Saturday, 14 June 2025

Author: Shirley Teo

One minute at a time: Embracing discomfort and growth

“You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort. You cannot have both.” – Brené Brown IN a world that glorifies speed, success, and seamless progress, we often resist change. Uncertainty feels daunting, and friction – those moments of challenge, discomfort, or tension – is something we instinctively avoid. Thus,

Corporate lingo: The good, the bad, and the confusing

“Speak clearly, if you speak at all; carve every word before you let it fall.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr “LET’S circle back on this and leverage our synergies to move the needle.” “Let’s think out of the box for the launch event.” Sound familiar? If you’ve spent enough time

Leadership is more than authority: Communication and earning respect

Leadership is a journey, not a destination. The respect of others is a badge of honour earned along the way. Let every interaction be a step toward that goal. LEADERSHIP is as much about communication as it is about action. What distinguishes great leaders is their ability to earn respect

From Awkward to Awesome: Enhancing Conversations at Family Gathering

Wow! Recently, I had the joy of celebrating my uncle’s 80th birthday—a milestone that speaks not just of years but of rich memories and experiences. He resides in the UK, and this time, he came back with his family for a visit. Whenever he returns, his presence becomes a magnet,

Journaling for joy: Finding peace and purpose in the chaos

IN today’s fast-paced world, we are often trapped in a rat race. Time always feels insufficient, and the endless to-do list never seems to be completed. Finding time to reflect and decompress, let alone understand what happens during each day, can feel like a luxury. Yet, one simple and accessible

Strengthening bonds through communication during the festive season

In just two weeks, we will welcome Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or simply Raya, one of the most significant celebrations in Malaysia. Marking the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection, Raya ushers in a time of joy, gratitude, and unity. Much like any other cherished celebration, Raya

Charting your future: Exploring the dynamic world of communication of careers

THE release of SPM results is just around the corner, and many school leavers are already exploring potential courses for their tertiary education. If you’re among them, you’re probably wondering—what career paths do these courses lead to? As a communication specialist, I often receive inquiries from students who confuse some

Myths and misconceptions and communication

IN today’s world, there are numerous myths and misconceptions about communication that can often lead to misunderstandings. You might wonder, “How can communication, meant to enhance clarity and understanding, lead to misunderstandings?” As a communication specialist who has spent over a decade in the field of communication, managing and dealing

Navigating communication cultures: Embracing loud and quiet styles

This Chinese New Year, many of us had a great time spending quality moments with family and catching up with friends. At the same time, we observed how each person has grown so much in just a year. You may have noticed some extroverts becoming more introverted, and introverts becoming

Celebrating Chinese New Year: Communication tips for a joyful festivity

Fun fact: Lunar New Year holidays mark the world’s largest annual human migration, with hundreds of millions of Chinese cross-crossing the country to reunite with families back in their hometowns. Counting down to three days until the Lunar New Year celebration! I’m very excited and look forward to this celebration