Gratitude Goes A Long Way

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

In a world that often seems to focus on negativity and problems, it can be easy to forget about the positive things in our lives. However, cultivating a practice of gratitude can have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being.

Gratitude is the practice of acknowledging and appreciating the good things in our lives. This can range from small everyday blessings, like a sunny day or a kind word from a friend, to major accomplishments or milestones. 

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Research has shown that regularly practicing gratitude can have numerous benefits for our mental health, including:

1. Reducing Symptoms of Depression: Studies have found that people who regularly practice gratitude are less likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety.
2. Improving Sleep: A gratitude practice has been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
3. Increasing Resilience: When we focus on the good things in our lives, we become more resilient in the face of adversity. Gratitude can help us to maintain a positive outlook and cope more effectively with stress.
4. Boosting Positive Emotions: Regularly practicing gratitude can increase feelings of happiness, contentment, and overall well-being.
5. Strengthening Relationships: Expressing gratitude to others can strengthen our relationships and improve our social connections.

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There are many ways to cultivate a practice of gratitude. 

Some people keep a gratitude journal, writing down a few things they are grateful for each day. 

Others may express gratitude through prayer or meditation, or by simply taking a few moments each day to reflect on the good things in their lives. 

Whatever method you choose, incorporating gratitude into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your mental health and well-being.

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In conclusion, practicing gratitude is a simple but powerful tool for promoting mental health and well-being. 

By focusing on the positive things in our lives and expressing gratitude for them, we can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve our sleep, increase our resilience, boost positive emotions, and strengthen our relationships. 

So why not give it a try? Take a few moments each day to reflect on the good things in your life and express gratitude for them. You may be surprised at the positive impact it has on your mental health and overall well-being.

Till next time!

My Market Transactions — Wk8 2023

 

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here!

Transaction for past week: Nil.

 

Have a great week!!!

Meditate when you have time

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

Stress and anxiety are all too common. With the pressures of work, family, and personal life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. However, meditation has been shown to be an effective tool for reducing stress and improving mental health.

Meditation is an ancient practice that involves focusing your attention on the present moment, typically by focusing on your breath or a specific mantra. 

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While it may seem simple, meditation can have a profound impact on your mental health. 

Here are just a few of the benefits:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: When you meditate, you activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the “rest and digest” response. This helps to reduce the stress response in the body and lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
2. Improves Mood: Regular meditation has been shown to increase the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone in the brain. This can lead to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.
3. Enhances Self-Awareness: Meditation helps you to become more self-aware and mindful of your thoughts and feelings. This can help you to identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive ones.
4. Improves Sleep: Meditation can help to improve the quality of your sleep by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.
5. Boosts Brain Function: Studies have shown that meditation can increase gray matter in areas of the brain associated with memory, learning, and emotional regulation.

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Overall, the benefits of meditation for mental health are numerous. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve your mood, or enhance your cognitive function, incorporating meditation into your daily routine can be an effective way to support your mental well-being.

Till next time!

Monthly Net-Worth Update — Feb 2023

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

Here is the snapshot of our Total Net-Worth for Feb 2023.

Net-Worth increase from last month: 36K SGD, +1.06KG Gold

The increase was partly due to the inclusion of 2-month CPF contribution. So I did the update in Jan before the CPF contribution was credited and Feb after it was credited. So a bit cheating for this month, given year-end CPF was bigger.

Our stock portfolio incurred further losses in the past month.

In terms of Gold, the increase was also enlarged by the drop of gold prices.

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Investment: -7.56% annualized return, incl. dividend

The rate continued to improve because we continued to put money into the T-bills.

Again, in plain and painful words, our portfolio performance did not improve. We are still in deep deep RED.

Till next time!

My Market Transactions — Wk7 2023

 

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here!

Below are the transactions for last week.

Capital injection: 70KSGD

1.T-Bill - 70k SGD

The cut-off yield was 3.93% and I got allocated 70K. The bill is for 6 months. 1000+ gain for 6 months.

I guess we can say good bye to 4+% T-bills.

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Capital outflow: 0

 

Till next time!

How to maintain important relationship?

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

Maintaining important relationships can be a challenging task, especially in today’s fast-paced and constantly changing world. Whether it’s a romantic relationship, a friendship, or a family bond, it takes effort and commitment to keep it strong and healthy. 

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Here are some tips to help you maintain important relationships.

1. Communicate Effectively: Effective communication is the foundation of any relationship. It is essential to keep the lines of communication open and clear, whether it’s a small talk, sharing daily updates, or resolving conflicts. Be honest and transparent with your feelings and opinions, and actively listen to the other person’s point of view.
2. Respect Boundaries: Respect is another crucial element in any relationship. It is essential to recognize and respect each other’s boundaries, preferences, and opinions. Being mindful of your actions and words and respecting the other person’s decisions and choices can help maintain a healthy and harmonious relationship.
3. Make Time for Each Other: In today’s busy world, time is a scarce resource, and it’s easy to get caught up in our daily routines and responsibilities. However, it’s essential to make time for your loved ones and prioritize your relationships. Schedule regular quality time with your loved ones, such as date nights, family dinners, or weekend getaways, to strengthen your bond.
4. Show Appreciation: Showing appreciation and gratitude is an excellent way to express your love and care for the other person. Whether it’s a simple thank you note, a heartfelt compliment, or a thoughtful gesture, expressing appreciation can help reinforce the bond and create a positive atmosphere in the relationship.
5. Resolve Conflicts: Conflicts and disagreements are inevitable in any relationship. However, it’s essential to address and resolve them in a healthy and constructive manner. Avoid blaming or attacking the other person and focus on finding a solution together. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and listen to the other person’s point of view. Consider seeking professional help if the conflict seems unresolvable.
6. Stay Connected: Staying connected with your loved ones is essential, especially when distance or other circumstances may make it difficult to meet in person. Use technology to stay in touch, such as texting, video calls, or social media. Regularly checking in with your loved ones can help maintain a sense of closeness and emotional support.

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In conclusion, maintaining important relationships requires effort, commitment, and a willingness to communicate, respect, appreciate, and resolve conflicts. By following these tips, you can strengthen your relationships and create a positive and healthy bond that lasts a lifetime.

Till next time!

Never get attached to something to the extent that you would lose yourself

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here!

We need to maintain a healthy balance between our passions and our sense of self. 

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of success, happiness, and material possessions, but it’s important to remember that these things should never come at the cost of our own identity and well-being.

Attachment is a natural human emotion, and it’s completely normal to feel strongly about the things we care about. Whether it’s a job, a relationship, a hobby, or a material object, attachment can bring us happiness and fulfillment. However, when our attachment becomes too intense and all-consuming, it can also lead to negative consequences, including stress, anxiety, and a loss of self-awareness.

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The problem with attachment is that it often clouds our judgment and causes us to prioritize the thing we’re attached to over everything else, including our own well-being. For example, if you’re attached to your job, you may find yourself working long hours, sacrificing your personal life, and neglecting your health in the pursuit of success. Similarly, if you’re attached to a relationship, you may compromise your own values and beliefs in order to keep the other person happy.

The key to avoiding the negative consequences of attachment is to maintain a healthy balance between our passions and our sense of self. This means setting boundaries, taking time for self-care, and being honest with ourselves about what we truly want and need. It also means being aware of the things we’re attached to and the impact they have on our lives, and making adjustments as necessary.

In order to cultivate a healthy sense of self, it’s important to engage in activities and hobbies that bring us joy and fulfillment, and to spend time with the people who support and uplift us. By prioritizing our own well-being and maintaining a strong sense of self, we can avoid getting lost in our attachments and stay true to who we are.

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In conclusion, attachment to things, people, or goals can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can bring us happiness and fulfillment. On the other hand, it can also cause us to lose ourselves and neglect our own well-being. By maintaining a healthy balance between our passions and our sense of self, and by being mindful of the things we’re attached to, we can avoid the negative consequences of attachment and live a life that is true to who we are.

Till next time!

My Market Transactions — Wk6 2023

 

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here!

Transaction for past week: Nil.

 

Have a great week!!!

Stay efficient at work

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

Staying efficient at work is a key factor in achieving success and job satisfaction. In today’s fast-paced work environment, it is more important than ever to be productive and focused. Here’s why and how to stay efficient at work.

Why Stay Efficient at Work

1. Increased Productivity: By prioritizing tasks and streamlining processes, you can get more done in less time. This means that you can complete projects faster, freeing up time for other tasks or personal pursuits.
2. Better Time Management: Efficient work habits can help you better manage your time and reduce stress related to tight deadlines. When you focus on what’s important and eliminate distractions, you can work smarter, not harder.
3. Improved Job Satisfaction: When you are able to complete tasks quickly and effectively, it can boost your sense of accomplishment and job satisfaction. This can lead to a more positive outlook on your work and a desire to continue to improve.
4. Better Work-Life Balance: Being efficient at work can free up time for personal pursuits and improve your overall work-life balance. When you are able to get more done in less time, you can reduce stress and improve your quality of life.
5. Increased Opportunities for Growth and Advancement: Efficient workers are often seen as valuable and reliable team members, which can lead to new opportunities for growth and advancement within the company.

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How to Stay Efficient at Work

1. Prioritize Tasks: Focus on the most important and urgent tasks first and work down your to-do list. This will help you stay on track and avoid wasting time on less important tasks.
2. Time Management: Use a timer or scheduling system to manage your time effectively and avoid distractions. This will help you stay focused and on track throughout the day.
3. Eliminate Distractions: Reduce distractions like social media, email notifications, and other interruptions to increase focus and productivity.
4. Take Breaks: Regular breaks can help you avoid burnout and stay focused for longer periods of time. Take a short walk, do some stretching, or just step away from your desk for a few minutes to recharge.
5. Delegate Tasks: If you have team members, delegate tasks that are not your core competencies or that can be done by someone else more efficiently. This can help reduce your workload and free up time for more important tasks.
6. Use Technology and Tools: Utilize technology and tools like task management apps, time-tracking software, and productivity plugins to streamline work processes.
7. Streamline Processes: Look for ways to streamline processes and make tasks more efficient, such as automating repetitive tasks. This can help you save time and reduce errors.
8. Continuously Improve: Continuously evaluate your work processes and make changes as needed to stay efficient. This will help you stay ahead of the curve and continue to improve your work habits.

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In conclusion, staying efficient at work is critical for success and job satisfaction. By prioritizing tasks, managing time effectively, reducing distractions, and using technology and tools, you can get more done in less time and achieve your professional and personal goals.

Till next time!

“Not to trouble others” — Is it good quality?

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

I once read an article from a successful and famous celebrity-type “Coach” that “Not to trouble others” was one of the best qualities a mature person could have.

It resonated immediately with me.

I have been following it since then and have always believed that this is my good quality.

So I did not ask my parents for money during my undergraduate study, even when I had to rely on instant noodles for three weeks straight when I was on exchange program in the US.

And I was proud of it, because I did not add trouble to my parents.

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But another article I read recently changed my opinion.

It said that people who did not want to trouble others were afraid that others would come and trouble them.

It struck me like a thunder.

So I sat down and thought “Why did I not want to trouble others?”

And I came out with three reasons:

1. I was afraid of appearing weak.
2. I was afraid of rejection.
3. I was afraid of others coming to trouble me.

Guess, which one played the most important part! 

The last one.

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I always believe that one needs to rely on themselves for everything in life. External help might do more harm than good.

So I refuse to ask for help and refuse to help when asked (Or I help a little). I do this even with my immediate family.

So I appear somewhat an “outsider” to them.

I did not mind because I believed that was for the best for both of us.

But then what is the point of family if we do not help each other when in need?

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Maybe it is time to trouble others, even when I do not really need help.

Maybe it is time to start helping others when asked.

The exchange of favors creates more intimate relationship and might be more productive and effective than I thought.

I look forward to seeing how this would change my life.

Till next time!

My Market Transactions — Wk5 2023 - Again 0 allocation for T-bill

  

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here!

Transaction for past week: Nil.

Again, I got 0 allocation for both 1 year and 6 month Tbills.

I think I will go for the SSB this month.

 

Have a great week!!!

How to best learn?

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here! 

Learning is a vital aspect of our lives, and it is a never-ending process. Whether you are a student, a professional, or an individual seeking self-development, learning is essential to achieve your goals. Here are some tips to help you learn better and more effectively:

1.Set “SMART” goals: To learn efficiently, you need to know what you want to achieve. Set “SMART” goals to keep yourself motivated and focused: 

• Specific (simple, sensible, significant).
• Measurable (meaningful, motivating).
• Achievable (agreed, attainable).
• Relevant (reasonable, realistic and resourced, results-based).
• Time bound (time-based, time limited, time/cost limited, timely, time-sensitive).

2.Choose the right learning method: Different people have different learning styles. Some may prefer visual aids, while others may prefer hands-on experience. Determine your learning style and choose methods that work best for you.

3.Stay organized: Keep your learning materials organized and accessible. Use a planner or a digital tool to track your progress and set reminders for important deadlines.

4.Stay focused: Distractions are a significant hindrance to effective learning. Find a quiet place to study and limit distractions by turning off your phone or other devices.

5.Practice, practice, practice: Repetition is crucial for learning and applying what we learn. Apply what you have learned to real-life situations and practice regularly to reinforce your understanding.

6.Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Seek assistance from teachers, tutors, colleagues, or online resources. Having someone to discuss and review your work with can be incredibly helpful.

7.Take breaks: Regular breaks are crucial to avoid burnout and to keep your mind fresh. Take short breaks every hour or so, and engage in physical activity, such as stretching or taking a walk, to recharge your batteries.

8.Stay motivated: Learning can be challenging, but the rewards are immense. Stay motivated by setting achievable goals and rewarding yourself for reaching them.

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In conclusion, learning is a lifelong journey, and it takes effort and dedication to become a better learner. By setting goals, choosing the right learning methods, staying organized, and staying motivated, you can achieve your learning objectives and reach your full potential.

Till next time!