You know what they say: with experience comes wisdom. We got five successful women to share the most important lessons they’ve learnt…
You know what they say: with experience comes wisdom. We got five successful women to share the most important lessons they’ve learnt…
Cynthia Chua
Founder and CEO of Spa Esprit Group
On career
“I always focus on the outcome, and use my energy in the right way. If the circumstances are overwhelming me, maybe that project is just not worth losing sleep over.”
On love
“Surrounding myself with the people I love gives me the strength to brave the world and do what I do every day.”
On friendship
“I have gotten by without Facebook and Instagram. The people close to me know my state of mind and where I am as we’re constantly in touch.”
On money
“When you’re passionate about what you do, the money will follow. It’s pure freedom when I can say ‘no’ to potential investments promising high returns because I’m contented with my life.”
On self-care
“I strive to eat well every day, so I walk through fresh produce markets wherever I am in the world.”
Jazz Chong
Director of Ode to Art
On career
“Do what you love so it’s easier to persist even when the going gets tough.”
On love
“Listening to my husband and expressing how I feel in a respectful manner makes our relationship so much healthier. Instead of screaming at him, I tell him [something like], “What you did made me feel hurt and I’d appreciate it if you’d be kinder with your words.”
On friendship
“For effective ‘time management’ in keeping in touch with friends, I introduce my friends to one another. Many of them have become good friends, and we have dinner together as a group.”
On money
“Spend only within your limits. I believe in working hard and not spending what I’ve not earned.”
On self-care
“When I feel anxious, I stop working and go out to breathe some fresh air. Things don’t have to be in order all the time, and sometimes, they resolve themselves.”
Yah-Leng Yu
Co-founder and Creative Director of Foreign Policy Design Group
On career
“Sometimes, it’s really up to you to handle a challenge yourself. I chat with my partner Arthur quite a bit, but I may not [always] think that his approach is suitable for the matter.”
On love
“Always keep an open communication channel, whether it’s for professing your affection or expressing unhappiness.”
On friendship
“Bring your friends into your life and introduce them to your family members. Friends are extensions of your family and they are your cushion, so you should be able to discuss anything with them.”
On money
“Invest in something you’re knowledgeable about and deeply believe in. It’s risky to put your money in something you don’t understand.”
On self-care
“Do absolutely nothing once in a while, even if it’s for a weekend. Switch off your phone and don’t think about anything. There’s so much going on all the time; sometimes, we just need a break. Exercising is also super important. It helps with your emotional health, and I have to keep my strength in order to run a business and deal with people.”
Trina Liang-Lin
Managing Director of Templebridge Investments and President of the Singapore Committee for UN Women
On career
“Always map out a problem in your mind and figure out if you can solve it alone or if there’s someone who can help you with a solution. Never react emotionally.”
On love
“My husband and I give each other enough space so we really appreciate our time together.”
On friendship
“Social media is the only way to keep up with my friends, especially those who are overseas.”
On money
“A fool and his money were lucky to get together in the first place. Always be wise with your money and research on managing your finances.”
On self-care
“A good long shower and a book is the best way to relax after a long day.”
Dr Iroshini Chua
Co-founder of Drs Chua & Partners
On career
“When I feel like quitting, I ask myself: ‘If not me, then who?’ I consider how my choice to push forward would benefit others.”
On love
“Indulge your loved ones as often as you can. Don’t burn bridges no matter how inconsequential you think that relationship is, because people will always remember how you made them feel.”
On friendship
“I always make time to feed my friends. Intimate dinners with my friends is what makes my world go round.”
On money
“My father always said, ‘Money comes and goes. Don’t keep your mind on finances so much that it robs you of living your life.’”
On self-care
“Indulge in travelling. Apart from feeling deliriously happy, I love the feeling of discovering a new place, the personal growth that travelling brings and that incredible moment [when I encounter] a vista so breathtaking it stupefies me.”
Images Jovian Lim for Yah-Leng Yu
