Holidays Are Coming, What To Do?

Dear friends.

Finally, the exams are over and the holidays are coming. 

For some of you, it is TIME FOR PARTY!

Yes, I do agree that you should have fun and also a good break. But if you haven't any plans yet for the coming holiday, I would like to suggest the following so that you do not waste such a wonderful opportunity to bring yourself to a higher level.

1) Part Time Work. I would strongly suggest that you take up a part time position in a company where you can get to learn some valuable skills, such as Sales, Marketing, Customer Relationship, Management. 

If you are between the age of 14 and 15, your available choice would be Mac Donald's. And it would be a good experience for you. Firstly, you can see how Mac's has a system that is easily duplicated worldwide. In future, if you do start your own business, you must aim to create a system where you can duplicate it easily. You wouldn't want to be working your own life, and once a good system is in place, you can focus on the broad picture of your business, rather than running it. The system will keep the business running, not the physical you.

Secondly, you would learn how to work with people of all ages and races in Mac's. If you noticed, there are people from are in their 60s, 50s. You can appreciate their life experiences. Then there are people who are in their 30s-40s. You can definitely learn from their management skills and leadership. Of course, there are the teens and 20s group. Build contacts with these group of people and you will never know how they can help you in future. Lastly, people from difference countries. Talk to them, and find out why they are motivated to come Singapore, study and work at the same time. Learn from them to not take things for granted.

Working at Mac's is just an example. There are countless companies in the market that are ready to take you in and train you up. Grab the opportunity. But I must ask that you Work, Learn, Earn and Save. Don't splurge and spend everything that you earn. Rather, save up a percentage of it. This money will come in handy in time to come.

2) Travel. Join your religious group for any missionary trip to other countries. Learn to contribute to others and you will find that they will contribute back into your life...spiritually and mentally. 

For this time round, take the road less travelled. Instead of visiting countries like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, US or UK, go to neighbouring countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Thailand and visit the under developed towns and villages. Experience the life of people there, the conditions they have to endure. I gaurantee you, you will come back with a different perspective of life in Singapore and start counting your blessings. (BTW, I will be planning a trip to Vietnam in Feb, if you are interested, let me know).

Best of all, these countries are nearer and of course, will take out lesser from your pocket.

3) Reflect on your 2008. Think through, write down the moments of this year. What are some of the memorable events that you feel deeply about. List them down. Give gratitude, say thanks and rejoice. We are coming to the end of the year and by doing so, I am sure you will attract more great things in 2009.

Do also reflect on the wrong things that have happened. BUT do not be sad. Instead, look at how things can be better, take the lessons so you can have the experience in future to handle similar events again. Remember this, all things happens for a good purpose that serves you. Learn from it.

4) Go for training programs. This is the time for you to catch up on doing things which you like. If you have always wanted to pick up music, this is the time. Learn how to play the guitar, how to sing, dance. If you have always wanted to pick up a sport, this is the time. Learn how to rock climb (you can ask me along), martial arts (I am doing Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, and Brazilian Jujitsu), fencing, blading, skating, wakeboarding. GO FOR IT. You will find that your holiday will be fruitful and more importantly, you learn things, skills and attitudes which will benefit you for life.

If you want to, you can also join back our Super Teens holiday camp and Smart Kids program as a resource. Where we will train you on leadership and management skills. You can also learn how to coach and counsell. As you know, our camps are tough, so be prepared. If you want to register, do visit Peter's Blog and email him your request.

Have a pleasant and fruitful holiday. 2009 will be great for you all!

Cheers!

Ken