On the subject of how a more experienced person can adopt and excel in a new work environment, a friend mentioned a film called Intern. It is based on the story of a retired 70-year widower played by Robert Di Niro who started a 6-week internship at an online fashion company. I watched the film over the weekend and found some key ingredients for a mature person to succeed in a workplace of a younger crowd.
1) Be humble and open-minded: Despite the vast experience one may have, be humble and open-minded. It is a brand new world out there.
2) Be kind and helpful to others: Help others (younger and older colleagues alike) as much as you can. You are there to work. Make your contributions, big or small.
3) Be observant but offer advice when appropriate: With more experience “under your belt”, you are probably trained to be more observant and opinionated (somewhat). You may be the first one to see how things may evolve and form an opinion. However, there is a time for everything. Do allow others to speak first and use your own discretion when to offer your advice (better solicited than unsolicited).

In the age of efficiency and austerity, the idea of doing-more-with-less is more relevant than ever.
I have taken a different perspective on it. My thoughts are:
1) Less set in your own way = More opportunities for new experiences and greater flexibility
2) Less complaining = More time to come up with constructive solutions and suggestions
3) Less mind-wandering = More focused which may lead to better results
4) Less anger or negative feelings = More control over your own emotions and more happiness in life
5) Less argumentative = More peace of mind and stronger relationships

Yes, doing more with less is possible :>

Recently, I have been reflecting on the subject of equality which has many different facets besides the obvious few.
First of all, equality means the same, no more and no less.
In other words, treating another person with equality means you don’t feel superior nor inferior to that person. Feeling inferior is also a form of inequality (to your very good self in this case).
I am a strong believer of equality (and still learning each day). In a very broad but deep and yet subtle way, equality means the same respectful treatment on:
a) Being single or in a relationship/married
b) With or without children
c) High IQ or low IQ
d) Good-looking or less attractive
e) Tall or short
f) Big or small
g) Wealthy or poor
h) Old or young
i) Gay or Straight
j) Highly educated or illiterate
k) Whatever race
l) Man or woman
The list continues…

May I suggest: Whoever you encounter every day, look the person in the eyes and tell him/her you are equal (not superior nor inferior).

I promised this is my last note on the movie La La Land.
This time my note is on the leading lady in the movie Emma Stone. To be honest, I was not a fan of her based on a couple of movies she did in the past including Spiderman and Birdman.
She was adequate in those 2 movies but nothing more than a pretty face (and there are many in the land of Hollywood).
I was not expecting much from her in the movie La La Land as her role is not very demanding (playing a struggling actress in LA!).
However, I believe (my guess) she did not take that role lightly and did put her 110% into it with her utmost dedication even in such a “common” role.
And the result: She shines like a bright star in that movie and won the Oscar!
A lesson for all of us is to always do your best in whatever you do and you may shine at the moment least expected.

In the U.K., the most over-used word is arguably “sorry”. I personally think the word “sorry” has a primary meaning of wrongdoing or regret which does not apply in some cases when we say sorry in our daily life. There are definitely occasions to apologize to others, but not in all cases. We don’t need to start with a negative mode in our mind for over-using the word “sorry” when in fact it is not the most appropriate response.

For example, if one can’t find time to catch up with a friend or something happened that it is not your fault, one tends to automatically say, “oh, sorry…”. May I suggest these alternatives.
1) Oh, that is a challenge.
2) Oh, that is tough.
3) Oh, that is a shame.
4) Oh, that is unfortunate.
5) Well…

An unfortunate event happened at last night’s Oscar ceremony. The movie La La Land was mistaken for the Best Picture award and later corrected on stage.
What would I do if I were the director of La La Land?
(not necessarily in the order listed below)
1) Find out how the mistake happened and make sure if it does not happen again to other people or me again.
2) Whole-heartedly thank and appreciate the people that made La La Land a huge box office success (being nominated is a great honor in itself as well)
3) Sincerely congratulate the winner Moonlight
4) Accept the result and aim to make even better movies
5) Enjoy the Oscar after party (I heard that it is always fun, not that I was ever invited :>)

I have recently read an excellent book called “Feel the fear and do it anyway” by Susan Jeffers and would like to share some interesting thoughts with you.
Let me start with “The Five Truths about Fear” mentioned by Susan in her book..
“Fear Truth #1: The fear will never go away so long as you continue to grow!
Every time you take a step into the unknown, you will experience fear. There is no point in saying, “When I am no longer afraid, then I will do it.” If you do, you’ll be waiting for a long time. The fear is part of the package.”

I saw the movie La La Land last week and I thought it was 4 out of 5 stars (quite good but not exceptional). I like the story and the plot. In addition, the principal actors Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone did make an effort to act, dance and sing (what else can we ask for).
Now, why is it not 5 out 5 stars? First, the special effects can be much better (perhaps it is to fit the theme of story, a kind of “make-believe”). Second, the dialogues are not great (well – I know it is a musical). Third, Ryan Gosling’s acting is competent but not as outstanding as Emma Stone who did a brilliant job in the film (Yes, the role of Ryan does not allow as much “room” as Emma’s to shine – it is true).

The new US president Trump has stirred up more controversies in a few days that some presidents have done in their entire terms. That aside, I have been reflecting on what one can do in the US during the next 4 years (hopefully just 4 years or shorter). What are the opportunities at an individual level?
1) It may be an opportune time to change career as there will probably be quite a bit of movements in job markets during this turbulence time.
2) Go back to school for higher education
3) Develop yourself as well as help others to stay resilient and objective in the midst of turmoil
4) Form stronger bonding with those who share the same values as you.
5) Learn to accept and work with others that don’t share the same opinions as you.
Keep your “seat belt” on, everyone!

Dear all,
May the year of Rooster,
Bring you loads of laughter;
Fill your day with wonders;
Make everyone a winner!