Authored by: Norazlina Jaini

Have you ever wondered how setting clear intentions can transform a learning experience?

Here is what I learned about the power of intention.

In early July 2025, I had the privilege of observing a geological field trip for young petroleum and drilling engineers. From KL to KK, we travelled through Kuala Penyu, Kudat, Ranau, and Kundasang, exploring the rock formations of West Sabah. One of the highlights was our visit to the famous Sepanggar outcrop, a deepwater depositional environment where the participants were introduced to the art of sketching outcrops. Dr. Suhaili guided us through the process, making the experience all the more enriching.

During our first dinner together, each participant was asked to share their expectations during their introduction to the group. The responses varied: some were eager to learn more about rocks, others were focused on networking, a few were excited about getting closer to nature, and many simply wanted to have fun. Listening to their intentions was both soothing and enlightening. Everyone was aligned with their purpose for the trip, even if it was just to enjoy the journey.

Over the next four days, I witnessed firsthand how these engineers immersed themselves in geology through listening, observing and sketching under the hot sun, interacting with Sabah Geology experts like Dr. Suhaili and Shaufi Sokiman. By the end of the trip, their field logs were impressive for first-timers, and their final assessments demonstrated an understanding of the fundamental geology of West Sabah.

The final day brought a sense of accomplishment and celebration, with the top five loggers and the highest assessment scorer rewarded for their excellent work. Impressive and kudos to all!

As I gave my closing remarks, I emphasized how they had not only learned about the rocks of West Sabah but also networked, connected with nature, and most importantly, had fun. I also hope that they will have meaningful conversations with their fellow engineers and geoscientists back in the office, working together at pace and continuing the exchange of knowledge and experiences.

My learnings

It reminded me of the power of setting clear intentions. When we have a clear purpose, the journey, whether it’s learning, growing, or networking, becomes intentional and impactful. It’s about knowing what we want to achieve and aligning our actions toward that goal.

Let’s take a moment to ask ourselves these questions.

What are your intentions when you take on new learning experiences?

How do your goals shape your actions along the way?

How can setting clear expectations help you stay focused and engaged, especially during challenging moments?

Do you approach your work and life with the same intention?

Note: A special gratitude to Nurlili Elilza A Jalil, Yogarajan Egambaram & Wan Helmi for making this happen.

Authored by:  Susan Fong

This day, April 25, seven years ago, in 2018, I spent my first night in Beijing, with my two big luggages. It was my big migration to a foreign land. I was hired for a job based in this metropolitan. It was my biggest role ever - taking charge an American agency’s office in China as the country representative. It was an exciting leap into the unknown, and I took it with both arms wide open.

I remember that sense of anticipation clearly. The thrill of the new. I was stepping into a role with international scope —working with central office in the US, leading a team scattered across different countries, and navigating complex partnerships with Chinese counterparts during a time of growing geopolitical tension. It was also my most diverse team ever, and I loved that. The travel was intense, the learning curve steeper than anything I’d experienced. I was stretched in every direction.

But back then, I didn’t think of it as a transition. I thought of it as a new job. A bold move, sure, but still just the next chapter in a life I was shaping one decision at a time. It was only much later, when I learnt to reflect, that I realized what a massive shift it really was—not just professionally, but personally.

It wasn’t just the city or the job title that changed. It was me. I was learning to lead in ambiguity, to manage without precedent, to stay grounded while so much around me felt foreign. There were moments of fear and loneliness. There were doubts. I felt the weight of decisions, the pressure of visibility, the burden of being the “one in charge.” But I also felt alive. Challenged. Awake.

I’ve had many of these moments throughout my life. Moves that felt logical at the time, decisions I made independently, often without consulting anyone. I’ve walked away from jobs without a backup plan. I’ve taken sabbaticals. I’ve entered entirely new industries, not through headhunters or luck, but because I sought them out. Looking back, I see now that these weren’t just career moves. They were transitions - sometimes quiet, sometimes loud. And they changed me in ways I couldn’t see in the moment.

No one ever told me I was brave. No one warned me that I might be crazy either. But I’ve always trusted myself. I’ve always believed I could carry the consequences of my own decisions, as long as they didn’t harm others. That belief has been my compass. It still is.

We talk about resilience a lot these days - how to bounce back. But I’ve come to realise that resistance is often what stands in the way of growth. Transitions can be tough because they confront us with the unfamiliar. They shake up our sense of identity, challenge our routines, and force us to ask uncomfortable questions. But they also invite us to redefine what matters.

For years, I didn’t even know the word “transition” could apply to me. I thought transitions were for people facing loss, divorce, retirement. I didn’t see my own changes as worthy of that label. But now I know better. Transitions come in many forms - some dramatic, others subtle. And sometimes, we don’t realise we’re in one until long after the fact.

When I graduated from university, most of my peers followed the expected path: secure job, buy a car, start a family. I flew to India. I joined a year-long multicultural exchange program that brought together 50 or 60 people from all over the world. We lived, worked, partied, and travelled across India for months. It was my first taste of how vast and varied life could be. That experience cracked something open in me—a hunger to keep exploring, to stay curious, to build a life not by default, but by design.

Maybe I’m not good at staying still. Maybe I have what some call a transitory career path—frequent changes, varied roles, multiple industries. I used to joke about being a “rolling stone,” even telling a millennial once that rolling stones gather no moss. But I’ve come to appreciate the wisdom in that. Maybe moss isn’t the goal. Maybe movement is.

What I’ve learned is this: change doesn’t have to be something that happens to us. It can be something we invite. Something we shape. The trick is to stay alert to the moments that whisper, “You’re not growing anymore.” And then, to listen.

I didn’t always know what I was doing. I still don’t, a lot of the time. But I’ve stopped waiting for certainty before I move. I’ve learned that discomfort is a signal, not a stop sign. And I’ve come to trust that even the hardest transitions eventually make sense—if not in the moment, then in the mirror we hold up years later.

Authored by:  Susan Fong

"It's not about doing more, but about being present. That’s the secret to unlocking true happiness."

Have you ever felt like happiness was just out of reach, a reward waiting for you at the finish line of life’s achievements? Many single women fall into this trap, chasing a picture-perfect life that leaves them feeling empty. I used to be one of them.

I’ve always considered myself a happy person. It’s what my conscience told me – that I have a good life and that I am lucky, so I should be happy.

Growing up in a childhood environment where the only love languages expressed were through acts of service, I struggled to recognize and appreciate being loved or feeling loved. Looking back, I realize this shaped my belief that happiness came from doing good and being of service to others.

I chased this idea relentlessly, hoping that each achievement would bring me closer to a sense of fulfilment and lasting happiness. I want to do good, so I chose a vocation in the non-profit sectors to devote my service to helping the needy, I volunteered tirelessly and even envisioned a picture-perfect family life – a caring companion and children of my own. I have a full bucket list to travel and explore the world.

While I celebrate each box of milestones and achievements ticked with pride, I find myself increasingly discontented and unfulfilled.

One day, it hit me: I was playing a rigged game. Fear of failure and self-doubt, those inner saboteurs, were whispering that true happiness only existed on the other side of some distant finish line. I was living in the pursuit of conditional happiness, only to find it continually unfulfilling and bringing unhappiness.

I began challenging these limiting beliefs. I questioned why my well-being should be conditioned by external validation or the fulfilment of societal expectations. Happiness shouldn’t be a checklist, it shouldn’t be conditional. Conditional happiness is not true happiness, it is just temporary, and not sustainable. Being trapped in the pursuit of conditional happiness means constantly feeling that I am not happy now and that I will be happy if or when I have more boxes ticked.

This new perspective wasn’t easy. It meant confronting my fears head-on, dismantling the walls of self-doubts. It meant embracing self-compassion and learning to love and accept myself – flaws and all. It is still a work in progress, perhaps a lifelong journey to be mindful of not falling into the same trap in search of happiness.

The key to unlocking this new kind of happiness wasn’t about doing more, but about being present. I have learned a few things that work for me, that I now share with you:

Embrace The Journey:
1) Be gentle with yourself
I’ve come to realize that practicing self-compassion is crucial to navigating life’s twists and turns. Understanding that setbacks and imperfections are simply part of the journey and not a detrimental end. I learn to love myself even more. After all, who else deserves greater and unconditional love than ourselves?

2) Understand yourself
Self-awareness is empowering. Recognizing my strengths and weaknesses allows for authentic growth. Regularly practicing gratitude fosters a lasting sense of happiness, as neuroscientist Alex Korb suggests ¹. Make choices that resonate with your desires, not societal expectations.

3) Confront your fear
Courageously facing my fears and insecurities head-on has been a transformative experience. I’ve come to understand that often, what holds me back from unconditional happiness are the fears lingering in the shadows. By confronting them, I am liberated and hold the power to take control of my happiness.

Find Your Spark:
1) Find the right catalyst
I’ve learned the importance of seeking out people, experiences, or practices that ignite positive change within me. Whether it’s a mentor, a supportive friend, exploring new paths, change from an old habit, surrounding myself with influences that inspire growth has been invaluable.

2) Identify your saboteurs
Saboteurs are negative emotions that hinder happiness. These saboteurs often manifested as self-doubt, comparison, anger, or fear of failure. Acknowledging them was the first step, and then refusing to let them dictate my happiness.

3) Set realistic expectations
Understanding that happiness isn’t a constant state but rather a journey filled with peaks and valleys has shifted my perspective. I’ve learned to set realistic expectations, embracing the being rather than the doing. Practice being fully present in the moment, without judgment or attachment to outcomes.

4) Find your passions
Discovering what sets my soul on fire has been a game-changer. Cultivating my passions has provided me with a source of inner strength and resilience, regardless of external circumstances.

Happiness, I now understand, isn’t a transaction. It’s a recognition of our inherent worth, a celebration of our unique selves. We are human beings, not human doings. And within that realization lies the key to unlocking a life of boundless joy and fulfilment. So, dare to embrace the fullness of who you are, and let your radiant authenticity illuminate the path to unconditional happiness.

Note:
Korb, A., 2015. The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time

Authored by:  Susan Fong

"Embracing the joy as a single woman over 40 means embodying resilience, self-love, and the courage to defy societal norms."

The start of a new year is always the time for ethnic Chinese across the globe to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year. During this massive celebration a familiar tradition unfolded: the giving of ang paos. Known as “Ang Pao” or “Hong Bao,” these red envelopes carry the tradition of gifting money as a gesture of blessing during special occasions and festivals. In Malaysia where I grew up in, the giving of ang paos during Chinese Lunar New Year must be from the married to the unmarried. This, supposedly a well-meaning tradition, often accompanied by well-intentioned but ultimately pressuring words, urging singles to find a partner soon, so they too can have the privilege of giving ang paos.

I’ve observed this custom for as long as I have been single. However, as time passed, my sentiment towards this gesture has soured, leading me to question its necessity and implications. This pressure to find a partner is just one example of how society can define happiness for single women. We are often presented with a specific life script: find a good husband, get married young, raise a family.

For a long time I was trapped by these stigmatisation and myths of this conditional happiness (link to www.brainzmagazine.com/post/unconditional-happiness-ditch-the-checklist-find-your-joy). In my search to carve out a space for myself as a single woman, I often defaulted to avoidance as a means of self-protection. I also used to believe that happiness was a destination achieved through accomplishments like getting married or having children. I was trapped in the pursuit of conditional happiness, constantly feeling that I am not happy now and that I will be happy if or when I have more boxes ticked.

Gradually, I began to challenge these limiting beliefs. I came to realise that this “checklist” approach to happiness was ultimately unfulfilling. I questioned why my well-being should be conditioned by external validation or the fulfilment of societal expectations.

Embracing Singlehood with joy:
For many women, singlehood is not a waiting room for marriage, but a fulfilling life choice. Single women over 40 often face unique challenges and pressures, but they can also find a strong sense of purpose. I have learned to find joy and serenity in embracing single life, and here are seven lessons I’d like to share:

1. Never Mind Others’ Judgement
In a society inclined toward swift judgement, it’s crucial to acknowledge that our worth isn’t defined by others’ opinions or societal norms. I’ve learned to dismiss judgmental remarks, recognizing that my journey is inherently valid and unique, irrespective of external opinions.

2. Resist Complacency
Life is about growth and exploration. Instead of settling into complacency, I actively seek out new challenges and adventures, pushing beyond the boundaries of my comfort zone and embracing the opportunities that come my way.

3. No Woman Is an Island
While I cherish my independence, I also value the significance of communal bonds and having healthy and constructive social support networks. Maintaining connections with friends, companions, activity partners and family provides invaluable support and companionship.

4. Self-Care
In the hustle of single life, it’s easy to overlook self-care – both physical and mental. However, prioritising self-nurturance has been pivotal in sustaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

5. Be Financially Independent
Financial independence provides a sense of security and liberty, affording me the agency to chart my own course and pursue my passions autonomously.

6. Treasure the small joys
In the pursuit of happiness, savouring life’s small pleasures assumes paramount joy. Whether capturing a perfect selfie or indulging in a favourite pastime, embracing moments of self-expression and delight spices life with richness and fulfilment.

7. Count the Blessings
Despite the challenges of single life, there’s much to be celebrated. Devoting time to recognize and express gratitude for these blessings cultivates a profound sense of contentment and fulfilment.

Finding Happiness on Your Own Terms:
Being single doesn’t mean that I don’t value partnership or marriage. On the contrary, I adore and applaud how wonderful healthy relationships can be. But they shouldn’t be the sole source of happiness. As I navigate life’s twists and turns, I remain open to whatever the future may hold. Whether I continue on the path of singleness or encounter my “Mr. Right,” I approach each day with optimism and gratitude, being present that authentic happiness stems not from conforming to conditional happiness, but from living authentically and true to oneself. By embracing your authentic self and living life on your own terms, you can find happiness that is lasting and meaningful.

Authored by:  Susan Fong

They say, “still waters run deep,” and that’s definitely me – an introvert through and through. From an early age, I identified strongly with introverted tendencies. I had my first Myers–Briggs Type Indicator assessment during my early career, and subsequently every few years, each time reaffirming my introverted nature to the tune of 99%. Questions about social gatherings and preferences for solitude versus socializing always lead me back to the same conclusion—I am, undeniably, an introvert.

But let’s be honest, sometimes that “deep” feeling came with a side of “self-doubt soup.” Friends would be like, “Wait, you? An introvert?” In a world where t extroverts shine more brightly, being introverted can feel like swimming upstream in a fast-moving river. Been there, splashed a bunch.

The introvert label friend or foe?
Here’s the thing: being an introvert never felt like a limitation. Understanding the traits and behaviours that come with it, I enjoy being an introvert and the unique strengths it brings. Introverts are fantastic listeners (seriously, award-winning listeners!), which is a skill I truly value. I listen first, speak only when necessary, and that lets me connect with people on a deeper level. Plus, I respect personal boundaries and appreciate the power of a good, quiet moment. Alone time? Absolutely necessary for recharging my internal battery. Social engagements? I pick and choose carefully, like a cat deciding on the perfect napping spot.

But, there’s a flip side. I used to be a master avoider of tricky situations. Social gatherings could leave me drained and a little awkward. My shyness about speaking up sometimes held me back. In meetings, I’d take a backseat, thinking silence showed humility. Big mistake! It turns out, staying silent can also mean missing out on expressing my unique perspective.

The a-ha moment: Missed connections
Then it hit me – all this social solitude might be hindering me from building strong connections. It could slow down my growth, making me a “lone processor” in a world that thrives on collaboration. True growth comes from sharing experiences and bouncing ideas off others. By opening myself up a bit more, I could expand my horizons in ways I never imagined.

Unexpected twist: Introverted superhero
Here’s the crazy part: my job in the do-gooder world (humanitarian and development) became my unexpected growth engine. Working my way up from program manager to leadership roles involved stuff that pushed me way outside my comfort zone – corporate engagement, event planning, and wrangling diverse teams. It turns out, I have hidden extrovert superpowers – bravery, public speaking chops, and a surprising knack for connecting with people. Who knew? In this arena, I totally thrived as a “people person.”

Mindful mix: Embracing my introverted awesomeness
Guess what? This newfound realization trickled into my personal life too. While I still wear my “listening champion” badge with pride, I also started to speak up more. And guess what? I kind of enjoyed hearing myself think out loud with friends! I became less of an avoider and more of a “let’s-do-this” kind of person. Being a new solopreneur, I knew I had to network and chase business opportunities. So, I started attending events, chatting with strangers (gulp!), and keeping an open mind. The more I shared with friends, my mentor and coach, the more I learned about myself and what I truly wanted.

The happy introvert: It’s all about you
So, how do we deal with this whole introvert-extrovert thing? Here’s the key: our personalities aren’t set in stone. Instead of seeing introversion as a weakness, I view it as a strength – the foundation for my growth.

It’s all about having choices. I can choose to lean into my introverted side when I need to recharge, and tap into my extroverted side when the situation calls for it. By being mindful and intentional, I’ve gained control over those social complexities. It’s a journey, and I’m still very much a proud introvert who has embraced all the parts of me. I find comfort and joy in my quiet time, but I also appreciate the value of stepping outside my comfort zone.

Introverted or extroverted, we’re all on this journey of self-discovery. Mine has been about embracing who I am, finding self-acceptance, and ultimately, the unconditional happiness on my own terms. This newfound awareness lets me navigate the social world with confidence, all while cherishing the quiet strength of my introverted nature. Because, hey, even quiet cats can rule the world (one purr at a time).

Authored by:  Susan Fong

"There were times when self-doubt clouded my vision, but over the years, I’ve learned that embracing change and taking intentional steps are key."

Life is full of transitions, and for many of us—especially singles and professionals—roadblocks like self-doubt, anxiety, and societal pressures can leave us feeling trapped. As a single professional, I’ve experienced the pressure of balancing career, personal expectations, and societal norms, often questioning whether I was on the right path. There were times when self-doubt clouded my vision, but over the years, I’ve learned that embracing change and taking intentional steps are the keys to breaking free and thriving.

The journey of transformation begins with a simple yet profound realization: desire. It’s that spark within that tells you, “I deserve better. I want more.” But desire alone isn’t enough—you need to harness it into action, build resilience, and embrace a growth mindset. Here’s how I turned my own experiences into a powerful framework that you can use to get unstuck and thrive.

Cultivate Self-Awareness and Acceptance
The first step toward breaking free is self-awareness. Observing your thoughts, actions, and emotions gives you the insights into how they shape your experiences. Self-awareness is like holding up a mirror to your inner self—it reflects your strengths, reveals your weaknesses, and exposes the hidden patterns that keep you stuck.

I learned this lesson while working in remote places like Luchun, a mountainous village in China. Facing the unknown in unfamiliar territory pushed me to confront my fears and recognize my resilience. This environment was a mirror, forcing me to acknowledge my strengths while also confronting my weaknesses.

However, self-awareness alone isn’t enough—it must be paired with acceptance. For a long time, I was my harshest critic, blaming myself for situations beyond my control. But real growth happens when you embrace all parts of yourself—the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable. Acceptance doesn’t mean settling; it’s a compassionate step toward building something better.

To start your journey, I recommend simple yet effective tools like journaling or a personal SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats). These practices allow you to see yourself clearly, setting the stage for meaningful change.

Acknowledge Your Situation and Take Action
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when life’s challenges pile up—whether it’s a stagnant career, loneliness, or the grind of everyday life making you question your purpose. I’ve been there too. The turning point came when I stopped waiting for change to happen and decided to take action.

In my years working with grassroots communities in the development sector, I witnessed the power of small, consistent actions. Real progress is built over time, not through giant leaps, but through steady steps forward. One of my favourite is the “Wheel of Life” reflection tool. This helps assess key areas like career, relationships, and health, allowing you to pinpoint where you need to focus. It’s a game-changer for creating actionable, manageable plans.

Remember, transformation doesn’t happen overnight—it’s about the steady, consistent steps that eventually lead you to your goals.

Make Empowered Choices
For years, I believed my circumstances defined me—that my skills and potential were fixed. But adopting a growth mindset changed everything. It taught me that challenges are opportunities for learning and growth, not obstacles. This shift empowered me to see failures as stepping stones, not limitations.

The concept of a growth mindset, popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, emphasizes that our abilities and intelligence are not fixed. With effort, learning, and perseverance, we can develop and grow. This mindset transformed how I approached my personal and professional life. Every setback became an opportunity to learn something new about myself, and each challenge pushed me closer to my potential.

When I was working in internationally in the development sector, dealing with diverse communities, I realized that the biggest barriers we face are often the ones we set for ourselves. By reframing difficulties as opportunities for growth, you empower yourself to break through them.

I encourage you to adopt the same approach. Embrace the challenges in your life as a vital part of your growth journey.

Commit to Change
Commitment is the key that turns desire into action. My personal transformation didn’t truly begin until I decided to create a structured framework for change and commit to it. Without commitment, all the self-awareness and positive thinking in the world won’t make a difference. You need a clear roadmap, achievable goals, and the perseverance to see them through.

A Personal Development Plan is essential. Break your goals into manageable steps, set clear milestones, and commit to the process. Whether you’re looking to pivot in your career or improve your relationships, having a plan is critical. Equally important is having accountability—someone who will support you, offer honest feedback, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Success isn’t just about the big wins—it’s about the small, consistent victories that add up over time. Share your goals, track your progress, and make adjustments as needed. This is how you turn commitment into lasting change.

The Unstuck Project
The path from stuck to thriving isn’t always a straight line, but it’s a rewarding journey. My own experiences of feeling stuck fuel my passion to help others break free from their self-imposed limitations. The Unstuck Project was born out of this desire— my self-coaching program that has empowered me to live fully and intentionally. It’s not just about getting unstuck; it’s about discovering my potential and crafting a life that aligns with my values and dreams.

Ready to Get Unstuck?
Are you feeling trapped by self-doubt, societal pressures, or the fear of the unknown? With the right support, a clear action plan, and a commitment to personal growth, you can overcome any obstacle in your way. “The Unstuck Project” is built around the DARE model—Desire, Act, Reinforce, Explore—a proven framework that has guided my journey and helped countless clients transform their lives. It’s more than a coaching program; it’s your personal roadmap to clarity, confidence, and fulfilment.

If you’re ready to make a lasting change, I invite you to take the first step today. Book a free discovery call with me, and as a special bonus, I’ll send you a complimentary “Overcome Negative Self-talk” worksheet to kickstart your journey.

Authored by: Kam Lee Kheng

Authored by: Fennie Chong

Stepping down from my role as ICF Malaysia's treasurer is bittersweet. Since joining in July 2023, it has been a challenging yet rewarding journey. Alongside my treasurer duties, I served on the Speakers team for the International Coaching Summit (ICS), ICF Malaysia's key event of the year, where I managed speaker liaisons and payments. Balancing both roles was not easy, especially since the event took place in November 2023, and planning had begun before I joined.

Managing the ICFM accounts was more complex than I anticipated. I had to quickly learn the constitution, approval procedures, online payment processes, manual account updates, reconciliation with built-in formulas, and payment history. Before I got the hang of it, the audit process began in November 2023 . Yuan Leng, the ICS Treasurer, and I worked closely to ensure our numbers matched and everything was in order before sending it to the auditors.

Many late nights were spent catching up on the accounts, as the financial year was from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) was scheduled for June 2024. Besides managing the numbers, I also prepared notes for the audited financial statements, the new financial year's budget, the treasurer's report, and presentation slides for the AGM.

With many deadlines ahead and considering we are all volunteers, it was never easy to meet every single one. I had to ask for extensions due to my other commitments, which affected others as well. The good thing is that we all understand that this is not our full-time job; we can't expect immediate responses for everything except urgent matters. While flexibility is appreciated, we are also reminded not to take things for granted. We make mistakes along the way, but what’s important is that we learn from them and move on for improvement. After all, we are doing this for our members, not for self-glorification, but to achieve greater things together.

Fast forward, the AGM is over, and a new EXCO team has been formed. I’m glad that Yuan Leng is taking over my role. We worked well during the ICS project and having learned from my experience, I will ensure she gets my full support for a smooth transition. I’m confident she will have a better experience in the next AGM.

I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage the new EXCO, especially those stepping into their roles for the first time:

You are gifted with a noble heart to say yes to the new role. Give yourself a pat on the shoulder!

You are part of a system. Whenever you feel tired or need fresh energy, reach out to your peers for support. We are all here to cheer you on.

Your voice matters. There are 11 of you. Make sure you contribute not only to your role but also to help others as far as the team goal is concerned.

You need to strike a balance, no matter how hard you work as a volunteer, an employee, or a coachpreneur. Avoid being involved in too many things at the same time. Set boundaries when necessary.

You are part of the team to achieve a collective goal. Align your expectations with the vision and mission. Remind yourself why you are part of it when things don’t go as planned.

Teamwork makes the dream work. Collaborate and leverage each other's strengths to achieve the best results.

Never stop learning and reflecting. Embrace every opportunity to grow and develop in your role.

Celebrate your successes. Acknowledge and celebrate both small and large achievements to stay motivated and positive. Enjoy everything you do.

Having known and worked with many of you individually, I am confident in your dedication and ability to elevate ICFM further. Best wishes to you all and God bless❤️ And thanks to the members who have supported and encouraged me. Thanks for trusting me, and I will continue to support ICFM in other capacities, as always!

Authored by: Fennie Chong

When my ex-colleague offered me pro bono coaching about five years ago, I had no dilemma accepting it. As a search consultant, I was curious about coaching, and my first encounter with a professional coach was when the firm I worked with searched for a coach to lead the talent and leadership consulting practice. I had the opportunity to speak to a few ICF coaches.

My ex-colleague's offer was just lovely to satisfy my curiosity. That one coaching session led me to a new realization about myself – what triggered me, why it triggered me, how it started, and what I could do to overcome it.

I was amazed by the outcome of it because my ex-colleague did not provide any solutions to me throughout the session. He asked me questions that led me to deep thoughts. He gave me the space to recollect my scattered pieces, and I slowly saw the whole picture and gained clarity. Toward the end of the session, he asked me how I felt compared to the start and what I learned about myself.

It was a self-reflective session that allowed me to see myself better. The whole session was very engaging and enlightening. My ex-colleague did not say much; he was there to listen to me patiently. I was at ease and felt safe as I shared my thoughts. He was supportive and had no judgment on what I said. More importantly, he ensured confidentiality, and I could be my true self to express myself freely. I was hopeful and had peace after the session.

That one coaching session opened my mind to becoming a coach. I started my coaching journey in 2019. I have since then partnered with many individuals who were like me, searching for a key to unlock issues, be it in life, career, work, business, leadership, family, relationship, health, and wellness. It has impacted their lives. They have become well aware of who they are, what ignites them, and how they go about it to where they want to be.

They know what is best for them. As a coach, I facilitate their internal thought process to develop a roadmap to connect themselves better. Therefore, a coaching relationship built on mutual trust is significant.

I truly enjoy the relationship with my coachees/clients as it does not just allow me to walk with them in the process of realization and learn from them as they explore themselves. They discover their better self. They realize their potential. They align their values. They find their purpose and passion. They know their true self. It’s all about them.

Authored by: Samuel Kurian