Imagine this. You are so motivated to speak up, and share your opinion with friends and all. As you prepare to claim the platform, you also realize one possible challenge. Your so-called brilliant idea may not be popular among the audience, that it may not be well-received, inviting some kind of disagreement and opposition, and you may have to bear unforeseen consequences. What would you do?
In a collectivist society like Malaysia, speakers have to play by tonnes of rules, norms, and discretion. To present an unpopular idea takes courage, persuasion, and creativity. Interestingly, some of these unpopular ideas are wisdoms, insights, and breakthroughs. Hence, to back off is absolutely out of the question!
By theory, most individuals will scrutinize the communication and cultural climate before they present their unpopular ideas. Noelle-Neumann's (1974) 'spiral of silence' explicates that people speak out when ideas are popular and become silent when they start to lose ground. Hmm...this explains why some clever ideas end up silenced and invisible.
What about you??? As much as this situation may trigger social-psychological discomfort, if you could muster enough courage, your seemingly unpopular idea can emerge as a groundbreaking claim. In other words, as there is majority vote, research shows that minority influence can also win people's hearts and conscience. Think positive+++.
Now, I invite you to take a moment to reflect and explain your stance on this trigger: In terms of percentage (0%-100%), how likely will you express your own opinion in situations when it is UnPopular?
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
The Nervous Speaker
What should you do if you suffer from nervousness every time you are assigned to speak in public? It sounds almost threatening to even admit that public speaking has become so essential nowadays. In other words, you just can't ignore or avoid it.
Particularly for students, oral presentations and speeches make up a handsome portion of the assessment. For working adults, the talent and ability to speak eloquently in public may promise promotions, popularity and influence. Hence, experts advise handling this phenomenon with care as it may impinge your reputation, career and future.
Some people claim that nervousness is a normal experience for beginning speakers. I agree. With adequate exposure and practice, things will look better. Maturity and experience in life mould composure in public speakers.
When I started public speaking, I remember the painful jitters and tremors. I told myself that I should find strategies to prevent the audience from noticing my nervousness. I memorized my speech and presented it with proper modulation of voice and eloquence. Later, I developed the habit of reading so that I could talk and argue on almost anything, with conviction. Some topics may be difficult, so I took the trouble to prepare and do sufficient research.
There are loads of advice on how to handle nervousness in public speaking in the market. Nevertheless, you must select the most appropriate for your personality and oratory skills.The list can go on, but does any of the tips to combat nervousness work for you? Do you actually need 'prescription' or does the remedy actually develop with age and familiarity?
Whatever your public speaking experience entails, please remember that nervousness shouldn't impede determination to explore this realm of elegance. I wish you all the best in your future speaking endeavours.
Would you like to reflect and share your encounter with 'nervousness'? The last time you were nervous in public, what did you do? What did you tell yourself? What was the secret ingredient that gave you the strength to conquer your nervousness in public speaking?
Particularly for students, oral presentations and speeches make up a handsome portion of the assessment. For working adults, the talent and ability to speak eloquently in public may promise promotions, popularity and influence. Hence, experts advise handling this phenomenon with care as it may impinge your reputation, career and future.
Some people claim that nervousness is a normal experience for beginning speakers. I agree. With adequate exposure and practice, things will look better. Maturity and experience in life mould composure in public speakers.
When I started public speaking, I remember the painful jitters and tremors. I told myself that I should find strategies to prevent the audience from noticing my nervousness. I memorized my speech and presented it with proper modulation of voice and eloquence. Later, I developed the habit of reading so that I could talk and argue on almost anything, with conviction. Some topics may be difficult, so I took the trouble to prepare and do sufficient research.
There are loads of advice on how to handle nervousness in public speaking in the market. Nevertheless, you must select the most appropriate for your personality and oratory skills.The list can go on, but does any of the tips to combat nervousness work for you? Do you actually need 'prescription' or does the remedy actually develop with age and familiarity?
Whatever your public speaking experience entails, please remember that nervousness shouldn't impede determination to explore this realm of elegance. I wish you all the best in your future speaking endeavours.
Would you like to reflect and share your encounter with 'nervousness'? The last time you were nervous in public, what did you do? What did you tell yourself? What was the secret ingredient that gave you the strength to conquer your nervousness in public speaking?
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Oh Carey
Recently, I had the opportunity to meet/train vibrant and interesting personalities at the Sime Darby Management Training Academy,Carey Island. I was there for one week, and it was very enjoyable and rejuvenating. Carey Island's greenery and historical buildings is an everlasting memento. Here's a photo of Hatter's Castle with breathtaking colonial architecture, lawn mowed to perfection, spacious balcony for evening tea, and awesome interior.
For writing skills, one of the assignments was to design a tourist leaflet to promote Carey Island beach, a very much neglected and secluded area. It was indeed an eye-opening deliberation.
Here's a glimpse of classroom climate. Well, my students are absolutely lovely, committed and talented. One week on Carey Island feels like work+vacation. They are the Sime Darby Management Apprentices, and I wish them success.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Who Loves Dancing?
My boy, Emir, loves dancing to the beat, and he had a marvellous time at his Q-Dees graduation concert last Saturday performing Michael Jackson's 'Beat It'. It was a beautiful fusion of two mega favourites - Jaiho accompanied by Indian dance, and of course, Beat it. Frankly, I was surprised to see my little boy's talent. I thought it was so natural, and adorable. The crowd also liked him and they said it was so cute...His teacher did not choreoraph the steps and left it all to his 'feeeeeel'... i want to thank Q-dees Putrajaya Presint 15 especially Miss Hana, for allowing my precious boy to explore his interest and talent in a very creative way. Perhaps, I could share this moment to treasure with my readers in my blogosphere, in support of children's creative development. In short, being excellent in academic in indispensable, but we should also make room for creativity and freedom of expression. Enjoy the video:)
Monday, September 28, 2009
Happy Birthday to Me
Really, i can't wait to grow just one year older and wiser. This 2nd October, i turn 39! and that's just one year to 40???! i heard that my kids have made plans, and whatever they are, i know they're gonna be awwwwwwesome. Just 3 days after that is my wedding anniversary. on the 8th, i shall be in Penang island presenting my research, and i hope to meet my friends from primary school, college, university, and previous workplace & conferences, there. Hmmm...how lovely this beautiful month of October has turned out to be, for me and a very simple me. So, to the rest who will celebrate their birthdays in October, cheers....and let's make life all the more wonderful and successful yeah...
Friday, June 26, 2009
Let's Contribute to IJN
Dear all,
It's better late than never. we still have 4 more days to help heart patients in Malaysia through a simple donation. please kindly refer to my email below, and follow the procedure. Please also help to forward this matter to your friends, yeah:)
_____________________________________________________
Puan Zuraidah,
I would like to thank you in advance for your continuous support towards IJN Foundation. Presently, we are having this campaign with DiGi, “Love to Save”. It’s very straight forward as no other commitment is needed from the public other than a valid email address. For each successful vote, DiGi will pay RM5 to IJN Foundation.
Log on to http://www.lovetosave.com.my/
Choose IJN Foundation as your preferred charity
Enter your “email address”, “age group” and click “send”
In a short while an alert email will be send to voters email account by DiGi
Voters need to respond to the link provided, and done.
Real time data is available on the www.lovetosave.com.my , we are now at the fourth place which is quite good. Our target is to raise 10,000 votes which is equals to RM50,000 within the month of June.
As such, IJN Foundation would be grateful to have all the helps available to achieve the 10,000 votes.
Thank you
Mohd Farid Wardi bin Mohd Bajury Executive, Fundraising
IJN Foundation c/o Institut Jantung Negara 145 Jalan Tun Razak 50400 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone 603-26178647 facsimile 603-26982824 mobile 6019-7562124
http://www.ijnfoundation.com/
It's better late than never. we still have 4 more days to help heart patients in Malaysia through a simple donation. please kindly refer to my email below, and follow the procedure. Please also help to forward this matter to your friends, yeah:)
_____________________________________________________
Puan Zuraidah,
I would like to thank you in advance for your continuous support towards IJN Foundation. Presently, we are having this campaign with DiGi, “Love to Save”. It’s very straight forward as no other commitment is needed from the public other than a valid email address. For each successful vote, DiGi will pay RM5 to IJN Foundation.
Log on to http://www.lovetosave.com.my/
Choose IJN Foundation as your preferred charity
Enter your “email address”, “age group” and click “send”
In a short while an alert email will be send to voters email account by DiGi
Voters need to respond to the link provided, and done.
Real time data is available on the www.lovetosave.com.my , we are now at the fourth place which is quite good. Our target is to raise 10,000 votes which is equals to RM50,000 within the month of June.
As such, IJN Foundation would be grateful to have all the helps available to achieve the 10,000 votes.
Thank you
Mohd Farid Wardi bin Mohd Bajury Executive, Fundraising
IJN Foundation c/o Institut Jantung Negara 145 Jalan Tun Razak 50400 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone 603-26178647 facsimile 603-26982824 mobile 6019-7562124
http://www.ijnfoundation.com/
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Life is a bed of carnations
Have you heard that I was down with dengue fever recently? May be or may be not...let's just say it's a terrible experience! My two children were also warded at the same hospital, together with my husband who was in ICU (post surgery) ...hmmm..can you almost believe this traumatic journey in my simple life? Haaah:) I'm just so glad it's nearly over, and we are all recovering in one way or another.
Now...I have always loved tulips ( dreaming for a holiday in the Netherlands). Nevertheless, when I was at the hospital, I noticed that visitors would come with roses and carnations...never tulips, yeah... But, why roses? Haven't we heard that 'life is not a bed of roses....'? So, i thought carnations would better represent our well wishes at times like this. I browsed the net, at least the Wikipedia and I nearly couldn't believe my hunch...yupp:) A Carnation is definitely a special flower expressing love, fascination, gratitude and distinction. It's especially worn on Mothers' day and at weddings.
To quote the Wikipedia: "It is the national flower of Spain, and the provincial flower of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands. It is also the symbol of the Portuguese Carnation Revolution. The state flower of Ohio is a scarlet carnation." etc.etc.
The thing is...when you are sick, you'd want people around to care for you. So, many thanks to all our caring and loving doctors and nurses at KPJ Shah Alam. Can't imagine how we'd face the challenge without your kind support. Also, I wish to extend my gratitude to all my friends from IKAL and MURNI/ ILMU who have visited as well as prayed for me. Your moral support has given me ultimate strength to quickly recover and enjoy life as always. I would also like to express my gratitude to all my husband's friends who have come from near and far. Thanks to all the caring teachers from SK Purajaya Presint 16(2) for your kind prayers and concern for my daughter, Nadia. Not to forget, special thanks to my lovely students who could still find some precious time to visit my husband and i, despite the exams...God bless you all.
To all of you, I'd like to pray may your life be filled with happiness and love. Let's all be inspired and showered with petals of carnation, a symbolism of love, gratitude and distinction. Ameeeeeeeen.
Now...I have always loved tulips ( dreaming for a holiday in the Netherlands). Nevertheless, when I was at the hospital, I noticed that visitors would come with roses and carnations...never tulips, yeah... But, why roses? Haven't we heard that 'life is not a bed of roses....'? So, i thought carnations would better represent our well wishes at times like this. I browsed the net, at least the Wikipedia and I nearly couldn't believe my hunch...yupp:) A Carnation is definitely a special flower expressing love, fascination, gratitude and distinction. It's especially worn on Mothers' day and at weddings.
To quote the Wikipedia: "It is the national flower of Spain, and the provincial flower of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands. It is also the symbol of the Portuguese Carnation Revolution. The state flower of Ohio is a scarlet carnation." etc.etc.
The thing is...when you are sick, you'd want people around to care for you. So, many thanks to all our caring and loving doctors and nurses at KPJ Shah Alam. Can't imagine how we'd face the challenge without your kind support. Also, I wish to extend my gratitude to all my friends from IKAL and MURNI/ ILMU who have visited as well as prayed for me. Your moral support has given me ultimate strength to quickly recover and enjoy life as always. I would also like to express my gratitude to all my husband's friends who have come from near and far. Thanks to all the caring teachers from SK Purajaya Presint 16(2) for your kind prayers and concern for my daughter, Nadia. Not to forget, special thanks to my lovely students who could still find some precious time to visit my husband and i, despite the exams...God bless you all.
To all of you, I'd like to pray may your life be filled with happiness and love. Let's all be inspired and showered with petals of carnation, a symbolism of love, gratitude and distinction. Ameeeeeeeen.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Thank You IJN Malaysia
My heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the heart team at Institut Jantung Negara, Malaysia (IJN). I pray endlessly may God bless your team of dedicated and compassionate doctors, nurses, physiotheraphists, and admin staff with bountiful happiness, success and health.
Two years back, my husband was told that both of his heart valves were seriously damaged due to infection. It was devastating news, and to think of the two years of torment he had to endure, living without the valves...well...only God understands best.
God the Almighty imposes challenge on human, and He has his own reasons that we don't question. We accepted the diagnosis, secured an appointment for operation, and prayed so much for His mercy and compassion.
All in all, three different results obtained from three different specialists led to one similar solution - that my husband had to opt for valve replacement. Nevertheless, the open-heart surgery on 2nd March 2009 revealed vice versa. It seemed that after two years, the valves had slightly recuperated, and the operation team led by Mr Pau and assisted by Mr Khadri only had to repair the valves. Alhamdulillah, MIRACLES happen to us all.
After two days at ICU, my husband was already breathing without much difficulty. To Mr Pau and Mr Khadri, thank you for extending your patience and expertise. May you obtain blessings from God the Almighty for your kindness.
Here, i would like to take the opportunity to thank IJN members, IJN Foundation and IJN-related and contributing parties (esp. kebajikan masyarakat) for helping to save another heart, another life, another hope, and another love. I believe I speak for all the patients at IJN (Adik Emy, adik Amirul, Christine, all d aunties, etc...), and their beloved families. I have faith that the nation also hopes for the best for IJN.
I met two IJN Foundation executives who are actively involved in fund-raising initiatives in order to help less fortunate heart patients financially and morally, Ms Siti and Mr Farid. I have this to say - What you are doing for us all is ultimately noble, and i pledge to help IJN Foundation in whatever way i can.
Readers, bloggers, and friends in the blogosphere. Please join me in supporting IJN and IJN Foundation. Let's put our hearts and soul in praying for speedy recovery of IJN patients and happiness to all IJN/ IJNF staff and volunteers.
website: www.ijnfoundation.com
tel: 603-26178647 (Mr Farid)
Two years back, my husband was told that both of his heart valves were seriously damaged due to infection. It was devastating news, and to think of the two years of torment he had to endure, living without the valves...well...only God understands best.
God the Almighty imposes challenge on human, and He has his own reasons that we don't question. We accepted the diagnosis, secured an appointment for operation, and prayed so much for His mercy and compassion.
All in all, three different results obtained from three different specialists led to one similar solution - that my husband had to opt for valve replacement. Nevertheless, the open-heart surgery on 2nd March 2009 revealed vice versa. It seemed that after two years, the valves had slightly recuperated, and the operation team led by Mr Pau and assisted by Mr Khadri only had to repair the valves. Alhamdulillah, MIRACLES happen to us all.
After two days at ICU, my husband was already breathing without much difficulty. To Mr Pau and Mr Khadri, thank you for extending your patience and expertise. May you obtain blessings from God the Almighty for your kindness.
Here, i would like to take the opportunity to thank IJN members, IJN Foundation and IJN-related and contributing parties (esp. kebajikan masyarakat) for helping to save another heart, another life, another hope, and another love. I believe I speak for all the patients at IJN (Adik Emy, adik Amirul, Christine, all d aunties, etc...), and their beloved families. I have faith that the nation also hopes for the best for IJN.
I met two IJN Foundation executives who are actively involved in fund-raising initiatives in order to help less fortunate heart patients financially and morally, Ms Siti and Mr Farid. I have this to say - What you are doing for us all is ultimately noble, and i pledge to help IJN Foundation in whatever way i can.
Readers, bloggers, and friends in the blogosphere. Please join me in supporting IJN and IJN Foundation. Let's put our hearts and soul in praying for speedy recovery of IJN patients and happiness to all IJN/ IJNF staff and volunteers.
website: www.ijnfoundation.com
tel: 603-26178647 (Mr Farid)
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Is there justice and fairness for our children?
Adults understand (but may rebel occasionally) that somehow, life has its ups and downs, opportunities and unforeseen circumstances, luck and misfortune. Some are rich when others are poor and secluded; some are in joy when others endure endless suffering and oppression. Today, life may seem like you're opening Pandoras's box, when tomorrow can be a totally different picture.
The question is, should we drag children into this paradox? dilemma? confusion?
After writing my supposedly-last article, i believe i must agree with my friend Ritz Chewan that may be, i was facing writer's block..SO, what makes this come-back?
Apparently, my beloved children, and my fight for justice for all children. Now, I shall narrow doen this scope of discussion and invite you to consider the opportunities that schools create for our children....and ironically, deprive almost simultaneously.
I observe that my children love schooling and they participate in a bunch of activities and competitions. They represent school for story telling and choir competitions. They also spend time away from home joining PBSM camping trips as well as prefect activities. All in all, only one dream remains unfulfilled - 100m dash challenge! My children run a bit at home, and they love the backyard. But 100m event ultimately brings a different triumphant experience.
So, here comes the irony. I learned (the hard way) that at Primary Four, the school has obviously already eliminated my child's dream to even participate in 100m event. Farah got 2nd in 'saringan' but DID NOT end up in the team. The teacher's choice was no other that her best friend who got 5th place in 'saringan'...???
I tried to discuss the predicament with the teacher, counting on the notion of realizing children's dreams, and highlighting on the aspirations of the National Philosophy of Education to provide adequate exposure and development for Jasmani, Emosi, Rohani and Intelek.
And what did i discover??? The teachers have already shorlisted and identified the school runners, and they are more than happy to stick to their reputable list so that their 'rumah sukan' will become champion, and that other children's dreams to indeed try their talent in the event go to pieces, shatter in utter frustration.
If you have been in school enduring the cruelty of this system...i believe you'd understand how bitter this truth really is. If you are a parent,consoling your child to now be contented with running around the backyard, or completing loops at the nearby stadium...we may be in the same boat.
Think about this. The world is already cruel to children in so many different ways. I personally think that killing children's dreams- like this- is massacre!
Some may say that a child, like adults, can slowly and eventually grasp this bitter reality. Afterall, sports is only one dimension of educational and social development. My child can accept the disappointing result of my discussion wiht the teacher, but i wish i didn't have to have garnered all my strength to finally be defeated by a ridiculous system like it!
100 m dash....of course...to be included brings a wealth of happiness and experience. To be secluded...because of the so-called lame system... is evidence of ignorance to children's rights to develop potentials and enjoy childhood.
At least, that's what I think!
So, what do you have to say about this paradoxical, unfortunate interpretation and implementation of our esteemed National Philosophy of Education?
The question is, should we drag children into this paradox? dilemma? confusion?
After writing my supposedly-last article, i believe i must agree with my friend Ritz Chewan that may be, i was facing writer's block..SO, what makes this come-back?
Apparently, my beloved children, and my fight for justice for all children. Now, I shall narrow doen this scope of discussion and invite you to consider the opportunities that schools create for our children....and ironically, deprive almost simultaneously.
I observe that my children love schooling and they participate in a bunch of activities and competitions. They represent school for story telling and choir competitions. They also spend time away from home joining PBSM camping trips as well as prefect activities. All in all, only one dream remains unfulfilled - 100m dash challenge! My children run a bit at home, and they love the backyard. But 100m event ultimately brings a different triumphant experience.
So, here comes the irony. I learned (the hard way) that at Primary Four, the school has obviously already eliminated my child's dream to even participate in 100m event. Farah got 2nd in 'saringan' but DID NOT end up in the team. The teacher's choice was no other that her best friend who got 5th place in 'saringan'...???
I tried to discuss the predicament with the teacher, counting on the notion of realizing children's dreams, and highlighting on the aspirations of the National Philosophy of Education to provide adequate exposure and development for Jasmani, Emosi, Rohani and Intelek.
And what did i discover??? The teachers have already shorlisted and identified the school runners, and they are more than happy to stick to their reputable list so that their 'rumah sukan' will become champion, and that other children's dreams to indeed try their talent in the event go to pieces, shatter in utter frustration.
If you have been in school enduring the cruelty of this system...i believe you'd understand how bitter this truth really is. If you are a parent,consoling your child to now be contented with running around the backyard, or completing loops at the nearby stadium...we may be in the same boat.
Think about this. The world is already cruel to children in so many different ways. I personally think that killing children's dreams- like this- is massacre!
Some may say that a child, like adults, can slowly and eventually grasp this bitter reality. Afterall, sports is only one dimension of educational and social development. My child can accept the disappointing result of my discussion wiht the teacher, but i wish i didn't have to have garnered all my strength to finally be defeated by a ridiculous system like it!
100 m dash....of course...to be included brings a wealth of happiness and experience. To be secluded...because of the so-called lame system... is evidence of ignorance to children's rights to develop potentials and enjoy childhood.
At least, that's what I think!
So, what do you have to say about this paradoxical, unfortunate interpretation and implementation of our esteemed National Philosophy of Education?
Friday, February 20, 2009
the Art and Science of Writing
Seriously...and sadly. I have nor been writing for a while. Those days, i used to think and write almost simultaneously.
Can it be that i talk more than i write now? Hmmmm..not quite.
Perhaps thinking and pondering over matters is already sufficient to make my day...really???
Okay. It may have a bit to do with mood...mood...and mood:) I seem to fancy reading more than writing recently. Perhaps, it is also a priority that i read and think more everyday in order to quickly finish my studies. Do i still write to invite others to think on interesting topics that strike my mind? Perhaps not as much. Nevertheless, be rest-assured that i will make my return to this blogosphere when the new semester comes around.
so, i shall take a break for a while, and we shall meet again very soon. take care and be good.
zue
Can it be that i talk more than i write now? Hmmmm..not quite.
Perhaps thinking and pondering over matters is already sufficient to make my day...really???
Okay. It may have a bit to do with mood...mood...and mood:) I seem to fancy reading more than writing recently. Perhaps, it is also a priority that i read and think more everyday in order to quickly finish my studies. Do i still write to invite others to think on interesting topics that strike my mind? Perhaps not as much. Nevertheless, be rest-assured that i will make my return to this blogosphere when the new semester comes around.
so, i shall take a break for a while, and we shall meet again very soon. take care and be good.
zue
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Now, I am Connected
Eversince i moved into my new humble abode at MURNI, i have been deprived of internet communication - can't imagine so many months without internet access.
Today, life has returned to normal and i feel so much alive:) and rejuvenated. After a whole day at work, coming back home tired and restless, i now return to the luxury of internet connection.
Those days without internet were almost unbearable - no online reading, no emails, no access to blogging. Arrrrgh:( Thanks to broadband technology - we can now meet more often in this blogging community.
For those who subscribe to broadband, perhaps you'd like to share your experience, opinion, or comments on broadband technology.
Today, life has returned to normal and i feel so much alive:) and rejuvenated. After a whole day at work, coming back home tired and restless, i now return to the luxury of internet connection.
Those days without internet were almost unbearable - no online reading, no emails, no access to blogging. Arrrrgh:( Thanks to broadband technology - we can now meet more often in this blogging community.
For those who subscribe to broadband, perhaps you'd like to share your experience, opinion, or comments on broadband technology.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Student Crisis
Alert!If you notice any kind of change to your behaviour, attitude and response, any abnormal or extraordinary pattern in the way you react and respond to simple daily chores - check things out and reflect. Why? This may very well be manifestation of crisis which needs immediate attention or help. Unless changes happen intentionally, it is best to be cautious and take the necessary steps to bring things back to normal.
In layman's term, crisis can be defined as conflict, problems, dilemma, anxiety, etc. In this predicament, an individual will not be able to use the common and familiar coping strategies and tension may arise. Common types of crisis include financial , identity, as well as relationship crisis. At university, decline in academic performance, peer pressure and conflicting priorities may pose an obstacle in the everyday pursuits. Hence, crisis erupts and the individual becomes easily agitated, disorganized and hostile.
Can crisis be avoided? Well, some matters in life are simply unpredictable and we may become victims of circumstances. Nevertheless, I believe that we can prepare for crisis by observing a few simple procedures daily:
1. maintain good friendship and relationship with people around so that they can alert you about any peculiar patterns of attitude or behaviour
2. whenever you are upset or disturbed, do not suppress your feelings but try to find a suitable way to express your fruestrations, and anger. Some people scream!!!, write in the diary or talk to somebody close and trusted
3. have faith in your life and future. Believe that God has created different pathways for different people in the different pursuits of success. If you meet an impasse, perhaps it's time to try another solution - opt for the road not taken and less travelled...
4. never give up! Seek for help and assistance. You should never be by yourself in circumstances like this... contact your friend, roommate, lecturer, mother, or counsellor, for help.
Lastly, crisis lurks in every corner of our challenging life. If we are prepared for it, there's hope that we won't fall prey to emotional outbursts or immature decisions. At UNITEN, there is a special club called PRS that trains its members to help peers under pressure. Of course, if they figure that the situation requires professional help, you will be referred to the counsellor or anybody more senior like the lecturers or the advisor.
Recently, the PRS at UNITEN organized a knowledge-sharing forum entitled: Student Crisis. Congratulations to the organizing committee. I think it's a brave and noble effort to carry out such an initiative. Students should be exposed to realities like this in order to better equip themselves with coping mechanisms to handle unforeseen circumstances.
Here are some photos of the event. Great job Mai (chairperson) and the panel speakers: Dominic (COE Third Year student, 7 times Dean's list award) and Muhammad (UNITEN alumnus, successful entrepeneur). I was also invited as a speaker, and I hope I have shared my ideas, thoughts, and experience well with the audience that evening. Last but not least, thumbs UP:) to Firdaus, project Chairman.
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In layman's term, crisis can be defined as conflict, problems, dilemma, anxiety, etc. In this predicament, an individual will not be able to use the common and familiar coping strategies and tension may arise. Common types of crisis include financial , identity, as well as relationship crisis. At university, decline in academic performance, peer pressure and conflicting priorities may pose an obstacle in the everyday pursuits. Hence, crisis erupts and the individual becomes easily agitated, disorganized and hostile.
Can crisis be avoided? Well, some matters in life are simply unpredictable and we may become victims of circumstances. Nevertheless, I believe that we can prepare for crisis by observing a few simple procedures daily:
1. maintain good friendship and relationship with people around so that they can alert you about any peculiar patterns of attitude or behaviour
2. whenever you are upset or disturbed, do not suppress your feelings but try to find a suitable way to express your fruestrations, and anger. Some people scream!!!, write in the diary or talk to somebody close and trusted
3. have faith in your life and future. Believe that God has created different pathways for different people in the different pursuits of success. If you meet an impasse, perhaps it's time to try another solution - opt for the road not taken and less travelled...
4. never give up! Seek for help and assistance. You should never be by yourself in circumstances like this... contact your friend, roommate, lecturer, mother, or counsellor, for help.
Lastly, crisis lurks in every corner of our challenging life. If we are prepared for it, there's hope that we won't fall prey to emotional outbursts or immature decisions. At UNITEN, there is a special club called PRS that trains its members to help peers under pressure. Of course, if they figure that the situation requires professional help, you will be referred to the counsellor or anybody more senior like the lecturers or the advisor.
Recently, the PRS at UNITEN organized a knowledge-sharing forum entitled: Student Crisis. Congratulations to the organizing committee. I think it's a brave and noble effort to carry out such an initiative. Students should be exposed to realities like this in order to better equip themselves with coping mechanisms to handle unforeseen circumstances.
Here are some photos of the event. Great job Mai (chairperson) and the panel speakers: Dominic (COE Third Year student, 7 times Dean's list award) and Muhammad (UNITEN alumnus, successful entrepeneur). I was also invited as a speaker, and I hope I have shared my ideas, thoughts, and experience well with the audience that evening. Last but not least, thumbs UP:) to Firdaus, project Chairman.
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Tuesday, January 6, 2009
So...what's New?
New Year means a lot to us. Well, if it's not significant, why would we have all the joyous celebrations, mind-blowing aspirations, and absolute resolutions.
Most importantly, 2009 is not just ANOTHER year. What do you think?
To me, twelve months is like a grace period for many who have yet to accomplish goals ... like me:) It's a lucky charm for friends who are starting a new life... and a sweet challenge for graduates and final years when it comes to employability. Looks like the job market is getting all the more competitive these days.
360 days is like an endless to-do list reminding us of responsibilities and deadlines. Fine, that does justice to our pledge to quality and productivity. But, all work and no play makes John a realllllll dull boy..so, let's take a portion of it and make plans for some holidays, vacations and celebrations....
Just a final thought for us to ponder...the tag 'NEW' may be so cliche, but if it's the accepted expression of goodness and goodwill, why not cherish it, and make things happen. Nevertheless, it does not take a NEW year to make us committed, dedicated and alert. In fact, every breath we inhale promises hope, happiness, and wisdom.
Let's hope this NEW year brings joy, prosperity and friendship to us all.
To the blogosphere community, Happy NEW year...
Sincerely,
Zue
Most importantly, 2009 is not just ANOTHER year. What do you think?
To me, twelve months is like a grace period for many who have yet to accomplish goals ... like me:) It's a lucky charm for friends who are starting a new life... and a sweet challenge for graduates and final years when it comes to employability. Looks like the job market is getting all the more competitive these days.
360 days is like an endless to-do list reminding us of responsibilities and deadlines. Fine, that does justice to our pledge to quality and productivity. But, all work and no play makes John a realllllll dull boy..so, let's take a portion of it and make plans for some holidays, vacations and celebrations....
Just a final thought for us to ponder...the tag 'NEW' may be so cliche, but if it's the accepted expression of goodness and goodwill, why not cherish it, and make things happen. Nevertheless, it does not take a NEW year to make us committed, dedicated and alert. In fact, every breath we inhale promises hope, happiness, and wisdom.
Let's hope this NEW year brings joy, prosperity and friendship to us all.
To the blogosphere community, Happy NEW year...
Sincerely,
Zue
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