I think it is good for teenagers to gain work experience, on the condition that they agree that their studies come first, and the work environment is safe and proper.

I recently subscribed to Audible and have been listening to more audio-books. I find this new way of "reading" to be very time-effective as I could listen while I commute to work or go about my nightly walks. The most recent book that I read is "Mindshift", which is a non-fiction book about people who have changed career paths, and how we can achieve successful career shifts. Overall, i enjoyed the book and would definitely recommend it, as I found it both inspiring and relevant in our increasingly VUCA landscape, although I would have liked it even more if there were fewer overlaps with the writer’s "Learning How to Learn"/"A Mind for Numbers" series.


(Full disclaimer: I am a personal friend of the writer Dr. Barbara Oakley and a co-instructor of one of her more popular online courses)

slmkhoo\" post_id=\"1657412\" time=\"1458436286\" user_id=\"28674:

I don't think most people have a better/worse opinion when comparing whole universities. But the emphasis or electives offered, even in the courses which are offered by more than university, will differ, and the assessment requirements etc may also differ. Some employers may prefer one over the other. At the end of the day, though, it's the assessment of the applicant by the employer that matters most, rather than whether the degree is from NUS/NTU/SMU etc.

'

I agree. For me, I would look at the course structure and see which one suits me best.

I would save the money, and consult a Polyclinic dietitian and/or a SSC fitness trainer instead.

I find that it helps to create a conducive reading environment at home e.g. set aside time for the whole family to read and share your reflections.

I find games like Blokus and Jenga to be great for family bonding and relaxation.

MrsKiasu\" post_id=\"1814732\" time=\"1510180074\" user_id=\"43981:

starlight1968sg:

I was surfing for some hotels

Capella Sentosa charged 1k per night !?!

I would prefer staying at home

I would too. If the staycation is so expensive, I would just save the money for an overseas holiday.

This is a sad reminder that we can do more to help our kids deal with such setbacks, rather than to just pressure them to achieve good results.

starlight1968sg\" post_id=\"1900419\" time=\"1551399624\" user_id=\"14025:

Yup, I received an SMS to file tax; as usual, a painful process :moneyflies: :moneyflies:

To my pleasant surprise, I find that they have simplified the process (e.g. auto-include some of our previous year's entries, reduce the submission requirements for self-employment income) and this has helped to alleviate the pain.

abigaillee\" post_id=\"1888980\" time=\"1544768185\" user_id=\"174043:

I have started several businesses before and have seen the pains of struggling entrepreneurs. My advice is, don't jump onto one too quickly, hold on to your job for financial safety net while you work on your idea in the smallest way possible to test feasibility and acceptance. If you're selling cakes and pastries, bake at home, work in overtime or free time, market and sell online, sell to family and friends, build the reputation first before deciding to take the leap. At the same time, constantly iterate your product and service according to feedback. Make sure you establish your USP, work and business processes, and product-market fit, before you take the leap. my 2cents.

I fully agree. In my view, too many people have the misconception that they can make money just by having a good idea and working hard. In truth, there are many factors, some of which are not even within our control e.g. rising business costs, changing consumer trends, competitors. It is best to start small and only quit your job when you have established a record of growth to prove that the business will work.