity State Decision Making.”
Clarity state decision making is a simple yet effective
process that starts with you defining the decision to be
made in a one-page “decision map”. This allows you to deal
effectively with emotions that might be associated with
your decision, yours and those of others. You can use this
information as a reference for the actual decision making.
It then enables you to switch perspectives on the subject
issue, in such a way that you can identify novel solutions.
It also uses visualisations to deal with uncertainty that is
invariably present in your decision, which prepares you
to overcome potential barriers in the implementation.
The process completes with helping you align with a clear
choice. If done correctly, the entire process should not take
more than an hour.
Reaching clarity in decision making is a tremendously
positive experience. It fills you with excitement and gives you
the confidence to move forward. As a leader, you will be able
to demonstrate your commitment to a vision and eliminate
any post-decision doubts.
The inability to make decisions can paralyse an entire
organisation. So as a leader, you must attain clarity in the
decision-making process in order to achieve success. When
you practise this five-step process in every decision, it will
become an instinctive part of your decision-making process
over time. You will see the issues facing your organisation and
your options more clearly, and become a more powerful leader
as a result.
For more information about clarity state decision making in
Singapore, please visit www.claritageconsulting.com
success
people strategies
THE ART OF
CONNECTING
WITH PEOPLE
28
Learn strategies on how to put people at ease and drawing
them into conversation so that you can connect and build a
relationship with them.
S
mall talk is greatly underrated. Most will think that it is
superficial and insignificant. However, small talk is in reality
the most important talk that you will ever make with a
person because it determines the depth of relationship you
can build with him or her.
As Dr Beh Swan Gin, former Managing Director of the Singapore
Economic Development Board (EDB), wisely pointed out: "The
ability to start and carry on conversations with corporate heads and
industry leaders the world over is what differentiates a stellar salesman
from a mediocre one."
Here are four simple yet powerful strategies to make a lasting
impression with small talk.
1. START STRONG
The key reason why people fail at small talk is because they do not
know how to start strong. So here are three types of openers to get
you started.
a) Address an immediate situation
The most natural way to connect with a person is to talk about the
immediate situation because it is on their mind – “You look flustered.
What happened?”
b) Compliment the person sincerely
When people feel good about themselves, they feel better about you too
– “You look great in this pink dress. Where did you get it from?”
c) Ask for opinion or feedback
Asking for opinions allow people to express their values and thoughts,
helping you to understand them better. Furthermore, people feel valued
when you seek their opinions – “Who are some interesting people you
have met at this event (and why?)”
Notice that all the openers are open-ended, which prevents a
monosyllabic reply that makes following up difficult, like “yes”, “no”,
success
people strategies
“good” or “bad”. For the same reason, cliché questions like “How are
you?” should also be avoided.
2. KEEP THEM TALKING
Dale Carnegie, who wrote many books on communications, once stated
that “when a person does most of the talking, he will feel that it is the best
conversation he has ever had!” Hence, it pays to keep them talking.
An easy way to do so is through physical attention. Robert Bolten
of People Skills defines this as “listening with the whole body”. So
this means leaning forward and giving eye contact to show interest.
Encouraging body gestures, such as nodding and smiling, are also useful.
You can also keep the conversation going by asking open-ended
questions or prompting with words like “And then?”, “Really?”, “Tell
me more!” This extends the conversation and makes the person more
comfortable to share.
3. ADD THESE POWER SEEDS
Power seeds amplify your connection with a person.
a) Establish common ground fast
Before you can get the person to say “I like you!”, you need to first
show the person that “I (AM) like you!” Commonality breeds
likeability. Hence in your conversation, you want to establish common
ground as fast you can. They can be in one of the following categories:
passions, challenges, values, opinions or experiences.
b) Find opportunities to give
When you give a person something, he is psychologically obliged
to give something in return. It’s the law of reciprocity at work.
Hence, find opportunities to give in your conversation. They include
compliments, attention, energy, and knowledge. Giving invokes an
atmosphere of sharing, making the other party more comfortable with
you!
29
THE ABILITY TO START AND CARRY
ON CONVERSATIONS… IS WHAT
DIFFERENTIATES A STELLAR SALESMAN
FROM A MEDIOCRE ONE.
- Dr Beh Swan Gin, former Managing Director of the
Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).
c) Show genuine care for the person
People do not care much about what you have to say until you
show them how much you care. Place yourself in the person’s shoes
as he shares his experiences, or simply be present to him. Focus on
the person, and revolve the conversation around him. He will then
be more comfortable to converse freely with you.
4. IT'S NOT ABOUT YOU!
Ultimately, the conversation isn't about you, but the other party. So
instead of manipulating the conversation, focus on the person and
be genuinely interested in him. You will be amazed how interesting
someone can be if you give him a chance to be known. Let me leave
you with a final tip that will win people over effortlessly. The key to
unlocking your charisma isn't trying to make people feel good about
you. It's about making them feel good about themselves.
COMMONALITY BREEDS
LIKEABILITY.”
Eric Feng is a leading authority in the topic
of charisma and this article is based on his
3rd book “Unlock Your Personal Charisma”.
The principles shared in the book has helped
him gain many unfair advantages in his career
including being awarded the following titles:
JCI Ten Most Outstanding Young Persons of
Singapore 2012, NUS Outstanding Young Alumni 2011 and Business
Week Top 25 Young Entrepreneurs of Asia 2007. For more resources
to help you unlock your personal charisma, visit www.ericfeng.com
investment
wealth strategies
SOCIALLY
RESPONSIBLE
By Tucker Gilman
30
I
f you are working, you’re probably trying to save money
for your future. You may want to buy a home, pay for your
children’s education, or prepare for your own retirement.
Perhaps your savings are in a bank or a mutual fund, or perhaps
you have invested in a portfolio of stocks and bonds. If you
choose your investments well, your money will earn returns
that bring you closer to your goals.
But, investments have more than just a financial
impact on your future. If your money is in a conventional
bank or mutual fund, there is a good chance that it’s
being invested in companies that contribute to global
warming or tropical deforestation, exploit labourers,
or manufacture weapons systems. Most of us oppose
such practices and vote against them, but our advocacy
has little effect if we continue to support the very same
practices with our investments.
With this in mind, a growing number of people
are turning to socially responsible investments (SRI).
SRI investors try to consider the full impact of their
investments on the world they live in. This is often called
the “triple bottom line” approach, because it evaluates not
only the financial but also the social and environmental
return of each investment. In this way, SRI investors not
only make profits, but also help to create a better world in
which to spend the money they have earned.
Socially responsible investments can take several
different forms. The oldest and most popular form of
SRI is called “negative screening”. A negative screen
investor excludes unethical products or practices from
his portfolio. This practice has been around since at least
the mid-1700s, when various religious groups forbade
members to invest in slave trade, alcohol production,
or industries like leather tanning where toxic chemicals
routinely made employees ill. Today, negative screening
has grown in scope, and in many countries you can find
negative screen mutual funds or managed portfolios
that take into consideration specific issues like gender
equality. They may also exercise a broad range of screens
based on environmental practices, human rights and
corporate governance.
A newer and rapidly growing form of SRI is called
“positive screening”. Rather than simply avoiding
businesses they consider to be unethical, positive screen
investors seek out companies with favourable social or
environmental impact. There are positive screen funds
that specialise in industries such as renewable energy,
clean water technology and healthcare, as well as funds
that focus on companies with excellent environmental
records or sustainable product life cycles.
investment
wealth strategies
INVESTMENTS
31
A third form of SRI, and one that is becoming
increasingly popular among professional investment
managers, is sometimes called the “best practices”
approach. Best practices investors seek out companies
in each industry with the best social and environmental
records. By making capital more available to such
companies, this group believes it will encourage business
managers to be more competitive in terms of social and
environmental responsibility in their respective fields.
Finally, the newest direction in SRI is called
“participatory investment”. Participatory investors
acknowledge that businesses are complex entities and
that it may be impossible to establish a single set of
screening criteria that are appropriate for all investments.
Thus, these groups of investors screen investments on a
case-by-case basis. When the manager of a participatory
investment portfolio identifies an investment
opportunity, he summarises the financial and ethical
issues surrounding the investment, and submits the
information to the portfolio’s shareholders for approval.
Some participatory investors vote on every investment
proposed for their portfolio, while others vote only on
issues that they believe to be of particular importance.
Participatory investment portfolios grow to reflect the
values of their shareholders, and new investors often find
it most practical to carefully select organisations with
established values similar to their own.
In addition to screening, investment managers are
increasingly including shareholder activism among the
tools of SRI. Activist investors recognise that shareholders
are the legal owners of a publicly traded company, and
that a company’s officers are really just employees of
the shareholders. Activist investors may negotiate with
a company’s management for changes to the policies or
practices, and if negotiations fail, they may introduce
proposals for a vote by the shareholders at the next
annual meeting. Shareholder activism can be expensive
and time consuming for individual investors, but
NGOs and professional SRI managers have partnered
to use the technique with great success. For example,
after negotiations with activist investors, PepsiCo
agreed to increase its global recycling efforts, Emerson
Electric ended discriminatory hiring practices, and
US conglomerate Proctor & Gamble agreed to begin
marketing fair trade coffee.
Activist investment as well as the four forms of SRI
screening mentioned earlier, together represent one of
the fastest growing segments of the global financial
marketplace. In fact, from 1995 to 2007, funds under
socially responsible management grew from US$639
billion to more than US$2.71 trillion globally.
Today, more than 10% of all funds in managed
portfolios worldwide are under some level of socially
responsible management.
Historically, one major obstacle that has prevented
individual investors from adopting SRI is the perception
that socially responsible investments offer lower returns
than conventional ones. SRI investors exclude certain
investments on the basis of environmental or social
reasons rather than strictly financial grounds – which
gives them fewer potential investments to choose from.
investment
wealth strategies
32
“SRI INVESTORS NOT ONLY MAKE
PROFITS, BUT ALSO HELP TO
CREATE A BETTER WORLD IN
WHICH ONE CAN SPEND THE
MONEY THEY HAVE EARNED.”
The mainstream assumes that SRI investors must be missing out on
many more lucrative investment opportunities, so returns on SRI
portfolios should be lower than on unscreened portfolios. However,
in this case, the evidence suggests that such an assumption is not
correct. In fact, in 20 academic studies on corporate social and
environmental responsibility published between 1995 and 2006, 10
found that social and environmental responsibility were positively
correlated with performance, while only three suggested a negative
relationship. Moreover, SRI portfolios have not been shown to be
more volatile than unscreened portfolios. Every investor should
choose his or her investments carefully, but to date there is no
evidence that SRI investors should expect their investments to be
less safe or less profitable than their conventional counterparts.
The strong performance of SRI portfolios has surprised advocates
of conventional investment, but to SRI investors the results
make perfect sense. As an increasing number of governments
worldwide begin to implement and enforce stronger environmental
regulations, businesses are being forced to internalise the costs
of pollution and environmental degradation that they could
previously ignore. Cleaner businesses are beginning to operate
at an advantage. Businesses with fair employment practices have
healthier, happier and more productive employees, and so are
less prone to labour disruptions and litigation. Perhaps the most
important of all is the simple issue of management integrity. If a
company’s management team is willing to cheat their employees
and their community in order to increase their profits, investors
have every reason to believe that the same management will
someday cheat them as well. It just isn’t good business to loan
money to someone you can’t trust.
Investors new to SRI often wonder how they can find out if
their portfolios are socially responsible. Unfortunately, there is no
shortcut. Whether an investment is ethical or not may depend
very much on the person to whom it belongs. For example, some
investors who are concerned about global warming choose not
to invest in companies that generate electricity using fossil fuels.
Others may be willing to invest in companies that use fossil fuel
generators, only if those companies have also made significant
commitments to expanding their use of renewable energy. The
approaches are different, but neither is clearly right or wrong.
The only way to be sure your portfolio reflects your values is
to know the businesses you have invested in, and what those
businesses do. If your investment is in a managed portfolio
or mutual fund, you should be sure that the values of your
investment manager match your own. Feel free to ask questions,
and expect to get answers. After all, you wouldn’t hire an
employee who refused to tell you what he or she was doing on
the job. Your investment manager is your employee in this case,
and if he is too busy to answer your questions, then he is also too
busy to manage your money.
The manner in which we save money may be one of the
most important ways we affect the world we live in. For this
reason, more and more people are deciding that SRI is the right
investment option for them. In the end, our decisions about SRI
are really decisions about our quality of life. After all, investment
isn’t just about money. It is about the way we and our loved ones
will live in the future. Every one of us hopes to live in a world
with less war, where people are healthy and fairly treated, and
where we can enjoy the diverse beauty of nature and human
cultures. Having more money to spend will be a poor reward if
we destroy the things we value to get it.
investment
wealth strategies
33
We Wear
Many Hats
To Do One Job
In today’s workplace, it’s not uncommon for employees to wear many hats. They can be a team lead, project manager,
problem solver, coach, mentor, collaborator and more. To excel in these roles, it is crucial that they are able to manage
themselves and harness the potential of their co-workers. Take the step to develop your organisation’s capabilities through
Leadership and People Management (LPM) Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) training programmes.
Singaporeans and Permanent Residents are eligible for course fee funding of up to 70%.
For more information, please contact our Programme Partners:
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6478 3100
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Group Planner
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success
people
financial management
36
LIVING A
DEBT FREE
LIFE
With increasing financial commitments in
our lives, managing debts has become the
stressful order of the day for many today.
Tan Huey Min provides some valuable
lifelong tips in wise money management
for a future of financial freedom.
D
ebt Management is hardly something that people
would read about in their free time, for those
without debt problems, this topic appears to be
dull and unattractive. For people saddled with debts, many
are often clouded by the misperception that they are able to
manage these liabilities. Some are also too burdened by their
debt problems that they shun from broaching the subject.
Nevertheless, with financial debts as one of the major
contributors of mental and emotional stress nowadays, it is
hard to brush the harsh realities of this subject under the
carpet. So how can one learn to manage his finances in a wise
and most stress-free manner?
Managing debt basically includes managing one’s
purchasing behaviour in relation to his income and expenses.
As adults, we often believe that we have a control over our
behaviour and with a sound knowledge of our income and
expenses, managing our finances sure doesn't sound too
difficult. So, one may ask, what’s the big fuss over managing
one’s purchasing behaviour and budget?
Let’s take a look at the credit card scene in Singapore. As of
May 2009, 37% of 1.123 million individual credit cardholders
were revolvers, meaning about four in ten credit cardholders
did not make full payment of their credit card bills every
month, according to reports from the Credit Bureau
Singapore. Now, perhaps we may wonder why these people
choose to pay an ‘additional’ 24% on top of the price of the
goods and services they buy? For example, why do some
choose to pay $124 for an item that costs $100?
Advertisers in the media frequently tell us “we deserve the
good life” or “the item is a good bargain”. Or sometimes, we
spot items that appeal to our emotions and self-worth, and
shortly after, we forget about our rationale, values and bank
balances.
For most of us, it can be quite a challenge to refrain from
buying things that make us feel good or present as really good
bargains. Indeed, there is nothing wrong in 'retail therapy' buying things that satisfy us or are good deals. However, in
doing so, the real question we should ask ourselves is, "Do
success
"DUE EFFORT IS REQUIRED TO
DISCHARGE DEBTS, WHICH
ENTAILS EXERCISING SELFCONTROL OVER OUR BUYING
BEHAVIOUR AND DILIGENCE
IN MANAGING OUR INCOME
AND EXPENSES"
we buy because we simply need the item, or more so, at the
same time, we buy the item to serve our ‘wants’ or desires that
may not be necessary?” For example, we certainly need a roof
over our heads, and for that, perhaps a three-room flat already
meets our need, while a four-room flat falls comfortably
within our budget. However, we decide that we ‘want’ to buy
a bigger flat to enjoy the greater space, and at the same time,
own a home that reflects our ‘worth’, so we ultimately settle
for a five-room flat. Such buying behaviour – focusing on the
‘wants’ – could potentially lead us into financial trouble.
On the other hand, buying a ‘want’ need not get us into
money trouble if we are managing our income and expenses
correctly. The ‘correctly’ managed budget is one where our
expenses fall within our income. In short, what goes out
(expenditure) is less than what comes in (income). For
example, if one takes home $3,000 a month, his monthly
expenses should be up to $3,000 or less.
We need to understand the fact that having a new credit
card may not necessarily equate to a pay increment. It only
means that we can use a bank, or multiple banks’ money at
a price. Often times, people who go on a bank’s credit forget
that they are not using their own money. Without a doubt,
the credit card belongs to them, but the money is the bank’s,
and they will ultimately have to pay a price for using it, when
they do not make full payment of the outstanding stated in
the bills by the due date.
Some may argue that they are making their credit
card payments. But if what they pay only amounts to the
minimum monthly payment - 3% of the outstanding or
a minimum sum, so long as one is not paying the full
outstanding amount, interest will still be charged. Chances
are, without proper control of our buying behaviour, more
new charges will be added to the card. Coupled with an
ignorance of our income and expenses, the amount we owe
to the bank will likely grow bigger. If we still do not take
control, things will simply get out of hand and we will be
saddled with debts.
As expected, due effort is required to discharge debts, which
entails exercising self-control over our buying behaviour and
diligence in managing our income and expenses, i.e. an effort
that requires discipline and lifestyle adjustments. Hence, one
needs to ask himself, “Am I determined to pay off my debts?”
Once a person has made up his mind to clear his debts, he is
on the right track to taking steps to materialise his intention.
Five steps towards writing off debts:
Stop using the credit facilities immediately
One effective way is to leave home without the cards. This
practice cuts off our access to credit to purchase items that
we do not have cash to pay for. In return, it prevents us from
buying items that we do not really need.
Draw up a list of all creditors and the amount owed
Have a column that lists down all creditors, followed by
another column that states the outstanding balance owed to
each respective creditor. The third column is for the minimum
monthly payment required for a particular creditor, and a
final column is for remarks. This will help us get a clearer
overall picture of what we owe and how much we need to pay
consecutively.
Use available funds to make repayment
Use funds from, for instance, the sale of shares or fixed
deposits to pay off debts. The interest earned from fixed
deposit currently is less than 1%. However, the interest
charged for outstanding balance on credit cards is 24%. Thus,
it makes economic sense to pay off some, if not all our debts,
before we start saving again.
Draw up a budget
For simplicity here, we assume that one does not have a
13th month salary or bonus. First, we need to list all the
items we need to pay every month (eg. phone bills, meals
at work), every quarter/half yearly/yearly (eg. road tax,
children’s school textbooks) and at irregular intervals (eg.
birthday treats, doctor visits). Estimate the amount that we
are likely to spend for the various items. For items that are
paid less than once a month, we should divide the amount
accordingly, such as dividing by 12 if the amount is paid
once a year. In short, break the total sum into a monthly
37
success
38
figure. This is to ensure that we set aside and save up the
funds for items that need to be paid on an irregular basis or
less frequently. Most importantly, we need to ensure that
the total monthly expenses are less than our total monthly
income.
With the available surplus (income – expenses), it must
be sufficient to pay for the monthly repayment amount for
debts. If not, one needs to make adjustment to the expenses
by reducing consumption and/or improving income.
Adopt a strategy
One good strategy is not to use any extra credit until the
existing debt is cleared off. Another useful strategy to
expedite the process of repayment is to make an effort to
make higher payments than the minimum monthly amount
required. For example, if the current minimum monthly
payment for the outstanding on a credit card is $150, try
to pay an additional $50 or more if possible. Otherwise,
an additional $5 or $10 could also help. After one debt is
cleared, use the same amount the following month to top up
payment for another debt that is still outstanding and so on,
until all the debts are settled.
With the above 5-step process, one can effectively and
efficiently pay off his debts and become debt-free again!
A Debtor’s Success Story
Let’s look at a real case study of a middle-
limits, he would apply for new credit facilities or
aged debtor who managed to discharge all
do balance transfers to roll over his balances.
his debts with an adjustment in lifestyle and
Finally, he could no longer handle his
conscientious budgeting.
minimum monthly payments, and he decided
Alan, in his late 30s, is married with three
children. He works as a manager and takes
home close to $6,000 per month. However,
to heed his creditor’s advice to seek assistance
from Credit Counselling Singapore (CCS).
With determination, Alan as advised by
over the years, he has chalked up unpaid debts
CCS, overhauled his unhealthy financial
of $180,000 which he owes to nine creditors.
lifestyle. He let go of his car, reduced expenses
The main reasons cited for his debts
on eating out, frivolous spending on branded
include the renovation of his current
goods and stopped his children’s enrichment
private condo, maintaining a car since his
courses so as to trim his expenses.
late twenties, spending on additional car
By tightening his belt considerably, Alan
accessories, buying branded goods and
was able to set aside a constant sum of $3,200
toys, frequently eating out at restaurants,
every month to fulfill all monthly installments
and sending children to various enrichment
to his creditors. Eventually, with such a
courses without proper budgeting.
consistency, he managed to clear all his debts
In the past, whenever he hit his credit
successfully.
Tan Huey Min previously worked with The Association of Banks in Singapore before she joined
Temasek Polytechnic as a lecturer. With her experience, she started as a volunteer and is now
a pioneer credit counsellor of Credit Counselling Singapore (CCS). She currently oversees the
counselling and educational activities of CCS.
advertorial
people trends magazine SEPT-OCT 2009
lifestyle
travel experiences
40
KAZAKHSTAN:
THE HOME
OF DREAMS
lifestyle
travel experiences
5
A
transcontinental country in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is
the biggest landlocked country by land area and the ninth
largest country in the world. What the country lacks in
sea coastline and maritime life, it makes up in rich cultures and
unique landscapes.
Four times bigger than France in terms of land area,
Kazakhstan’s diverse terrains are home to
expanses of beautiful deserts, serene lakes, and magnificent
mountain ranges. Experience a historical land enriched by the
history of the Khans along the Silk Road, while reveling in a
modernistic country where rockets are launched into space. A visit
to Kazakhstan may include the following places of interest:
1
1. The Singing Sand, Altyn-Emel
National Park
In the depths of Kazakhstan, the sand
sings praise to the wonders of the
land. The songs of the Singing Sand or
the Singing Barkhan are created by a
natural phenomenon – under favourable
conditions, the wind that blows into the
sand will produce a variety of sounds
such as whistling, booming, humming
and vibrating.
2. Astana
Capital of Kazakhstan since 1997, Astana is the second largest
city in the country. President Nursultan Nazarbayev holds office
here, in the Ak Orda Presidential Palace and the Supreme Court
Building. Also not to be missed as part of Astana’s modern skyline
are the Pyramid of Peace, Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre,
and the symbol of the capital city, the Bayterek Tower.
3. Baikonur Cosmodrome (Tyuratam)
Baikonur Cosmodrome is the world’s first and largest operational
space launch facility that lays claim as the birthplace of the
world’s first satellite. With an operational schedule with numerous
commercial, military and scientific missions being launched
annually, tourists are only allowed to visit the facility on guided
tours.
4. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Tulkibas District
Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia located
near Tulkibas city in Southern Kazakhstan. It is part of the West
Tian Shan mountain range that is shared between Kazakhstan,
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, China and Mongolia. Host to a rich
variety of flora and fauna, including 238 species of birds and
42 species of mammals, some of them endangered – such as
the Egyptian vulture, berkut, arkhar, paradise flycatcher, snow
leopard, and the Central Asian lynx – the reserve is a must visit for
nature lovers.
5. Kolsai Lakes
Kolsai or Kolsay Lakes are a series of three alpines lakes
surrounded by colossal cliffs and mountains with snowy caps and
wooded slopes. Six hours drive away from Almaty, the Lakes are
41
lifestyle
travel experiences
3
perfect for a relaxing getaway for camping, hiking and trekking,
horseback riding, and fishing.
42
6. Panfilov Park – Heroes Memorial Park, Almaty
Panfilov Park was built in remembrance of the Panfilov battalion
that perished during the Second World War. An eternal flame
commemorating the fallen heroes of the Civil War and WWII
burns in front of the giant black monument for soldiers from all
15 Soviet republics.
Another limelight of the park is the Ascension Cathedral or
Zenkov Cathedral. Built in the late 19th century, it is the second
tallest wooden building in the world standing at a height of 50
metres.
7. Zelyony Bazaar (the Green Market)
Expect to taste an explosion of flavours at the Green Bazaar that
sprawls along the side streets and alleyways of colourful Almaty.
Stalls offering tantalising delicacies such as fruits and nuts from
the country’s fertile plains, traditional cheeses, smoked horse
meat, and other popular Kazak foods will offer the traveller a
memorable adventure through culinary pleasures. Many cafes in
the market also serve manti, a steamed spicy minced lamb and
dough served with butter and sour cream. Wash the food down
with some local beverages like koumiss (fermented mare’s milk) or
shubat (camel’s milk).
8. Akyrtas, Zhambyl region
Akyrtas is one of the most mysterious monuments in Kazakhstan.
Deemed by some as the third point of the Bermuda Triangle,
Akyrtas is an unfinished palace complex of red sandstone that
archaeologists discovered. No records of its creator or builder, why
it was built or why it was left incomplete was ever found. Some
say that the Arabs constructed it to serve the purpose of a fortress,
while others are convinced that it is the last palace of Alexander
the Great. Recent theories even suggest a geographical connection
with the Egyptian pyramids.
9. Borovoe Lake and Park, Zerendy region
Located between Astana and Kokshetau, among the lifeless
steppe, is a natural oasis named Borovoe. The name is taken on
by both the lake in the oasis and the national park of BorovoeKokshetau. The locals call it the ‘Kazakhstani Switzerland’
because the lake has crystal-clear bluish water surrounded by
picturesque mountain cliffs.
10. Sauran City and Fortress, Kyzylorda region
Sauran Fortress bears a likeness to the legendary city of Troy with
its seven protective walls. Situated in the desert, 40 km northwest
from Turkestan City of Southern Kazakhstan, Sauran was a
medieval city on the path of the Silk Road. At its height of glory, it
was a city ahead of its time, boasting underground water canals, a
mosque and a huge marketplace. Today, adventurers and antiquity
enthusiasts can still romanticise and keep Sauran’s history alive in
imagination as they walk among the ruins of the city.
"BAIKONUR COSMODROME IS THE WORLD’S
FIRST AND LARGEST OPERATIONAL SPACE
LAUNCH FACILITY THAT LAYS CLAIM AS THE
BIRTHPLACE OF THE WORLD’S FIRST SATELLITE.
6
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
SHRI. HR And Business
Intelligence For Professionals.
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www.shri.org.sg/hrawards
Singapore HR Congress
www.shri.org.sg/hrcongress
success
work & life
A BALANCE IN
WORK & LIFE
45
Work-Life Balance is not simply about flexible working
hours. At the core of effective work-life balance is choice
– personal choice. Learn a simple model that can help
regain balance in your life. By Fiona O’ Shaughnessy
SUCCESSFUL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES
he Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) realised
it faced some serious challenges in the late 1990s, with the dramatically falling
birth rate that threatened the country’s future. This was partly attributed to the lack
of a work-life balance in Singapore then. A survey carried out by MCYS in 2004
found that while four out of five respondents thought three-child families would be
ideal, realistically, many intended to have only two children. The main reasons cited
for this discrepancy were lack of time, energy and money.
T
success
work & life
46
Hence, MCYS formed the Work-Life Unit in
September 2000 to encourage employers to create worklife harmony in their workplaces. The unit believed that
this could be achieved by the following:
 Allowing employees to address issues like the constant
juggling of time and energy;
 Giving workers more time to spend with their families;
 Providing singles more opportunities to socialise, get
married and have families.
What other countries, like the United States and
Canada, find outstanding about work-life harmony efforts
here, is how the Work-Life Unit rallied around to support
the initiative. Using a multi-pronged strategy, the unit:
 Organised over 160 seminars and sharing sessions,
reaching out to more than 12,000 participants (as of
2006);
 Created the Singapore Family Friendly Employer Award,
a biennial award given to pro-family employers who
successfully help employees manage work, family and
personal commitments;  Regularly gathered these award winners to form The
Employer Alliance on Work and Family, where they
shared their best practices with others.
These programmes proved successful in their
evaluation surveys. The Singaporeans who participated,
particularly women, felt that arrangements like parttime work and flexible working hours helped them
cope effectively with work and family commitments,
according to deputy director of the Work-Life Unit,
Gracie Wee, in a 2004 article about Promoting WorkLife Harmony in Singapore. This was unlike the
situation five years ago, when there was not as much
work flexibility. Then, many women were made to
choose between work and family, and often, it was their
careers that won.
With the success of these initiatives, MCYS was
awarded the Work-Life Innovative Excellence Award in
February 2005 by the U.S.-based Alliance for WorkLife Progress (AWLP), making them the first institution
outside the United States to win.
A Matter of Choice
Work-life balance is not simply about flexible working hours.
At the core of effective work-life balance is choice – personal
choice. Since I became self-employed in 2005, I have been
success
work & life
working longer hours than ever. My weekends are reduced
to a single day and I often stay up till the wee hours of the
morning to get proposals out in time – but this is a choice I
willingly make.
What is key here is the concept of enjoyment. I feel
that I have an effective work-life balance because the
work itself is interesting to me, and I actively choose
to work longer hours since I like the challenge. Hence,
the work satisfies my needs for both Achievement and
Enjoyment.
A Model for Regaining Balance
WorkLifeBalance.com provides a model I find very useful to
remind myself of my priorities whenever I make choices.
FRIENDS
FAMILY
Achievement
Achievement
Enjoyment
Enjoyment
WORK
SELF
Achievement
Achievement
Enjoyment
Enjoyment
“WORK-LIFE BALANCE IS NOT SIMPLY
ABOUT FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS.
AT THE CORE OF EFFECTIVE WORKLIFE BALANCE IS CHOICE – PERSONAL
CHOICE.”
47
It defines Achievement and Enjoyment as the front and back
of the coin of value in our lives – in other words, we can’t have
one without the other. Living a one-sided life is why so many
“successful” people are not happy, or not nearly as happy as
they should be. By using this model, we can avoid the “as soon
as” trap, illustrated in some examples here.
“I’ll exercise more as soon as I finish this quarter!”
“I’ll travel as soon as I retire!”
“I’ll spend more time with the kids as soon as I finish the
ironing!”
The trick then is to make sure we have both Achievement
and Enjoyment in all four quadrants of our daily lives. As the
great John Lennon once sang, “Life is what happens when you
are busy making plans.”
The responsibility for a work-life balance lies with
both employers and employees. Employers need to
provide the appropriate conditions for their employees
to handle the needs of all four quadrants of their lives.
However, employees too, have the ability to make
choices, and can choose to view work as an enriching
and enjoyable part of their life, by focusing on the
positive aspects of their work!
Singapore
Are You Ready to be a
Socially Responsible Company?
Corporate social responsibility goes
beyond philanthropy. Increasingly,
companies are viewing it as an
investment in their future. It is an
effective talent attraction and retention
tool – more people want to work for a
brand that is seen to do good. Not only
that, it generates goodwill among
consumers, increasing customer loyalty
and building competitive advantage.
Over the past six decades, World Vision
has developed strategic alliances with
like-minded corporate partners to
bring help and hope to needy children
around the world. Our partners
represent an increasing number of
companies that recognise their power
to influence and effect change for the
better.
freely in their
running around
m
na
et
Vi
in
n
re
n Vietnam.
Happy Feet! Child
oto by World Visio
Ph
s.
oe
sh
s™
oc
new Cr
Partner with us in the
fight against poverty.
Help us make this world
a better place for all.
A father able to prov
ide a drink of clean wa
ter to his children
with help from Proc
ter & Gamble and W
or
ld Vision. Photo by
World Vision Myanm
ar.
To find out how you can become a World
Vision corporate partner, contact us at
(65) 6221 1040
corporate@worldvision.org.sg
World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organisation dedicated to working with children, families and
their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

CREATIVITY For A Better WORLD

Transcription

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