Coincidentally, it's been exactly a month since my past post. Still I haven't figured out the paradox of time; how it's able to move both slow and fast at the exact same time.
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I have a love hate relationship with words. The potential, the downfall, and the soft crash they makes as they hit the ground.
I've come to the conclusion that I'm at a point in my life where anywhere I look I see the word "potential" splattered on every street bench, every fallen leaf, and every stranger that I bump paths with. And quite frankly, it's scary. The idealist in me feels that maybe this is just how I'm wired -- that I can't help but encounter something or someone and spin stories over stories of possibility, change, and desire.
But I also can't help but feel that as of late I struggle quite habitually with this word. It scares me because believing in potential leaves room for vulnerability, for hurt, and for disappointment. And soon enough the familiar face of hurt whom I haven't seen for a while comes to pay its homage.
And so I want very much to crawl back into my cocoon, forget my ideas of what could potentially happen if this happened and that maybe happens. But what kind of life is life if life is not lived on the edge? What kind of true potential can be felt if I do not venture away from the comforts of me myself and I?
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Major and minor
It’s like second nature to me now.
But I still remember the days when I had piano lessons every week starting from when I was 7. Around 10 years old I started prepping for the ABRSM exams. It was then, towards the end of each lesson, when my teacher would play a short snippet of a piece and ask me if it’s in minor or major. Back then…honestly, I had no idea. And I asked her how can you tell? I don’t remember her giving me a comprehensible answer, I mean I was still a child. So each time I just guessed and hoped I was right.
After more years with music, I began to hear the difference. I can now technically explain to you what differentiates major from minor. But still, you can’t explain such a concept or idea. There’s just something in the sound and melody of the song where you just feel it.
Then as I grew older and continued taking higher level exams..I had to start listening for the cadence of songs. I still have no idea. (I just remember that I’ll always say its plagal if it sounds like a song from church choir.) I wonder about the potential of music in my life if I had decided continued learning.
And I feel like I could ramble forever about this. But I remember the controversial book by Amy Chua that broke out this past year. To a certain extent, I agree with her point of view (although my view is probably biased). I do believe, to a certain extent, that in order to enjoy doing something, you need to be good at it. (If you’re not good at something, why would you want to continue doing it, except to get better?) If you can’t get past the point of mastery, you cannot fully understand and appreciate the height of the hobby, art, or sport. Like both Picasso and Alexander McQueen, they were masters of their respective art before they went against conventions and created their own personal style. Although I am very far from being a good pianist, I know that I wouldn’t be able to do any degree of improvisation had I not spent hours upon hours playing the same scales, arpeggios etc for years and years.
A lot of times I’ve taken granted and was spiteful towards my mom who always pushed me to keep going. I remember failing the last level of the exam after months of hard work and dedication. And all I did was just cry and said, I give up. But of course, my mom wouldn’t have allowed that. So I did it all over again and finally (but barely) passed.
Even now, whenever I am stressed or just need to get my mind off things, I go to the music room and play what I feel through improvisation. I think if my mom never pushed me to continue taking lessons throughout high school, I wouldn’t have this opportunity to express myself through music.
So mom, thank you for giving me ears to hear the difference between major and minor. You somehow always seem to know what's best for my heart and soul.
But I still remember the days when I had piano lessons every week starting from when I was 7. Around 10 years old I started prepping for the ABRSM exams. It was then, towards the end of each lesson, when my teacher would play a short snippet of a piece and ask me if it’s in minor or major. Back then…honestly, I had no idea. And I asked her how can you tell? I don’t remember her giving me a comprehensible answer, I mean I was still a child. So each time I just guessed and hoped I was right.
After more years with music, I began to hear the difference. I can now technically explain to you what differentiates major from minor. But still, you can’t explain such a concept or idea. There’s just something in the sound and melody of the song where you just feel it.
Then as I grew older and continued taking higher level exams..I had to start listening for the cadence of songs. I still have no idea. (I just remember that I’ll always say its plagal if it sounds like a song from church choir.) I wonder about the potential of music in my life if I had decided continued learning.
And I feel like I could ramble forever about this. But I remember the controversial book by Amy Chua that broke out this past year. To a certain extent, I agree with her point of view (although my view is probably biased). I do believe, to a certain extent, that in order to enjoy doing something, you need to be good at it. (If you’re not good at something, why would you want to continue doing it, except to get better?) If you can’t get past the point of mastery, you cannot fully understand and appreciate the height of the hobby, art, or sport. Like both Picasso and Alexander McQueen, they were masters of their respective art before they went against conventions and created their own personal style. Although I am very far from being a good pianist, I know that I wouldn’t be able to do any degree of improvisation had I not spent hours upon hours playing the same scales, arpeggios etc for years and years.
A lot of times I’ve taken granted and was spiteful towards my mom who always pushed me to keep going. I remember failing the last level of the exam after months of hard work and dedication. And all I did was just cry and said, I give up. But of course, my mom wouldn’t have allowed that. So I did it all over again and finally (but barely) passed.
Even now, whenever I am stressed or just need to get my mind off things, I go to the music room and play what I feel through improvisation. I think if my mom never pushed me to continue taking lessons throughout high school, I wouldn’t have this opportunity to express myself through music.
So mom, thank you for giving me ears to hear the difference between major and minor. You somehow always seem to know what's best for my heart and soul.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Dearest Love,
I want you to know that I’ve been thinking about you. When I have a moment to spare and when I don’t, you are on my mind.
I haven’t even met you yet, but I just want you to know that I’ve been thinking of you. And I’m writing this so when I do finally meet you, you will know that I’ve known you to be true even before our encounter.
And I know you’re not here yet because I’m not ready to give you the best you deserve. Still scraping my knees and making silly mistakes. But don’t worry, when the time comes, I’ll be ready to share my stories with you. Some stories will make you laugh, and some may make your heart break. But I know that despite all of them, you will still be loving and understanding because by then, I’ll also be a better person. And both of us will truly learn to appreciate each other for our flaws and secrets.
P.S. I’m really excited to hear all your stories too.
Yours Truly,
Me
I haven’t even met you yet, but I just want you to know that I’ve been thinking of you. And I’m writing this so when I do finally meet you, you will know that I’ve known you to be true even before our encounter.
And I know you’re not here yet because I’m not ready to give you the best you deserve. Still scraping my knees and making silly mistakes. But don’t worry, when the time comes, I’ll be ready to share my stories with you. Some stories will make you laugh, and some may make your heart break. But I know that despite all of them, you will still be loving and understanding because by then, I’ll also be a better person. And both of us will truly learn to appreciate each other for our flaws and secrets.
P.S. I’m really excited to hear all your stories too.
Yours Truly,
Me
Monday, November 7, 2011
Goosebumps and harmony
It's 2:00am, and I'm wide awake (with the assistance of coffee) because I need to study for a midterm.
While I sit here in this quiet study lounge, I can't help but wish it were summer time and I was not in Boston. Rather I'll be in New York, Hong Kong, Paris...I don't know, anywhere but.
And while I study for this horrific class, I begin to wonder...how do you instill interest and passion into your students? How do you motivate people? Is there a difference between those who merely teach and those who are sharing a story and a part of themselves with us? And to widen the scope of this conversation, what separates those who lead and those who are leaders?
Although I'm sure there are so many answers to these questions, I know that personally, if you can leave with me a message that I will remember for many years to come...then as a leader, a mentor, or teacher, you have done your part. This leads me to a story about my chamber choir teacher, Ms. Hall, from high school. I know it's difficult to compare a chorus class with a math class but I think great teachers can inspire students no matter what medium they use.
I remember it was my junior year. The entire chamber choir was packed onto the stage of the auditorium for rehearsal. (Rehearsal is usually in a room unless a concert is coming up.) For those of you who don't know Ms. Hall, she is quite indescribable but she is the type of teacher who you fear but love just as dearly. So mid-song, she's screaming at us to breathe properly. Then she stops the song to point me out from the first row (why am I short?) as an example of how collectively we're screwing up completely. To fix my mistake, she makes me lie on my back on the stage in front of the entire class and tells me to breathe from my diaphragm. (If I'm doing it right, then my stomach will be moving and this will be obvious when you're lying down.)
It's been almost 4 years. I'll be lying if I said it wasn't embarrassing. But still, if I have to choose a class that has influenced me the greatest at Stuyvesant, it would be Chamber Choir (and Creative Non-Fiction with Mr. Weil comes a very close second). I really learned a mini-lesson that I still treasure and keep tucked away in the back of my mind. Like I mentioned above, I view most things in life as a medium. Sometimes, it's not really about what you're doing. It doesn't matter if you are a teacher, a business person, a doctor...what matters is what your message is. And whether you're a teacher or a doctor, your message can still be the same. Like art, you can use music, color, or film to share the exact same story. These things are universal.
Today I love singing just as much and times like these, I really miss singing with a group of people. It's strange but I long for the vibration of harmonizing, the spinning of air, and the goosebumps. These things sound so intangible but they're far from that. But aside from just singing, what I learned from Ms. Hall is just to...be. Put yourself in uncomfortable situations. Say what is on your mind. Just live -- be quirky if that's who you are. Who cares if you look like an idiot, "you only live once, but if you live it right...once is enough."
Now...back to studying the true intangibles. I must keep treading!
While I sit here in this quiet study lounge, I can't help but wish it were summer time and I was not in Boston. Rather I'll be in New York, Hong Kong, Paris...I don't know, anywhere but.
And while I study for this horrific class, I begin to wonder...how do you instill interest and passion into your students? How do you motivate people? Is there a difference between those who merely teach and those who are sharing a story and a part of themselves with us? And to widen the scope of this conversation, what separates those who lead and those who are leaders?
Although I'm sure there are so many answers to these questions, I know that personally, if you can leave with me a message that I will remember for many years to come...then as a leader, a mentor, or teacher, you have done your part. This leads me to a story about my chamber choir teacher, Ms. Hall, from high school. I know it's difficult to compare a chorus class with a math class but I think great teachers can inspire students no matter what medium they use.
I remember it was my junior year. The entire chamber choir was packed onto the stage of the auditorium for rehearsal. (Rehearsal is usually in a room unless a concert is coming up.) For those of you who don't know Ms. Hall, she is quite indescribable but she is the type of teacher who you fear but love just as dearly. So mid-song, she's screaming at us to breathe properly. Then she stops the song to point me out from the first row (why am I short?) as an example of how collectively we're screwing up completely. To fix my mistake, she makes me lie on my back on the stage in front of the entire class and tells me to breathe from my diaphragm. (If I'm doing it right, then my stomach will be moving and this will be obvious when you're lying down.)
It's been almost 4 years. I'll be lying if I said it wasn't embarrassing. But still, if I have to choose a class that has influenced me the greatest at Stuyvesant, it would be Chamber Choir (and Creative Non-Fiction with Mr. Weil comes a very close second). I really learned a mini-lesson that I still treasure and keep tucked away in the back of my mind. Like I mentioned above, I view most things in life as a medium. Sometimes, it's not really about what you're doing. It doesn't matter if you are a teacher, a business person, a doctor...what matters is what your message is. And whether you're a teacher or a doctor, your message can still be the same. Like art, you can use music, color, or film to share the exact same story. These things are universal.
Today I love singing just as much and times like these, I really miss singing with a group of people. It's strange but I long for the vibration of harmonizing, the spinning of air, and the goosebumps. These things sound so intangible but they're far from that. But aside from just singing, what I learned from Ms. Hall is just to...be. Put yourself in uncomfortable situations. Say what is on your mind. Just live -- be quirky if that's who you are. Who cares if you look like an idiot, "you only live once, but if you live it right...once is enough."
Now...back to studying the true intangibles. I must keep treading!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Sweet Reminders
Today I went to Metlife to interview one of the assistant VP for my organizational behavior class. His name was Stephen and he was a sweet old man who seemed like he had a lot to share. My general goal was to get a feel of the company culture and his management style. It was an informative talk and he was open to answering a lot of questions. As the interview was coming to an end, I just really really wanted to know one irrelevant thing — “this isn’t part of the interview for the class, but I was just curious..after all your years of experience in life, what words of wisdom would you give to a college student?”
He proceeded to tell me a story about how his brother in law had a daughter who worked for a successful company. But then one day, she just decided to quit and leave with her boss to join a start up company. His brother asked Stephen to talk to his daughter and try to convince her to change her mind. When Stephen asked her why she was doing what she was doing, she merely said…I wake up in the morning, excited, to go to work and do my job.
Then Stephen just told her to go for it. When his brother in law asked Stephen what was he thinking to encourage her, he said..how many people go to bed at night feeling like they actually accomplished something and wasn’t doing something just because it’s their job?
“Whatever you do with your life, you’re going to have to work hard. And if you have to choose between happiness and money, always choose happiness.”
I loved his answer. And so unprofessional of me but I slipped out a Yay before I replied with a thank you so much.
He proceeded to tell me a story about how his brother in law had a daughter who worked for a successful company. But then one day, she just decided to quit and leave with her boss to join a start up company. His brother asked Stephen to talk to his daughter and try to convince her to change her mind. When Stephen asked her why she was doing what she was doing, she merely said…I wake up in the morning, excited, to go to work and do my job.
Then Stephen just told her to go for it. When his brother in law asked Stephen what was he thinking to encourage her, he said..how many people go to bed at night feeling like they actually accomplished something and wasn’t doing something just because it’s their job?
“Whatever you do with your life, you’re going to have to work hard. And if you have to choose between happiness and money, always choose happiness.”
I loved his answer. And so unprofessional of me but I slipped out a Yay before I replied with a thank you so much.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
All About Your Heart
This will be played at my wedding. No doubt about it.
Oh, I´ve loved you from the start
In every single way
And more each passing day
You are brighter than the stars
Believe me when I say
Its not about your scars
Its all about your heart
Secrets
While I was laying in bed yesterday, I remembered the secret to happiness -- gratitude!
How could I forget? I was so focused on things that I didn't have or was lacking that I completely overlook all the amazing things that make my life comfortable and worthy. I just thought about all the things I was thankful for and realized how petty my problems seemed in comparison.
I know it sounds so cheesy. But if you actually stop to think about it, it all starts making sense. :)
How could I forget? I was so focused on things that I didn't have or was lacking that I completely overlook all the amazing things that make my life comfortable and worthy. I just thought about all the things I was thankful for and realized how petty my problems seemed in comparison.
I know it sounds so cheesy. But if you actually stop to think about it, it all starts making sense. :)
Thursday, October 6, 2011
RIP Steve Jobs
“Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
I always admired Steve Jobs and everything that he stood for and created. He was one of the rare people in business and innovation who answered the question why, not what. Why do we wake up in the morning and do what we do? Why should people buy my product? It made me really sad that he passed away but made me think about the way I've been living and how I still need to change many things within it.
No longer should I be afraid of taking risks and following my heart. It's funny because I was taught to listen to my heart and feelings as a child, -- to listen to my instincts because they're usually right anyways. But as we grow older, I come to realize that it's so difficult because it's scary. No one wants to be vulnerable, everyone wants to know exactly what the end result will turn out to be. Jobs reminded me that life is about risks...and going out there to take them for things you're passionate about.
I still remember when my dad told me, "you will never win if you're afraid of losing." So I'm going to stop sitting on the side line and really go out there...get my knees scratched and mind boggled by the possibilities.
I always admired Steve Jobs and everything that he stood for and created. He was one of the rare people in business and innovation who answered the question why, not what. Why do we wake up in the morning and do what we do? Why should people buy my product? It made me really sad that he passed away but made me think about the way I've been living and how I still need to change many things within it.
No longer should I be afraid of taking risks and following my heart. It's funny because I was taught to listen to my heart and feelings as a child, -- to listen to my instincts because they're usually right anyways. But as we grow older, I come to realize that it's so difficult because it's scary. No one wants to be vulnerable, everyone wants to know exactly what the end result will turn out to be. Jobs reminded me that life is about risks...and going out there to take them for things you're passionate about.
I still remember when my dad told me, "you will never win if you're afraid of losing." So I'm going to stop sitting on the side line and really go out there...get my knees scratched and mind boggled by the possibilities.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Why Not What
Oh college, the first month of Junior year is reaching it's end...and I am stressed. Yup. I guess I could list all the things I have to prepare for and accomplish by, but I'm going to spare myself of the misery. I feel like my day is filled with me fast-walking to every single next destination. I rarely verbally say to anyone, I'm stressed, but I'm just going to write it again: I'm frustrated as heck that I don't have time to just relax and read a damn book for my enjoyment. However, this will pass and situations will fall into a routine soon enough. I will not be let down!
But just to reflect on some things, or more specifically, life things. My friend Carlos, showed me this really great video, a talk by Simon Sinek called, "How Great Leaders Inspire Action." After watching it, I couldn't help but feel a little happy that my mentality on a lot of things were on the right track (as in accordance with his idea). Basically, why you do something is much more significant than what you are doing. Why do we wake up early in the morning? Why do I push myself to the limits of my ability? It's not what I'm doing...anyone can do what great people do. We all have the potential to be a good leader, but what makes people want to join your cause is why you do what you do. I go out of my way to do things I'm passionate about. That is part of the reason why I will never admit that stress has gotten the best of me...because I like to hand-pick everything I dedicate my time to. And if you personally choose a priority, you should do it with a happy heart right?
Ah but still, I can't wait until I have time on my hands so I can just sit there (basking in the sunlight) drinking green tea and think. My friend also let me borrow Sinek's book, Start With Why. I'm excited to read it! But for now...back to studying for my accounting exam tomorrow.
Also, I finished my next photo shoot for collegefashion today! The article in still in the making...but guess what? My model is a guy so stay tuned :)
Also, I finished my next photo shoot for collegefashion today! The article in still in the making...but guess what? My model is a guy so stay tuned :)
Monday, September 26, 2011
Friday, September 23, 2011
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
There is no way to peace, peace is the way.
An entire decade has flashed before my eyes but it only feels like I took a nap and woke up well-rested. Ten years has a way of doing that to you. It creeps up slowly, afraid of having the spotlight; but before you know it, it's still the center of the attention.
Ten years ago, I was in fifth grade and my problems involved who my best friends were, and whether or not I would be able to finish my homework fast enough so I can make it in time to watch my favorite cartoon on TV. Something extremely tragic happened ten years ago on this day, but I was only ten years old. All that I could comprehend was that my classmates were going home early one by one while I was still stuck on my "floor spot" in gym class. In the end I was able to leave school early as well. My dad picked me up from my elementary school -- I swear that was a first, and possibly a last.
We went home and watched the twin towers fall over and over again, while dust and tragedy filled the air of New York City. To my young mind, that was all.
Looking back, I realized that I was only a child when 9/11 happened. Today I see and can feel (but I assume only a fraction) of the broken hearts of families and silent cries of fallen heros. It makes me wonder what kind of skewed mentality or grasp of "understanding" I have right now as a 20 year old. Will all that matters to me today be found silly when I resmince upon it another decade later? 30 seems to be forever away, but will I blink my eyes and have tomorrow be another anniversary of this day? My curiousity cannot be stilled.
Nonetheless, I still feel like that child - the one who is probably lost but doesn't realize it yet. I just thank God that I'll have the choice to keep venturing forward. My heart goes out to all that has been lost at 9/11...you will never be forgotten. To those of us who are alive and breathing, we need to make it worthwhile...not only within our own lives but also for the world. Peace can start with just one person, just one small gesture. I really do believe a smile can change so much. Let us be reminded.
Ten years ago, I was in fifth grade and my problems involved who my best friends were, and whether or not I would be able to finish my homework fast enough so I can make it in time to watch my favorite cartoon on TV. Something extremely tragic happened ten years ago on this day, but I was only ten years old. All that I could comprehend was that my classmates were going home early one by one while I was still stuck on my "floor spot" in gym class. In the end I was able to leave school early as well. My dad picked me up from my elementary school -- I swear that was a first, and possibly a last.
We went home and watched the twin towers fall over and over again, while dust and tragedy filled the air of New York City. To my young mind, that was all.
Looking back, I realized that I was only a child when 9/11 happened. Today I see and can feel (but I assume only a fraction) of the broken hearts of families and silent cries of fallen heros. It makes me wonder what kind of skewed mentality or grasp of "understanding" I have right now as a 20 year old. Will all that matters to me today be found silly when I resmince upon it another decade later? 30 seems to be forever away, but will I blink my eyes and have tomorrow be another anniversary of this day? My curiousity cannot be stilled.
Nonetheless, I still feel like that child - the one who is probably lost but doesn't realize it yet. I just thank God that I'll have the choice to keep venturing forward. My heart goes out to all that has been lost at 9/11...you will never be forgotten. To those of us who are alive and breathing, we need to make it worthwhile...not only within our own lives but also for the world. Peace can start with just one person, just one small gesture. I really do believe a smile can change so much. Let us be reminded.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Updates With Coffee
I haven't been able to touch blogging since I've been back at college. (I knew this was going to happen!) I've been extremely busy but I don't even know with what; running around like a mad woman is not what I will allow to happen for the rest of the semester. Hopefully I will soon fall into a routine where I wake up early, (can I say that my alarm ringtone has a great deal of influence on whether you get out of bed or not?) stay awake in class, and be present and alive!
I just felt like writing a nothing entry because I miss it :) But stay tuned, there will be an entry in three days! Also I'm excited to get away from the bustle this weekend...I'm going home for my cousin's wedding!! YES to true love. Okay, this entry will end with that cheesiness.
Have a great semester everyone!
I just felt like writing a nothing entry because I miss it :) But stay tuned, there will be an entry in three days! Also I'm excited to get away from the bustle this weekend...I'm going home for my cousin's wedding!! YES to true love. Okay, this entry will end with that cheesiness.
Have a great semester everyone!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Snail Mail My Email (Please)!
Very recently, I found this really creative and awesome month long project called "Snail Mail My Email." (Click here to learn more about it.) Basically what it tries to do is recreate is the warm feeling we get when we receive a snail mail, especially in loo of today's world where e-mail and such replaced the conventional ways of communication. What you do is you e-mail them a letter you want to be hand-written, and volunteers from around the world will personally write that letter and mail it to the receiver for you.
I requested to have a snail mail written for my parents. It arrived early than I expected (I wanted it to come after I had left for college)! And being the curious girl I am, of course I opened it. It was lovely! Aside from the fact that the person's handwriting is beautiful, the message of the project really shone through. Nothing can replace the feelings of intimacy and "specialness" you feel when you receive a letter in the mail.
(P.S. Click on the images for the awesome quality. I don't think these thumbnails do it justice!)
Friday, August 19, 2011
My time away from Boston
Summer's coming to an inevitable end once again. Being home in New York really gave me an opportunity to step away from a bad habit I develop in Boston -- an unhealthy fixation on myself. I come to realize that while at college, my thoughts are consumed by my future, my plans for tomorrow, my studies, my friends, my little bubble that my life consists of. However, the real world consists of so much more of what I overlook on a daily basis. Here's some of what I relearned about people while I was home:
Importance of family
This we all know. And yet this is something I'm reminded about every time I return home. Spending quality time with my family really reinforces the special place they have in my heart. When I'm in Boston and something happens at home, no one wants to tell me because they don't want to affect my studies. However, all I really need to do is take the initiative to reach out and ask. Must keep this in mind for this coming year!
Avoid toxic people
I noticed this after reading a talk by Milton Glaser called 10 Things I Have Learned. A super great read so I highly recommend it. He says that there are people who may be "toxic" for you, and there's a very simple way to tell. At the end of the time together, are you more tired or exhilarated? After reading this, I unconsciously think about it when I'm out and find it to be very true. It can be 3am in the morning but still I can go home tired but still full of life, or I can feel like I've gone to the gym and back. Ah, life is so simple?
Satisfaction of keeping in touch
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Reuniting with friends from years ago and realizing you miss them as much as they miss you? Pretty neat. Everyone has stories; there are reasons for losing touch but if you can easily pick up where you left off the last time you've talked...then why not share them :)
Holding onto hate
Anger is a double edged sword. I didn't realize how much I cared and how much anger I was really holding onto until I was able to step away from all of it. After that, it became silly to me why it even mattered in the first place. Whenever I think about this, I remember a great book by Mitch Albom, The Five People You Meet in Heaven.“Learn this from me. Holding anger is a poison. It eats you from inside. We think that hating is a weapon that attacks the person who harmed us. But hatred is a curved blade. And the harm we do, we do to ourselves.”
Embrace those who are constants
There is only a select few (maybe even one) that I can consider a constant in my life. Most often, these are people we overlook and take for granted. Learn to love and embrace them!
Anything you learned this summer while home from college?
Importance of family
This we all know. And yet this is something I'm reminded about every time I return home. Spending quality time with my family really reinforces the special place they have in my heart. When I'm in Boston and something happens at home, no one wants to tell me because they don't want to affect my studies. However, all I really need to do is take the initiative to reach out and ask. Must keep this in mind for this coming year!
Avoid toxic people
I noticed this after reading a talk by Milton Glaser called 10 Things I Have Learned. A super great read so I highly recommend it. He says that there are people who may be "toxic" for you, and there's a very simple way to tell. At the end of the time together, are you more tired or exhilarated? After reading this, I unconsciously think about it when I'm out and find it to be very true. It can be 3am in the morning but still I can go home tired but still full of life, or I can feel like I've gone to the gym and back. Ah, life is so simple?
Satisfaction of keeping in touch
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Reuniting with friends from years ago and realizing you miss them as much as they miss you? Pretty neat. Everyone has stories; there are reasons for losing touch but if you can easily pick up where you left off the last time you've talked...then why not share them :)
Holding onto hate
Anger is a double edged sword. I didn't realize how much I cared and how much anger I was really holding onto until I was able to step away from all of it. After that, it became silly to me why it even mattered in the first place. Whenever I think about this, I remember a great book by Mitch Albom, The Five People You Meet in Heaven.“Learn this from me. Holding anger is a poison. It eats you from inside. We think that hating is a weapon that attacks the person who harmed us. But hatred is a curved blade. And the harm we do, we do to ourselves.”
Embrace those who are constants
There is only a select few (maybe even one) that I can consider a constant in my life. Most often, these are people we overlook and take for granted. Learn to love and embrace them!
Anything you learned this summer while home from college?
Friday, August 12, 2011
11 things I learned yesterday from my internship
- If someone can feed his family of six by working a $15k job, we should be able to conquer the world with what we know.
- We are all dealt a different hand of cards. But if you're reading this right now, you already have a pretty good hand. It shouldn't be about the cards, its how you play the game.
- There are leaders and followers. One is not necessarily better than the other. If you want to be a leader, you have to be a fighter.
- Attitude is everything.
- Keep striking at your goal and you'll get there (even if the probability is only 1%). If you need to do something 1000 times in order to beat the odds...do it.
- Everyone needs balance, but everyone's balance is different. Find yours!
- Network network network.
- Always stick to your vision...the target/business model/method/whatever may change but your vision should always be the same.
- Bad experiences humble you and make you who you are. You just need to hustle and get back on track after you fall.
- Build relationships, be in the circle of conversation, know what people need and don't need.
- People used to say the streets of USA were paved with gold. They are -- but you need to bend down and get your hands dirty. If you have an ambition, there's a way to get there (but it should never easy).
"If your dreams don't scare you, they're not big enough."
Monday, August 1, 2011
Oh you're a business major...
Recently I've been noticing more and more how people will judge and categorize you into stereotypes based on your major in college. Oh you're english major, you must want to be a teacher. Oh you're engineering, you must have no life. Ah..and I, I am a business major. It's actually also really funny because I'm still in the process of figuring out exactly what I want to do when already people have formed an idea of who I am. Nonetheless it's interesting (and sometimes irksome) to see how people perceive me based on what I've chosen to study at school.
Here are some stereotypes that may fit some business majors, but definitely does not describe who I am:
1. I love money.
Yes, I do love money but not in the way people think of. The misconception with this is that business majors (or specifically finance) make a ton of money by slaving away in the cubicle. But in the end it is all worth it to them because they have the money to live whatever kind of life they want. To a certain extent, I think this is what everyone wants. However, money to me is not the end goal. I don't want to make a lot of money to make a lot of money (so I can buy nice things and live richly). Money is only a means to what I want to really accomplish with my life because practically, money is a necessity. And thus were I to ever go into finance, my career would only be a stepping stone to my greater goal.
2. I am a robot.
Actually not really sure how this relates to my business major but this was said to me by my sister. (I assume because "investment bankers just do the same thing over and over again daily?") I don't want to (nor intend to) face a computer all day. So just because business majors "work with numbers," and not with people on a "personal level," I do not want just business relationships, I want intimacy and substance.
3. I am persuasive and can get what I want with a little rhetoric.
I kind of wish this was true but sadly, it's not. The kind of person that I try to avoid are people who try to push their ideas and perspective on you. I'm very open to other people's opinion even though I may completely disagree with them. I will never pushy because I don't like the feeling of trying to change someone's opinion because everyone's point of view has their own benefits. I will make a horrible sales person but I am actually trying to be better because one day I will need to sell my future idea to the world (whatever it may be!).
4. I am not creative.
If I had to chose between the label "artist" and "businesswoman," the latter would definitely lose a horrible death. I see myself as someone who will use the accumulated knowledge and experiences of this field to fulfill my artistic desires and greater goals (as mentioned before). I get excited from interior design, words, and color palettes not numbers, the stock market, or whatever people think.
All in all, stop trying to define people based on their major. There are many components to a person than we will ever know. Maybe your friend who is studying to become a doctor may actually have plans to start an art gallery. Once my professor said to me, "the world is your oyster," and it's true -- go explore, take risks, and make opportunities happen! We are three-dimensional people, don't constrain us to only one.
Here are some stereotypes that may fit some business majors, but definitely does not describe who I am:
1. I love money.
Yes, I do love money but not in the way people think of. The misconception with this is that business majors (or specifically finance) make a ton of money by slaving away in the cubicle. But in the end it is all worth it to them because they have the money to live whatever kind of life they want. To a certain extent, I think this is what everyone wants. However, money to me is not the end goal. I don't want to make a lot of money to make a lot of money (so I can buy nice things and live richly). Money is only a means to what I want to really accomplish with my life because practically, money is a necessity. And thus were I to ever go into finance, my career would only be a stepping stone to my greater goal.
2. I am a robot.
Actually not really sure how this relates to my business major but this was said to me by my sister. (I assume because "investment bankers just do the same thing over and over again daily?") I don't want to (nor intend to) face a computer all day. So just because business majors "work with numbers," and not with people on a "personal level," I do not want just business relationships, I want intimacy and substance.
3. I am persuasive and can get what I want with a little rhetoric.
I kind of wish this was true but sadly, it's not. The kind of person that I try to avoid are people who try to push their ideas and perspective on you. I'm very open to other people's opinion even though I may completely disagree with them. I will never pushy because I don't like the feeling of trying to change someone's opinion because everyone's point of view has their own benefits. I will make a horrible sales person but I am actually trying to be better because one day I will need to sell my future idea to the world (whatever it may be!).
4. I am not creative.
If I had to chose between the label "artist" and "businesswoman," the latter would definitely lose a horrible death. I see myself as someone who will use the accumulated knowledge and experiences of this field to fulfill my artistic desires and greater goals (as mentioned before). I get excited from interior design, words, and color palettes not numbers, the stock market, or whatever people think.
All in all, stop trying to define people based on their major. There are many components to a person than we will ever know. Maybe your friend who is studying to become a doctor may actually have plans to start an art gallery. Once my professor said to me, "the world is your oyster," and it's true -- go explore, take risks, and make opportunities happen! We are three-dimensional people, don't constrain us to only one.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Debatable
What is beauty? Merely a point of view that anything with a bit of light is worth more than a second's thought. Secret is, there is beauty in failure and death. Beauty in failure is greater than success.
What is fear? Ego. Fear stems from the idea of potential of something better. That "better" is our ego talking to us. Fear is good but in small doses. The discrepancy between potential and reality should be the focus, not the thing you fear.
What is anger? Belief in something's potential only to be letdown.
Okay, what is potential? It's limitless. But why does it so often fail us?
Go back to question number one Carol :)
What is fear? Ego. Fear stems from the idea of potential of something better. That "better" is our ego talking to us. Fear is good but in small doses. The discrepancy between potential and reality should be the focus, not the thing you fear.
What is anger? Belief in something's potential only to be letdown.
Okay, what is potential? It's limitless. But why does it so often fail us?
Go back to question number one Carol :)
Friday, July 22, 2011
Temporary like me - Miss Vintage
“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.”
-Charles R. Swindoll
-Charles R. Swindoll
Endeavors Please
I want the vision, the ambition, the failures, and the experience.
Grant me the push and pull, the hustle, and the desire to want nothing less.
Grant me the push and pull, the hustle, and the desire to want nothing less.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then what is the worth of a picture with words?
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
"It never gets easier. You just get better."
This is definitely the mantra that recently has been looping in my head for days upon days. What is so powerful about this saying is that it can be applied to basically all aspects of life. Below are some from the top of my head:
Relationships
Heartbreak never comes in a neat package. Usually it's messy and hits you straight in the gut when you least expect it. I don't know if you can ever get "better" at dealing with broken hearts but you learn with experience what you should or should not get yourself into. However, I find that it just gets harder and harder as we grow older -- but we will save that for another post (so I can build the anticipation)!
Career
Since I'm still in college, I can only really focus on everything that builds up to your career. For example, dealing with all the stress of job searching, resume building, class acing....it makes the experience of applying to college look easy. But remember when we high school kids bent over backwards to perfect our applications to point detail?
Obstacles/Challenges
Whether it's learning to play a perfect barred chord on the guitar (still can't) or public speaking...with practice you just get better. When you finally master that challenge, you'll most likely forget the pain and struggle you went through. Like playing the guitar...what Asian guy can't? Just kidding, really!
Thing is, in whatever circumstance, the situation itself never actually gets easier. So all you awesome readers, here's a line or two on optimism: remember that you're improving every single day. Be proud of your accomplishments and keep going! But never let it get to your head -- always offer advice and encouragement to others. A pet peeve of mine are people who sit on high horses and look down on people who may not be as skilled as themselves. You once started off as nothing, you weren't born on top of a pony. :)
You might despise doing something, but if it's something that can make you into a more equipped or better person, stick it out! Or, if you feel it's pretty much the end of the world and you really don't want to get out of bed...just remember it's going to get better. I know this sounds so obvious but sometimes it's hardest to see what is right in front of you because we're frantically searching everywhere else for answers.
Well, that's my two cents on happy living. What other sayings have you heard recently that you can relate to? Or find inspirational? Please share! If you know me, I thrive on quotes.
Monday, July 18, 2011
What is the extent of social media?
As a typical college student, it’ll be pretty hard to meet someone who doesn’t have a clue what social media is. How often do you come across a parent now who doesn’t know what Facebook is? Or maybe even a commercial or website that doesn’t include a link to their Twitter account? But because we are the typical American young adult, we don’t realize that nationally…barely majority of people are really connected through these popular internet outlets. That comes as a surprise to me because I don’t have a single friend who ever said to me “Sorry, I don’t have a Facebook.”
Now looking at this from a business standpoint – most small businesses don’t even realize the benefit of online marketing. And surprisingly, many larger companies are also afraid of social because it’s difficult to harness and control. Here is an infographic that provides a prospective we don’t usually see. So how do you think these statistics will change in the next 5-10 years? How will that affect the way society operates?
I’m excited to live during this era of innovation and new reaches of technology and networking. Facebook helps “connect” me with friends that go way back to elementary school. And Twitter gives me real time updates of world news (and what my friend had for lunch). However, will these sites really benefit us in the long run as national usage continuously increases? I am afraid that we will drown in all the noise that social media provides and unconsciously lose sight of what is truly important – human interactions and deep relationships. Without a doubt, these social platforms have provided me with convenience, efficiency, and interaction that would’ve been lost otherwise. Nonetheless, I don’t think anyone can compare the connection felt from a hand-written letter to what we merely feel when we receive a message in our inbox.
I can’t help but admit that these social platforms are my guilty pleasures. However, it's summer and I need some good old face to face, let’s-have-a-good-talk-over-tea, kind of interaction. Just like I want to believe that chivalry ain’t dead, I hope that traditional means of communication and relationships never go out of style – despite how cool Google+ hangout may be.
What’s your take on social media in regards to personal and business relationships? Will you be tweeting about this (not a real question, just trying to be funny)?
Now looking at this from a business standpoint – most small businesses don’t even realize the benefit of online marketing. And surprisingly, many larger companies are also afraid of social because it’s difficult to harness and control. Here is an infographic that provides a prospective we don’t usually see. So how do you think these statistics will change in the next 5-10 years? How will that affect the way society operates?
I’m excited to live during this era of innovation and new reaches of technology and networking. Facebook helps “connect” me with friends that go way back to elementary school. And Twitter gives me real time updates of world news (and what my friend had for lunch). However, will these sites really benefit us in the long run as national usage continuously increases? I am afraid that we will drown in all the noise that social media provides and unconsciously lose sight of what is truly important – human interactions and deep relationships. Without a doubt, these social platforms have provided me with convenience, efficiency, and interaction that would’ve been lost otherwise. Nonetheless, I don’t think anyone can compare the connection felt from a hand-written letter to what we merely feel when we receive a message in our inbox.
I can’t help but admit that these social platforms are my guilty pleasures. However, it's summer and I need some good old face to face, let’s-have-a-good-talk-over-tea, kind of interaction. Just like I want to believe that chivalry ain’t dead, I hope that traditional means of communication and relationships never go out of style – despite how cool Google+ hangout may be.
What’s your take on social media in regards to personal and business relationships? Will you be tweeting about this (not a real question, just trying to be funny)?
Good Morning Blogger! I promise I'm here to stay...
With a little inspiration from my good friend, Wonmin Lee and increased time spent on social media platforms...I decided to create this little public blog! Honestly, I'm still unsure of how this will be different from all my other not-so-secretive/personal
blogs but I'm very excited to see where this will take me!
It's the height of summer time here in NYC and I've already done some exciting (and then some pretty ordinary but still exciting) things:
1. Spent over three weeks in Hong Kong where I survived the monstrous humidity and the temptation of awesome cheap buys. While inbetween all of that, also experiencing the night life, the tourist spots, and pre-modernized Asia -- which sadly includes in-floor toilets.
2. Currently it's week three into my internship. I've spoken with more than 50+ different people on the phone, and learned more about social media and start-ups than I ever thought there was to know.
3. I've started on my fall internship with College Fashion this week. (Sophia was my first interviewee -- and she was a great model.) I'm super excited because it includes both photography and creative writing as well as fashion.
4. Reconnected with old friends. AKA talk about nothing until 2-3am in the morning, or wake up at 9am to fit each other into our busy schedules. And yes, it feels super duper amazing to Cheers to 10+ years of friendship!
5. Paint, and then sing some.
5. Paint, and then sing some.
Now I must prettify this thing. I promise the next entry will be more intriguing and possibly less personal (?). What are some topics you want to see in the future?
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Hello there!
Thanks for visiting my blog! Its a pleasure to have you here.
My name is Carol Chan, and I was born and raised in New York City. However, the quaint city of Boston is my second home. I am a student studying marketing at Boston University. I will be graduating in May 2013 with a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing.
My name is Carol Chan, and I was born and raised in New York City. However, the quaint city of Boston is my second home. I am a student studying marketing at Boston University. I will be graduating in May 2013 with a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing.
My interests lie in creative writing, singing, and graphic design. I enjoy meeting new people, and seeing things in new perspectives. I live on social media so connect with me!
I also love brands that inspire change and tell stories. Post-grad, I would enjoy working with brand planning and strategy. Although I am open to exploring different career paths, I am drawn towards advertising agencies, start up companies, and non-profit organizations. Later in life, I plan to write a novella and open a cafe.
If you want to connect with me on a number of other social networks, click here.
If you want to connect with me on a number of other social networks, click here.
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