My Reflections in 2011 (Good or Bad)

To save money, earn like a prince but live like a pauper. *wink*

A career is a choice with conviction. To have a good name in your field, focus on persevering in that field. Do not waste time and resources to linger around without establishing your profession. Time is running out.

No matter how systematic you plan for your goals, uncontrollable external factors will try to ruin your pursuits, or at least delay them. So always consider and assume the obstacles you will face for every plan that you make. Backup plans? They also fail.

From gossips to serious matters, always tell the truth, or what you think is the truth. You never know how your words spread across the globe.

No matter how convenient your workplace is, it will always have snake pits. I learned long ago that I should neither boot lick nor bow to mediocrity. Now I realize that even if you try very hard to do your best and be truthful to others, you can never assume that your fellow workers, even your closest, will do and be the same.

If your are highly regarded by your boss and your name precedes you in your workplace, some of your coworkers, especially at your level, will always be envious of you. You may not notice that at first, but the stench of jealousy and insecurity will come out in the long run. Have a close watch on them and keep a low profile at start.

Even your closest friends can talk about you or against you behind your back. Assume that they do. But don't get too paranoid.

Arrogance is bad. But when you are in a world full of negative vibrations, especially with people who you know will pull you down, your ego will dictate you not to be humble for your own protection. But be sure not to step on others. If you do, apologize.

Do not apologize to someone who does not know the meaning of apology.

Influence and power are short-lived, but strength of character lasts. If you have influence and power, wield them for the right things and never fear to lose them for a greater cause for you will still have yourself, proud with integrity.

Self-preservation is always the ultimate excuse to turn back on your principles.

Do not mind what others think of you, as long as you know that you are right. They will realize your legacy in the long run.

Love is not just an emotion or a choice. It is also a tool for self-destruction. It can be a poison, an addiction. Love can make you do crazy things, even hurt a friend. Do not use love as a reason to afflict others. Play fair.

Always evaluate you stand on love. It is a gamble that can cost you a lot. If you know you can't win, accept defeat.

Losing your trust on people compels you to burn bridges. It really "burns" inside, especially when the bonds were strong. But life must go on even when you lose friends or loved ones in the process.