life lessons Archives | MoneyDigest.sg

Why Perseverance Matters in Your Career & Life

Giving up? It’s tempting. Trust me, nobody’s immune. Failure stings! Although we know setbacks happen to everyone, when it hits us, it still feels like a shock.

We hear “never give up” everywhere, from motivational talks to social media quotes, but it’s more than just a cliché. In today’s fast-paced world, especially in Singapore’s competitive work culture, this mindset is crucial. Because success? It rarely happens overnight. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Take it from me. I started chasing my MA degree back in 2021. What a rollercoaster. I didn’t just breeze through it. I actually failed my thesis the first time. Ouch. But quitting? Not an option. I realized that if I wanted better results, I had to push harder, learn from mistakes, and keep going. Failure is part of the journey, not the end. No matter how talented or hardworking you are, setbacks will come. What defines you is how you bounce back. The folks who keep trying, even when the going gets tough, are the ones who eventually win.

And you don’t have to do it alone. For me, my husband and family’s support made all the difference during those late-night study sessions. If you’re chasing a tough goal, find someone who shares your passion because it helps keep you going when motivation dips.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Need some practical tips to keep your perseverance on point? Try these:

1. Dedicate a fixed amount of time every day to work on your goal, whether it’s studying, practicing, or hustling. Consistency is king.

2. Think of people who inspire you. Their stories can fuel your own drive.

3. Treat yourself. Reward your persistence with something simple, like your favorite ice cream or a Netflix episode.

4. Create a vision board. Put up images or quotes representing your dream where you see them daily. It keeps your eyes on the prize.

5. To keep you inspired, here are some timeless quotes to carry with you:

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying I will try again tomorrow.”
Mary Anne Radmacher

“It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.”
Albert Einstein

“Ask yourself this question: Will this matter a year from now?”
Richard Carlson

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”
Robert Collier

“It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop.”
Confucius

“Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.”
F. Scott Fitzgerald

So, the next time you’re ready to throw in the towel, remember, the difference between where you are and where you want to be is often just one more try.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

5 Financial Lessons You Can Learn from Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga lit up the National Stadium last night with a spectacular, sold-out performance. It was the first of four nights in Singapore and her only stop in Asia for the Mayhem tour. The two-hour spectacle featured dynamic choreography, dramatic set pieces, and multiple costume changes.

What’s more? During her 2010 hit Alejandro, she draped the Singapore flag over a balcony on stage, drawing roaring applause. Beyond the wigs and theatrics, there’s a method to the madness. On that note, here are five key lessons from Mother Monster’s playbook.

#1: SAY NO & MEAN IT

In a speech at Yale, Lady Gaga shared how one simple word helped her reclaim her life. She had reached a point where she no longer recognized herself. Saying “no” gave her back control over her time, energy, and purpose.

Financially, the same principle applies. Saying no to unnecessary spending, to lifestyle pressure, or to things that don’t align with your goals, is a powerful tool. Just because you can afford something doesn’t mean you should say yes to it.

#2: BREAK FROM THE NORM

Gaga doesn’t follow trends. She sets them. As Gaga sings in Born This Way, “Don’t hide yourself in regret, just love yourself and you’re set.” Even in the way she dances, she moves to beats others avoid. Her unconventional choices make her unforgettable.

That mindset also works for money. It’s easy to follow the crowd, whether it’s buying the latest tech, chasing social media-fueled investments, or sticking to a career path that doesn’t truly suit you. But real success comes from doing what fits your own values and vision.

#3: THINK LONG-TERM

Lady Gaga’s stardom wasn’t built on one viral moment. Her success is the result of years of strategy, hard work, and consistent reinvention. It’s the same when it comes to your finances.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Short-term thinking often leads to mistakes such as overspending, panic-selling, or taking on bad debt. But those who plan ahead, invest steadily, and take a long view of their goals tend to build lasting wealth.

#4: LOOK BEYOND YOURSELF

Behind every Gaga performance is a massive team: stylists, dancers, musicians, designers, and technicians. She openly credits her success to the people who support her, on and off stage.

Good financial decisions also rely on collective thinking. Whether you’re running a business or managing your own portfolio, long-term success means considering the needs of your community, employees, partners, and the environment. Companies and individuals who think sustainably often perform better over time.

“I wanna hold ’em like they do in Texas, please,” she quips in Poker Face, but the message is deeper: know who you’re dealing with, and value every card you hold.

#5: DON’T DO IT ALONE

Even a global superstar like Lady Gaga doesn’t do it all herself. Her massive live shows depend on an army of behind-the-scenes professionals. Her creative process is powered by collaboration.

The same is true with money. You may be the lead in your financial story, but you need a team such as trusted friends, mentors or a supportive partner. Trying to handle everything solo can lead to burnout or costly mistakes.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Knowing when to ask for help is not weakness. It’s wisdom.

Sources: 1,2,3, & 4

5 Life Lessons from the Candy Crush Saga

Though I was late to the fad, I’ve recently indulged in the world of Candy Crush Saga. I must admit, it’s an undeniably addictive game, but surprisingly, it has also imparted some valuable life lessons. Let’s delve into it and discover what makes it so intriguing.

Candy Crush Saga can be described as a delightful puzzle game with a social twist. The objective is to connect candies of various colors, creating chains that make them vanish, all while progressing through the sugary levels of this exciting adventure.

Playing this game has taught me a few important things that I’d like to share.

#1: BIGGER ACHIEVEMENTS LED TO SWEETER REWARDS

As you progress through Candy Crush, the game not only acknowledges your achievements but also rewards you accordingly. Whether it’s a handy lollipop hammer or the coveted ultimate treasure chest, these special incentives add an extra layer of interest and engagement to the gameplay.

Likewise, in the workplace, recognizing employees for their accomplishments plays a significant role in motivating them to put in even more effort to reach their objectives and encourages them to stay committed. Rewards not only spark interest but also aid individuals in achieving their future goals. Leaders who genuinely acknowledge people and their skills become respected figures admired by many.

#2: TAKING THE RISK LETS YOU EVOLVE

I’ve taken quite a few risks in my life – working and studying overseas and switching careers. Sometimes, we can’t predict all the obstacles that lie ahead, but that shouldn’t stop us from moving forward. In the game, there are mystery blocks that reveal themselves over time. Players take the risk and forge ahead, despite not knowing what awaits them – whether it’s good or bad.

Similarly, in the workplace, we encounter situations like new technology, expansions, and process changes where the effects are unknown until later. Embracing that risk-taking attitude becomes crucial in such scenarios. Taking risks allows us to evolve, meet objectives, and achieve our goals.

As a leader, being prepared to take risks and prioritize work is essential for success. A great leader focuses on their employees, leading by example in handling risks. It’s all about taking those calculated risks when needed, as they pave the way for success and bring us closer to achieving our visions.

#3: HAVING A STRATEGY PAYS OFF

In the game, just playing continuously takes you to the next level, but it doesn’t mean you’ve truly won. To achieve victory, you must stay focused on your actions. Whenever I find myself losing repeatedly, it becomes evident that my strategy needs adjustment, and I must incorporate more special power-ups. After all, how can you expect to win without a solid strategy? It’s a no-brainer; you definitely need one.

Whether it’s in games or any aspect of life, if you aim to progress and come out on top, a strong and well-thought-out strategy is essential.

#4: BETTER RESULTS HAPPEN WHEN YOU DON’T KEEP SCORE

It’s backed by statistics, and there’s even a famous dialogue from the movie “3 Idiots” that echoes this sentiment: “Pursue Excellence and Success will follow.” I can vouch for its truthfulness – it really works!

Constantly obsessing over the scoreboard or worrying about success can actually hinder your progress. Instead, focusing on achieving excellence in whatever you do allows you to concentrate on the task at hand and perform at your best. That’s just the way life goes! So, strive for excellence, and success will naturally follow suit.

#5: THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY OUT

I’ve found myself stuck in numerous levels of Candy Crush, and at times, it’s taken me days to overcome them. But the beauty of the game lies in the fact that you must keep trying. Just like in life, it’s all about resilience and perseverance. Persistence truly holds the key to success. If you keep pushing forward, sooner or later, you’re bound to figure it out, whether through sheer determination or a stroke of luck, perhaps even both. This reminds me of my uncle’s incredible journey, from picking food out of garbage bags to eventually dining in fine dining restaurants – a true rags-to-riches story.

There are hidden paths you must seek both in the game and in life. You have to trust that there’s always a way out, leading you to the next level. Just keep playing, and sooner or later, the solution will reveal itself. It’s a valuable lesson to remember – never lose hope and believe in your ability to find a way forward, both in Candy Crush and in your own life’s challenges.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Top Career Tips I Learned from Emily in Paris

After landing her dream job in Paris, American marketing executive Emily Cooper embraces her unpredictable new life while juggling work and romance. Its third season premiered last December 22, 2022, with Lily Collins as its Netflix Series lead.

Emily goes through many workplace challenges and is confronted with cultural differences as she navigates in the French work environment. Although some of her choices are questionable, here are some of the top career lessons I learned from Emily in
Paris.

#1: SPEAK UP

If you need to share your ideas, speak up! Do not wait for the opportunity to knock. When Emily did not agree with the sexist De L’Heure campaign, she took the initiative to share her thoughts to Mr. Antoine Lambert. People appreciate employees who are proactive and professional. Proactive employees think ahead and get ahead!

#2: THINK DIFFERENTLY

Being a person who thinks outside of the box is important in any line of work. For Emily, she impresses the head of a leading cosmetic brand with her unique Instagram posts. Applying creativity in your projects allows you to grow and to lead with futuristic lenses.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#3: NEVER GIVE UP

Emily’s perseverance and tenacity is an inspiration. She faces many situations and keeps pushing for what she wants. Her positive attitude wins her clients in the end. Although you cannot be positive in every situation, it helps to reframe your perspective to win over your clients. Connect with your potential clients and have them sign on board by not quitting the game.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Emilyinparistv

#4: ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING

Emily once booked for the wrong date and immediately thought of a solution to fix the situation. She said: “the good news and the better news – we are booked in with an up-and-coming chef tonight and we are all coming back here for the Zimmer launch together next year!” She handled the situation well.

Attitude can affect the way you overcome the toughest situations. In a world where things seem impossible, Emily makes it possible!

#5: TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

Emily constantly reminds her boss Sylvie that they need to work well together to succeed. In one episode, Sylvie even corrects Emily and tells her that the French word for team is équipe, which does not have an “I” in it. However, Emily proves to Sylvie just how important it is to work as a team. Use the strengths of your co-workers as leverage to succeed together.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Emilyinparistv

#6: HAVE A GROWTH MINDSET

Emily embraces every opportunity thrown at her. She jumped on a chance to work in Paris, for starters! She actively seeks out increased responsibility and continues to say yes to challenging opportunities. You can incorporate the growth mindset into your own careers too. Let me end with a quote that champions the growth mindset.

“Individuals who believe their talents can be developed (through hard work, good strategies, and input from others) have a growth mindset. They tend to achieve more than those with a more fixed mindset (those who believe their talents are innate gifts).”

– Mindset Author Carol Dweck

Sources: 1 & 2

6 Nerve-wracking Lessons From Squid Game

Since its release in the latter half of September, Squid Game has been the talk of the town. Squid Game is a 2021 Netflix Thriller created by Korean director Hwang Dong-hyuk. Its story follows the lives of 456 cash-strapped players who accepted a strange invitation to compete in a series of children’s games.

A tempting prize awaits inside the Squid Game. However, all these come with deadly high stakes.

CAUTION: SPOILER ALERT!

Let us highlight the six important lessons you can reap from the Squid Game.

#1: THE PRESENT AFFECTS THE FUTURE

The decisions you make now shapes not only your present, but also your future. The lead character, Gi-hun, showed his imperfections throughout the show. All his past actions (e.g., gambling problems), came to bite him in the present.

His broken marriage, losing his child due to financial constraints, and his seriously ill mother took a toll on him. The mistakes he made in the past led him to enter the Squid Game.

#2: BE CAREFUL WHO YOU TRUST

Be careful when it comes to trusting someone. Remember that a person’s smile does not always mean that he or she is your friend. Of all the betrayal that happened in Squid Game, I was heavily hurt when disgraced banker Cho Sang Woo betrayed Pakistani worker Abdul Ali.

Throughout the show, Ali showed pure kindness and admiration to his Hyung Sang Woo (i.e., hyung – term of endearment meaning older brother). Sang Woo also helped him in the outside world by giving him money. During an important game of marbles, Sang Woo tricked Ali to win the game. At the last-minute, Ali realizes that his marbles have been switched with stones. He was brutally killed. His death showed us that the world around us is not as kind as it seems.

Image Credits: facebook.com/netflixph

#3: MONEY CANNOT BUY HAPPINESS

Several articles and films showed how money cannot lead to happiness. In the Squid Game’s final episode, we find out that Player 001, Oh Il Nam was the mastermind of it all. I had grown fond of this old man who continued to have fun in the face of imminent death. I, too, was deceived.

It was mastermind Il Nam’s way of entertaining his extremely rich clients who had grown bored of their lives. Money is important, but it is no substitute for doing something fulfilling.

#4: GAMBLING IS NEVER THE ANSWER

On his daughter’s birthday, Gi-hun used his mother’s money to gamble. He should have bought a special meal or a special gift instead. If you look closely at the character, he enjoys the thrill of the uncertain.

Gambling never gives you the assurance of a better life. It may be a way to win cash quickly, but it is never guaranteed.

#5: INSURANCE CAN SAVE LIVES

The best time to get insurance is when you do not need it yet. In episode two, he urged his mother to get her foot treated only to realize that he stopped paying for the health insurance years ago. His weakened mother had no choice but to walk out of the hospital because they cannot afford it.

Having insurance helps you to cushion unforeseen expenses such as the ones brought by critical illnesses. Shop around to see which fits you best.

#6: KINDNESS COMES FROM THE PEOPLE YOU LEAST EXPECT

The first episode is a special one. “Red Light, Green Light” displayed that the players came from tricky situations and were shocked by the deathly risks of the game. The innocent child game escalated into a bloodbath.

Image Credits: facebook.com/netflixph

Gi-hun came close to being eliminated. Fortunately, Ali’s strong helping hand saved him. He did not have to do it, but he did despite risking his own life. He was selfless. Being selfless means caring about others, without the desire for compensation.

You will meet both selfish and selfless people throughout your life. The choice is yours!

Sources: 1 & 2

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