The pros and cons of being friends with your boss

colleagues having a drink

You’ve been working at your company for a while now and you’ve finally been promoted to a position where you report directly to the boss. You’re excited, but also a little scared.

On one hand, you’re thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from the best and potentially move up the corporate ladder. On the other hand, you worry about what will happen if things go south and you can’t seem to separate business from personal.

Should you be friends with your boss? That’s what we’re here to help you decide.

The pros

Before you make any decisions, let’s take a look at the pros of being friends with your direct supervisor. First, you will have an easier time getting favors. If your boss is your friend, she’s more likely to cut you some slack when you’re running late or need to take an urgent day off for personal matters.

Second, having a friend in the office can make the workday more pleasurable. When you have someone to chat with during lunch or someone to share some personal entertainment with after work, it makes the day go by faster.

And finally, as much as we hate to agree, being friends with your boss can help you move up the career ladder. When the time comes for raises and promotions, having a friend in the management team will help your case.

The cons
colleagues gossiping

Image Credits: hcamag.com

But on the con side, becoming too buddy-buddy with your department head can backfire if things don’t go well at work or if there’s a power struggle.

Your coworkers can accuse you of being a product of favoritism if you receive compliments, acknowledgment, or advancements at work, whether or not you earned it. Be wary of this specific issue since a resentful or envious teammate will just reference your friendship with the boss to prove it.

Furthermore, are you certain that disagreements had outside of work will stay outside of work? Picture getting into a nasty dispute with a buddy on Saturday night in private and then having to deal with them as your leader on Monday. Can you be certain that that particular person won’t vent their problems on you in the office?

Bottom line: It’s noteworthy to be aware of the rewards and potential risks of befriending your boss before making any decisions. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and then make the best decision for yourself!

How and when to be friends with your boss

The conclusion of whether or not to be friends with your superior ultimately depends on your circumstances. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to take the friendship plunge.

For starters, it’s important to be aware of the power dynamics at play. When you become friends with your boss, the relationship changes—you’re no longer just an employee, but you’re also someone that your boss can rely on for support and advice. It’s crucial to be mindful of this shift in dynamics, and make sure that you’re always respectful of your boss’s authority.

Another thing to consider is when is the best time to become friends with your manager. In general, it’s a good idea to wait until you’ve been working together for a while and have built up a level of trust. It can be tricky to balance work and personal relationships, so don’t feel pressured to rush into anything.

At the end of the day, only you can decide whether or not becoming friends with your boss is right for you. Just remember to use your common sense and be aware of any potential pitfalls.

How to handle different situations as friends with your boss
colleagues talking in the office

Image Credits: thepsychologicalhook.com

Assuming that you know all the ins and outs of being friends with your boss, it’s time to put that knowledge to the test! You will likely face a few different situations throughout your working relationship. Here are some tips on how to address them.

First, let’s talk about what to do when things are going great. Congratulations—you’ve landed the most ideal job and formed a friendship with your manager that’s going flawlessly! Keep doing what you’re doing and enjoy the ride.

Now, let’s say you’re having a bad day. You overslept, you spilled coffee on your shirt, and now your boss wants you to work overtime. It’s necessary to recognize that your boss is still your boss, even when you’re friends. Be polite and respectful, and do your best to get the work done.

Finally, let’s say you disagree with your superior on something. This can be a tricky situation, but it’s essential to note that as friends, you can still disagree respectfully. Explain your position calmly and logically, and be prepared to listen to what your superior has to say in return.

So, should you be friends with your boss? The answer is… it depends. There are pros and cons to becoming friends with your boss, and it’s up to you to decide what’s best for you and your career. Being friends with your supervisor can help you feel more comfortable in the workplace and can make communication easier. However, there are also some potential downsides to consider, such as the risk of crossing the line into personal territory. Just remember to weigh other pros and cons before making a decision.

Read More...

Should You Get a Wedding Planner in Singapore?

Wedding planners or coordinators are consultants that work very closely with you to create your dream wedding.

Hiring a wedding planner in Singapore is not as expensive as you think. You see, you can opt for their on-the-day expertise and use them as support for a few hours. Although you are paying for a few hours, the wedding planners offer a variety of services. These services include creating your seating plan for your guests, hosting your ceremony, contacting your vendors, and more.

For couples who reside in Singapore or couples who plan to have a destination wedding here, getting a wedding planner on board the journey may help you overcome the wedding blues!

3 Things to Consider Before Getting a Wedding Planner

Discuss these things with your partner. You will be able to move forward with your wedding planning once you figure out your budget, priorities, and time allowance.

1. BUDGET

Apart from deciding the overall budget for the wedding, you must decide how much you are willing to set aside for professional help. The price range for a planner depends on the scope of service you require. Your budget will determine the scope of help you can get.

2. PRIORITIES

What are your prenuptial and wedding priorities? Do you want to experience a stress-free wedding planning, or do you want to ensure that your wedding is Instagram-worthy? Logistics may be important for you and your partner too. So, identify what is most important to you.

3. TIME

How much time do you have left before getting married? Are you willing to set aside your commitments to focus on wedding planning? This would include sourcing for vendors, creating the guest lists, establishing a ceremony theme, shopping for essentials, and communicating with the guests.

3 Benefits of Having a Wedding Planner

Wedding planning can make you experience a roller-coaster of emotions. A wedding planner can help you create your dream wedding celebration and bring you other benefits.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

1. RELIEVING STRESS

Leaving the most stressful tasks to the hands of a trustworthy wedding planner will allow the bride and groom to fully immerse themselves in the bliss of the moment. You do not have to think of the trivial details alone. A competent wedding planner will ensure that every detail is executed according to the plan. Moreover, the planner can play an important part in creating your dream wedding celebration.

2. INCREASING YOUR NETWORK

When looking for professionals to provide hair, makeup, floral, or catering services, there are many individuals with competent skills and elaborate marketing strategies. How should you begin your search? A good wedding planner would have the best network of suppliers that would suit your requirements. For couples who have a tight budget, wedding planners can help you avoid getting ripped off by vendors.

3. EXPANDING YOUR LOCAL GRASP

Having a Singaporean wedding planner will allow you to reap the benefits of their local expertise. There are many beautiful indoor and outdoor locations for holding a wedding ceremony, and Singaporean wedding planners would know the good places to do so.

3 Singapore Wedding Planners

Here is a list of skilled wedding planners in Singapore.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

1. CHÈRE WEDDINGS & EVENTS

Chère has left a mark on over 100 happy clients that have trusted their planning to a team of experts. Whether you are planning a gala dinner with thousands of guests or an intimate wedding reception, you can seek their help.

Website: www.chere.com.sg/

2. SPELLBOUND

Spellbound has over 18 years of experience. With its years of experience in event management and planning, you can expect that Spellbound has the right set of networks to help you plan for your wedding. You can even ask their team to help you plan for a destination wedding.

Website: www.spellbound.com.sg/

3. TE PLANNER

Te Planner provides an abundance of different packages, allowing the clients to select the best option for them. Couples can choose from an all-inclusive wedding package or a venue décor package. Te Planner will help you to design your wedding, exactly how you envisioned it.

Website: teplanner.com.sg/

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

How to avoid raising a spoiled child

a young girl rolling her eyes

You’re a new parent, and you want to do everything you can to make sure your child doesn’t turn out spoiled.

But how can you make sure of that? It’s not always easy, especially since there are so many things that can lead to a child becoming overly pampered.

In this post, we will give you some tips on how to avoid raising a spoiled child. Follow these tips, and you will be on your way to parenting a well-adjusted, grateful little being.

What is a spoiled child?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, nonetheless, there are some general characteristics that most spoiled children share. Typically, they are demanding, insensitive to the feelings of others, and used to getting their way. They often have a sense of entitlement and can be quite manipulative.

If you’re worried that you might be raising a spoiled child, it’s important to nip the behavior in the bud early on. Try to instill good values in your child from an early age, and set clear rules on what is and isn’t acceptable behavior. Most importantly, make sure that you’re modeling good behavior yourself.

How to avoid spoiling your child
a young boy demanding his way

Image Credits: someecards.com

Here are some of the many ways to avoid spoiling your child:

  • Stand your ground

Allowing your child to regularly breach the boundaries you establish just serves to reinforce their negative behavior. Set some rules and expectations for your family, even if they are simple ones. Love will come after earning their respect and showing them respect concurrently.

  • Never give in to meltdowns

No one parent enjoys listening to a child throw a fit, whether it’s because they won’t leave a playground or because their preschooler smashes the door because they can’t get their hands on their new favorite toy. But, giving in is even worse. A child’s “success” is the major reason they will continue to experience meltdowns. If you don’t give in to their tantrums, they will eventually halt.

  • Shower praises when it’s due

It is crucial to encourage your child to attempt things they are interested in doing, but fail. Be sure to support them without complimenting them excessively. Assure your kid of the numerous other skills they possess if they seem dejected at being bad at a task. Ask them to consider how various people, including their friends, are adept at multiple things. Explain that our uniqueness is what makes us special and wonderful.

Consequences of raising a spoiled child

There are several consequences to raising a spoiled child. First and foremost, it can lead to entitlement and a sense of privilege, which can be very damaging in the long run. Spoiled kids often expect everything to be handed to them on a silver platter and grow up thinking that the world revolves around them. This can lead to a lot of problems when they enter adulthood and have to deal with the real world.

Another consequence of spoiling your child is that it can upset their emotional development. When kids are constantly given everything they want, they never learn how to cope with frustration or disappointment. This can lead to problems forming relationships and coping with everyday stressors later in life.

Finally, spoiling your child can have serious financial consequences. If you’re not careful, you could find yourself raising a child who expects everything to be given to them for free and is unable to take care of themselves when they’re adults. It’s essential to remember that spoiling your child isn’t free—it will cost in the long run!

How to fix it if you have already spoiled your child
a mom praising her child

Image Credits: singaporesoleparent.com.sg

Now that you know how to avoid spoiling your child, let’s take a look at how to fix the damage if you have already done so. The first step is admitting that you have an issue to solve! Once you acknowledge that your child has been spoiled, you can start taking steps to correct the problem.

If your child is used to getting everything they want and isn’t used to being told no, it might be tough for them to adjust at first. But with time and patience, they will learn that there are other things in life besides just getting what they want. You can help teach them this by setting rules and limits while enforcing them consistently.

It’s also crucial to start verbally praising your child for good behavior, rather than giving them material things every time they behave well. This will help them learn that behaving well results in positive outcomes other than physical gifts, which is a lesson they will carry with them into adulthood.

Your children will be prepared for a better, more positive future if you play an active role in parenting throughout their formative years to prevent over-pampering scenarios. Your methodical approach to disciplinary practices will aid in the development of many positive qualities, such as love, patience, and compassion. No one is consistent all the time, obviously, but once you begin applying the abovementioned tips, you will be astounded at how rapidly your child’s conduct can advance.

Read More...

The qualities you should look for in a work mentor

colleagues in a discussion

When it comes to finding a work mentor, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Not everyone is suited for the role of mentor, and not every mentor is perfect for you.

That’s why it’s essential to know the qualities you should be looking for in a work mentor. This way, you can ensure that you’re making the best decision for yourself and finding someone who can help guide and support your career growth.

Supportive

When looking for a work mentor, it’s necessary to find someone supportive. This person should be someone you can go to for advice, direction, and encouragement. They should be willing to help you grow and develop as a professional.

Great listener

A good mentor should be a great listener. They will take the time to hear you out first before offering valuable insights and recommendations. They are also willing to be there to support you through both the good and bad times. If you’re looking for a work mentor, ensure they have superb listening skills.

Has extensive experience in their field
colleagues talking while walking

Image Credits: transfersmagazine.org

One of the most noteworthy qualities to look for in a work mentor is extensive experience in their field. After all, you want someone who can teach you the ropes and help you navigate your way through your career. A mentor with years of experience will be able to share their knowledge and steer you in the right direction. They will also be able to give you invaluable advice on how to succeed in your industry.

Patient and understand that you are still learning

Other than being supportive, a great listener, and experienced in their field, you should look for a work mentor who is patient and understanding. They should know that you are still learning and be willing to help you mature and expand your skills. They should also be able to provide constructive feedback in a way that is helpful and not hurtful.

Does not hold back on giving constructive criticisms

Criticisms can be hard to take, but it’s an indispensable part of improving your competencies. That’s why it’s so vital to find a mentor who can offer you constructive criticisms. They should be able to suggest honest feedback that will help you unfold as a proficient worker in your field. We urge you to look for someone willing to offer guidance without being condescending.

When choosing a mentor, it’s essential to consider the qualities that are most influential to you. Maybe you want someone with a lot of hands-on industry experience or someone with a lot of business knowledge. Whatever your priorities, make sure to find someone that can help guide and support you as you progress in your career. If you can find a mentor with all these qualities, you will surely be a step closer to success!

Read More...

How to Save Money on Healthcare in Singapore

When it comes to healthcare costs, we are wired to believe that things cost the way they do. If you have an insurance provider, chances are, you are paying a premium on a regular basis. If you are uninsured, you might be avoiding visits to the nearby clinic or hospital.

You can still save money on healthcare! To get the most value for your dollar, follow these money-saving tips.

#1: PRACTICE PREVENTIVE CARE

Do not get sick! One of the best things you can do to limit your healthcare costs is to establish a healthy routine that incorporates good nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management. Choose a wellness routine that works for you. When you nourish your body and spirit, you can have a meaningful impact on your future health and prevent healthcare costs.

#2: SELECT A SUITABLE HEALTH INSURANCE

Health insurance aids you in paying for your medical expenses when you get sick, get injured, or become disabled. Although all Singaporeans and Permanent Residents are covered by Medishield Life, you may face some restrictions to your uses and claims. Payouts correspond to the prices for the Class B2 and C wards in public hospitals. So, you must be prepared to pay a large amount of money if you want to stay in a Class B1 or A ward. You can combat this by enhancing your health insurance coverage with an Integrated Shield plan.

#3: OPT FOR GENERIC MEDICATIONS

Brand-name medications are more expensive than generic brands. From a medical standpoint, previous literature has shown that generic medications seem to perform in the same manner as brand-name medications. Instead of poking a hole in your pocket, you can opt for generics to reap its benefits.

For instance, you can pay S$11.50 for 100 tablets of Paracetamol (500 mg) instead of paying S$10.50 for 20 tablets of Panadol.

#4: DROP BY YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY

For mild conditions, you can visit your local pharmacy to ask for advice. According to Unity’s website, their pharmacists can assist you with advice on minor ailments, medication concerns, travel medication, and so on.

For instance, you can consult their pharmacists if you have questions on your medications for your constipation. If you are experiencing mild ailments such as constipation, you can skip the clinic queues and go straight to the pharmacy. However, you must see a doctor if you are certainly unwell.

#5: SCREEN FOR LESS

Screen for Life is a national screening program that encourages Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents to go for regular health screening. Singaporean citizens only need to pay S$0 to S$5 per screening visit*. While Permanent Residents can check with their CHAS GP clinic on the screening test rates offered under the said program. The doctor consultation will be charged accordingly by the respective CHAS GP clinics.

Note: *Rates apply only at Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) General Practitioner (GP) clinics

#6: GO TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD POLYCLINIC FOR AFFORDABLE DENTAL CARE

If you are looking for a dental option for regular check-up and oral maintenance, search no further than the neighborhood polyclinic. Neighborhood polyclinics offer subsidized dental treatment and care. Both SingHealth and National Healthcare Group polyclinics have dental services, and it is easy to make an appointment online.

Recommended: 5 Most Affordable Dental Clinics In Singapore

Alternatively, you may utilize the company dental and health screening benefits. Check with your employee handbook or ask your Human Resources department to know which medical benefits you are eligible for.

#7: FREE VACCINATIONS AT POLYCLINICS FOR INFANTS

The National Childhood Immunization Program offers immunization against certain diseases, which are fully-subsidized. Full subsidies* for vaccinations under this program are available for Singaporean children at CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Note: *This is applicable for certain vaccine brands. Refer to go.gov.sg/vaccine-list for the list of the latest subsidized vaccine brands.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

Read More...