2013 is history

Considering the massive interval since my last post, procrastination and ill-discipline had the best of me. But that is HISTORY! (I proclaim this with a familiar and well-intentioned determination)

So instead of an empty proclamation, let me back this up with a much needed penning down of reflections for the year that has come and gone. What better way to start the year! Well, the 9th day of the new year at least. 

Work

Completed the seventh year with my firm. I've seen many colleagues and friends come and go during my tenure. Are they better off? Am I left behind? Am I too comfortable where I am? I already consider myself an anomalous Gen Y-er for staying with one employer for more than 2 years, let alone 7. My bosses have been good to me throughout the years and I actually find myself gaining a second wind every time new colleagues join the firm. I guess I find it energising to see how the next wave of young people join the workforce and stumble through the professional and social hurdles I did just a few years ago. It's entertaining, endearing but most of all we become good friends through the crucible known as the job. Year after year, I keep coming back to the same conclusion that I stay because of the people. I guess I like people more than I like to admit. So much for my bad-ass lone wolf act.

Community Volunteerism

I'm glad I was able to commit a good amount of time for such endeavours this year. It is always a humbling privilege to be part of the government think-tank group that looks at national community and social issues. Through visiting various locations and focusing on a number of issues this year, I take away 2 key convictions:

1. There is still a lot of work to be done: I am grateful, almost on a daily basis, that I stay in such a pristine, peaceful and secure nation. Just listening to 5 minutes of BBC/CNN, I am quickly reminded that Singapore is a tiny oasis of calm in a world that is in violent and escalating turmoil. That being said, there is still a vast amount of unseen suffering going on within our own borders. I'm loving how social media is raising awareness for such issues and is a great platform kick starting a lot of good initiatives. Positive momentum has begun, but the road is still long and we have our work cut out for us. 

2. Tomorrow's leaders need to start today: I'm seeing a worrisome leadership gap, especially in relation to the volume of work and complexity that I mentioned in my previous point. I've attended numerous talks in recent months where political and industry captains who had built Singapore from scratch share their experiences and advice in public forums and platforms. I always listened in awe, but the one common thing I noticed is that most of these individuals are far along in their journeys and are settling into much deserved rest. I'm not seeing impassioned successors, ready to take the heavy helm upon their strong shoulders. I don't need to criticise my peers and the Millennials because the vast deluge of selfies and youtube lunacy is testament enough. All I can do is choose to be different and band together with others who have chosen likewise.

Philippines - Medical Relief Mission (Dec '13)

Undoubtedly the highlight of the year. Not that a natural disaster is something to highlight, but it was the most impactful and meaningful part of my year by far. The team I went with obviously had a positive impact, providing emotional and medical support through our presence and service. But the take away that spills over into 2014 is the internal re-alignment of priorities, or rather my re-alignment to humanity. I am once again reminded that our media-fueled obsession with luxury, materialism and personal prestige is just a cloud of vapour with no substance or value. What truly connects us and is of enduring value is Friendship, Love, Hope and Faith. I could not have hoped for a better end to 2013 than being brought back to truth.

Conclusion: Advice (not resolutions) to myself for 2014

• Don't be busy. Do what matters to me and those I love
• True joy comes from being with others - listen, connect deeply and laugh alot
• My community is my future - I have to do something today, to make tomorrow better 
• Commit to 1 overseas mission a year
• The family get-away trip rocked. Do it again this year and every year
• Let this picture be the vision and constant reminder for 2014: Use my strength, presence and whatever resource I have to lift those around me. Bring joy, create great memories and lead through service