What’s Happening!?

I certainly don't have the answers to it. WHY? :(

We must accept that one of the fundamental principles of the Christian life is the truth that there will be many times when God will work things out in a manner exactly opposite to the way we think He should. If I had been taught this in the early days of my Christian life, it would have saved me from many spiritual struggles. Most of my perplexities arose because I failed to realize that I was dealing with a mind that is omniscient – that God’s mind is not like my mind.

The ways of God are inscrutable, His mind is infinite and eternal and His purposes are beyond understanding. When we are dealing with such a great and mighty God it should not surprise us that He allows things to happen which we find perplexing. If we insist that everything in life should be plain, we shall soon find ourselves in the state in which the psalmist found himself – full of doubt, disillusionment and fear.

It is not foolish or wrong to say – I don’t know what is happening. It is only foolish to say – God doesn’t know what is happening.

The Perfect Gift

Everything we have comes from God, so the only thing we have to give is something that God has given us.
When we give back to God what He has first given to us, we give Him the perfect gift – ourselves.

Glass Beach

What a week it has been…first it was my face, today is my iPhone 5C…sigh…

Perhaps you feel as though your life has become a dump – a mess beyond hope. If so, you need to know that there is someone who loves you and waits to redeem and reclaim you. Give Jesus your heart and ask Him to make you pure and clean. He may tumble you a bit, and it may take time to smooth away the rough edges. But He will never give up on you. He will make you into one of His jewels!

5 Leadership Lessons From Star Wars

Guard Your Thoughts
In the Star Wars universe, there is a light side and a dark side. What leads to the dark side? As Yoda would say – anger, fear and aggression. The dark sides of the force are they. These 3 elements come from your thoughts. In Star Wars, this would lead to the dark side. In your life, these will lead to frustration and failure. Continuously guard your mind against these thoughts.

Good Leaders Can Go Bad
We find that Darth Vader was not always evil. He once was a young boy who had great potential. During the prequels, we see that he had the potential to be a great leader. Slowly we see his great skills used more and more with evil intent. The change from the light side of the force to the dark side did not happen overnight. It was a slow turn. Be vigilant in your leadership and make sure the choices you are making will benefit others. Do not let your leadership skills lead you to the dark side.

Do Or Do Not, There Is No Try
We hear Yoda tells this to Luke Skywalker when he was trying to raise his spaceship from the swamp. Luke was frustrated and tired. He had tried to use the force to raise his ship and was unable to do so. That was when Yoda told him to either do it or not. Trying does not matter. Stop using trying as an excuse. By saying you will try to do something, you are already limiting yourself. You have given yourself an escape. You can say – I tried it. It did not work. Either say you will do the task or you will not. Do not give yourself the easy way out by saying you will try.

Put Your Fear Into Words
Yoda says – named your fear must be before banish it you can. What does this mean to you? It means you need to be clear on what you fear. Give it a face. Make sure you know exactly what it is. With what you fear clearly defined, you can step forward and conquer it.

Have A Bigger Cause
Luke was just a farm boy. Han Solo was just a smuggler. Yet throughout the movie, you see them become more than just a farm boy or a smuggler. Luke & Han could have denied the bigger cause. They could have turned away and let the alliance fight the Empire without their help. They could have let their needs and desires lead them elsewhere. But no, they stepped up and fought for a bigger cause. They became heroes. They saved the galaxy. They defeated evil. You must have a bigger cause. Without it, your skills will not be fully utilized. Now your turn. Have you defined your bigger cause? What is it?

MakeLeaps

The other day…while having lunch with Stewart, Celtic & Stephanie…Stewart told me that Harriet wants to revamp the whole department downstairs and Harriet would like to ask for my opinion about it…I replied back, that the most important thing is that Stewart gives Harriet the green light. Then Stewart ask me how I see the stationery category right now…right now, I see it as a department for children, colorful, lively, alive. Stewart comment back that different individual have different perspective. Stewart was more looking into A4 Papers & Pens. In my humble opinion…A4 Papers is already there…price have to be competitive and frequent exposure. Pens are essential items, just make sure that there is no out of stock situation. To drive the sales right now; what is needed is the right assortment. Look at all of the suppliers…all of them are into color scheme these days. Stationery is essential cum lifestyle right now.

In the afternoon, Harriet did ask me whether I am free or not, Harriet want to ask me something. Of course, I already know in my heart what Harriet want to ask me…but as I was so busy, I told Harriet later. Then, after that I didn’t go and find Harriet already.

Today, during lunch time, I also bump into Harriet at the Food Court, then Harriet got mention that Harriet actually want to ask me regarding the revamp. Apparently both Stewart & Jonas already given the green light for Harriet to proceed but Harriet would like to have my input since I did that department before.

The Quiet Guy

Today Stewart came up to me…asking me for my honest opinion…is the current Stationery Department over range…Stewart kinds of think so…I only commented that the Stationery Department needs a refresh look. Stewart nodded and went on to say that Stewart has given Harriet…total freedom & total control…for Harriet to revamp in whatever ways that Harriet wants for the department. Bypassing Jonas! Ouch! Not my place to comment though :)

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 8

(1) WORK ON THE HEARTS AND MINDS OF OTHERS.
Coercion creates a reaction that will eventually work against you. You must seduce others into wanting to move into your direction. A person you have seduced becomes your loyal pawn. And the way to seduce others is to operate on their individual psychologies and weaknesses. Soften up the resistant by working on their emotions, playing on what they hold dear and what they fear. Ignore the hearts and minds of others and they will grow to hate you.

(2) DISARM AND INFURIATE WITH THE MIRROR EFFECT.
The mirror reflects reality, but it is also the perfect tool for deception: When you mirror your enemies, doing exactly as they do, they cannot figure out your strategy. The Mirror Effect mocks and humiliates them, making them overreact. By holding up a mirror to their psyches, you seduce them with the illusion that you share their values; by holding up a mirror to their actions, you teach them a lesson. Few can resist the power of the Mirror Effect.

(3) PREACH THE NEED FOR CHANGE, BUT NEVER REFORM TOO MUCH AT ONCE.
Everyone understands the need for change in the abstract, but on the day-to-day level people are creatures of habit. Too much innovation is traumatic and will lead to revolt. If you are new to a position of power, or an outsider trying to build a power base, make a show of respecting the old way of doing things. If change is necessary, make it feel like a gentle improvement on the past.

(4) NEVER APPEAR TOO PERFECT.
Appearing better than others is always dangerous, but most dangerous of all is to appear to have no faults or weaknesses. It is smart to occasionally display defects, and admit to harmless vices, in order to deflect envy and appear more human and approachable. Only gods and the dead can seem perfect with impunity.

(5) DO NOT GO PAST THE MARK YOU AIMED FOR; IN VICTORY, LEARN WHEN TO STOP.
The moment of victory is often the moment of greatest peril. In the heat of victory, arrogance and overconfidence can push you past the goal you had aimed for, and by going too far, you make more enemies than you defeat. Do not allow success to go to your head. There is no substitute for strategy and careful planning. Set a goal and when you reach it, stop.

(6) ASSUME FORMLESSNESS.
By taking a shape, by having a visible plan, you open yourself to attack. Instead of taking a form for your enemy to grasp, keep yourself adaptable and on the move. Accept the fact that nothing is certain and no law is fixed. The best way to protect yourself is to be as fluid and formless as water: never bet on stability or lasting order. Everything changes.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 7

(1) CREATE COMPELLING SPECTACLES.
Striking imagery and grand symbolic gestures create the aura of power — everyone responds to them. Stage spectacles for those around you, then, full of arresting visuals and raiding symbols that heighten your presence. Dazzled by appearances, no one will notice what you are really doing.

(2) THINK AS YOU LIKE BUT BEHAVE LIKE OTHERS.
If you make a show of going against the times, flaunting your unconventional ideas and unorthodox way, people will think that you only want attention and that you look down upon them. They will find away to punish you for making them feel inferior. It is far safer to blend in and nurture the common touch. Share your originality only with tolerant friends and those who are sure to appreciate your uniqueness.

(3) STIR UP WATERS TO CATCH FISH.
Anger and emotion are strategically counterproductive. You must always stay calm and objective. But if you can make your enemies angry by staying calm yourself, you gain a decided advantage. Put your enemies off-balance: Find the chink in their vanity through which you can rattle them and you hold the strings.

(4) DESPISE THE FREE LUNCH.
What is offered for free is dangerous — it usually involves either a trick or a hidden obligation. What has worth is worth paying for. By paying your own way you stay clear of gratitude, guilt and deceit. It is also often wise to pay the full price — there is no cutting corners with excellence. Be lavish with your money and keep it circulating, for generosity is a sign and a magnet for power.

(5) AVOID STEPPING INTO A GREAT MAN'S SHOES.
What happens first always appears better and more original than what comes after. If you succeed a great man or have a famous parent, you will have to accomplish double their achievements to outshine them. Do not get lost in their shadow, or stuck in a past not of your own making: Establish your own name and identity by changing course. Slay the overbearing father, disparage his legacy, and gain power by shining in your own way.

(6) STRIKE THE SHEPHERD AND THE SHEEP WILL SCATTER.
Trouble can often be traced to a single strong individual — the stirrer, the arrogant underling, the poisoner of goodwill. If you allow such people room to operate, others will succumb to their influence. Do not wait for the troubles they cause to multiply, do not try to negotiate with them — they are irredeemable. Neutralize their influence by isolating or banishing them. Strike at the source of the trouble and the sheep will scatter.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 6

(1) CONTROL THE OPTIONS: GET OTHERS TO PLAY WITH THE CARDS YOU DEAL.
The best deceptions are the ones that seem to give the other person a choice: Your victims feel they are in control, but are actually your puppets. Give people options that come out in your favor whichever one they choose. Force them to make choices between the lesser of two evils, both of which serve your purpose. Put them on the horns of a dilemma: They are gored wherever they turn.

(2) PLAY TO PEOPLE'S FANTASIES.
The truth is often avoided because it is ugly and unpleasant. Never appeal to truth and reality unless you are prepared for the anger that comes with disenchantment. Life is so harsh and distressing that people who can manufacture romance or conjure up fantasy are like oases in the desert: Everyone flocks to them. There is great power in tapping into the fantasies of the masses.

(3) DISCOVER EACH MAN'S THUMBSCREW.
Everyone has a weakness, a gap in the castle wall. That weakness is usually an insecurity, an uncontrollable emotion or need; it can also be a secret pleasure. Either way, once found, it is a thumbscrew you can turn to your advantage.

(4) BE ROYAL IN YOUR OWN FASHION: ACT LIKE A KING TO BE TREATED LIKE ONE.
The way you carry yourself will often determine how you are treated; In the long run, appearing vulgar or common will make people disrespect you. For a king respects himself and inspires the same sentiment in others. By acting regally and confident of your powers, you make yourself seem destined to wear a crown.

(5) MASTER THE ART OF TIMING.
Never seem to be in a hurry — hurrying betrays a lack of control over yourself, and over time. Always seem patient, as if you know that everything will come to you eventually. Become a detective of the right moment; sniff out the spirit of the times, the trends that will carry you to power. Learn to stand back when the time is not yet ripe, and to strike fiercely when it has reached fruition.

(6) DISDAIN THINGS YOU CANNOT HAVE: IGNORING THEM IS THE BEST REVENGE.
By acknowledging a petty problem you give it existence and credibility. The more attention you pay an enemy, the stronger you make him; and a small mistake is often made worse and more visible when you try to fix it. It is sometimes best to leave things alone. If there is something you want but cannot have, show contempt for it. The less interest you reveal, the more superior you seem.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 5

(1) RE-CREATE YOURSELF.
Do not accept the roles that society foists on you. Re-create yourself by forging a new identity, one that commands attention and never bores the audience. Be the master of your own image rather than letting others define it for you. Incorporate dramatic devices into your public gestures and actions — your power will be enhanced and your character will seem larger than life.

(2) KEEP YOUR HANDS CLEAN.
You must seem a paragon of civility and efficiency: Your hands are never soiled by mistakes and nasty deeds. Maintain such a spotless appearance by using others as scapegoats and cat's-paws to disguise your involvement.

(3) PLAY ON PEOPLE'S NEED TO BELIEVE TO CREATE A CULTLIKE FOLLOWING.
People have an overwhelming desire to believe in something. Become the focal point of such desire by offering them a cause, a new faith to follow. Keep your words vague but full of promise; emphasize enthusiasm over rationality and clear thinking. Give your new disciples rituals to perform, ask them to make sacrifices on your behalf. In the absence of organized religion and grand causes, your new belief system will bring you untold power.

(4) ENTER ACTION WITH BOLDNESS.
If you are unsure of a course of action, do not attempt it. Your doubt and hesitations will infect your execution. Timidity is dangerous: Better to enter with boldness. Any mistakes you commit through audacity are easily corrected with more audacity. Everyone admires the bold; no one honors the timid.

(5) PLAN ALL THE WAY TO THE END.
The ending is everything. Plan all the way to it, taking into account all the possible consequences, obstacles, and twists of fortune that might reverse your hard work and give the glory to others. By planning to the end you will not be overwhelmed by circumstances and you will know when to stop. Gently guide fortune and help determine the future by thinking far ahead.

(6) MAKE YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS SEEM EFFORTLESS.
Your actions must seem natural and executed with ease. All the toil and practice that go into them, and also all the clever tricks, must be concealed. When you act, act effortlessly, as if you could do much more. Avoid the temptation of revealing how hard you work — it only raises questions. Teach no one your tricks or they will be used against you.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 4

(1) KNOW WHO YOU'RE DEALING WITH — DO NOT OFFEND THE WRONG PERSON.
There are many different kinds of people in the world, and you can never assume that everyone will react to your strategies in the same way. Deceive or outmaneuver some people and they will spend the rest of their lives seeking revenge. They are wolves in lambs' clothing. Choose your victims and opponents carefully, then — never offend or deceive the wrong person.

(2) DO NOT COMMIT TO ANYONE.
It is the fool who always rushes to take sides. Do not commit to any side or cause by yourself. By maintaining your independence, you become the master of others — playing people against one another, making them pursue you.

(3) PLAY A SUCKER TO CATCH A SUCKER — SEEM DUMBER THAN YOUR MARK.
No one likes feeling stupider than the next person. The trick, then, is to make your victims feel smart — and not just smart, but smarter than you are. Once convinced of this, they will never suspect that you have ulterior motives.

(4) USE THE SURRENDER TACTIC: TRANSFORM WEAKNESS INTO POWER.
When you are weaker, never fight for honor's sake; choose surrender instead. Surrender gives you time to recover, time to torment and irritate your conqueror, time to wait for his power to wane. Do not give him the satisfaction of fighting and defeating you — surrender first. By turning the other cheek you infuriate and unsettle him. Make surrender a tool of power.

(5) CONCENTRATE YOUR FORCES.
Conserve your forces and energies by keeping them concentrated at their strongest point. You gain more by finding a rich mine and mining it deeper, than by flitting from one shallow mine to another — intensity defeats extensity every time. When looking for sources of power to elevate you, find one key patron, the fat cow who will give you milk for a long time to come.

(6) PLAY THE PERFECT COURTIER.
The perfect courtier thrives in a world where everything revolves around power and political dexterity. He has mastered the art of indirection; he flatters, yields to superiors, and asserts power over others in the most oblique and graceful manner. Learn and apply the laws of courtiership and there will be no limit to how far you can rise in the court.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 3

(1) WHEN ASKING FOR HELP, APPEAL TO PEOPLE'S SELF-INTEREST, NEVER TO THEIR MERCY OR GRATITUDE.
If you need to turn to an alley for help, do not bother to remind him of your past assistance and good deeds. He will find a way to ignore you. Instead, uncover something in your request, or in your alliance with him, that will benefit him, and emphasize it out of all proportion. He will respond enthusiastically when he sees something to be gained for himself.

(2) POSE AS A FRIEND, WORK AS A SPY.
Knowing about your rival is critical. Use spies to gather valuable information that will keep you a step ahead. Better still: Play the spy yourself. In polite social encounters, learn to probe. Ask indirect questions to get people to reveal their weakness and intentions. There is no occasion that is not an opportunity for artful spying.

(3) CRUSH YOUR ENEMY TOTALLY.
All great leaders since Moses have known that a feared enemy must be crushed completely. (Sometimes they have learned this the hard way.) If one ember is left alight, no matter how dimly it smolders, a fire will eventually break out. More is lost through stopping halfway than through total annihilation: The enemy will recover, and will seek revenge. Crush him, not only in body but in spirit.

(4) USE ABSENCE TO INCREASE RESPECT AND HONOR.
Too much circulation makes the price go down: The more you are seen and heard from, the more common you appear. If you are already established in a group, temporary withdrawal from it will make you more talked about, even more admired. You must learn when to leave. Create value through scarcity.

(5) KEEP OTHERS IN SUSPENDED TERROR: CULTIVATE AN AIR OF UNPREDICTABILITY.
Humans are creatures of habit with an insatiable need to see familiarity in other people's actions. Your predictability gives them a sense of control. Turn the tables: Be deliberately unpredictable. Behavior that seems to have no consistency or purpose will keep them off-balance, and they will wear themselves out trying to explain your moves. Taken to an extreme, this strategy can intimidate and terrorize.

(6) DO NOT BUILD FORTRESSES TO PROTECT YOURSELF — ISOLATION IS DANGEROUS.
The world is dangerous and enemies are everywhere — everyone has to protect themselves. A fortress seems the safest. But isolation exposes you to more dangers than it protects you from — it cuts you off from valuable information, it makes you conspicuous and an easy target. Better to circulate among people, find allies, mingle. You are shielded from your enemies by the crowd.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 2

(1) GET OTHERS TO DO THE WORK FOR YOU, BUT ALWAYS TAKE THE CREDIT.
Use the wisdom, knowledge, and legwork of other people to further your own cause. Not only will such assistance save you valuable time and energy, it will give you a godlike aura of efficiency and speed. In the end your helpers will be forgotten and you will be remembered. Never do yourself what others can do for you.

(2) MAKE OTHER PEOPLE COME TO YOU — USE BAIT IF NECESSARY.
When you force the other person to act, you are the one in control. It is always better to make your opponent come to you, abandoning his own plans in the process. Lure him with fabulous gains — then attack. You hold the cards.

(3) WIN THROUGH YOUR ACTIONS, NEVER THROUGH ARGUMENT.
Any momentary triumph you think you have gained through argument is really a Pyrrhic victory. The resentment and ill will you stir up is stronger and lasts longer than any momentary change of opinion. It is much more powerful to get others to agree with you through your actions, without saying a word. Demonstrate, do not explicate.

(4) INFECTION: AVOID THE UNHAPPY AND UNLUCKY.
You can die from someone else's misery — emotional states are as infectious as diseases. You may feel you are helping the drowning man but you are precipitating your own disaster. The unfortunate sometimes draw misfortune on themselves; they will also draw it on you. Associate with the happy and fortunate instead.

(5) LEARN TO KEEP PEOPLE DEPENDENT ON YOU.
To maintain your independence you must always be needed and wanted. The more you are relied on, the more freedom you have. Make people depend on you for their happiness and prosperity and you have nothing to fear. Never teach them enough so that they can do without you.

(6) USE SELECTIVE HONESTY AND GENEROSITY TO DISARM YOUR VICTIM.
One sincere and honest move will cover over dozens of dishonest ones. Open-hearted gestures of honesty and generosity bring down the guard of even the most suspicious people. Once your selective honesty opens a hole in their armor, you can deceive and manipulate them at will. A timely gift — a Trojan horse — will serve the same purpose.

48 tips to become more powerful - PART 1

(1) NEVER OUTSHINE THE MASTER.
Always make those above you feel comfortably superior. In your desire to please or impress them, do not go too far in displaying your talents or you might accomplish the opposite — inspire fear and insecurity. Make your masters appear more brilliant than they are and you will attain the heights of power.

Hahaha…both Celtic & Alice.

(2) NEVER PUT TOO MUCH TRUST IN FRIENDS; LEARN HOW TO USE ENEMIES.
Be wary of friends — they will betray you more quickly, for they are easily aroused to envy. They also become spoiled and tyrannical. But hire a former enemy and he will be more loyal than a friend, because he has more to prove. In fact, you have more to fear from friends than from enemies. If you have no enemies, find a way to make them.

(3) CONCEAL YOUR INTENTIONS.
Keep people off-balance and in the dark by never revealing the purpose behind your actions. If they have no clue what you are up to, they cannot prepare a defense. Guide them far enough down the wrong path, envelop them in enough smoke, and by the time they realize your intentions, it will be too late.

(4) ALWAYS SAY LESS THAN NECESSARY.
When you are trying to impress people with words, the more you say, the more common you appear, and the less in control. Even if you are saying something banal, it will seem original if you make it vague, open-ended, and sphinxlike. Powerful people impress and intimidate by saying less. The more you say, the more likely you are to say something foolish.

(5) SO MUCH DEPENDS ON REPUTATION — GUARD IT WITH YOUR LIFE.
Reputation is the cornerstone of power. Through reputation alone you can intimidate and win; once it slips, however, you are vulnerable, and will be attacked on all sides. Make your reputation unassailable. Always be alert to potential attacks and thwart them before they happen. Meanwhile, learn to destroy your enemies by opening holes in their own reputations. Then stand aside and let public opinion hang them.

(6) COURT ATTENTION AT ALL COST.
Everything is judged by its appearance; what is unseen counts for nothing. Never let yourself get lost in the crowd, then, or buried in oblivion. Stand out. Be conspicuous, at all cost. Make yourself a magnet of attention by appearing larger, more colorful, more mysterious than the bland and timid masses.

A Day In The BIG Life

Stewart said that currently we are kicking off our Pallet Project. Water Tumbler & Plastic Food Container.
And if I manage to implement the above concept later on…then it is EVOLUTION already.
Now, that is my AIM.

Age Quod Agis

GOD – I am so sorry.
My foolishness, my stupidity, my gullibleness…I have disfigured this face that you have blessed me with. I went and do needling with the objective to improve my pores and scars. Now, my whole face is literally fills up with bright red rashes.
GOD – please heal me, please restore & rejuvenate my skin. So humbling. No more such treatment after this.

T+ Macallum

The Christian life is like an athletic race or wrestling match.
It requires the right Motives, Habits and Values.
Motive is an all out desires to win the race, habits are disciplined training and practice and value system is the high regard for God’s laws and rules and faithful obedience to them.
There is no place for half-hearted attempts and incomplete races.

Barley, Malt & Hops

Toast To New beginnings

You should not be afraid to try new things and live your life like it is an adventure.

The world has so much to offer, and if you get the opportunity to live and bask in its different parts, turn your life upside down and be delighted in all your senses, go ahead and grab the chance.

Nothing compare to the heady feeling that greets you when you arrive in a whole new territory than what you are used to and with a vibe so exciting it makes you feel like a spinning top on the universe. All your senses start to tingle and you feel alive.

Over time, your new home will totally change you and your perception of who you are. It will challenge your core beliefs and change the way you look at yourself.

YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC!

Beauty-Fied Cocktails

All mentors have a way of seeing more of our faults than we would like. It’s the only way we grow – Padme Amidala.

Ursula! :)

No Peas!

Leading a stress-free lifestyle.

Stress happens to everyone every day. Family matters, work, unexpected changes, relationships, illness and money can cause anxiety. Stress affects people differently – some become anxious or defensive, while others become depressed or withdrawn. The first step in managing stress is to identify its source. Next, you can either change the situation or alter how you react to it. No single method works for everyone or in every situation, so you have to ask yourself what works best. Here are some techniques you can adopt.

AVOID UNNECESSARY STRESS
Learn how to say NO. Taking on more than you can handle is a recipe for stress.

REASSESS YOUR PRIORITIES
Drop tasks that are not necessary to the bottom of the list or eliminate them entirely.

WORK AROUND THE PROBLEM
Compromise. When you ask someone to change their behavior, meet them halfway and do the same.

PRACTISE TIME MANAGEMENT
Make a list of the tasks you need to do and set aside a fixed amount of time to complete them.

CHANGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS
Look at the bigger picture. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run.

ADJUST YOUR STANDARDS
Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. Accept what you can’t change. Some things in life are beyond our control. Focus on the things you can control instead.

SHARE YOUR FEELINGS
If you don’t voice them, resentment will build and the situation is likely to remain the same.

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF
Don’t neglect yourself. Make time to nurture yourself and you may find yourself in a better frame of mind to handle problems.

Live It, Breath It, Move It

True leadership is not about domination, it’s about building trust and empathy through strong leadership. So be genuine and direct in a first meeting. This will speak volumes about who you are. Natural & spontaneous.

Celtic wants me to lead Wayne…and I think Wayne is ok that I lead Wayne…it’s just that…I know that I don’t carry that leadership weight yet…but I will try. Gambateh!

Boisterous & Bountiful with Bao Bei

Work Tales - Pallet Display Project – so far, we only have the Water Tumbler and the Plastic Food Container.

The idea was from the top management, Celtic did the earlier sourcing part and I am the executioner.

A leader must not drop things, but pass them on faithfully. The baton must be passed from hand to hand without being lost. We cannot do this in our own strength, but with the help of the Holy Spirit. He helps us from above and from within, for He dwells in us. His help is always available.

I’m a Connector and Creator

I feel poor lately. The Section 7 house – the expenses are mounting up.

Nonetheless, I believe that my God will provides.

All that we entrust into the hands of the Lord (our lives, our future and the results of our ministry) will remain safe with Jesus.

Help From The Outside

Paige, Marcus, The MFT Director & myself still share a WatsApp chat group together. The other day, Paige posted this up:

Paige: So funny the way Miguel being managed by Alice.

Marcus: Hahaha

I didn’t ask them what happen…I can only assume that Alice pusing Miguel until Miguel pening…hahaha…

Benbino

Really celaka betul this Alice!
Now, I really dare not to return as a Stationery Buyer.
What happen was…my number 1 supplier came and told me this…this Alice…everything & anything push the blame on me. That means, everything is my fault...everything; I did not do correctly in the first place...everything; I did not manage properly. In other words, it is my entire fault. Shit lor…my image spoil already in the market. My suppliers will not trust me anymore and will see me as a liar & an incompetent. Adoi! The supplier told me that if this Alice continues to behave unreasonably, this supplier’s boss will go and see Miguel directly. This supplier’s boss also know how to say that the is past is already in the past…J___ is the past already, we must move forward now.

The BIG Life

My last day with G13 was on the 29th January.
I really left the company with a very heavy heart.
I mean…sales were progressing on the right track. I was closing October, November & December 2015 on a positive note and I know that I will also close January 2016 on a positive note as well, with a little bit of buffer to carry forward. I am in the good books of Emerson, Ursula, Marcus, Miguel & Maximoff. Miguel sees me as a potential. I really have no reason to leave…I should have stay back and endure The Witch right? Did I give up too early? Was it a hasty decision on my side?

Leaving G13 was like the grandest sent off ever for me, compare to my previous working experience. I received 3 bunches of beautiful flowers…from Paige, from the MAs and from Ursula as well. It was so soul warming.

Best Blessings

Tous Les Jours, Empire Subang – this is the venue for Baldwin’s farewell. It was a great gathering...it feels like we’ve never been disconnected :)

Ursula said that she misses me so much. I miss her too. Aww…
Ursula said that whenever I come into the office every morning, open my room door…she knows that it is 8.30 am. Now, she didn’t hear that sound anymore. Aww…
Ursula amuses me every single day and has the most amazing character plus the biggest heart ever…I missed you too Boss :)

The Once & Future King

I think I kena con by both Celtic & Stewart…hahaha…

I am actually handling the Kicthenware, Tableware & Disposableware categories. Total contribution only RM20 million. Last time, back in G13 – my stationery category already generate a total of RM45 million in sales turnover yearly.

So, both Celtic & Stewart decide to add on the Home Arrangement category into my portfolio as well. I don’t know whether they have pre-plan on it earlier or they just thought about it after I arrive.

I don’t know whether this is to overload me…or to ensure that my portfolios justify my salary…or to help me to show my performance better to the top management…

Well – I take it as a time of Preparation & Protection for me.
Bicycle, Camping, Sports, Nautism, Live Plants, Live Pets, Furniture, Luggage, Toys & Stationery.
Of course…I am not like Miguel or Juan Valentine that gets to be promoted up in the corporate retail ladder…my career development in terms of position is kind of flat…but in terms of managing the total GMS or Bazaar business – again, I thank God for the abundance of experience and for placing me in where I am today.

I think Stewart also don’t want to overload me too much as well…Stewart tells me to settle everything down first and gradually pick up Home Arrangement from there. I also agree with the plan. Settle the Hari Raya Trade Plan as quickly as possible, same goes to the assortment review, then pick it up from Wayne and guide Wayne too. So, right now the focus, the energy and most importantly, the discipline is to get this major homework done as fast as possible, be swift & decisive is the decision making process and to do less menial work.

I think Stewart has been very generous in not being forceful at all time and I feel Stewart is there, as a gentle guidance really for me.

Hello! From The Kitchen Mafia

I don’t know…is this call backstab…hahaha...I was having a conversation with Stewart and I think Stewart was chasing me over something when I ask Stewart…what is actually Celtic doing…Stewart also reply me back…ya lor…what is actually Celtic doing…hahaha…

I know that I am here is to assist Celtic…to lighten up Celtic’s workload. Of course, I am glad to help as well. But then I begin to notice…that Celtic does nothing…even if Celtic does something…Celtic do it on a very slow basis. I think Celtic is also lost a little. No more longer looking at the bigger picture of the business…only do ad-hoc activities to drive the sales yet the plan do not uplift the department sales that much as well. I think Celtic got distracted. Of course, now Celtic has pick up the pace a little...that one is also because Stewart sounded Celtic. As Wayne is new and also inexperience...Celtic have to take a lead here but I notice that Celtic is not leading. It is only when the sales figures start to tumble down a little plus with Stewart's sounding, then only Celtic quicken the pace a little...hahaha...

It’s also good that Stewart notice that I am more observant, alert and more sensitive to my surrounding than ever before. It also further reinforce that Celtic’s strength is to tekan the suppliers only, other things only so - so...while I bring a bigger perspective to the table. I don’t know how Stewart views me…whether I am General Manager material or not…Celtic is just too in the zone already as well and talks to much and look down at people too much. So ego.

I think Stewart like my idea that all of the open space that we have in our department…we must take back the control and dictate what merchandise to put. Cannot simply let the store people to decide.

I also notice that whenever Stewart calls up to Celtic or Mrs. Simon…Stewart uses a harder tone…but with me…it was much a softer tone. But Celtic did mention previously that Stewart really sayang Mrs. Simon, only this Mrs. Simon don’t know how to fully utilize and appreciate the opportunities that was given to Mrs. Simon.

Braise By Day, Burn By Night

I think the main reason, the only reason that Stewart call Celtic back is because Celtic can tekan the suppliers. Seriously, I think Celtic’s one and only strength is that Celtic can scold the suppliers very well, can control the suppliers from head to toe and can nail them down very ruthlessly. That loud screaming, that temper has everyone running, avoiding the hell. Tommy has mention to me before that Celtic is not a professional at work and Celtic’s name is already blacklisted at The English’s side. Celtic is not being seen very highly over there.

Of course, Celtic has other strengths as well…being really strong in character and consistent.

Behind Every Beast, There Is A Beauty

On last week Friday, we had a pilot meeting for our upcoming Hari Raya event in July…I am not bragging here…but really sorry to say…that when it comes to presentation…Celtic is really not there yet. The English people even Ursula herself really know how to do a proper presentation. It must have a summary of last year total sales & margin figures. Follow by a chart that shows on a weekly basis where is the time frame that Hari Raya sales actually picks up. From there we know when is the footprint that is actually coming in and anticipate the high peak sales weeks. This is the peak timeline where we have to ensure that stock availability at all levels is sufficient. Then, the presentation must also show what is the last year top items. What were our competitor’s strength and weaknesses in terms of their assortment, their pricing, communication methods and display. What will be our key lines for this year. How are we going to display our merchandise for this year event. How are we going to communicate with our customers. Celtic just has so much to learn…yet remain so arrogant…I find the whole meeting…only Stewart manage to hold the forte well…Celtic & Mrs. Simon just turn it into a pasar malam carnival. I am not saying that I am actually good…I just thank GOD that I have been given a much broader exposure compare to Celtic.

Beyond Disappointment

Psalm 37:4 tells us – Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. The meek will inherit the land.

In every situation, be prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.

Heavenly Father, I humble myself before you. I can’t solve my problems on my own. Please help me to seek Your help.

I have 1 TTA.
This supplier has its business stop back in 2014 by the previous buyer. The previous buyer make many promises and never fulfill them, then only know how to ask for on-top funding, and later on close the supplier account. So I decide to re-activate back the account. First reason was the debit balance, secondly this supplier is the number 1 porcelain supplier in the market, thirdly the supplier’s sourcing is also very strong and fourthly the supplier also help me to drive my trade plan. However, Captain Johnson rejected because kurang by 1%. Celtic also try to nego hard with the supplier to put in the additional 1% back but to no avail as well. Then, Stewart manage to pacify Captain Johnson…so in the end Captain Johnson also agree to lepaskan us…whew…THANK YOU GOD, PRAISE TO THE LORD, BLESS YOU GOD.

Indeed, God already have the solutions to all of my problems before I even knew it is a problem, I just have to trust God :)

The Sounds Of Silence

There is a time to be silent and a time to speak.
Good silence is a listening silence, a humble silence.
It leads to right hearing, right understanding and right speaking.
Well-timed silence can be more eloquent than words.

Winning The Big One

Dear Lord, when I get discouraged; help me to keep pressing on.
I have to wake up early now. Work starts from 8.30am till 6.00pm.
Last time at G13, it was from 9am till 6pm.
Last time, I have internet access, now don’t have :( sad case…

Group Chief Eating Officer

Kena sound again – tak habis – habis kan?
This time is because I always asked Fify to assist me in doing the paperwork.
With The Japanese, there are no MAs to help around with the paperwork, all of the buyers have to do themselves.
I told Stewart that I am delegating here.
Ya mah…you all said that I am highly paid…so is it worth it, is it productive to hire me to fill up these menial forms? Jeez…

Benefit Cosmetics

Adoi…kena sound from both Stewart & Celtic – Friday no casual wear, no dress down. I was in a SuperDry shirt, black denim and sneakers :)

Secrets Told, Culture Found

Henry is so funny. Henry called Lee Nee Mak Tiri :)

(1) Anything Lee Nee will email to them. Lee Nee doesn’t speak to them much, very rare, no interpersonal touch.
(2) Henry did a gesture to describe Lee Nee – tigress roaring with its sharp claws pouncing. Hahaha…it was so drop dead funny.
(3) At times, Lee Nee will also bang the table.
(4) When Lee Nee is upset, Lee Nee will snort at them. Hahaha…
(5) But Henry also got mention regardless of the above, Lee Nee is also very protective of them, only the method salah lorong a bit.
(6) According to Stewart & Celtic, it is actually a good thing. At least Henry is scared of someone.
(7) Tin Min & Henry is too selamba already.
(8) Tin Min is only big in size but is a small kid inside. Quite immature.
(9) Stewart also mentions that Lee Nee is also very sam fu…because Tin Min & Henry cannot deliver, Lee Nee have to do everything.
(10) Lee Nee is very workaholic. On vacation also, will email to Tin Min & Henry.
(11) And when Tin Min & Henry is on holiday – Lee Nee will also email or watsapp them non-stop as well.
(12) Stewart said that Lee Nee is actually very fast & efficient.
(13) Celtic feels that Lee Nee is very calculative. Don’t want to do more but want the authority.

Rice, Noodle, Fish

Stewart is right…Harriet is indeed very particular about the job title.
Harriet mentions to me that the both of us are Senior Category Manager.
Of course, I don’t know how much Harriet’s salary is lah.

But then in the email…Harriet may be a Senior Category Manager…but Harriet’s band width indicator is Sales Manager.
I am also a Senior Category Manager but my band width indicator is Division Manager.

Captain Johnson & Stewart feel that maybe…just maybe that this Harriet will bite Jonas one day. Hahaha…since Harriet is so vocal, outspoken & aggressive. But somehow Stewart feels that Harriet capability is not there yet lah. See how first lah ya…maybe for the first year, Harriet will still respect Jonas, maybe only in the second year things will change. Stewart has also brief Harriet on what Harriet needs to do to fix the Stationery Department. See whether this Harriet can execute it or not. Then, Stewart wants Jonas to spend more time to fix the Toys category.

of magic & brutality

Called up Pietro the other day, checking on how Pietro is coping currently. Pietro is managing everything well. Then, Pietro gossip with me…that this Bryan also start to rebel against Alice.

As usual lor, during meeting with Alice…she is not focus and will jump from A to B, then from B to C. Not in a very systematic way for sure. According to Pietro, this Bryan have to bring her back on track, can see that he starts to be very vocal and show signs of frustrations. Hahaha…Fendi is more easily to be bully by Alice, Fendi is soft…I guess Bryan is the tough no-nonsense-experienced type of guy. Don’t pusing him…hahaha…

Even during Baldwin’s farewell dinner – Miss Dong also mention to me that Miss Dong herself is always very careful with what Alice say.

Marcus said that Alice is very stress now. During the floor walk, as the Stationery & Toys are in the front, Alice always kena from the big bosses. Ursula pula relax only. As Appliance have move to the back area, the big bosses seldom jalan there.

Hops Get Hip

23/2/2016 – geram betul. The Witch removes me from the Leisreware HQ WatsApp Chat Group. Funny thing is; she did not remove Ramly. So, it is obvious…she really hates me drop dead :) Hahaha…

Orphans K & Cream

OMG. Baldwin also resigns :(
Maximoff did not see Baldwin. Only Miguel.
Baldwin haven’t found a job yet, taking a career break for now.
Now only left Marcus, Ursula, Alice, Shawn, Pietro, Christy, Laura & Lionel.

Brunch & Munch

Miguel finally replied my CNY WatsApp message :)

Miguel: Hi hi very very sorry for late reply. Only saw your message when I reorganized my watsapp. Happy belated Chinese New Year to u! How’s work and life?

Me: :) it’s ok boss. All is well…

Lega sikit…

Key & Point

Harriet mentions that The Japanese don’t sell the IK A4 papers, yet many people are buying this brand. Stewart sort of like say no need. No need to carry so many brands. IK Paper; everyone is throwing the prices outside and no margin in the end for us.

I am biased :)
Therefore, I pro IK Papers. I have seen what IK Papers can do, to help to uplift the overall department sales. Yes, by itemized, it is a very red report card, however if by total family, positive sales, margin percentage and margin value can be achieved. It’s a fine balance between the number of the frequency advertised and the duration that it is advertised. Thus, the IK & Double A A4 Papers will be feature in the weekly Press Ad and the HouseBrand A4 Papers will be advertised in the Leaflet. Of course, cannot see the results in one month’s time. Must measure by quarterly.

The Hollywood Fixer

Hmmm…during my time in G13 – IK A4 Paper 70gm was sold at the price of RM7.50.
Then, there was a price correction done by The English’s side and they start to put the selling price up to RM7.90.
However, in last week G13 Press Ad, the selling price was at RM8.90.
Eh…why like that one leh? Supplier increase the cost price? Or Alice need to protect her entry margin?