Today I went dining table shopping with SB. We have breakfast at mamak restaurant because he was hungry. After roti canai and milo, we headed to the furniture shops nearby. Alas! none is open yet. We were too early at 10.30am. It seems that most furniture shops near my place only open at noon. They only open early on weekends. Hmm...I guess most people living at my area are working community yea...
On the way back, we found another furniture shops and they are open. We went into the first one and somehow my gut feeling tells me I'm going to get what I want here. We browsed through the catelogue for wooden table for 4. My apartment will be just nice for table for 4. SB show a similar one like his home and he recommended me.
Well, what'd you know, it's nice. Simple and retro. Fit my apartment concept. I never like the curvy type or anything that require a lot of detail cleaning. I rather spend my time reading and going through all the detail house cleaning. And I can't stand dust. The one we both like is square table and matching chairs with white sofa cost RM850.
At the same time, I found a simple single guest bed that I like. Nothing fancy and practical design that cost RM199 and with mattress it cost RM450. The owner through in a pillow so I guess the price is reasonable. Plus, I like both solid wood material. We went to a 2 more shops next to it but the same items were price higher. In the end, we decided to purchase from the first shop.
Finally, I bought my dining set and a bed for my guest room. Now, I still have a dining cabinet, shelf for my storage, closet and a table for my guest room I need to buy next year. That's my 2010 resolution. Oh yea..I bought a new printer too. This is a good week and I spent my bonus wisely.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Cracking my head for ideas
I had a busy morning and still feeling tried. I just woke up from my sleep and decided to update my blog.
Well, for the past few days I have been doing a lot of thinking. Think what I want to do next year. Every year we must have a goal, right? At least we should have one or life will be plain boring. Because of it, my head has been non stop thinking...even when I'm sleeping I can feel my brain is still working.
Anyway, due to commitment, I have to find at least 3 things to do next year and they have to work. There will be a lot of no-personal-time issues for the next 12-14 months if I want to make it work. You see, I have a full time career but being me, I like to do more than one things. I love my work, no doubt about it but I also love to do many, many other things. I just need to find ways to work around my time for the next 3 things I want to do. One of the solution is to find something that cost little money and I can dress in my PJ. Ain't that cool?
Before I decide what to do, there're still heaps of research and studying to do. I like to be well prepared in everything I do. Call me a freak but I'm a perfectionist.
I wish I can pack my bag and go traveling. I tend to think better when I'm in a new surrounding and places. Unfortunately, this has not been a good year. I guess it's teh same with some of you out there. We'll just have to be strong and confident, yeah... When we hit bottom, it can just gets better after that, right?
Well, for the past few days I have been doing a lot of thinking. Think what I want to do next year. Every year we must have a goal, right? At least we should have one or life will be plain boring. Because of it, my head has been non stop thinking...even when I'm sleeping I can feel my brain is still working.
Anyway, due to commitment, I have to find at least 3 things to do next year and they have to work. There will be a lot of no-personal-time issues for the next 12-14 months if I want to make it work. You see, I have a full time career but being me, I like to do more than one things. I love my work, no doubt about it but I also love to do many, many other things. I just need to find ways to work around my time for the next 3 things I want to do. One of the solution is to find something that cost little money and I can dress in my PJ. Ain't that cool?
Before I decide what to do, there're still heaps of research and studying to do. I like to be well prepared in everything I do. Call me a freak but I'm a perfectionist.
I wish I can pack my bag and go traveling. I tend to think better when I'm in a new surrounding and places. Unfortunately, this has not been a good year. I guess it's teh same with some of you out there. We'll just have to be strong and confident, yeah... When we hit bottom, it can just gets better after that, right?
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Minimum Price for Cigarette from 1 January 2010
Come January 1, 2010 the minimum price for a pack of 20s cigarette is RM6.40 and any promotion for cigarettes being prohibited. From the surface, this move looks good. However, I'm curious, why only on the 20s cigarette? For most teenagers, they usually buy 1 stick at a convenience store that cost around 50 cents. Most teenagers learn to smoke through friends and the easy access to buy 1 stick of cigarette is everywhere if you know where to find. There's a will, there's a way. Furthermore, I don't think a student will buy a pack of cigarette knowingly that they can't bring home or let their parents know they smoke.
Setting a minimum price may increase the price of a stick of cigarette but it will still be affordable for students and teenagers to buy it. In some cases, they will buy a stick to be share among themselves behind the school property.
For adults, setting a minimum price doesn't do anything to stop them from smoking. I'm very sure all smokers will whine about it for a few weeks but they will continue to buy their daily dose of cigarettes. Be it 14s or 20s, the minimum price doesn't make an impact. The poor will feel the impact and they will probably switch to another brand that cost RM6.40 for 20 stick.
Setting a minimum price may increase the price of a stick of cigarette but it will still be affordable for students and teenagers to buy it. In some cases, they will buy a stick to be share among themselves behind the school property.
For adults, setting a minimum price doesn't do anything to stop them from smoking. I'm very sure all smokers will whine about it for a few weeks but they will continue to buy their daily dose of cigarettes. Be it 14s or 20s, the minimum price doesn't make an impact. The poor will feel the impact and they will probably switch to another brand that cost RM6.40 for 20 stick.
Today my printer died!
After 5 years with HP officejet 7210, today my printer died! Well, it's y fault...I forgot to on the printer before I change the cartridge that it jammed the wire. The worse part is that it can't function with 1 functional catridge. That's not friendly, right? this means i have to fork out money to buy a new printer. I do a lot of printing and scanning so a all-in-one printer is important for me.
After researching the net, I shortlisted a few model to check further. They are OfficeJet 5600, OfficeJet 7300, Officejet 6500 wireless (I hope is available in Malaysia) and OfficeJet 7500. All models cost over One Thousand Ringgit. That's goes my bonus for this year.
I have a little bonus this year curtesy of my company and I appreciated it. Despite the bad economy and poor sales, my CEO still decided to gave staff who performance throughout 2009 a little bonus. It's not much but everyone was pleasantly surprised and overjoy about it. Looks like I have to re-plan my budget because a all-in-one is more important than a dining table. Yup, I still don't have a dining table in my house. Sad, right?
Recently, my best friend has been nagging me a lot for helping someone for free. According to him, this friend of mine is well established and doesn't need my help. He can just pay someone to do the work and I don't have to stay up helping him on top of my stressful workload. My best friend is more angry that I did for free when I don't have enough to survive till month end. I need all the extra cash and financial asisstance I could get at the moment. I know my best friend is right. I don't need to help him because he can just pay someone to do it. Unfortunately, I don't know how to say 'No' and I pity people too easily, forgeting that people are rich and I'm just a middle income person who's trying to stretch my salary till month end.
After researching the net, I shortlisted a few model to check further. They are OfficeJet 5600, OfficeJet 7300, Officejet 6500 wireless (I hope is available in Malaysia) and OfficeJet 7500. All models cost over One Thousand Ringgit. That's goes my bonus for this year.
I have a little bonus this year curtesy of my company and I appreciated it. Despite the bad economy and poor sales, my CEO still decided to gave staff who performance throughout 2009 a little bonus. It's not much but everyone was pleasantly surprised and overjoy about it. Looks like I have to re-plan my budget because a all-in-one is more important than a dining table. Yup, I still don't have a dining table in my house. Sad, right?
Recently, my best friend has been nagging me a lot for helping someone for free. According to him, this friend of mine is well established and doesn't need my help. He can just pay someone to do the work and I don't have to stay up helping him on top of my stressful workload. My best friend is more angry that I did for free when I don't have enough to survive till month end. I need all the extra cash and financial asisstance I could get at the moment. I know my best friend is right. I don't need to help him because he can just pay someone to do it. Unfortunately, I don't know how to say 'No' and I pity people too easily, forgeting that people are rich and I'm just a middle income person who's trying to stretch my salary till month end.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Day out at Mid Valley
Today I went to Mid Valley to do my Christmas shopping and surveying for a dining table and camera. I reached there at 11am and to my amazement, you can hardly see a square inch of floor. It was pack with people everywhere.
After taking early lunch, I headed to second floor to the furniture section and followed by the camera section. For the dining table, it turned out to be a dissapointment because the design and set available doesn't meet my requirement. I'm looking for something small, not for a big family.
The camera section was better. At least I found a reasonable price package for Canon 500D kit 2. I still have to look for the price in few shops before I make my decision. Of course, I have to save enough money too because it's just so expensive to buy a DSLR nowadays. Owning a DSLR feels like a luxurious item. That was the main reason I stop taking photos when I just started work. Time was really difficult back with the Asian economy crisis and the bubble burst. Even now, time is hard for most people. Luckily, in KL, we still see people spending money eating out. In a lot of countries, you hardly see people in a restaurant or a boutique or malls.
When I was about to go home, the crowd has trippled. The sad thing is that I saw 2 children lost their parents. There was a girl around 5 or 6 years old crying as she walk calling her mommy in the middle of a huge crowd. I saw someone was asking her something. A few minutes later, I saw a boy around 3 years old crying and feeling scared. At first I didn't noticed him because there were people everywhere. He just stood there and crying for his parents. There was a few young guys and one of them took the kid to the information counter. I didn't stay to see if both kids are safely with their parents as I was rushing for time. However, I would like to advise all parents out there, please don't let your kid walking alone when you're in a crowded place. Hold your kid's hand. Never walk in front of our kid and get carry away with your shopping that you lost your kid. I can't imagine how scared they must felt alone in the crowd. When children kidnapped or dissapeared, parents cried and plead on TV. Don't you think is too late? I hope the 2 parents realised this.
After taking early lunch, I headed to second floor to the furniture section and followed by the camera section. For the dining table, it turned out to be a dissapointment because the design and set available doesn't meet my requirement. I'm looking for something small, not for a big family.
The camera section was better. At least I found a reasonable price package for Canon 500D kit 2. I still have to look for the price in few shops before I make my decision. Of course, I have to save enough money too because it's just so expensive to buy a DSLR nowadays. Owning a DSLR feels like a luxurious item. That was the main reason I stop taking photos when I just started work. Time was really difficult back with the Asian economy crisis and the bubble burst. Even now, time is hard for most people. Luckily, in KL, we still see people spending money eating out. In a lot of countries, you hardly see people in a restaurant or a boutique or malls.
When I was about to go home, the crowd has trippled. The sad thing is that I saw 2 children lost their parents. There was a girl around 5 or 6 years old crying as she walk calling her mommy in the middle of a huge crowd. I saw someone was asking her something. A few minutes later, I saw a boy around 3 years old crying and feeling scared. At first I didn't noticed him because there were people everywhere. He just stood there and crying for his parents. There was a few young guys and one of them took the kid to the information counter. I didn't stay to see if both kids are safely with their parents as I was rushing for time. However, I would like to advise all parents out there, please don't let your kid walking alone when you're in a crowded place. Hold your kid's hand. Never walk in front of our kid and get carry away with your shopping that you lost your kid. I can't imagine how scared they must felt alone in the crowd. When children kidnapped or dissapeared, parents cried and plead on TV. Don't you think is too late? I hope the 2 parents realised this.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Chirstmas shopping at Isetan KLCC
This morning I make it a point to wake up early and get to Isetan KLCC by 10.30am. This is the last weekend before Christmas next Friday so I predict there will be large crowd after 12pm. I reached there around 10.20am and I headed straight to Isetan. Oh, before that, I made a quick stop to La-Senza to grab my things. La-Senza overseas have better choice than Malaysia but luckily their quality remains.
Anyway, after spending few minutes at La-Senza, I headed to the kids section in Isetan. There I browsed for toys for children. After 1 round of going through all the toys, I started over and pick the toys I wanted. Well, it's more like what the kids want. I bought a Ben 10 stationery set, Spiderman toy, Transformers watch and ultraman Gaia.
The section thar sells Lego is very dissapointing. I grew up with Lego and the Lego choice during my time was far more interesting the the ones on the shelves now. I have sets that build the whole village, house, small town etc. Now, all I see is just a pirate ship, space ship and few individual item. So boring. how do you get a kid to be creative and think outside the box if the legos only do specific model?
Well, after paying for the presents, I went to the wrapping section to get the toys wraped. Yeah, you may think I'm stingy but I won't want to spend RM2.50 for a wrapping paper that a child tear up in 5 seconds. I only buy wrapping papers for older kids and adults. I didn't manage to take a photo before it as wraped so I google the items.
Ben 10 Stationery set
Transformer watch. It can change covers...cool!
Ultraman Gaia. I can't find the actual toy in a box so this one will have to do. I can't find Spiderman toy. The one I bought quite unique because of the 'perspective' version.
My wish for Christmas present? A Canon 500D DSLR. Unfortunately, I think I have to buy this one myself...sad right? Nevermind, I can save enough money to get on by Q1 next year. I've seen some of my friends took such beautiful photos and I envy them. I took few photography class during uni days and yet, I don't take photos. This is so wasted, right? No more excuse of work taking me away from doing the things I love, my passion. There's 24 hours a day and I live for myself.
Anyway, after spending few minutes at La-Senza, I headed to the kids section in Isetan. There I browsed for toys for children. After 1 round of going through all the toys, I started over and pick the toys I wanted. Well, it's more like what the kids want. I bought a Ben 10 stationery set, Spiderman toy, Transformers watch and ultraman Gaia.
The section thar sells Lego is very dissapointing. I grew up with Lego and the Lego choice during my time was far more interesting the the ones on the shelves now. I have sets that build the whole village, house, small town etc. Now, all I see is just a pirate ship, space ship and few individual item. So boring. how do you get a kid to be creative and think outside the box if the legos only do specific model?
Well, after paying for the presents, I went to the wrapping section to get the toys wraped. Yeah, you may think I'm stingy but I won't want to spend RM2.50 for a wrapping paper that a child tear up in 5 seconds. I only buy wrapping papers for older kids and adults. I didn't manage to take a photo before it as wraped so I google the items.
Ben 10 Stationery set
Transformer watch. It can change covers...cool!
Ultraman Gaia. I can't find the actual toy in a box so this one will have to do. I can't find Spiderman toy. The one I bought quite unique because of the 'perspective' version.
My wish for Christmas present? A Canon 500D DSLR. Unfortunately, I think I have to buy this one myself...sad right? Nevermind, I can save enough money to get on by Q1 next year. I've seen some of my friends took such beautiful photos and I envy them. I took few photography class during uni days and yet, I don't take photos. This is so wasted, right? No more excuse of work taking me away from doing the things I love, my passion. There's 24 hours a day and I live for myself.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Lazy Friday
I woke up this morning with a bad sore throat and flu. I thought I was getting better yesterday. I was supposed to have swimming session this morning but I was too tired to get out off bed. My friend gave me a morning call and she was dissapointed that I couldn't join her and her sons for a swim. I think I have been skipping swimming a lot lately. It's not my fault, this year was a really bad year and I have a lot of planning and implementation to carry out with the hope that next year's sales will improve. By end of this year, my plans for Q1 will be completed. Next it chasing sales.
So, I think I'm glad that today and the rest of the next 2 Fridays are public holidays. I've made a stand that I won't be working during public holidays and weekends. Occationally, I have to work during holiday-ing in overseas. Sad, right? I've no choice becaue I have the responsibility to make sure my team have their salary on time and making sure that the company will survive in this competiting world.
Since I woke up, I managed to clean my house, mop the floor, took out the trash, dusting and do some banking. Not a bad morning. Now, I'm surfing to find ideas for Chirstmas presents for love ones and friends. I'm not the type who will just buy anything to 'fill-the-blank' for a friend's present. I take into account what they like and buy something that suit them. It may not be expensive, but I take time t find a suitable present for each of my friends and love ones.
Luckily, I have my bonus this year and salary is early, due to Christmas season. Last year I missed my bonus because I resigned from my previous company so this year is a true joy to know that my boss gave everyone a bonus. All my team members have contribute a lot for the company and it's not easy to work for an start-up.
Well, I better continue looking for ideas so I can go shopping tomorrow. Next Friday is Chirstmas so everything must be ready this weekend. Do you know what to get for someone who has everything?
So, I think I'm glad that today and the rest of the next 2 Fridays are public holidays. I've made a stand that I won't be working during public holidays and weekends. Occationally, I have to work during holiday-ing in overseas. Sad, right? I've no choice becaue I have the responsibility to make sure my team have their salary on time and making sure that the company will survive in this competiting world.
Since I woke up, I managed to clean my house, mop the floor, took out the trash, dusting and do some banking. Not a bad morning. Now, I'm surfing to find ideas for Chirstmas presents for love ones and friends. I'm not the type who will just buy anything to 'fill-the-blank' for a friend's present. I take into account what they like and buy something that suit them. It may not be expensive, but I take time t find a suitable present for each of my friends and love ones.
Luckily, I have my bonus this year and salary is early, due to Christmas season. Last year I missed my bonus because I resigned from my previous company so this year is a true joy to know that my boss gave everyone a bonus. All my team members have contribute a lot for the company and it's not easy to work for an start-up.
Well, I better continue looking for ideas so I can go shopping tomorrow. Next Friday is Chirstmas so everything must be ready this weekend. Do you know what to get for someone who has everything?
Thursday, December 17, 2009
New Life in town
Yesterday my close friend became a proud father of his second son. He was at the clinic the night before when his wife suddenly felt pain on their way home from work. Being the macho man himself, I assumed he calmly sent his wife to the clinic in preparation for delivery.
He was there the whole night waiting for the big moment. Mind you, he was having flu at the time and was supposed to be on medical leave that day. I received an early sms that woke me around 6 something in the morning. He informed me that he's at the hospital. From that sms I knew his wife was about to deliver.
I called him when I reached office to see how things and to check if he panic. I know, this is so devilish of me, right? Well, he sounded alright but said that the baby might only come out around noon time. I teased him to futher check his feeling at the moment, unfortunately, he sound in control and cool about it. Like a pro.
At around 10 something, I received a call from him saying that his son was savely delivered. He sounded so happy and I can even hear the 'joy' in his voice. Congratulations, my friend. An hour later, he sms me his new born and he's the cutest baby I've seen. Well, all babies are cute, aren't they? His son has full hair, very hair and a rosy colour lips. He's opening his eyes and my goodness, he has a big eyes. I bet he's going to grow up having a lot of female admirers, just like his brother. Let see if the second son has a preference in Chinese girl...
He was there the whole night waiting for the big moment. Mind you, he was having flu at the time and was supposed to be on medical leave that day. I received an early sms that woke me around 6 something in the morning. He informed me that he's at the hospital. From that sms I knew his wife was about to deliver.
I called him when I reached office to see how things and to check if he panic. I know, this is so devilish of me, right? Well, he sounded alright but said that the baby might only come out around noon time. I teased him to futher check his feeling at the moment, unfortunately, he sound in control and cool about it. Like a pro.
At around 10 something, I received a call from him saying that his son was savely delivered. He sounded so happy and I can even hear the 'joy' in his voice. Congratulations, my friend. An hour later, he sms me his new born and he's the cutest baby I've seen. Well, all babies are cute, aren't they? His son has full hair, very hair and a rosy colour lips. He's opening his eyes and my goodness, he has a big eyes. I bet he's going to grow up having a lot of female admirers, just like his brother. Let see if the second son has a preference in Chinese girl...
Monday, December 14, 2009
Migraine is back again
For the past 1 month, my migraine has came back to torture me again. It always happen middle of the night when I was half way sleeping. whenever my migraine attacks, I would woke up and the pain is just unbearable. I have to take my high dose pills and suffer the pain for at least 1 to 1.5 hours before it goes away. Sometimes it took me more than 8 hours so you guess it right, I have to take more pills. I wish I can swallow more than the max required pills so my pain can go away but I have to remember the dose allow. So, I'll just have to bear the pain. It always fill like my head is about to explode...
My friend said I overwork and I think too much work. He's not happy when I help my friend free of charge. Somehow it makes me fill guilty because he means the world to me and I don't want to go against his advice. I know he just want me to rest and sometimes it's very difficult for me to turn down a helping hand...although it may be people using me...using my brain to be exact.
As I'm writing this entry, I'm suffering from migraine.
My friend said I overwork and I think too much work. He's not happy when I help my friend free of charge. Somehow it makes me fill guilty because he means the world to me and I don't want to go against his advice. I know he just want me to rest and sometimes it's very difficult for me to turn down a helping hand...although it may be people using me...using my brain to be exact.
As I'm writing this entry, I'm suffering from migraine.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Glenn Fredly - Januari
One of my favourite songs that I haven't listen to in a long time... It brings back memories :)
Madu Tiga - Old and New Version
This one is a new version by Ahmad Dhani from Dewa. The thing I like is that he keeps the originality and spice up the song to 2009.
This is the original version my late P. Ramlee.
This is the original version my late P. Ramlee.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Financial problem breaks a family
Having money problem can break a happy marriage and cause the family to lost their love and patience. Money is important but I believe when we have financial problem, we should help and support each other, not pointing fingers and blaming each other. Isn't that what love is all about?
Is it true that the love for each other not strong enough to withstand the financial difficulty and brave through it together with a little bit more of patience and caring? I always believe that one should support our other half to weather any problems. Quarreling and pointing fingers won't solve the situation but worsen the situation. When love one is already stress and worry trying to make end meets one should stand by him and give him moral support.
Giving him encouragement and positive support, not only help him calm down but gives him the confidence and strength to go on, not giving up. Yes, there will be financial sacrifices but isn't love for each other stronger than luxury life and the bling-bling? Yes, your friends, family, neighbours and colleagues will turn their back on you but isn't love from you other half more important?
Loving someone is more than just honeymoon and the lovvy dovvy words, presents and a dream life. Loving someone is about adaptation, moral support, sacrifices, believe and standby him through good and bad times. Let's not pick at small things shall we...
Is it true that the love for each other not strong enough to withstand the financial difficulty and brave through it together with a little bit more of patience and caring? I always believe that one should support our other half to weather any problems. Quarreling and pointing fingers won't solve the situation but worsen the situation. When love one is already stress and worry trying to make end meets one should stand by him and give him moral support.
Giving him encouragement and positive support, not only help him calm down but gives him the confidence and strength to go on, not giving up. Yes, there will be financial sacrifices but isn't love for each other stronger than luxury life and the bling-bling? Yes, your friends, family, neighbours and colleagues will turn their back on you but isn't love from you other half more important?
Loving someone is more than just honeymoon and the lovvy dovvy words, presents and a dream life. Loving someone is about adaptation, moral support, sacrifices, believe and standby him through good and bad times. Let's not pick at small things shall we...
Friday, November 20, 2009
Yiruma - Piano Performance
A good friend of mine recommended a new age piano player from Korea, Yiruma, recently and since then I've fallen in love with his beautiful melodies. Every notes touches listeners.
Yiruma - River Flows In You (this is my favourite)
Yiruma - Kiss The Rain
Yiruma - Maybe
Yiruma - Dreams
Yiruma - Love me
Yiruma - River Flows In You (this is my favourite)
Yiruma - Kiss The Rain
Yiruma - Maybe
Yiruma - Dreams
Yiruma - Love me
Saturday, November 14, 2009
New Samsung Series 5 LCD
Birthday present this year is a new Samsung Series 5 LCD TV, 40inch (LA40B530) to be exact. I did a little research and here what's I found.
The Samsung Series 5 LCD models are available in five different sizes, the smallest 32-inch LN32A550, 37-inch LN37A550, 40-inch LN40A550, 46-inch LN46A550 and the largest 52-inch LN52A550 model. They all feature a 1080p (1920×1080 pixel) LCD screen which offers the highest HD format available. The LCD screen used is Samsung’s Super Patterned Vertical Alignment (SPVA) LCD panel which provides a superior image quality along with a high 178 degree viewing angle.
Down-firing stereo speakers are specially designed to increase audio quality, and are hidden from the stylish looking frame. The Samsung Series 5 LCDs also feature touch sensitive manual controls, eliminating any side buttons. There are three HDMI inputs, including one which is side mounted along with a USB 2.0 port.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
In a creative mood
After working for people so many years, I finally take some time to think about my own future. So far, it involves design and arts because that's my passion. Seeing my friends working in this industry makes me think twice whether I should focus back to arts and design.
I'm now brushing up my design skills, since I've stopped design anything for the past 8 years. Learning the tools and tips help me to relax after a hard day work in the office. I'm still in the industry but nothing beat the hands-on experience and able to produce an artwork. My personal tutoring starts this weekend.
Seems like I'm having a busy weekends recently. No time to relax and read my books. I still have around RM500 to spend on books before 31 December for my income tax purpose. It's better to spend it than pay tax to government.
I'm now brushing up my design skills, since I've stopped design anything for the past 8 years. Learning the tools and tips help me to relax after a hard day work in the office. I'm still in the industry but nothing beat the hands-on experience and able to produce an artwork. My personal tutoring starts this weekend.
Seems like I'm having a busy weekends recently. No time to relax and read my books. I still have around RM500 to spend on books before 31 December for my income tax purpose. It's better to spend it than pay tax to government.
Updating my recipe
I finally updated my favourite recipes on my EZ Epicure blog after letting it idle for almost a year. I haven't the time to arrange it or take photos of the food so for now, the recipe will do. This are the list I found on the internet and tried it.
Since I don't have much time, I go for recipes that's under 30 minutes t prepare and cook. I will probably updating more when I'm on leaves later of the month. This year end and I have to clear my balance leaves. Better do something useful because I don't have budget to travel.
Today my colleagues were busy booking free ticket from airasia's free seat promo.
Since I don't have much time, I go for recipes that's under 30 minutes t prepare and cook. I will probably updating more when I'm on leaves later of the month. This year end and I have to clear my balance leaves. Better do something useful because I don't have budget to travel.
Today my colleagues were busy booking free ticket from airasia's free seat promo.
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Swimming Lessons
After 10 years, I finally learn swimming again today. Had my first lesson this morning together with my friend's sons. I used to take lesson many years ago but I stopped half way because I don't like the teaching style and there're too many people in a class.
When my friend suggested that she wants to get her sons into swimming lesson last month, I jump to the idea because I always wanted to learn how to swim properly aka in the pool. My dad is an excellent diver and I hope someday I can go diving with him. I learned breathing technique and flooting. As usual, I panic easily and lost my confident so I forgot that I can actually standup when I slip. Seeing this, my instructor teach me how to floot when I lost my steps but advise me not to do it when I'm alone. At least I can breath and floot so I'm going to practise again for the next few days before my next lesson.
For 10 lessons, it costs RM150 and I think that's a real good bargain. I get good exercise for 2 hours and the only down side is I have sun-tan because I forgot to apply sun block lotion.
When my friend suggested that she wants to get her sons into swimming lesson last month, I jump to the idea because I always wanted to learn how to swim properly aka in the pool. My dad is an excellent diver and I hope someday I can go diving with him. I learned breathing technique and flooting. As usual, I panic easily and lost my confident so I forgot that I can actually standup when I slip. Seeing this, my instructor teach me how to floot when I lost my steps but advise me not to do it when I'm alone. At least I can breath and floot so I'm going to practise again for the next few days before my next lesson.
For 10 lessons, it costs RM150 and I think that's a real good bargain. I get good exercise for 2 hours and the only down side is I have sun-tan because I forgot to apply sun block lotion.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Learning Automotive
When my boss wants to launch an automotive vertical by end of this year, I was cracking my head. I am clueless about automotive because I've never got to know much about auto let alone understand its terminology and jargons.
Like it or not, I started to browse through auto magazines and watch videos from youtube. I've started to research anything I could think of related automotives. Then, I finally came up with a sitemap and sections for the contents. Somehow, I feel that I'm on a fell mission because the site is due to launch early December. There are still a lot to do and my staff are already over-pack with what they have now. Furthermore, automotive is not their forte and interest. I guess I have to take on automotive write up until I can find someone to manage the vertical content.
Luckily, one of my staff offers to find some top 20-40 titles for automotive write up. The news puts a smile on my face because with the titles, I can focus my research and prepare the write-ups. Hurry! I'll have to follow up with him so I can have more time to prepare the write-ups.
Like it or not, I started to browse through auto magazines and watch videos from youtube. I've started to research anything I could think of related automotives. Then, I finally came up with a sitemap and sections for the contents. Somehow, I feel that I'm on a fell mission because the site is due to launch early December. There are still a lot to do and my staff are already over-pack with what they have now. Furthermore, automotive is not their forte and interest. I guess I have to take on automotive write up until I can find someone to manage the vertical content.
Luckily, one of my staff offers to find some top 20-40 titles for automotive write up. The news puts a smile on my face because with the titles, I can focus my research and prepare the write-ups. Hurry! I'll have to follow up with him so I can have more time to prepare the write-ups.
The Difference between RON92, RON95, RON97, RON99 and NGV
This is my attempt to write my first blog related to automotive. Let's talk about the available fuels in Malaysia, shall we?
What is RON?
Well, RON means Research Octane Number and it refers to the ability of gasoline to auto burn or ignition inside the engine. Higher octane number refers to higher ability of the oil to fight auto ignition. Simply say, RON97 is harder to burn compared to RON95 and RON95 is harder to burn compared to RON92.
Higher octane number oil is basically designed for higher performance cars such as sport cars and racing cars. This is to avoid premature burning of oil inside the engine due to the auto ignition, which happens before the spark plug ignite the fuel. This phenomenon is known as Knocking (ignition).
Knocking is reduces the performance of vehicle. The right usage of octane number based on design and adjustment of engine will maximise the performance and effectiveness of the vehicle. Modern vehicles are equipped with knock sensor which enables it to adjust its combustion timing automatically according to the oil octane number to avoid knocking or premature ignition of oil.
A lot of people believed that RON92 petrol is the older oil and it is only suitable for older cars. Believe it or not, not all vehicles require high octane number petrol. You can check your vehicle fuel requirement inside the guide book of your vehicle or you can simply check the minimum octane rating at the back of the fuel lid cover of your vehicle. Most cars can still use RON92. As comparison, RON92 petrol is less powerful than RON95 and RON97. However, higher RON number does not means that it is more powerful. It means that it is harder to ignite. Besides that, it will cost you more for the fuel.
What is NGV?
NGV stands for Natural Gas Vehicle. NGV is a vehicle which runs on natural gas, a fuel which burns much more cleanly than gasoline. Natural gas can power existing cars, buses or trucks by converting the engines to a bi-fuel capability. To convert vehicles to natural gas requires installing a tank, fuel pressure regulators, and fuel lines. Most systems incorporate an electronic module which adjusts the engine to maintain comparable performance levels with either fuel. Fueling the NGV is a bit more complicated than fueling a conventional car. Drivers need to find a natural gas fueling station. NGV is supported by the government of Malaysia with incentives and legislation to encourage vehicles owner to use NGV.
What is RON?
Well, RON means Research Octane Number and it refers to the ability of gasoline to auto burn or ignition inside the engine. Higher octane number refers to higher ability of the oil to fight auto ignition. Simply say, RON97 is harder to burn compared to RON95 and RON95 is harder to burn compared to RON92.
Higher octane number oil is basically designed for higher performance cars such as sport cars and racing cars. This is to avoid premature burning of oil inside the engine due to the auto ignition, which happens before the spark plug ignite the fuel. This phenomenon is known as Knocking (ignition).
Knocking is reduces the performance of vehicle. The right usage of octane number based on design and adjustment of engine will maximise the performance and effectiveness of the vehicle. Modern vehicles are equipped with knock sensor which enables it to adjust its combustion timing automatically according to the oil octane number to avoid knocking or premature ignition of oil.
A lot of people believed that RON92 petrol is the older oil and it is only suitable for older cars. Believe it or not, not all vehicles require high octane number petrol. You can check your vehicle fuel requirement inside the guide book of your vehicle or you can simply check the minimum octane rating at the back of the fuel lid cover of your vehicle. Most cars can still use RON92. As comparison, RON92 petrol is less powerful than RON95 and RON97. However, higher RON number does not means that it is more powerful. It means that it is harder to ignite. Besides that, it will cost you more for the fuel.
What is NGV?
NGV stands for Natural Gas Vehicle. NGV is a vehicle which runs on natural gas, a fuel which burns much more cleanly than gasoline. Natural gas can power existing cars, buses or trucks by converting the engines to a bi-fuel capability. To convert vehicles to natural gas requires installing a tank, fuel pressure regulators, and fuel lines. Most systems incorporate an electronic module which adjusts the engine to maintain comparable performance levels with either fuel. Fueling the NGV is a bit more complicated than fueling a conventional car. Drivers need to find a natural gas fueling station. NGV is supported by the government of Malaysia with incentives and legislation to encourage vehicles owner to use NGV.
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Status change
When I announced my status change yesterday on my facebook, I didn't except so many response which makes me blush. Yup, somehow I'm not comfortable with all the attention and I somehow wish I can click 'undo'.
I'm a very private person and it took me a long time before I actually change my status. I don't see the need for it because you're either single or married. Isn't that simpler? In facebook, it has 'it's complicated' and luckily I didn't pick that one or else I'm sure I'll get more questions from my friends. My friends mean well and their well wishes is for my happiness. However, I'm sceptial about happily ever after and I have strong reason for it.
I found my soul-mate recently but to find someone whom I can fall in love is not easy. So I guess my status change is a huge step. All the congratulations from friends make me feel a bit weird because people say congratulations when someone is getting married, right? I'm only change my status from 'single' to 'in a relationship'. Now, everyone wants to know who's the lucky guy because I have turn down many of them. There was one or two who never got over. I'm sorry if I have hurt anyone's feeling but I was once rejected, therefore, trust, open minded and honesty are the key. Someone asked me, "why I'm still single and didn't accept a man's love?" I reply, "I only choose the best and I can't commit if I don't have the same feeling."
I'm a very private person and it took me a long time before I actually change my status. I don't see the need for it because you're either single or married. Isn't that simpler? In facebook, it has 'it's complicated' and luckily I didn't pick that one or else I'm sure I'll get more questions from my friends. My friends mean well and their well wishes is for my happiness. However, I'm sceptial about happily ever after and I have strong reason for it.
I found my soul-mate recently but to find someone whom I can fall in love is not easy. So I guess my status change is a huge step. All the congratulations from friends make me feel a bit weird because people say congratulations when someone is getting married, right? I'm only change my status from 'single' to 'in a relationship'. Now, everyone wants to know who's the lucky guy because I have turn down many of them. There was one or two who never got over. I'm sorry if I have hurt anyone's feeling but I was once rejected, therefore, trust, open minded and honesty are the key. Someone asked me, "why I'm still single and didn't accept a man's love?" I reply, "I only choose the best and I can't commit if I don't have the same feeling."
Making Love Out Of Nothing At All
3 Versions of the same song. Alli, pick your choice :-)
Bonnie Tyler Version
Air Supply Version
Carrie Underwood Version
Bonnie Tyler Version
Air Supply Version
Carrie Underwood Version
Monday, November 02, 2009
What my zodiac says about me?
I never read about my horoscope before and I still remember my friends will flip through the newspaper to read about their daily horoscope. I always believe that I control my destiny and actions. So I finally take the time today to look what the web said about my zodiac, Scorpio.
The Scorpion is one intense little creature, with enough poison in its own tail to disable or kill a much larger opponent. But the problem with this kind of built-in biological weaponry is that it must be mastered in order to be used most effectively. You Scorpios can use your "stinger" for self-defense, using your powerful emotional awareness to render your opponent harmless. But there is a sexual component of poisonous tail also, and until Scorpio learns to control those strong urges, Scorpio may find yourself in uncomfortable situations.
Really? so I can 'kill'? I like the sexual part but have no clue what it means :-(
Scorpio is the only sign that has three animal totems. First, there is the well-known Scorpion with its active tail. Second, as the Scorpio learns to master its passion and hold its instincts at bay, it changes into the Eagle. The Eagle has more perspective, for it flies high above the surface of circumstances, swooping down with its power only to kill prey for food. In its third form, the Scorpion becomes the always-peaceful dove. The real meaning of Scorpio is thus shown. Scorpio is about metamorphosis. Scorpios transform the painful poisons of possessive passion into a higher consciousness based on universal love.
Is this what happen to me? got to check with my mate. I think I'm Eagle but I prefer Scorpian so I can sting people...hahaha..
The Scorpio motto might be "What is hidden is more interesting than what is obvious." You are the detectives of the zodiac. Your magnetic personality draws others to you. But you can also be secretive yourself, for you learn early on that when you express everything, others may be scared by the power of your feelings. You desperately want to have someone to merge with your feelings, but can become cold and withdrawn when hurt in love. You have the magic to light up the dark, but sometimes you would benefit by looking at the positive side of things rather than going into the darkness at all.
hmmm...this part is true. Is that the reason I keep attracting unwanted people? Secretive, yes, I keep everyone secrets..that's why people comes to me with their problems. Hurt and darkness? only you can tell. What's your verdict?
Element: Water
Astrologically, the water element symbolizes emotion. Water runs deep; it seeks its own level and will flow until it has found it. The cycle of water is endless with the snows falling in the mountains and melting. The mountain streams join to make the great rivers that run to the sea. The tides and currents churn the oceans. Similarly, our feelings are flowing as they connect the present with past experiences. Sometimes the waters are so deep that we cannot put words to our feelings.
The water of Scorpio is fixed and frozen, but it is a mistake to think that ice doesn't flow. It does flow -- and with great power. Think of a glacier, moving so very slowly, yet with enough power to flatten a forest or even a mountain.
This is too symbolic for my crowded brain...
Eighth House: Transformation
Since the Second House is the House of Possessions, the Eighth House opposite it, is about what other people have. This can include sexual issues, for they usually involve another person. It is also about the ultimate transformation -- death -- but not necessarily your own. It could be said that the Eighth House is what we don't know and what we cannot understand. It is surely a House of Hidden Power.
What is Eighth House? House of Hidden Power???
Key Planet: Pluto
Pluto is the Lord of the Underworld. If this sounds scary, it demands a bit more explanation, for Pluto symbolizes everything that is beneath our consciousness. This isn't about the Hell where we are punished. Rather, it is the Hell that William Blake describes as a place "so beautiful that it would torment an angel to insanity." As the key planet for Scorpio, Pluto is intense and powerful, representing those things that we don't or can't understand. And it is from these hidden Plutonic spaces that magical transformations arise.
I don't know what it means but I like the sound of it
Scorpio Greatest Strength: Your passion about your feelings
I'm a strong believer that people should just express and tell what's on their mind. Coz I'm not a mind reader and neither do my friends. Straight forward the best policy as long as I don't hurt anyone's deep feelings
Scorpio Possible Weakness: Need for secrecy can be isolating
Isolating? Is it a crime to need my own personal and alone time?
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Does Every House has Plasma TV Now?
Today when my friend came over my place, she asked me why I don't have a plasma TV and still using my flat screen 'tube' TV. I got my TV at an outlet store when the brand was having sales on their display unit about 4 years ago. The condition is still very good with the occationally un-functional remote control. What do you expect for a $300 new TV. Other than that, the sound is good and that's all I need.
I'd love to have one of those Full HD plasma TV and it's going to cost me a few thousands and a hole in my pocket. I will eventually get one with home theatre system soon. My friend found a good price at $2500, that plasma TV with home theatre system. The only thing that delaying my decision is the money involved. $2500 is not cheap for a person with mingle salary like mine. This is one of those time where "work for passion and not for money" doesn't benefits me. Let's face it, I'm just average income earner based on the recent announcement of urban provery at RM3000. My scale is slightly over that.
Plasma TV, you'll have to wait a bit longer, ya...
I'd love to have one of those Full HD plasma TV and it's going to cost me a few thousands and a hole in my pocket. I will eventually get one with home theatre system soon. My friend found a good price at $2500, that plasma TV with home theatre system. The only thing that delaying my decision is the money involved. $2500 is not cheap for a person with mingle salary like mine. This is one of those time where "work for passion and not for money" doesn't benefits me. Let's face it, I'm just average income earner based on the recent announcement of urban provery at RM3000. My scale is slightly over that.
Plasma TV, you'll have to wait a bit longer, ya...
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Baskin Robbins 31% Discount Today
Today is the day again. Baskin Robbin is having 31% discount on all its ice cream. Just yesterday that I blog about losing weigh and yet today I'm planning to buy 1 pint of my favourite ice cream. Mind you, this only happens every 2 months excluding Febuary.
I've even plan what flavour I wants to buy so I don't have to ask the staff later. It's going to be a long queue but luckily the service is good. Staff there is friendly and polite. They are patience with all the questions from customers asking about the flavours or waiting for indecisive customers making up their mind. That's so us, right? We go to a food outlet, then stare at the menu but don't know what we want. We only plan and start thinking there and then, not taking care of people waiting in queue behind you. Anyway, that's for another blog entry.
My choice of ice cream is below. Jamoca Almond Fudge and Pralines N Cream :-)
Friday, October 30, 2009
Loosing weigh
I read somewhere recently about obesity in Malaysia. The number of overweight and obese children has reached epidemic levels in developed and newly industrialised countries such as US, UK and countries in EU. Obesity and weighproblem has started in developing countries including Malaysia.
Malaysia has undergone a transition from under-nutrition to relative over-nutrition within a period of 30 years. For example, from the early 1990s to 2000, the reported incidence of underweight Malaysian children has dropped from 55% to 14.4% while the number of overweight children has increased from approximately 4% to 9.8%, with at least 7.3% of cases from the city of Kuala Lumpur.
Today, within a few minutes walking on the street, you can easily find 10 people who are either over weigh or obese. I noticed this situation today. Once was when I was in Kuala Lumpur Sentral station area. I counted 10 over weigh people in less than 5 minutes. Just now, when I went to the night market or 'pasar malam' I counted more than 20 over weigh people. This is truely alarming. I watch the advice from health ministry in TVC and never realised how serious the situation until today.
Even I am already over weigh and in the process of loosing weigh for my health. With all the work stress, unhealthy eating lifestyle, late night munches and dinner taken an effects on my health. I tired easily and less active. So I decided to do something about it since about a month ago. I have a target and I'm going to stick to it before I become fat and obese.
Malaysia has undergone a transition from under-nutrition to relative over-nutrition within a period of 30 years. For example, from the early 1990s to 2000, the reported incidence of underweight Malaysian children has dropped from 55% to 14.4% while the number of overweight children has increased from approximately 4% to 9.8%, with at least 7.3% of cases from the city of Kuala Lumpur.
Today, within a few minutes walking on the street, you can easily find 10 people who are either over weigh or obese. I noticed this situation today. Once was when I was in Kuala Lumpur Sentral station area. I counted 10 over weigh people in less than 5 minutes. Just now, when I went to the night market or 'pasar malam' I counted more than 20 over weigh people. This is truely alarming. I watch the advice from health ministry in TVC and never realised how serious the situation until today.
Even I am already over weigh and in the process of loosing weigh for my health. With all the work stress, unhealthy eating lifestyle, late night munches and dinner taken an effects on my health. I tired easily and less active. So I decided to do something about it since about a month ago. I have a target and I'm going to stick to it before I become fat and obese.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Sometimes your words is killing me
Have you ever felt that your friends are taking you for granted? It normally happened after the 2 of you know each other for many years. Unconciously, we started to expect our friends to 'don't mind' whatever we said. Sometimes, we tend to say hurtful words but don't feel sorry about it because we think our friends know and understand us.
We started to ignore our friends' feeling and except them to understand and support us unconditionally. This is not fair for them because everyone has feeling. Although we know each other for more than 5 years, I always believe that we should respect and cherish one another feeling. There must be a balance. There should be give-and-take between us but not taking each other fo granted. Hurtful words will drive away your friendship. Don't blame others when one day you wake up and found that your only friend is your family. For I believe we should have friends other than family because there are things we can't discuss with our family.
We started to ignore our friends' feeling and except them to understand and support us unconditionally. This is not fair for them because everyone has feeling. Although we know each other for more than 5 years, I always believe that we should respect and cherish one another feeling. There must be a balance. There should be give-and-take between us but not taking each other fo granted. Hurtful words will drive away your friendship. Don't blame others when one day you wake up and found that your only friend is your family. For I believe we should have friends other than family because there are things we can't discuss with our family.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Single stream schools good for unity
I read with interest an news article from The Star paper today where our government is told to restructure the current education system to achieve racial unity through single stream schools. I hope our government will think of this seriously and not just "panas panas tahi ayam" becauce everyone can see that our racial unity is deterioting now. It's no longer the same when we were younger and even not the same as our parents time. For once, I see from the news that BN, PAS, DAP are agreeing on this matter. We should walk te talk before the new generations lost th meaning of racial harmony and one day we find that our children only have friends from single race. Have you seen your friend list in facebook? Are they single race majority? I know mine's not and I tend to keep it that way.
Young and Old...is it that important?
Today my friend told me he's not young anymore. I offered him my drink which I can't finish and don't want it to go wasted but he reply saying, "tak mau r..pening campur2 air..im not tat young anymore" "dah tua...". He's younger than me and yet this is the response and of course I was surprise. Maybe some people 'grow' old earlier than others.
I find that happened more for those who already married. They may be younger than me but they 'feel' old. Could it due to the family burden they carry? having to take care of wife or husband and children? Some even have to take care of their in-laws whom live in the same house. Married life has more responsibilities and commitment. You are no longer having your personal space or personal time. I don't mean people should get married. I always believe in marriage if I found the right man but I've never dream or visualise how a ideal marriage life would be. I think is crazy to do that because marriage involve a lot of sacrifices, tolerance, communication and heaps of love and all the smoochy that go alone with it. I feel that, we should stay 'young' in marriage life. Feeling old will make life boring and uninteresting. Don't you think so?
I find that happened more for those who already married. They may be younger than me but they 'feel' old. Could it due to the family burden they carry? having to take care of wife or husband and children? Some even have to take care of their in-laws whom live in the same house. Married life has more responsibilities and commitment. You are no longer having your personal space or personal time. I don't mean people should get married. I always believe in marriage if I found the right man but I've never dream or visualise how a ideal marriage life would be. I think is crazy to do that because marriage involve a lot of sacrifices, tolerance, communication and heaps of love and all the smoochy that go alone with it. I feel that, we should stay 'young' in marriage life. Feeling old will make life boring and uninteresting. Don't you think so?
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Clearing Annual Leaves
It's that time of the year again. I have to clear my annual leaves balance by 31st December 2009. with 18 days of annual leaves, it can be a blessing or not. For an employee, the more annual leaves the better because I get to stay home or go holiday more every year. However, it's not so good if I have problem taking leaves during the 3 quarters of the year. Every time I plan to take leaves, something urgent pops up or a new dateline for a new project just around the corner.
I still have a balance of 11 days to clear within November and December. I know I'm going for a year end holiday in December, that's 5 days off the balance and I still have 6 days. For most people, this will be easy to plan, unfortunatey that's not the case for me. Each time I want to take leaves besides going holiday, I have to state th reason for my CEO to approve. I can't put going holiday everytime, specially in this economy weather.
This year my birthday falls on a Sunday so there's no reason for me to take leaves. Should I put rest at home or go window shopping? Maybe I should put clear my leaves balance, this will tick off my boss, I think. i should allocate some days to visit my grandma. I miss her very, very, much and I miss her sweet and sour fish.
I still have a balance of 11 days to clear within November and December. I know I'm going for a year end holiday in December, that's 5 days off the balance and I still have 6 days. For most people, this will be easy to plan, unfortunatey that's not the case for me. Each time I want to take leaves besides going holiday, I have to state th reason for my CEO to approve. I can't put going holiday everytime, specially in this economy weather.
This year my birthday falls on a Sunday so there's no reason for me to take leaves. Should I put rest at home or go window shopping? Maybe I should put clear my leaves balance, this will tick off my boss, I think. i should allocate some days to visit my grandma. I miss her very, very, much and I miss her sweet and sour fish.
Then and Now
Since a month ago, I found quite a numbers of my mates back from university days. Those were the good old days where none of us have any problem but have fun and laugh all the way till final year. Well, we do have our classes and assignments to complete but life was a like ABC. Life was easy and no worries. We owe each others money because we had no money and the cost of buying art equipments were expensive, even during our times. I wonder how the students today cope with the ever more expensive price. Anyway, we were living off each others pocket money and allowances. We share what we had with each other, of course of overdo it so the rest of us stay away when it came to money with the leech. No matter how terrible the person, we were one big-happy-jovial-naughty-crazy-laud-family. And we loved it!
11 years have passed and everyone achieved something in their lives. Most are married with few kids and a stable career. Some success in business, some doing their PhDs, some teaching, some working for GLC, some work in corporate but everyone is happy to found each other.
Recently, there was a gathering but unfortunately I was unable to attend. Timing not right as I just came back from a trip. when I saw the photos published on facebook, everyone looks different now. Older and wiser... Looking back at the photos some of my mates uploaded on facebook, we have grown up. Some of my cute lecturers are going bold and grown spare tyre on their belly. Funny, right?
One of my mates has task himself to locate all the lost 'souls' so we can have a proper gathering for class 1998. How times flies. From a carefree young adults with no worries to parents or career people with a lot of responsibilities and burdens to shoulder. We now have to provide for our families, manage the staff, manage our bosses expectation and more. Life is no longer fun-cherry-happy-go-lucky anymore. Finding each other and able to share the sweet and crazy memories bring some joy and motivations into our lives. We somehow look for each other more of a moral support and encouragement. This put a little smile back to everyone face. I know I have and I have started to design again. My business desire lighted up again. How I wish this could last forever. Will it? Only times will tell...
11 years have passed and everyone achieved something in their lives. Most are married with few kids and a stable career. Some success in business, some doing their PhDs, some teaching, some working for GLC, some work in corporate but everyone is happy to found each other.
Recently, there was a gathering but unfortunately I was unable to attend. Timing not right as I just came back from a trip. when I saw the photos published on facebook, everyone looks different now. Older and wiser... Looking back at the photos some of my mates uploaded on facebook, we have grown up. Some of my cute lecturers are going bold and grown spare tyre on their belly. Funny, right?
One of my mates has task himself to locate all the lost 'souls' so we can have a proper gathering for class 1998. How times flies. From a carefree young adults with no worries to parents or career people with a lot of responsibilities and burdens to shoulder. We now have to provide for our families, manage the staff, manage our bosses expectation and more. Life is no longer fun-cherry-happy-go-lucky anymore. Finding each other and able to share the sweet and crazy memories bring some joy and motivations into our lives. We somehow look for each other more of a moral support and encouragement. This put a little smile back to everyone face. I know I have and I have started to design again. My business desire lighted up again. How I wish this could last forever. Will it? Only times will tell...
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
My Paper Heart - The All American Rejects
I love the way PON & ZI COMICS did! this is so cool! For Azuzephre's collection, check out http://www.ponandzi.com/
Thursday, October 01, 2009
I'm so proud of my friend!
This is my friend who's presenting Cake Lapis as his 2nd solo exhibition, introducing Malaysia's uniqueness to the world! It's actually a real cake. Cake Lapis, specialty of Sarawak, Malaysia. Yeah!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
My first Chicken Curry
My very first chicken curry. Although it looks a bit horrible, but it taste similar. Not bad for my first attempt. At least I didn't burn it or ended up throwing into the bin.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Frist Time, Second Time, Third Time
First time a man break your heart, it's his fault. Second time a man break your heart, it's your fault. Third time a man break your heart, you're an idiot! At this age and time, I'm still naively believe I could find a man who won't break my heart. Yea, it's the second time and I have myself to blame. There's no such thing of pure heart. There's no such thing as honest heart. The first time a man break my heart, it's was the painfullest feeling I have ever felt and I promise myself there won't be a second time. I would lock my heart in prison and keep it deep and secure inside so no one can find it. That's my motto for many years and it works. No feeling, no heart involved, it was great.
Then came one day I decided to take a risk. Maybe this time will be different, I don't know how the ending would be but I'm GOING TO give it a try! How stupid is that? For a while I lost it. I guess it's because my heart has been lock away for so many years that it's trying to excape. And it excape at the wrong time. Or is it? Maybe there isn't a wrong time to excape. It's just my fault, I shouldn't let my guard down. I should have known better. In a zip, my heart was broken to pieces and this time is fast and furious. Luckily, my heart didn't fully excape from prison. Being in prison for so long, my heart was still adjusting to the nature, to the freedom. Luckily everything was over before my heart is fully feeling-released from life in prison. I managed to keep my compose and finshed the day like any other day. I managed to face people and laugh with them. I managed to put my pain on hold until I reached home. Then... I broke down and cry...
Home is the prison of the heart. Home is where the feeling guarding it 24/7, 365 days. Home has super tied security and no one is allow to enter without 300% scrutiny. Home is where I heal. I'm at home now. I'm not sure for how long but it will be a while. Physically I still go to work and face the world. But my pain will be healing at home. My heart is since locked in a maximum security facilities with more guards outside the door. Heart is going to be there forever.
My feeling is now in fear because one more excape, I'm the idiot. My feeling has to guard the heart with extra, extra care. Feeling should never be loose or take a break or take a risk or go holiday. My feeling must warn me of any potential attack in the future. For me, I have to remind myself to trust my feeling. It's never wrong. I have to gain my confidence towards my feeling. It has guided me all this year and I somehow let it down. In turn, my feeling was disturbed and as a result my heart excape from prison. It will never happen again. I promise.
Now, I have to heal myself. At the same time I have to make sure he doesn't know I was hurt because I make a different promise to him. It's not going to be easy but I have to go through it and face it until I am healed. For now, I have to cry my pain away. This is the life I know.
Then came one day I decided to take a risk. Maybe this time will be different, I don't know how the ending would be but I'm GOING TO give it a try! How stupid is that? For a while I lost it. I guess it's because my heart has been lock away for so many years that it's trying to excape. And it excape at the wrong time. Or is it? Maybe there isn't a wrong time to excape. It's just my fault, I shouldn't let my guard down. I should have known better. In a zip, my heart was broken to pieces and this time is fast and furious. Luckily, my heart didn't fully excape from prison. Being in prison for so long, my heart was still adjusting to the nature, to the freedom. Luckily everything was over before my heart is fully feeling-released from life in prison. I managed to keep my compose and finshed the day like any other day. I managed to face people and laugh with them. I managed to put my pain on hold until I reached home. Then... I broke down and cry...
Home is the prison of the heart. Home is where the feeling guarding it 24/7, 365 days. Home has super tied security and no one is allow to enter without 300% scrutiny. Home is where I heal. I'm at home now. I'm not sure for how long but it will be a while. Physically I still go to work and face the world. But my pain will be healing at home. My heart is since locked in a maximum security facilities with more guards outside the door. Heart is going to be there forever.
My feeling is now in fear because one more excape, I'm the idiot. My feeling has to guard the heart with extra, extra care. Feeling should never be loose or take a break or take a risk or go holiday. My feeling must warn me of any potential attack in the future. For me, I have to remind myself to trust my feeling. It's never wrong. I have to gain my confidence towards my feeling. It has guided me all this year and I somehow let it down. In turn, my feeling was disturbed and as a result my heart excape from prison. It will never happen again. I promise.
Now, I have to heal myself. At the same time I have to make sure he doesn't know I was hurt because I make a different promise to him. It's not going to be easy but I have to go through it and face it until I am healed. For now, I have to cry my pain away. This is the life I know.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Work or Sleep
For the last 3 days I've beening burning midnight oil to complete my work and projects. I had 2 small freelance opportunity and I just grab it. It's nice to design again. I wish I could just design and work from home, not having to go to office would be a leisure. I've submitted both work and now it's pending review and probably some amendment.
Tonight, well...it's more like early morning since it's already passed 12am and I'm still working on my board paper to be submit to my boss in a few hours time. Hopefully I can finish it by 4am so I can get some beauty sleep before my day start at 8am. Thank goodness I'm still on holiday, which means I don't have to go to work. This is life, don't you think so? I always feel so happy for my friends who have a choice to work or stay home. I don't think I can go by without work but I would love to go back design again. I'm day dreaming with "Sampai Syurga" by Faizal Tahir song playing on the background.
I've 2 more holiday before I have to go back to office again. By the time I return, I'm very sure there are tons of work waiting for me and most probably overdue or urgent. Luckily, I've rejuvenate and ready to go full charge. I plan to learn to cook curry later so I need to buy the ingredients when the shop opens. I saw the chef make it yesterday on TV and it looks quite simple. Id success, it will be the first time I make curry without any instant ingredients. :-)
Tonight, well...it's more like early morning since it's already passed 12am and I'm still working on my board paper to be submit to my boss in a few hours time. Hopefully I can finish it by 4am so I can get some beauty sleep before my day start at 8am. Thank goodness I'm still on holiday, which means I don't have to go to work. This is life, don't you think so? I always feel so happy for my friends who have a choice to work or stay home. I don't think I can go by without work but I would love to go back design again. I'm day dreaming with "Sampai Syurga" by Faizal Tahir song playing on the background.
I've 2 more holiday before I have to go back to office again. By the time I return, I'm very sure there are tons of work waiting for me and most probably overdue or urgent. Luckily, I've rejuvenate and ready to go full charge. I plan to learn to cook curry later so I need to buy the ingredients when the shop opens. I saw the chef make it yesterday on TV and it looks quite simple. Id success, it will be the first time I make curry without any instant ingredients. :-)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Decision Time
After a long thought during the many, many nights, I finally made a decision. That means is starting over again. I hope I won't be moving anytime soon coz it's a lot of commitment to set up and restructure company and departments. Come to think of it, this is what happened everytime I move to a new company. Hmm...I better have a proper planning for this one and my target is to stablise it within 6 months before I can breath. At the same time, I better find an alternative and ways to maintain my passion. :-)
Monday, September 21, 2009
Spliting Emotion
It has been a great year so far...
Since joining my current company, time flies super fast with all the company set up and getting everyone in motion and trying my best to make everyone feel like part of the family. The year started with a lot of testing and fixing bugs for us to launched our product and services on Valentine day. Once launched, things operates at an even faster pace than before. We have to improve users traffic and our products before sales starts. That means more hiring, more training, more skillful staff needed. I was lucky to have hired a group of young and talented staff to work with. Everyone has their own personality but we work towards to same goal, for the brighter future of this company.
We created more verticals to support our main business. We created campaign to draw more users and keeping their interest on our site. We manage to build an outstanding return visitors to our site. With mere 2 months, we already out-perform our competitors and became Malaysia No. 1. The ranking and rating were not in anyway handled by us but a well known 3rd party. We have built a great product everyone can be proud of. I know I am. Having be part of this team and build the company from ground zero to where it is now...I can finally say I did achieved something in life.
My CEO has been tough but he's the most knowledgeable person I've known. To know his thoughts, his vision, I had to throw away everything I have gained from the past and open my mind to learn and see from his point of view. He has great business sense, excellent IT knowledge and a fair person. He's not stingy with his reward. I am proud to have the opportunity to work with him. In fact, it took me 6 months to understand his working style and run as the same pace as him.
Things was going well and I was deciding to grow and work my best for the future of this company. I'm trying ways to create campaign to assist sales to monetise more revenue to the company. My hope is to close 60% of this year sales target. Yea, the economic situation doesn't help but I believe our products and services will be able to help advertisers reaching more users. We have over 1 millions users! I hope to win my fight for staff bonus end of this year. I hope to win an increment for all staff. At least 5% for all staff. Nevermind if I didn't got it but all staff deserve it and it will certainly boost their confidence and moral. Managing this company, I learn to be more diplomatic and patience when dealing with non-perform staff. I want the best for everyone.
However, last week I was approached by a company who would like me to join them. The interview and letter of offer was settled is a zip! I haven't sign the offer letter yet. There's something in my heart. Something that's heavy for me to let go. The package the new company offer is 20% increment and the best part is I don't have tp handle sales target. It's great right? But like every job I joined, the first 6 to 12 months will be super busy where I have to set up and restructure everything. I thnk I have became quite good at it. In fact, I think this is my skills. In the new company, I have to work till wee hours twice a week due to the production datelines. I know I can improve it but that means I have to start working till late nights again. That means I don't have personal life again. That means work stress again. This mean I will miss a bonus again. I missed a bonus from my previous company because I left the company late last year. If I accepted this offer, it means I have to start work in December. I would be missing out bonus from my current company. Should I go? My heart is having a spliting emotion.
The good thing of the new company is that I will be reporting to a English CEO. I work better in a multi-national company. I've having a spliting emotion. Should I go? I have to take this holiday and think through. I wish I have someone I can share this question.
Since joining my current company, time flies super fast with all the company set up and getting everyone in motion and trying my best to make everyone feel like part of the family. The year started with a lot of testing and fixing bugs for us to launched our product and services on Valentine day. Once launched, things operates at an even faster pace than before. We have to improve users traffic and our products before sales starts. That means more hiring, more training, more skillful staff needed. I was lucky to have hired a group of young and talented staff to work with. Everyone has their own personality but we work towards to same goal, for the brighter future of this company.
We created more verticals to support our main business. We created campaign to draw more users and keeping their interest on our site. We manage to build an outstanding return visitors to our site. With mere 2 months, we already out-perform our competitors and became Malaysia No. 1. The ranking and rating were not in anyway handled by us but a well known 3rd party. We have built a great product everyone can be proud of. I know I am. Having be part of this team and build the company from ground zero to where it is now...I can finally say I did achieved something in life.
My CEO has been tough but he's the most knowledgeable person I've known. To know his thoughts, his vision, I had to throw away everything I have gained from the past and open my mind to learn and see from his point of view. He has great business sense, excellent IT knowledge and a fair person. He's not stingy with his reward. I am proud to have the opportunity to work with him. In fact, it took me 6 months to understand his working style and run as the same pace as him.
Things was going well and I was deciding to grow and work my best for the future of this company. I'm trying ways to create campaign to assist sales to monetise more revenue to the company. My hope is to close 60% of this year sales target. Yea, the economic situation doesn't help but I believe our products and services will be able to help advertisers reaching more users. We have over 1 millions users! I hope to win my fight for staff bonus end of this year. I hope to win an increment for all staff. At least 5% for all staff. Nevermind if I didn't got it but all staff deserve it and it will certainly boost their confidence and moral. Managing this company, I learn to be more diplomatic and patience when dealing with non-perform staff. I want the best for everyone.
However, last week I was approached by a company who would like me to join them. The interview and letter of offer was settled is a zip! I haven't sign the offer letter yet. There's something in my heart. Something that's heavy for me to let go. The package the new company offer is 20% increment and the best part is I don't have tp handle sales target. It's great right? But like every job I joined, the first 6 to 12 months will be super busy where I have to set up and restructure everything. I thnk I have became quite good at it. In fact, I think this is my skills. In the new company, I have to work till wee hours twice a week due to the production datelines. I know I can improve it but that means I have to start working till late nights again. That means I don't have personal life again. That means work stress again. This mean I will miss a bonus again. I missed a bonus from my previous company because I left the company late last year. If I accepted this offer, it means I have to start work in December. I would be missing out bonus from my current company. Should I go? My heart is having a spliting emotion.
The good thing of the new company is that I will be reporting to a English CEO. I work better in a multi-national company. I've having a spliting emotion. Should I go? I have to take this holiday and think through. I wish I have someone I can share this question.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Dewa 19 - Pupus
This is my all-time-favourite from Dewa 19. Kawan, don't forget to sing this song when we organise karaoke later :-P
The Lucky Laki - Superman
My friend sent me a song by Ahmad Dhani, best known for Dewa 19. This is an interesting and catchy song from his 3 sons, Al Ghazali (Al), El Jalaluddin Rumi (El), Ahmad Abdul Qodir Jaelani (Dul). The lyric is funny and the debut single makes you want to listen to it over and over again. The song is about and for their dad. Don't you think the 3 boys are so talented?
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Watching Off Pedder 畢打自己人
I'm currently watching Off Pedder, a TVB drama about the life of the staff working in a publishing firm. There is a total of 340 episodes. Although it's a lot but don't worry because the drama is base on short stories of each event. Therefore you won't need to follow up from beginning to end. It can be watch from any expisode.
The PLOT: On Pedder Street, there have been rumours of a competitive business woman, Ivy Yan Seung (Teresa Mo), coming to steal power away from Susan Ka So-Shan (Elaine Jin) at Chao Magazine. The two women must bribe their staff to join their side in order to gain the leadership of the firm.
Beside these two women, are two men who also hold strong power in the firm, Yim Yue-Dai (Stephen Au) and Ryan Yu Ka-Sing (Wayne Lai). How will these four individuals affect Pedder Street and who will become the ultimate leader of Chao Magazine...?
I still have a long way to go. A good recommendation from my Bro in-law.
Office Gathering
Last Friday we had office gathering at TGIF at Pavilion. The service was good and restaurant staff was professional and attentive to their customers. We had a long tables at the corner and pre-booked our menu earlier so the food arrived on time just before the breaking fast. The theme of this gathering is Ramadan so obviously everyone eats when our Muslim colleagues break fast. Every 2 months we have a gathering for all staff to boost team spirit and this is our fourth gathering this year. Everyone has a great time and food was good. Unfortunately, most of us can't finished the food so some of the colleagues have it packed.
At the end of the dinner, we had a gift exchange. As majority of the staff are below 30's, everyone is enjoying this and most took great care to buy a nice gift for colleague. However, there are a few who weren't as attentive as the others and ended up with gifts like mouse pad (who use it anymore...), 4 kid-pack of love letters (this is so sad) and a keychain (like we don't have enough). The nicer ones are pillow, mug, vase, alarm, pc fan, more mugs and a paper bin. My friend can't make it because both of us miscommunicate on the day. He thought it was Thursday and I told him I will confirm on Friday. Well, we'll just have to wait for another 2 months before the next event. You miss the fun :-)
Thursday, September 03, 2009
1Malaysia TVC from Proton
It's feel like something is missing this year without Yasmin Ahmad TVC screening on our TV during Merdeka time. I feel like something is missing in my life. The only one that slightly caught my attention is the 1Malaysia ad from Proton. Not bad...but will we ever find a TVC director who can produce TVC that touchs common people's heart? Will we ever find a TVC that can relate to our every day life? We'll have to wait and see.
Lost and Found Friendship
It's so great to finally found most of my faculty geng after lost touch so many years. It all happened when one of my course mate posted some faculty photos through facebook and the link when to most of us who have facebook. From there, we found each other and even have a laugh and jokes when we look back our freshment years photos. We look so different now. The guys were laughing at their 6 pack during the days that the photos were purposely shrinked so the '6 pack' don't seem so obvious.
Now, the geng is looking for all the group photos all over so each one can post and share through facebook. Uni days are the best time of our lives. After lost and found each other, everyone seems to have sudden burst of energy and inspirations in life. I guess 'seeing' each other again motivate our spirits and we see ourselves grown so much. Everyone has a achieved something in their lives, no matter big or small. It inspire me to move forward with my part time MBA, despite the financial situation. Theres's a will, there's a way.
Now, the geng is looking for all the group photos all over so each one can post and share through facebook. Uni days are the best time of our lives. After lost and found each other, everyone seems to have sudden burst of energy and inspirations in life. I guess 'seeing' each other again motivate our spirits and we see ourselves grown so much. Everyone has a achieved something in their lives, no matter big or small. It inspire me to move forward with my part time MBA, despite the financial situation. Theres's a will, there's a way.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
What 1Malaysia Means to Me?
Malaysia will be celebrating her Independence Day on 31st August, 52 years after Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bapa Kemerdekaan (Father of Independence) shouted, Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!
Now, with Dato' Najib as our PM, he is all out promoting 1Malaysia concept. His inspiration for 1Malaysia as following:
1Malaysia is intended to provide a free and open forum to discuss the things that matter deeply to us as a Nation. It provides a chance to express and explore the many perspectives of our fellow citizens. What makes Malaysia unique is the diversity of our peoples. 1Malaysia’s goal is to preserve and enhance this unity in diversity which has always been our strength and remains our best hope for the future. I hope this Website will initiate an open and vital dialogue exploring our Malaysian identity, purpose, and direction. I encourage each of you to join me in defining our Malaysia and the role we must play in its future. Each of us — despite our differences — shares a desire for a better tomorrow. Each of us wants opportunity, respect, friendship, and understanding.
I believe his last sentence is common Malaysian hope. 1Malaysia means viewing each other beyond race, skin colours and background.
1Malaysia means we don't have to be pick and judge base on race. Malays are not lazy. Chineses are not rich. Indians are not alcoholic. Most successful and wealthy people in Malaysia are Malaysians. They work very, very hard to get where they are now. Robert Kuok, Ananda Krishnan, Syed Mokhtar Al Bukhary and the likes don't have a silver spoon lives. They earn their wealth through hard work.
1Malaysia means we have equal opportunity without having to set quota for races. I wish it will come true one day. There should be equal opportunity for all. We are malaysian. We love Malaysia. Race base school won't be good for 1Malaysia. Our children should have best friends from different background, colour and languages. Malaysian food represents 1Malaysia. Everyone loves nasi lemak, char kiew tau, nasi briyani, chicken rice, tosai and roti canai. The Ramadhan bazzaar display a good example of 1Malaysia. Everyone knows that Bazaar Melawati has the best Ramadhan bazaar. Everyone waiting for this once a year event where we can eat and indulge ourselves in good food. Friends coming together to break fast and enjoy food with laughters.
1Malaysia means we are Malaysian.
Now, with Dato' Najib as our PM, he is all out promoting 1Malaysia concept. His inspiration for 1Malaysia as following:
1Malaysia is intended to provide a free and open forum to discuss the things that matter deeply to us as a Nation. It provides a chance to express and explore the many perspectives of our fellow citizens. What makes Malaysia unique is the diversity of our peoples. 1Malaysia’s goal is to preserve and enhance this unity in diversity which has always been our strength and remains our best hope for the future. I hope this Website will initiate an open and vital dialogue exploring our Malaysian identity, purpose, and direction. I encourage each of you to join me in defining our Malaysia and the role we must play in its future. Each of us — despite our differences — shares a desire for a better tomorrow. Each of us wants opportunity, respect, friendship, and understanding.
I believe his last sentence is common Malaysian hope. 1Malaysia means viewing each other beyond race, skin colours and background.
1Malaysia means we don't have to be pick and judge base on race. Malays are not lazy. Chineses are not rich. Indians are not alcoholic. Most successful and wealthy people in Malaysia are Malaysians. They work very, very hard to get where they are now. Robert Kuok, Ananda Krishnan, Syed Mokhtar Al Bukhary and the likes don't have a silver spoon lives. They earn their wealth through hard work.
1Malaysia means we have equal opportunity without having to set quota for races. I wish it will come true one day. There should be equal opportunity for all. We are malaysian. We love Malaysia. Race base school won't be good for 1Malaysia. Our children should have best friends from different background, colour and languages. Malaysian food represents 1Malaysia. Everyone loves nasi lemak, char kiew tau, nasi briyani, chicken rice, tosai and roti canai. The Ramadhan bazzaar display a good example of 1Malaysia. Everyone knows that Bazaar Melawati has the best Ramadhan bazaar. Everyone waiting for this once a year event where we can eat and indulge ourselves in good food. Friends coming together to break fast and enjoy food with laughters.
1Malaysia means we are Malaysian.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Brings Back Fun Memories
Today I saw one of my long lost uni mate post the good old days photos. Going through it brings back a lot of good memories during my uni days. When people say ones best time is during uni days and I say, "very true". I managed to find my long lost course mates and friends. Haven't found all yet and I'm sure I'll get there.
Hmm..now where's my photos during uni days...
Hmm..now where's my photos during uni days...
Monday, August 24, 2009
Great High Tea at Shangrila Hotel
Ramadan this year started on Saturday so most hotels are quite empty during the Hi-tea period. I had high-tea gathering with a bunch of good friends at Shangrila Hotel and the place was only 50% full. For a customer like myself, I'm happy because I get to eat more food :-) and the place is not so crowded. Lemon Grass restaurant serves one of the best Hi-Tea in town. Everything was great except the Dim Sum. It seems to lost its Yum-yum...
The seafood section is a must try. I took a few rounds of prawns and oysters. Another section I won't missed out is the shusi counter. I took as many fresh salmons as my tummy can fit since I'm already paying RM98++. For those who love cheese like my friend, he tried all the cheese. I love cheese but won't tried every variety because I need to keep my stomach for other food. Cheese tends to make me full easily.
The Asian cuisine looks tempting but I didn't take any because it's the daily dish I can get easily. The pau is not bad but then again, you can't expect it to taste like the Chinese pau. The fountain fondue of chocolate and cheese is the crowd favourite. My favourite is strawberry and mashmallow dip in chocolate fondue.
The service is great, that's the main reason we always gather at Lemon Grass. The waiters are always on the look out for empty plates and will immediately clean it and replace it with a new one. Water is refilled regularly. Since we first started gathering at Lemon Garden, not once did we need to call the waiters to bring a clean plate or refill our drink. Unlike other hotels, we weren't being 'hurry off' when it's 4pm. We were still there chating at 4.30pm while the staff were cleaning up the place. I think they were preparing for the breaking fast. That's what I call good service and good food. I highly recommend anyone to have a try at their hi-tea on the weekend. The price has gone up to RM98++ but it's still worth it.
The seafood section is a must try. I took a few rounds of prawns and oysters. Another section I won't missed out is the shusi counter. I took as many fresh salmons as my tummy can fit since I'm already paying RM98++. For those who love cheese like my friend, he tried all the cheese. I love cheese but won't tried every variety because I need to keep my stomach for other food. Cheese tends to make me full easily.
The Asian cuisine looks tempting but I didn't take any because it's the daily dish I can get easily. The pau is not bad but then again, you can't expect it to taste like the Chinese pau. The fountain fondue of chocolate and cheese is the crowd favourite. My favourite is strawberry and mashmallow dip in chocolate fondue.
The service is great, that's the main reason we always gather at Lemon Grass. The waiters are always on the look out for empty plates and will immediately clean it and replace it with a new one. Water is refilled regularly. Since we first started gathering at Lemon Garden, not once did we need to call the waiters to bring a clean plate or refill our drink. Unlike other hotels, we weren't being 'hurry off' when it's 4pm. We were still there chating at 4.30pm while the staff were cleaning up the place. I think they were preparing for the breaking fast. That's what I call good service and good food. I highly recommend anyone to have a try at their hi-tea on the weekend. The price has gone up to RM98++ but it's still worth it.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
9 By Shane Acker
This is the original 9 by Shane Acker, which are made into a feature film by Tim Burton.
Friday, August 21, 2009
SiteScan your website for incomplete code
SiteScan help web designer scan and locate pages with incomplete Google analytics code. It's a diagnostic tool from EpikOne that verifies is your Google Analytics (GA) tracking code is installed correctly on your web pages. It scans common cnofiguration pitfalls and arranges the result in CSV file.
For pages with improperly installed tracking code, the associated error is noted and described in the report. This makes it easy for you to isolate the pages with tracking problems, fix them, and effectively manage your Google Analytics Tracking Code installation.
For Free site scan you can only run maximum 3 scan per day for a single domain. This allows resources to be freed up for other users wanting to use this tool. The great thing about SiteScan is its capability to scan up to 100 pages of a website.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Weighing the prospect of owing a iPhone
Looking at these gorgeous iPhone 3GS making battling with my inner self if I should buy one for myself. My friend who has IPod Touch showed me some of the functions. It's very cool! Moreover, it's Apple! I'd love to own a iPhone but my budget just allow :-( The package deals offered by Maxis wasn't great too. I guess I have to be content with looking at it or borrow from my friend once a while to toy with it.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Interesting travel related web design
I was surfing around for ideas and came across a few interesting website design. The one I like the most is virgin. The flash graphic piece is awesome! Very detailed drawing and well executed art piece. Virgin web navigation is user friendly and clean. A lot of space element and pleasant to the eyes.
Australia's travel site is well coloured coodinated and nicely arrange. It doesn't required scrolling around when users looking for information. Rich in content too.
Canada Travel website has some really nice photos on its landing page. Look at the skies in all the photos! It's so blue!
Australia's travel site is well coloured coodinated and nicely arrange. It doesn't required scrolling around when users looking for information. Rich in content too.
Canada Travel website has some really nice photos on its landing page. Look at the skies in all the photos! It's so blue!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Hangover is the funniest movie of the year!
The title said it all! I was sceptical when I was recommended to watch The Hangover. My friend told me is the best movie he watched this year. Seeing him so excited about it, I decided to watch the movie to check out how funny is the movie. Well, IT IS THE FUNNIEST movie I've seen so far this year. I laugh from beginning till the end. I hope nobody heard me when I laugh so loud in the middle of night.
In this movie, the groom 2 best friends aka groomsmen and to-be brother in law took a trip in Las Vegas for the ultimate bachelor party. Thing goes bad when the groomsmen wake up in their Las Vegas hotel room with a tiger in the bathroom, found a 6-month old baby in the closet and they have no idea where the groom is. They have no clue what happen last night. The groomsmen try to trace back what they lost last night by following the clues. They found the baby's mummy who happened to be married the one of the groomsmen. FYI this groomsmen has a bitchy girlfriend back home who yells at him all the time. See the way they look when the mummy was feeding the baby. It's hillarious. Check the way the guys try to bring back the tiger to the owner from their bathroom by druging him, the scene when the tiger got up in the car while on the way to the owner's house. This is my best part and I think the tiger was just adorable.
Then there's chasing around by the mobsters and they found the ring leader naked in their car boot! The mobster was demanding for his 80k winning money for the release of the groom. With no clue why they should have the money, they went back the the casino and count cards to win 80k. They are good at it and their excape plan was flowless. To their dismay, the mobster kidnapped the wrong guy. So, where is the groom?
Watch the trailer and go to the cinema to find it yourself. The Hangover is a movie not to be missed and you'll laugh more if you watch it on the big cinema screen.
In this movie, the groom 2 best friends aka groomsmen and to-be brother in law took a trip in Las Vegas for the ultimate bachelor party. Thing goes bad when the groomsmen wake up in their Las Vegas hotel room with a tiger in the bathroom, found a 6-month old baby in the closet and they have no idea where the groom is. They have no clue what happen last night. The groomsmen try to trace back what they lost last night by following the clues. They found the baby's mummy who happened to be married the one of the groomsmen. FYI this groomsmen has a bitchy girlfriend back home who yells at him all the time. See the way they look when the mummy was feeding the baby. It's hillarious. Check the way the guys try to bring back the tiger to the owner from their bathroom by druging him, the scene when the tiger got up in the car while on the way to the owner's house. This is my best part and I think the tiger was just adorable.
Then there's chasing around by the mobsters and they found the ring leader naked in their car boot! The mobster was demanding for his 80k winning money for the release of the groom. With no clue why they should have the money, they went back the the casino and count cards to win 80k. They are good at it and their excape plan was flowless. To their dismay, the mobster kidnapped the wrong guy. So, where is the groom?
Watch the trailer and go to the cinema to find it yourself. The Hangover is a movie not to be missed and you'll laugh more if you watch it on the big cinema screen.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
What can we do to minimise spreading of H1N1?
I was shocked when I heard that Influenza A H1N1 has claimed 32 victims from the 8pm news yesterday. The report keep mentioning about the high risk group: pregnant women, children, people with health condition such as asthma and people who are obese. Although it's good to announced the high risk group but this may give false imppression that people who're not in this group are not at risk. Everyone is at risk!
To date, the reported cases in the country stood at 1,982. Globally, 208,155 people have been found to be infected by the virus and 1,688 people from 174 countries have died. Our neighbour country, Singapore has 9 death as of yesterday. Thailand's last reported death was 66 on end of July while India reported 7 death. NSW Australia has reported 22 death as of end July. It appears that Malaysia's death toll increase in 3 weeks is something to be concern.
In view of the health problem, my company will implement few precautions. Our campany practise open space system and we have around 20 staff in a 1500sq floor. Everyone is very close to each other and lately almost everyone were coughing and it spread one staff to another. Ventilation in the office wasn't that great too. I had a meeting with my finance and HR admin and here are the precaution we will take.
If staff has fever, they are to call HR and take MC, stays at home until staff recovers. Once recovered (3 days) they must wear mask for 4 days in office for precaution.
If staff has fever or feeling unwell upon returning from out-station or oversea trip, staff must see a doctor immediately and call office to inform their situation. Staff must stay at home until recover. Staff must wear mask for the reminding 7 days in office.
If staff is coughing, staff must wear mask to avoid spreading to other staff.
If staff is suspected of H1N1 or family/relative/friend whom they visit recently is suspected of H1N1, staff must inform HR immediately. HR to inform all staff. Company will close for 7 days with all staff working from home.
If staff is confirmed H1N1 or family/relative/friend whom they visit recently is confirmed of H1N1, staff must inform HR immediately. HR to inform all staff. Company will close for 7 days with all staff working from home.
Besides that, the company will start educate staff on the seriousness of H1N1 and remind staff of their social responsibility to keep everyone save. The company will provide mask for staff whenever they need it and distributes hand sanitizer to all staff as soon as possible. Based on our HQ policy, we are already at the Orange towards Red zone.
As a responsible public, we should stay at home quarantine when we are suspected of H1N1 so we won't spread to others. We shouldn't feel ashame of it or try to hide it. Bear in mind that our domestic spreading is due to one H1N1 patient (he/she) leaving out a person whom the patient has close contact. In the end, the close contact (she/he) has spread to few people and the chain reaction starts. That's when authority no longer can trace and quarantine the virus. In matter of 3 weeks, we have 32 death, it's air borne and this is not the end. Everyone must play their part to contain the virus spreading.
To date, the reported cases in the country stood at 1,982. Globally, 208,155 people have been found to be infected by the virus and 1,688 people from 174 countries have died. Our neighbour country, Singapore has 9 death as of yesterday. Thailand's last reported death was 66 on end of July while India reported 7 death. NSW Australia has reported 22 death as of end July. It appears that Malaysia's death toll increase in 3 weeks is something to be concern.
In view of the health problem, my company will implement few precautions. Our campany practise open space system and we have around 20 staff in a 1500sq floor. Everyone is very close to each other and lately almost everyone were coughing and it spread one staff to another. Ventilation in the office wasn't that great too. I had a meeting with my finance and HR admin and here are the precaution we will take.
If staff has fever, they are to call HR and take MC, stays at home until staff recovers. Once recovered (3 days) they must wear mask for 4 days in office for precaution.
If staff has fever or feeling unwell upon returning from out-station or oversea trip, staff must see a doctor immediately and call office to inform their situation. Staff must stay at home until recover. Staff must wear mask for the reminding 7 days in office.
If staff is coughing, staff must wear mask to avoid spreading to other staff.
If staff is suspected of H1N1 or family/relative/friend whom they visit recently is suspected of H1N1, staff must inform HR immediately. HR to inform all staff. Company will close for 7 days with all staff working from home.
If staff is confirmed H1N1 or family/relative/friend whom they visit recently is confirmed of H1N1, staff must inform HR immediately. HR to inform all staff. Company will close for 7 days with all staff working from home.
Besides that, the company will start educate staff on the seriousness of H1N1 and remind staff of their social responsibility to keep everyone save. The company will provide mask for staff whenever they need it and distributes hand sanitizer to all staff as soon as possible. Based on our HQ policy, we are already at the Orange towards Red zone.
As a responsible public, we should stay at home quarantine when we are suspected of H1N1 so we won't spread to others. We shouldn't feel ashame of it or try to hide it. Bear in mind that our domestic spreading is due to one H1N1 patient (he/she) leaving out a person whom the patient has close contact. In the end, the close contact (she/he) has spread to few people and the chain reaction starts. That's when authority no longer can trace and quarantine the virus. In matter of 3 weeks, we have 32 death, it's air borne and this is not the end. Everyone must play their part to contain the virus spreading.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Twitter hacked?
According to BARBARA ORTUTAY from ASSOCIATED PRESS, New York, Twitter was hacked Thursday, due to a denial-of-service attack hence disabling the fast-growing messaging service for hours. As at 5.45pm, Twitter is accessable but very slow.
Twitter said it was hit with a denial-of-service attack. That's when hackers command scores of computers to a single site at the same time, preventing legitimate traffic from getting through.
The attacks appear to have been related to the Russia-Georgia political conflict. They started with a flurry of spam e-mail sent out Thursday morning that contained links to pages written by a single activist on multiple social networking sites, said Bill Woodcock, research director of the San Francisco-based Packet Clearing House, a nonprofit that tracks Internet traffic.
When people clicked on the links, they were taken to legitimate Web pages, but the traffic overwhelmed some servers and disrupted service, Woodcock said.
For Twitter users, the outage meant no tweeting about lunch plans, the weather or the fact that Twitter was down.
The Twitter outage began about 9 a.m. Detroit time and lasted a few hours.
Facebook, whose users encountered intermittent problems Thursday, also was the subject of a denial-of-service attack, though it was not known whether the same hackers were involved. Facebook said no user information was at risk.
By early afternoon, both Twitter and Facebook seemed to be functioning, giving social media addicts a collective sigh of relief. Twitter warned, though, that as it recovers, "users will experience some longer load times and slowness."
Twitter said it was hit with a denial-of-service attack. That's when hackers command scores of computers to a single site at the same time, preventing legitimate traffic from getting through.
The attacks appear to have been related to the Russia-Georgia political conflict. They started with a flurry of spam e-mail sent out Thursday morning that contained links to pages written by a single activist on multiple social networking sites, said Bill Woodcock, research director of the San Francisco-based Packet Clearing House, a nonprofit that tracks Internet traffic.
When people clicked on the links, they were taken to legitimate Web pages, but the traffic overwhelmed some servers and disrupted service, Woodcock said.
For Twitter users, the outage meant no tweeting about lunch plans, the weather or the fact that Twitter was down.
The Twitter outage began about 9 a.m. Detroit time and lasted a few hours.
Facebook, whose users encountered intermittent problems Thursday, also was the subject of a denial-of-service attack, though it was not known whether the same hackers were involved. Facebook said no user information was at risk.
By early afternoon, both Twitter and Facebook seemed to be functioning, giving social media addicts a collective sigh of relief. Twitter warned, though, that as it recovers, "users will experience some longer load times and slowness."
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Forget your enemies. It's your friends you frustrate that cause all the problems
Forget your enemies. It's your friends you frustrate that cause all the problems. Don't you think so. Friends are part of the community in our lives and like or not, they influence our day. We have to take care of friends feeling, support friends whenever they are feeling down and sad or maybe in trouble. In return, they will care and support us in times of need.
We would always help our friends the best to our abilities. Spending time together during sunny and rainny season and never judge other another. We accept our friends flow and weaknesses. We idolise our friends strength and courages. Without friends, our lives will be lonely and colourless. Won't that be awful?
What happen if you have a friend who frustrate you often? What happen if you have a whinny friend or gossipy friend or boneless friend? Well, you can either suck it and entertain their personality or run fast as if your life depends on it! Some may ask, why do you have such friend in the first place? Well, sometimes when we met a new friend, he/she doesn't reveal the true identity. It often took a while before we realise what we get ourselves in. By then, it's too late to do much. Most people resort to avoiding problematic friends. If you keeps hearing your friends not available, busy, not picking up your calls, you should starts to thinking...
For myself, my motto is tolerance. If I can handle my friends flows and weaknesses, I'll treat everyone the same. Of course, sometime handling a friend would require some adaptation or adjustment. You see, no one is perfect. I have my flows and weaknesses too. Sometimes my friends have to bear with my nonsense and my mood. Sometimes I have rainny days and my friends with be by my side, quiet and waiting for me to return to my chippy self. So, friends are there for a reason. Cherish your friends, don't avoid them. Love and peace.
We would always help our friends the best to our abilities. Spending time together during sunny and rainny season and never judge other another. We accept our friends flow and weaknesses. We idolise our friends strength and courages. Without friends, our lives will be lonely and colourless. Won't that be awful?
What happen if you have a friend who frustrate you often? What happen if you have a whinny friend or gossipy friend or boneless friend? Well, you can either suck it and entertain their personality or run fast as if your life depends on it! Some may ask, why do you have such friend in the first place? Well, sometimes when we met a new friend, he/she doesn't reveal the true identity. It often took a while before we realise what we get ourselves in. By then, it's too late to do much. Most people resort to avoiding problematic friends. If you keeps hearing your friends not available, busy, not picking up your calls, you should starts to thinking...
For myself, my motto is tolerance. If I can handle my friends flows and weaknesses, I'll treat everyone the same. Of course, sometime handling a friend would require some adaptation or adjustment. You see, no one is perfect. I have my flows and weaknesses too. Sometimes my friends have to bear with my nonsense and my mood. Sometimes I have rainny days and my friends with be by my side, quiet and waiting for me to return to my chippy self. So, friends are there for a reason. Cherish your friends, don't avoid them. Love and peace.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Harry Potter and the half blood prince is not what I expected
I fulfill one of the movies wishes I made earlier. Unfortunately the movie was not what I expected. Overall the movie was dry and there was no climax. It's better to read the novel. Even the part when Professor Dumbledor was killed Professor Snape fail to reach the climax and it ended leaving the audiences feeling puzzle and some even unsure if the movie has ended. The trailer is all the 'exciting part' from the movie. If you want a easy and relaxing movie, you should watch Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.
I hope Taking of the Pelham 123 will turn out better. I will be watching it this weekend.
Some of the upcoming movie to look out for are Funny people by Adam Sandler, Love Happens by the yummy Aaron Echart and Jennifer Aniston and Old Dogs by John Trovalta and Robin Williams.
I hope Taking of the Pelham 123 will turn out better. I will be watching it this weekend.
Some of the upcoming movie to look out for are Funny people by Adam Sandler, Love Happens by the yummy Aaron Echart and Jennifer Aniston and Old Dogs by John Trovalta and Robin Williams.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Some of the upcoming movies I want to watch
The Taking Of Pelham 123 - The movie seems to be none stop action, plus I'm fan of Denzel Washington and John Travolta.
Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince - I have been following this sequel...
Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince - I have been following this sequel...
Thursday, July 16, 2009
H1N1 Cases
As of July 16, Malaysia has reported 835 confirmed cases of Influenza A H1N1, with 84% patient already recover from the flu. The World Health Organization (WHO) said that the H1N1 flu pandemic was the fastest-moving pandemic ever and that it was now pointless to count every case.
The United Nations agency, which declared an influenza pandemic on June 11, revised its requirements so that national health authorities need only report clusters of severe cases or deaths caused by the new virus or unusual clinical patterns. The pandemic has spread internationally with unprecedented speed. "In the past a pandemics influenza vius would needed more than six months to spread as widely as the new H1N1 virus has spread in less than six weeks," it said in a statement on the new strain, commonly known as swine flu.
The new flu strain can be treated by antivirals such as Roche Holding's Tamiflu or GlaxoSmithKline's Relenza, but many patients recover without medical treatment. Flu experts say at least a million people are infected in the United States alone, and the WHO says the pandemic is unstoppable. "It is very much agreed that trying to register and report every single case is a huge waste of resources," WHO spokesman Gregory Hartl said. Such tracking has limited authorities' capacity to investigate serious cases and is no longer essential to monitor the level or nature of the risk posed by the virus, WHO said.
However, all countries should still closely monitor unusual clusters of severe or fatal infections from the pandemic virus, clusters of respiratory illness requiring hospitalization or unexplained or unusual clinical patterns. "Signals to be vigilant for include spikes in rates of absenteeism from schools or workplaces, or a more severe disease pattern, as suggested by, for example, a surge in emergency department visits," it said.
Britain reported on Thursday that 29 people had died to date after contracting the virus. Health Minister Andy Burnham said this month the government was projecting more than 100,000 new cases a day of the flu in the country by the end of August. In Malaysia, alert of H1N1 is all over TV ad but most people are not as concern as when the SAR hits. I hope the pandemic can be resolved soon before it gets worse.
The United Nations agency, which declared an influenza pandemic on June 11, revised its requirements so that national health authorities need only report clusters of severe cases or deaths caused by the new virus or unusual clinical patterns. The pandemic has spread internationally with unprecedented speed. "In the past a pandemics influenza vius would needed more than six months to spread as widely as the new H1N1 virus has spread in less than six weeks," it said in a statement on the new strain, commonly known as swine flu.
The new flu strain can be treated by antivirals such as Roche Holding's Tamiflu or GlaxoSmithKline's Relenza, but many patients recover without medical treatment. Flu experts say at least a million people are infected in the United States alone, and the WHO says the pandemic is unstoppable. "It is very much agreed that trying to register and report every single case is a huge waste of resources," WHO spokesman Gregory Hartl said. Such tracking has limited authorities' capacity to investigate serious cases and is no longer essential to monitor the level or nature of the risk posed by the virus, WHO said.
However, all countries should still closely monitor unusual clusters of severe or fatal infections from the pandemic virus, clusters of respiratory illness requiring hospitalization or unexplained or unusual clinical patterns. "Signals to be vigilant for include spikes in rates of absenteeism from schools or workplaces, or a more severe disease pattern, as suggested by, for example, a surge in emergency department visits," it said.
Britain reported on Thursday that 29 people had died to date after contracting the virus. Health Minister Andy Burnham said this month the government was projecting more than 100,000 new cases a day of the flu in the country by the end of August. In Malaysia, alert of H1N1 is all over TV ad but most people are not as concern as when the SAR hits. I hope the pandemic can be resolved soon before it gets worse.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Building A Healthy Emotional Bank Account In Office
Managing people take a lot of skills and patience. Effective people management sometimes take a lot of my time and if it's not dealt with correctly, it will have more negetive impact in the long term. De-motivated and problematic employee 'spread' to other employees. Some people are hard working but come with negative attitude, some are very slow in their work and delivery while some are sarcastics. End of the day, it depends on which type of employee you can cope and manage daily.
The effective management of staff in the office requires the ability to motivate, create job design, performance rewards and group influence.
Well, according to Quint Studer, CEO of Studer Group, he recommended “building an emotional bank account” with employees. Studer feels that it's the right thing to do and will benefits in the long run. I think his point is valid because after a series of stress at work, soon or later staff morale will be low and feeling let down. Studer mentioned management must invest enough emotional capital in the account for that metaphorical rainy day.
Extract from businessadvicedaily.com:
“Most leaders truly want to do the right thing,” asserts Studer, author of “Hardwiring Excellence: Purpose, Worthwhile Work, Making a Difference.” “They want positive, productive, trust-based relationships with their people. But let’s face it: perfection doesn’t exist in leaders or in companies. You put in enough ‘deposits’ so that when the inevitable ‘withdrawals’ are made—let’s say you forget to say thank you or you have to institute pay cuts—there’s enough goodwill in the account to salvage those relationships.”
Withdrawals, Studer points out, are usually weightier than deposits—so great leaders do everything they can to make more of the latter. For instance:
Diagnose employee satisfaction—and act on the results. Use a proven, respected assessment tool to figure out where your problems lie. Then, commit to solving them. “One of the biggest issues we see in our work with clients is that people say, 'Well, they measured our satisfaction but nobody responded to what we said'” says Studer. “We advise organizations to be open about the results and have everyone vote on the top three issues. Eventually, you should address them all, but start with the top three.”
Harvest best practices. If assessments reveal that a high number of employees cite “poor communication” as a problem, dig deeper. You may find that one department manager got great communication scores. Find out what she is doing right and reward her. Then, work to apply her communication practices throughout the organization. “Your company doesn’t really have a problem with poor communication, just inconsistent communication,” says Studer. “Take what people are doing right and expand it. It’s much more effective than trying to start from scratch—and it builds goodwill.”
Announce that you’re making changes. Accept skepticism, but not cynicism. “Tell employees specifically what you are going to fix,” says Studer. “Naturally, they will be skeptical. You can even tell them that skepticism is fine, even expected, but ask that they try not to be cynical. If they start rolling their eyes and say, ‘Oh, we’ve heard all that before,’ tell them, ‘Look, you can be part of the problem or you can be open to change and see good things start to happen.’”
Go for “quick wins” to establish credibility. A quick win is an action that shows employees you really are committed to meeting their needs. If you are trying to establish an environment of fairness, for instance, don’t “pull rank” as a senior leader and cut in line. Don’t insist on having the parking spot nearest the door. Not only will it send a signal that you’re no more important than anyone else, the longer parking lot trek gives you the opportunity to talk to employees and stay on top of what’s going on in your company. Perhaps your quick win might take the form of getting a department a piece of equipment that employees have requested for years, or finally dealing with a low performer who’s been dragging everyone down.
“Round” relentlessly. Studer is a huge proponent of leadership “rounding,” a process similar to the one doctors use to check on their patients. In the business world, a CEO, V.P., or department manager “makes the rounds” daily to check on the status of his or her employees. “Basically, you take an hour a day to touch base with employees, make a personal connection, recognize successes, find out what’s going well, and determine what improvements can be made,” says Studer. “And of course, you fix any problems that come up. Rounding is the heart and soul of building the emotional bank account, because it shows employees day in and day out that you care.”
Get rid of low performers. Make no mistake: your employees don’t want to work with low performers. Nothing makes employees as discouraged and resentful as having to co-exist with people who don’t pull their own weight. In fact, low performers usually drive high performers right out the door. “Turning a blind eye to these people quickly drains the emotional bank account you’re trying to build up with your good employees,” says Studer. “However hard it may seem, you must move these people up or out.”
Avoid creating a “We/They” culture. The temptation to get on your employees’ good side by saying, for instance, “Well, I fought for the budget increase, but this is all I could get,” can be huge. It may feel easier or more comfortable at the moment, but ultimately you’re dividing the staff instead of uniting them. Of course, few leaders deliberately foster a “We/They” mentality, but it can be easy to do subconsciously. “Interestingly, the other side of the coin—‘I know you’ve begged for more money for years and here I took care of it in one afternoon!’—can be equally divisive,” adds Studer. “When you solve a big problem overnight, you might be undermining mid-level supervisors who’ve been working on a problem for a long time. Don’t walk around and perform magic.”
Be open and truthful with your employees, no matter how difficult it may be. “Let’s say you know that part of your organization is going to be outsourced in the next few months, or that there are going to be major cuts in benefits,” says Studer. “Even if it doesn’t directly affect your team, it certainly impacts them on an emotional level. Once the decision is final, you owe it to your employees to tell them. Don’t wait for them to read it in the paper. They will know that you knew all along—and a huge amount of trust will be lost.”
In the end, of course, trust is what building a healthy emotional bank account is all about, says Studer.
“When you’ve always been up front with your employees, and proven every day that you want what’s best for them, they’ll give you the benefit of the doubt when things don’t go their way,” he says. “They might not like it, and they may be angry, but they won’t feel betrayed to the point of leaving. They’ll realize that you’ve always treated them like adults, with respect and consideration. And that’s when you’ll truly see the value of the work you’ve been doing. That emotional capital you’ve invested will save the relationship—that's the very foundation of a healthy company.
The effective management of staff in the office requires the ability to motivate, create job design, performance rewards and group influence.
Well, according to Quint Studer, CEO of Studer Group, he recommended “building an emotional bank account” with employees. Studer feels that it's the right thing to do and will benefits in the long run. I think his point is valid because after a series of stress at work, soon or later staff morale will be low and feeling let down. Studer mentioned management must invest enough emotional capital in the account for that metaphorical rainy day.
Extract from businessadvicedaily.com:
“Most leaders truly want to do the right thing,” asserts Studer, author of “Hardwiring Excellence: Purpose, Worthwhile Work, Making a Difference.” “They want positive, productive, trust-based relationships with their people. But let’s face it: perfection doesn’t exist in leaders or in companies. You put in enough ‘deposits’ so that when the inevitable ‘withdrawals’ are made—let’s say you forget to say thank you or you have to institute pay cuts—there’s enough goodwill in the account to salvage those relationships.”
Withdrawals, Studer points out, are usually weightier than deposits—so great leaders do everything they can to make more of the latter. For instance:
Diagnose employee satisfaction—and act on the results. Use a proven, respected assessment tool to figure out where your problems lie. Then, commit to solving them. “One of the biggest issues we see in our work with clients is that people say, 'Well, they measured our satisfaction but nobody responded to what we said'” says Studer. “We advise organizations to be open about the results and have everyone vote on the top three issues. Eventually, you should address them all, but start with the top three.”
Harvest best practices. If assessments reveal that a high number of employees cite “poor communication” as a problem, dig deeper. You may find that one department manager got great communication scores. Find out what she is doing right and reward her. Then, work to apply her communication practices throughout the organization. “Your company doesn’t really have a problem with poor communication, just inconsistent communication,” says Studer. “Take what people are doing right and expand it. It’s much more effective than trying to start from scratch—and it builds goodwill.”
Announce that you’re making changes. Accept skepticism, but not cynicism. “Tell employees specifically what you are going to fix,” says Studer. “Naturally, they will be skeptical. You can even tell them that skepticism is fine, even expected, but ask that they try not to be cynical. If they start rolling their eyes and say, ‘Oh, we’ve heard all that before,’ tell them, ‘Look, you can be part of the problem or you can be open to change and see good things start to happen.’”
Go for “quick wins” to establish credibility. A quick win is an action that shows employees you really are committed to meeting their needs. If you are trying to establish an environment of fairness, for instance, don’t “pull rank” as a senior leader and cut in line. Don’t insist on having the parking spot nearest the door. Not only will it send a signal that you’re no more important than anyone else, the longer parking lot trek gives you the opportunity to talk to employees and stay on top of what’s going on in your company. Perhaps your quick win might take the form of getting a department a piece of equipment that employees have requested for years, or finally dealing with a low performer who’s been dragging everyone down.
“Round” relentlessly. Studer is a huge proponent of leadership “rounding,” a process similar to the one doctors use to check on their patients. In the business world, a CEO, V.P., or department manager “makes the rounds” daily to check on the status of his or her employees. “Basically, you take an hour a day to touch base with employees, make a personal connection, recognize successes, find out what’s going well, and determine what improvements can be made,” says Studer. “And of course, you fix any problems that come up. Rounding is the heart and soul of building the emotional bank account, because it shows employees day in and day out that you care.”
Get rid of low performers. Make no mistake: your employees don’t want to work with low performers. Nothing makes employees as discouraged and resentful as having to co-exist with people who don’t pull their own weight. In fact, low performers usually drive high performers right out the door. “Turning a blind eye to these people quickly drains the emotional bank account you’re trying to build up with your good employees,” says Studer. “However hard it may seem, you must move these people up or out.”
Avoid creating a “We/They” culture. The temptation to get on your employees’ good side by saying, for instance, “Well, I fought for the budget increase, but this is all I could get,” can be huge. It may feel easier or more comfortable at the moment, but ultimately you’re dividing the staff instead of uniting them. Of course, few leaders deliberately foster a “We/They” mentality, but it can be easy to do subconsciously. “Interestingly, the other side of the coin—‘I know you’ve begged for more money for years and here I took care of it in one afternoon!’—can be equally divisive,” adds Studer. “When you solve a big problem overnight, you might be undermining mid-level supervisors who’ve been working on a problem for a long time. Don’t walk around and perform magic.”
Be open and truthful with your employees, no matter how difficult it may be. “Let’s say you know that part of your organization is going to be outsourced in the next few months, or that there are going to be major cuts in benefits,” says Studer. “Even if it doesn’t directly affect your team, it certainly impacts them on an emotional level. Once the decision is final, you owe it to your employees to tell them. Don’t wait for them to read it in the paper. They will know that you knew all along—and a huge amount of trust will be lost.”
In the end, of course, trust is what building a healthy emotional bank account is all about, says Studer.
“When you’ve always been up front with your employees, and proven every day that you want what’s best for them, they’ll give you the benefit of the doubt when things don’t go their way,” he says. “They might not like it, and they may be angry, but they won’t feel betrayed to the point of leaving. They’ll realize that you’ve always treated them like adults, with respect and consideration. And that’s when you’ll truly see the value of the work you’ve been doing. That emotional capital you’ve invested will save the relationship—that's the very foundation of a healthy company.
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