2025 Stock/Capital Market ~ The Imperfection Of Perfection

infinity is indeed finite...

Stockmarkets

The 2024 euphoria of WallStreet, capping high & higher indices [DJIA, NASDAQ, S&P500] is not unlike the Last Waltz ... but few are leaving the dance hall

Since the 80s, I deep dived into the capital & commodities markets  and the experiences are not something that any books can fully describe. It takes more than fundamental & technical analysis [including time-cycles, ElliotWave, Fibonacci numbers, wave patterns, lunar and solar eclipses & others]; you need lots of commonsense and an appreciation of psychology   

As there are too many "X-factors" that influence stockmarkets, i will narrow down to describing the Lunar & Solar eclipses. The degree of impact of eclipses vary whether it's partial eclipse, penumbral eclipse, annular eclipse or total eclipse.

Lunar eclipse causes pull back in stockmarket whereas Solar eclipse is positive and the stockmarket rides the upswing [there was a Total Solar Eclipse in April 2024 and most stockmarkets enjoyed an uptick, even the weaker ones also rebounded before tapering off].    

Another sample, in Feb 2008, stockmarkets fell following a Total Lunar Eclipse and recovered by August 2008 with advent of the Total Solar Eclipse

Around Mar 1997, the Total Solar Eclipse lent confidence to stockmarkets such that by the onset of Total Lunar Eclipse in Sep 1997, the Asia Financial Crisis was in full blown. With the Total Solar Eclipse casting in Feb, 1998, sanity and recovery returned 

January and July of 2000 saw two Total Lunar Eclipses; perhaps, you may want to test this quiz! Going forward

2025 - Partial Solar Eclipse :

29th March, 2025

21th September, 2025

2025 Total Lunar Eclipse :

14th March, 2025

7th September, 2025  

Will 2025 be any different? Your guess is as good as mine

Some may equate eclipses to superstitions but somehow the phenomenon influences mass psychology. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and opinions. YES! Take above with a pinch/pound of salt and as some story telling and kinda folklore. It is NOT an investment advice

The power of positive influences

The (im)possible 'landslide' win by Trump for the next US presidency defy all negatives; paid companionship, felony, accusations, aged & olde, impending 'cases'... were followed with sharp gains in cryptos and the capital markets

Israel went on to defeat the Hamas mercilessly, attacked the neighboring countries, including 'taking down' Syria against human order and committing genocide with impunity

Ukraine, with US/NATO backing and blessings, is fighting Russia. The unthinkable was when the West allowed western arms and machinery to be used against Russia; with her nukes stockpile, Russia will not sit by idly in defeat. It shalt be MAD ~ Mutual Assured Destruction

Globalization 1.0 was when countries enter into direct economic exchange and cooperation whilst globalization 2.0 was when economic blocs deal favorably with one another. Globalization 3.0 is when China's initiative, One Belt, One Road [OBOR], begun. The world's trade are well served and delivered in speed and precision and minimal disruption

Asia anomaly 

In the meantime, fairly peaceful Asia is frequently provoked into action against one another by the mightier US & her allies. It will be US's dream come true if wars break out in Asia and a sea of red explode in suddenness

MiddleEast, Europe and Asia are the playgrounds of the US; the more uncertainties and bitter infighting, the better but nobody gain in wars and destruction, save for US continued domination ~ what good can you inherit in a destroyed globe? Clueless vanity  indeed

Going forward

2025 is gonna be surreal; how does, or can, FED reduces rates if, and when, P. Trump imposes higher tariffs and caused imported inflation and how will Asia, in particular China, in her current deflationary mode, motivate "spending and the multiplier"

The world's trades will shrink, plausibly triggering a global recession when one dominant economic bloc refused, nor allow others, to trade with other regional blocs.

But, all is not lost; After the dusts settled, and the damages done, it is reconstruction time when sanity returns   

Everyone will pay a price for the 'insanity to beggar thy neighbors' ~ there will never be a perfection of this imperfect world ~ sharing is the only way to survive and prosper

Man & His Karma

when human turns dark & plot against one another...

The turbulent world will be made worse by selfishness, greed, envy and hate

When resources and opportunities are scarce, the fear of losing and 'not having' more push more to 'destroy thy neighbors' and plot against one another

The top 10% control 90% of global resources and wealth, hoarding lead to more sufferings and resentment

The poor(est) brilliant outliers will plot to singlehandedly to destroy the hoarders 'to save' the general populace ~ an ideation born out of frustration

Nobody is any smarter with the consequences as the rich cannot live in a sea of poors and the poor man's life is of little value 烂命无价

Man work to live and not live to work 

生活不是活生生的 Life is to live as a human and not living as a zombie 

Many preach to live with compassion, care & share and to give a helping hand to those in need. But, alas, as there are less to share and go around, such saintly advice shalt fell on deaf ears

Well, well ...all is not lost

MAD ~ Mutual Assured Destruction - is the time where more bad characters are killed but wars and destruction cannot differentiate 

Guess, in the pool of dead, 15% are accidental deaths; being at the wrong place and the wrong time - 85% are baddies

Avoid the crowds

After the destruction, comes calmness, peace, acceptance and prosperity; perhaps, it is a situation of 'no choice', that is, reconstruction and rebuilding lives

Human are generally more cooperative, harmonious and caring when the world level down and very divisive when prosperity, coupled with corruption, breed widening Gini-Coefficient and dissatisfaction  

Earth, with GOD's blessings, will be the Heaven for all humans left behind after the chaos; destruction is not a must but the results of Man's fallacy & foolishness

Do not despair

More often than not, the baddies and their leaders will die ahead of the good and goodies. Why? The baddies plot against one another and to destroy the other; the good are incidentally destroyed

Provocateurs die the same deaths as their victims; nobody escapes Karma

So long as Man choose to dominate, conquer and destroy the weaker ones, the world will self destruct; the weaker mass is capable of cumulative destructive forces when irrationality reigns

Revolutions and change of regimes do not happen in isolation but after substantial repression and desperation

The moon will shines despite being lightless ~ the Sun helps

The still water will flow again and clears though it had stagnated ~ the winds help

In anarchy, a new leader is born to lead the flock out of misery

Everyone here on Earth is on a mission and for redemption

Every drips and drops fill the ocean just as all & more good will make Earth a Heaven; the miseries are the result of bad vibes and actions 

There is enough to feed the world's population but greed, selfishness and hoarding create famine, hunger and destruction

Some day soon, the food silos will be ransacked and redistributed and the wealthy baddies destroyed

If, and as many believe, GOD so love the world... henceforth, the sufferings are man-made

Believe ~ GOD will deliver

Be good

2025 - The Future Is Bright & Prosperous

slowly but surely everything changes...

This is the last month [december] of the year ~ day by day and finally the last month shall pass too

Frankly, nothing changes except the new calendar, 2025, appears as life goes on

The IMPOSSIBLES were made possible

Like many, the year started with hopes and aspirations, checked and disrupted by many uncertain and unexpected events; the genocidal actions of Israel bombardment of Hamas & Palestinians, the testing of us$100,000 by Bitcoin, the use of western powers' missiles by Ukraine to hit Russia and prompting President Putin to threaten the use of nukes against the provocateurs, the pumping of fresh monies into the 5-years Bear market in China hence allowing some semblance of stability and recovery of the PRChinese economy, the 6-hour of South Korean martial law, the pardoning of Biden's son by the outgoing President Biden himself ... Aboveall, the landslide win by Trump of the US presidential election against all odds

Pressures keep building & an implosion is not to be totally discounted

Nearer home, the stepping down of LHL as PM to become SM and the ascension of LW as PM, the ever increasing costs of living yet being cosmetically offsetted by rebates and vouchers, the political asylum for LHY, the blurring of lines of the ruling party with institutions and organs of the State, the liberal widening of import of foreigners, the widening Gini Coefficient gap ...     As of June 2023, the population of Singapore stands at 5.92 million. Of these 5.92 million people, 4.15 million are residents, consisting of 3.61 million citizens and 540,000 permanent residents (PRs)

The exuberance of Capital Markets 

As at today [10th Dec]:

S&P500    6052.85          DJIA  44,401.93         Nasdaq  19,736.69

STIC 3813.55        Gold  2703.80         Crude   68.40

Nikkei  39,367.58     HSIA  20,311.28        FTSE Bursa  1,608.97

Trump's election victory has created as much uncertainty going forward as there are direct positive correlation in WallStreet, but for how long [more]. 

I bet against excesses; the markets cannot live on promises alone; traders beware and be forewarned. The smart money is seeking safer heavens with lower and more earthly valuations

Expecting the unexpected will lessen the impact of 'shocking changes' in 2025  

The probability of large scale wars breaking out

There is increasing concerns that aerial proxy wars may snowballed into one big war[WW3]; this is quite likely as skirmishes and accidental wars are gameplays for politicians but when nukes fly, nobody will be spared

US is happy that Europe is entwined with Ukraine over its war with Russia ~ an uncertain Europe is one aspiring#world#leader#competitor less 

Against US plots & hopes, China is unlikely go to war with Taiwan. Any accidental war is more likely a "N Korea vs S Korea/Japan" but emotions amongst Asian nations will sway toward backing China than Japan because the atrocities/ghosts of WW2 is still raw [memories] with many 

Israel vs Palestine & the surrounding areas is not unlike daily bread; it's been brewing for years

More importantly, NO nuke-armed nations will surrender to another ~ it's MAD ~ Mutual Assured Destruction

Nukes in a sane man is peace but nukes with a mad man is simply M.A.D

Maybe, destiny has it that the global population has to be reduced and decimated as Man's ego, greed, vanity and his One#UpManship drive him into his dismal choice; Man will never learn a/any lesson

The future is not that bleak but it could have been better. We should welcome the Century of Asian Growth whereupon more than half the global population stay. 

I have strong positive vibes that after the uncertain phase, peace and prosperity shalt prevail & Asia will be the Centre of Global Economic Leadership & Growths

Small Wins Fill Us With Glee

 losing turn winning is a pleasant surprise...

It can be very discouraging, if not depressing, when you haven't win or enjoyed victory for a while

Even a draw, or the chance to overturn the table@negotiations are plusses 

The chance to say "NO" to the others and to walk away instead of agreeing to a lesser bargain, is in itself, a victory

Alas! This just show how even minor, immaterial victory soothes the nerve and provides sparks of hopes and encouragement

The most wreaking challenge is when everything seem to hit the wall despite all 'best efforts'

Well, well ... I have cleared numerous impasses with gilt edge languages and charm

Guess, if it must go wrong, it still will

Finding comfort in saying "not doing may not be the worst" only soothes the ego and the pains of defeat

More often than not, the provocateur or coward will throw challenges to 'thumb you down'  & threatens to 'show hands' ~ calling a bluff 

If you are not prepared or you 'give in' without a fight, they sweep you from under your feet and throw you under the bus

Always Be Prepared 知彼知己百战百胜 

Winning is everything

When you are indifferent to others opinions, do not rely on others efforts and is "the light upon oneself", nothing can defeat you

I have been dragged through a bad patch recently with low biorhythm, dispirited, low battery, discouraged and almost defeated... 

Instead of trawling the energyless pit, i focus on physical exercises, let the mind wonders, be listless, read and allow some indulgences & leave spaces and time for idleness 

Lousy days and listlessness deserves desertion ~ emptiness is not void and all shalt pass

I spent time with GOD alone; being aware of HIS presence & enjoying the vacant self, void of worries and distractions

Enjoy NATURE ; the scent of flowers, the dancing blades of grass swaying in the wind, the breeze caressing you, the musical waves, the warmth sunshine, the countless stars, the sleepy-faced moon, the light rain...  submit to GOD and he shalt set you free

I am no weakling but I have no magic 

In GOD, I Trust

HE is beginning to reward me with energy, blessings and winnings; however small

With good health & blessings, I will ride the chariots into victory

No Man can defeat all Men but HE shalt empower me with the means to achieve the end

 

 

 

Begin & End Is A Fine Line

the end of something is the beginning of another...

The day ends into the night, vice versa, as the sea ends at the shores

Babies are born and the 'growing ups' pass; age non-definitive

At the extreme of misery is recovery ~ if you are at your worst, the only way is up

Capitalism swing into socialism as the "HAVE-NOTs" rebel to wrestle from the selfish "HAVEs" who hoard resources with intents to dominate and dictate

It is survival of Man that pushes for reform ~ the rich cannot live in a sea of poors

Soon, December will give way to a new year

At some point in time, the world rebalances

But, the wrath of Nature is merciless when changes are in motion

No human capabilities & technology can resist Nature's prowess bent of rebalancing the imbalances 

By GOD's grace, pollutants must be cleared and cleaned to allow human survival

Changes, when forced upon, are always painful, least desirable and resisted but nobody has yet to tame, let alone beat, Nature

 

Let Nature takes it's course 顺其自然 and go with the flow - that's the least resistance path

If everything is Destined, then why work? Destiny is a broad path for you to take - you pick your journey. Youthful energy cannot be exchange for experiences that are acquired over time

Experiences can be acquired by reading [least painful & most rewarding], listening and learning from the more experienced elders and mentors and getting yourself 'dump at the deep end of the pool' [costly yet painful at times]

Do your best and leave the rest; learn a skill, arm yourself with a degree, learn the intricacies of the industry, build a niche solution and the rest will fall into place

Time is the best friend & all shalt materialize

天时地利人和 也要好运 ： 该来的已经在路上

The best solution is found in money

Money grease the systems and make everything easier 有钱不是万能 但 没钱万万不能

When Society is poor, everyone works together for the betterment of the whole

When Society prospers and matures, a new upper class of elites is created to rule the commoners

Trust, the delicate glue that holds everyone together, will be abused when greed takes root

Hunger brews anarchy and rebellion and the smashed up fibers allow restitching - A new equilibrium surfaces 

Treat everyone with awe and respect and betray no one

You may grab a little more but make sure there is enough to go around

A hungry man is an angry man; if need be, he will burn the hut down to rebuild the village

Well, well - the beginning and end is only a fine line

Let there be compassion

A Better Life : You Can Change Your Life

reflection is the truth...

Before you pass judgements, look into the mirror

When you were betrayed and 'sold', was it because you were too innocent, you were too trusting or you have relied heavily on the other party to achieve your goal

You can blame the whole world except yourself but the ultimate bearer of burden and consequences is you; yourself

It is disadvantageous to have too many friends as most are with you for a purpose aka "use". If you are not useful, why do they bother to call and count on you? The value of friendship starts with "usefulness", just as your bosses/employers pay you for your use/contributions

A big network is important and useful for information flow and tapping, not for gossips, conspiracy and backstabbing 

A network is a collection of people with fairly like-minded interests, good, bad & scheming (characters) aside 

A few friends, a few bosom friend, a few trustworthy friends ~ nobody can say "I have many of these..." reliable yet available

When you decided to close yourself to everyone or most, you will be surprised "how empty and quiet" your life is... no gossips, requests for help, being 'used', hearing loads of noises & peace returns

But, an idle mind is a devil's workshop

Slowly, but surely, you will (need to) fill in the void

If you are young again, do you or will you choose the same route? If yes, then you need not clear the clutters and should continue as usual before the Devil occupies 

Whatever fits, do ~ YOLO

If Providence is pre-destined, then why do you need to struggle? No, those who struggle are swimming [fighting] against the flow instead of doing your best & leaving the rest ... not doing anything is the other negative extreme

Nature rewards the brave and patience ~ Brave to try and not give up and patience to wait for results

Like all things, some days are harder and nothing seems to go right; I'd drop everything and close for the day

Taking long walks is also a form of meditation ~ try walking aimlessly but safely. Let your feet and mind leads you. Let your mind wonders

As much as you walk forward, you will need to return to your start-point

Henceforth, you will discover that where you were (before the start) weren't exactly that bad ... everything goes in circle and we return to (re-)start again

We  came alone and shalt return alone too

Every other persons' opinions and voices do not affect us ...  没有如果只有结果与后果

Swim the deepest ocean, climb the highest mountain, jump the vertical cliff; do enough to have stories to tell when you are old and no longer able to attempt the 'impossible'

GOD has a plan for you & HE allows you maximum spaces to demonstrate & experiment but be prepared for the consequences, for the better or worse 种因得果

Life is like water

No fix shape nor size

Water cuts through rocks and steel

Drips & drops of water fill the ocean

Water evolve & travel in cycles ~ liquid, vapor, solid

Human is unstoppable except by oneself

I am & I will ... be water

 

Never Hate

Be your own lighthouse...

Never hate ... is a powerful solution to all of life's challenges

Hate is a negative emotion and it drains you both, mentally and physically

When your friend plays you out, you hate him instead of learning from your lessons to stay away from him & other fairly similar characters 

When someone provokes you or talk down to you, you can be angry & disturbed but let the moment lapse as soon as it surfaces. Why? You've suffered that moment, let it go instead of suffering in infinity

Choose your battles; not all battles must be fought

When you need to fight the harassment of a cackle of hyenas, you will never walk away alive neither will you be able to leave to seek freedom & achievements   

Not all failures need to be bitter as most happen for a reason and, at times, unexpectedly

Betrayals, short-changed, disruptions, abrupt changes... are all lessons and norms

The earlier that you get over, the faster you recover and move ahead  

The choice is clear: either you are stuck or you move on & progress

Misery can be incisive but should always be temporary ~ it's like crying in the rain and let nobody notices your tears

Retreat into your cocoon to rest & recuperate when you are feeling hurt, energy depleted,; it is best not to share but to swallow the load 

Nobody really wants to know your problem while the majority smirks conceitedly 落井下石

Rest if you must and give yourself a break ~ "the good riddance feelings"

Before ASEAN was formed, SEAsia was a divisive region of nations; compulsive, aggressive, suspicious and, at times, jealous of their more successful neighbors    

ASEAN was born in 1967 with Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand as founders. It grew and is still growing, minus the hurts, suspicions, aggression and jealousy. These negatives did not disappear but they are managed and ventilated to ease relationships. Any disagreements are mediated & resolved  or, the quarreling parties can opt out temporarily ~ that is, rest but not quit

Do not let hate burn your Soul

Be at peace with yourself and others 

When you forgive, you give yourself a chance to be released from emotional bondage and learn from your defeats 放下就轻松 笑看江湖

I am the lighthouse upon myself, then others, not unlike the moon that shines in the night though it doesn't produce light but reflects the sun's rays. I am the catalyst, the motivator and the glow

I cannot change anyone nor the world but when I change, the world changes with me

I am rebooting myself to create a "new" me; say little, listen more, be indifferent to everything and everyone that don't concern nor benefit me... to be blind and deaf to the surrounding

Like a squirrel; goes out hunting for food, bring home, store and until the food runs out, nothing bothers

I am not turning selfish but I'm still licking my wounds from my own generosity and empathy. Nobody will ever understand the hurts 苦中作乐 that burns within 

After 10 months of extreme patience, I was almost defeated by myself ~ accommodating everyone ~  but, slowly but surely ... the tomorrow shalt come

All shalt pass and I shalt return better and stronger

I Am Defeated ... But Not Out

giving up is the best way out...

No expectations, no disappointments ~ easier said than done

Without expectation, where do you find motivation? It is the expectation of achieving success [your goal] that motivates you to work towards it

The expectation of achieving the goal, especially when you have used up all you know, call upon all avenues of help and are fairly sure, yet the last mile to success seems distance, stress manifests sharply

It's so easy to say "just give up"; but when the reward is so thick that between success and failure seems only [like] a hair breathe away

To accept defeat & give up is to leave it to GOD ; that's truly altruistic

My energy is low and I am dispirited; probably at one of my lowest biorhythm 

I have poured more hours into physical exercises, walk away from unyielding situations and create distractions to burn out my polluted 'energy', however low 

But, I am also aware that if I give myself more spaces, allow more time to lapse  发呆 , trying to remain indifferent 随缘 and just "let it be" 潇洒, I recover and manage to see and obtain more positive results

I am after all, a HUMAN; with all the weaknesses and failings associated to mortals

I lived by the nickname "the incurable positive" yet there are days that I am almost completely hollow-out and fell deep into the miserable depth 

I guess when success is few and far in-between and there is little to do, not to mention 'to achieve' in this snail-paced environment, many simply opt out and give up  

There is no right nor wrong answer! Not everyone can push on as some will crack under stress and suffer anxieties and depression

There is no "Why Me?" answers ... In all races, you can opt out

I? I...? I lie low, move aside from the race, rest a little, reassess my situation, allow the ill-winds to pass, try to lock myself out of the ecosystem and remain staid

It is no easy task to stand aside and watch the world goes by

This smiley cow is an inspiration

It looks healthy, well built, cheerful, indifference to the surroundings and enjoying every moments

It is said that the "cow knows if it's end-day is near but will never run & accepts whatever Fate dishes to it. But, it will shed tears though"

I have enough to get by and I should be sitting by the beach with my newspapers and 6-packs and watch the world goes by

I have reentered the race with limitless fervor, drive and grit but nothing prepares me for this slowdown

I am a mentor and life-coach to many 

But, as the going says "the Master saves you, but who saves the Master?" I leave my healing with GOD. In HIS arms, I shalt rest, nurture my hurts and lick my wounds, away from the unforgiving environment ~ in solitude, I retreat 

Sometimes, I asked if I have pushed myself too much & too far and putting myself through a fresh baptism of fire?  Maybe...

No good sword can be minted without the fiery furnace, pounded between the anvil and hammer

I am in retreat and recess. I must crawl into my cocoon and hide away until the ill-winds blow over

Everyone has his down-days and I have mine

GOD has given me the wisdom to accept my weaknesses, walk away and rest; I shalt return stronger

My days will be the same 以退为进  ~  饭照吃，酒照喝， 舞照跳 。。。 没有做不到的事  只有还没想到

Alas! Every dog has its days

When the big picture is turbulent and unfavorable, going against it is not unlike swimming against the tides; I accept defeat gracefully

Live to fight another day

I shalt return better and stronger

I Want Back My Simple Life

looking back and letting go of the past...

As you move forward in life, you reminisce your past 

When you were struggling to put meals on the table, worries find no place in your mind

Anxieties, depression, disorientation and unhappiness fill an idle mind, causing imbalances

When you are struggling to make ends meet, wondering where the next meal is coming from, you'd need to scrap the bottom to find solutions to fill your stomach; the rest are irrelevant

Now that I have ample time to look back, the best times were actually the struggling days; finding food, getting through the day by doing your best without thoughts of the 'expected' rewards

Come whatever may; I made it through the day ~ blessed by GOD's grace

HE never fail to reward me for my efforts, however, small ...  at least, I will have enough to see myself through the day

After a hard day, the physically drained body leaves no room for regrets - every seconds of rest counts

There was a period of time where I worked, studied, stretched the little money I have, sleep for 3-4 hours a day yet find time to exercise and keep fit - some opined that I was 'super' but I was simply normal. I don't want to be super but  normal

I bite the bullet and never complains & channeled my energies to my goal - quietly, slowly but surely - the goal to survive, then make enough & finally 'prosper'

LUCK is when preparation meets opportunity天时地利人和 还要好运

It is so easy to enjoy success and time simply flies

When misfortune hits, time crawl - seconds were like hours

Frankly, there is NO need to share your sorrows; nobody really cares

You'd need to walk through the baptism of fire 苦中作乐 No empathy can relieve you of your pains

The world loves a winner - always show the world your positive side even if you're crumbling

The world will never be fair - it is said to be "fair' to appease the weaker ones

Always take the middle path 以和为贵

When you fight, or need to fight, always fight to win - if you can't beat him [Knock-Out] decisively, he will come back to haunt you

Sometimes, I want to eat plain porridge with a few simple dishes by the roadside stall, step aside for a small beer, enjoy small talks,  laughs heartily and disappear into the crowds

In my simpler days, I used to cycle or walk to the beach alone, sit by the wavebreaker, read newspapers and sip beers under the hot sun

I love walking in the rain where my heavy heart and worries are washed away and nobody notice my tears & my heart lightens thereafter 男人哭吧哭吧不是罪

I guess it would not be long before I walk back in life - the simple life

I am spending more time to keep fit, stay healthy and be alone ... Alone is not loneliness

I will endeavor to forgive and forget -  forgive myself and forget my worries - as I seek clarity of humanity

I'm walking into the Arms of God to seek comfort & relief

Expect The Unexpected; Markets Reward The Brave & Prepared

try, and you will find out...

Social & environmental 

There is a trend or a pattern in everything you do

The outliers will act beyond the given trend

The cosmic power is changing constantly and realignment and manifestation are norms

You need not outshine others in everything you do but you need to do it differently to achieve the desired results as the environment changes

Being stubborn, procrastination and being unyielding are negative (determination) whereas perseverance is positive. The former are emotional responses to a given situation whereas the latter is based on facts

As much as you detest and protest unpopular policies, they are there for certain purposes. If you wanna participate, you have to oblige the rules, not unlike you can only use legs for soccer and hands for basketball

Economy & the rich-poor gap

For the last 20 years or so, the gap between the rich and poor widens. Globally, the highest wealth rung controls $208.3 trillion in wealth, or 45.8% of the global total which is just 1.1% of the world adult population

In the last many years, improvement in productivity in Singapore has been minimal to nil with the heavy reliance of imported, unskilled foreign workers and the higher unemployed and underemployed local PMETs due to the loose labor policies which allowed many foreigners, even armed with unknown & ungraded Unis certs, to squad in Singapore to look for jobs. GDP growth were unimpressive  

It is hateful to hear the leaders saying "Singapore do not have talents!" If Singaporeans are not given a chance to gainful employment, how would they ever be trained, let alone flourish into talents in their respective fields

Before 1997 HK-handover, many HKers were offered jobs and PRs in Singapore. Many came, made their fortunes, climbed the corp ladder but within 10 years or so,   most went back to HK or migrated to greener pastures and leaving Singapore to hollow-out...

The non - transparency, accountability and  'ownself check ownself' policies have created  a breach of efficiency and eroded the  effectiveness that were once the proud trademark of Singapore's systems

2024 is a dynamic year and we are in the last quarter ~ Oct/Nov/Dec ~ the speed of change will accelerate and manifest 

As the environment synchronize while the elements clashes, expect the unexpected - the more volatile, the more uncertainty, the greater the impact

Gossipy Stock Markets

In early Sep, 2024, in my blog, I opined that the western financial markets [DJIA, NASDAQ, S&P500] have been rising for the last 4-5years and chances of rebound to continue the uptrend is still alive but the eastern markets of China/HK had declined during the same period. On valuation, the East is cheaper and the smart money will follow the smell of cheaper valuation. [I have been more affirmative about the East after April, 2024 ~ in earlier blogs]

The last 8 days of rebound in China/HK markets were exponential & impactful

A word of caution:

Following the China/HK stock markets rebound in the last 8 days[exceeding the recent year highs], the East/West [DJIA, S&P500 & Nasdaq] capital markets are moving in sync. 

Typically, when the markets move in sync, the next directional change will likely to be together and more impactful.         

October/November are cyclically more volatile & traders' profits and losses are crystallize in this period; the trials and tribulations are experienced

Stay Above [The] Turbulence

whatever doesn't matter, doesn't hurt...

Opportunists appear any time when there is a chance to capitalize

Pessimists see every opportunities as possible failures and traps

Optimists exploit every opportunities, big & small, risk or riskless - don't try, never know

Opportunities is another word to anyone who's not interested; it doesn't matters and it will not hurt

Luck is where preparation meets opportunity - you can't be lucky if you cannot handle what is given to you

A fool and his money will soon part

Every thing is promising until delivered ~ action speaks louder than words

NIMBY - Not In My BackYard - is the most commonly demonstrated behavior nowadays as selfish, greed and indifference kill empathy & care

一种米养百种人 Being a habitual creature, we are in a hurry everyday - rushing to fulfill our works, goals, going from place to place & meeting expectations without asking "what am I trying to achieve?" It is nice to be reminded that "everyone's requests is urgent, especially voices from your 'bosses'. 

Try saying "NO" to timeline/dateline ~ not all need immediate attention

When you are sick, immobilized, of no-more use [not useful] or too old, the world moves on without you; your life shattered as you thought you mattered and are indispensable

Jim Carrey defined "SAD" as being unhappy at that moment & "DEPRESSION" is "Fxxx it! I have enough of the character & role that I have played & expected to play & I want out!" You cannot be or try to be what you are not... your Soul & mental faculty will collapse. Once, you're out, you recover...

You begin recovering because whatever happens doesn't matter anymore. You are just YOU 

Winners, champions, stars ... all successes come with higher demands and expectations

If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen

We are all made different and have specific role during our lifetime 人生本来就是一场戏

Fortunes favor the brave, the prepared and who are ready

From Sep 11th - 30th, the HangSeng Index rose from under 18,000 to above 21,000; 3000 points [>17%]. Anyone who was involved gained substantially but, for the many, who aren't involved, it has no relevance. Many want to make money but few are willing to do their homework

Bees will always be found around flowers as flies will roost in piles of shit 

Nobody needs to envy others

Do your research, understand your environment and be selective in your application - 钱用在刀口上

Every industry is a 'gold mine' in itself; there will be a few stars as some will collapse due to inability to change expeditiously and operate without niche knowledge & understanding

We are all born unique and have a designated role to play

Role play cannot exist perpetually as time changes the environment; their roles evolve and change too 

Be happy, stay healthy

Nothing is permanent and life is finite

It is October - the last quarter of the year is here

Have you achieved whatever you set early in the year like your "New Year Resolution"? Most do not ...

人生是一个过程 但结果比过程重要 世上没有后悔药

Live your best and leave the rest

Whatever doesn't concern you, it doesn't matter

Everyone Has A Story To Tell

life's a journey...

I have the benefit of learning from others about their past, successes & failures aside. The following were their 'journeys' before they arrived at where they are today - successful and their unexpected achievements

"A" was a successful sales person and at age 33yo, his boss decided to send him to sell and expand to the African continent. He took the challenge and went and managed to open the market and thrives within 4years. His first stop was Ghana

He was a straight cut, goodie salesperson and had the fortune to deal with the Ghana King, whose daughter, aged 18yo, fell for him. By his 2nd-year, his sales was the aggregate of the last 5years numbers. Her pursuit was so intense that even the King suggested that he should marry and make expanding the African markets his hallmark. The catch is, in his words "he couldn't accept a 'chocolate' as his wife [please - do not read racist nor xenophobia]"

Today, at 73yo, he is healthy and a successful businessman, selling into the world markets, safely settled in Taiwan. He could have been a Prince

"B", at mid-20s, was the average local and started working after "O" levels. He wanted a job that can make lots of money; A tall order indeed! He started as a rookie and dived deep into the capital markets; learning the technical skills, grabbing fundamental understanding, ingesting and balancing geopolitical issues, honed his EQ/Emotional Quotient & AQ/Adversity Quotient, developed his network zealously through sincerity, diligence and grit and also studied and collected duly recognized tertiary papers. He is simply focused

He made his first $1,000,000 by 30s and today, he lives happily but frugally; the rest is history 

"C", with little education, started as a 'bodyguard' for an 'up & rising' property developer, who also owns a finance company. His brute honesty and loyalty earns him brownies points and his boss guide him to become a contractor for his projects. He learnt the ropes fast and deliver stirling & timely finishing. He continued to build for his Boss, but at the same time, evolve to become a developer. When his Boss reputation and integrity were threatened, he dutifully went undercover to investigate and collected enough evidences to save his Boss. His loyalty is unquestioned

A from"rags to riches" story where undivided loyalty rewards

Today, in his 80s, he owns a listed company, several hotels and properties and live luxuriously with assets nearer a billion $$s. Oh! after passing 80yo, heard he bought a Ferrari; money do buy lots of things

I can go on writing but the success factors are integrity, honesty, loyalty and enthusiasm; giving up is not a choice. Betrayals will not be tolerated as some will sell out his friend for a few pennies

Success never go to traitors

Can you change your life命可以改吗？    

YES, Yes, you to some extent you can change your life  

Do you have the skill sets or the qualifications? If not, give yourself the chance to be trained and empowered - you can train to be an engineer, chef, artist, doctor... whatever

Are you able to lower yourself down to the lowest level to start with? Everyone starts from somewhere你说你被利用 但如果你连利用的价值都没 那就等于你没用 Have grit, 'bite the bullet' & prove that you are the best; someday, someone will recognize your capabilities and usefulness

If nothing else, do you have the guts. Who Dares Win and the world loves a winner

Your life is in your own hands - when you change, the world changes with you

If you never think you are wrong or feel that there is nothing to change, you will remain

Great Man, nobles and commoners walk through life not knowing what will the future bring but everyone has a story to tell...

Either they failed badly and turn around or they were born with golden spoons but lost their fortunes

Who would have thought a farmer (Jimmy Carter) or an actor (Ronald Reagan) can be the President of USA 

What you see and read in autobiography are already sanitized - if you truly wants to know the real person, their trials and tribulations, you need to go to the ground to investigate and ask and you will discover that the critical ingredient for any success is LUCK 

Success comes when天时地利人和 还要有好运

Just do your best and leave the rest [to GOD]

Have faith, HE will deliver

StockMarket - 3Q~4Q Crystall Balling

 the uneasy comfort of the capital markets...

When there were free flow of goods and services, the world grow steadily and many countries benefited. The setting up of WTO, TPP, RCEP, BRICS and other inter- and intra- regional groups were meant to ease & encourage global trades... but, protectionism, embargo and trade restrictions quickly suffocate and "time-out" many economies  

Some simply stay in their Group(ing)s and milk their hosts. If EU (27 countries) were to break-up today, many of them cannot survive the next 5 years    

The USA is the biggest culprit in printing money, not backed by any precious metals or fiduciaries, to fund its expenditures and global adventurism

The strength of the US$ is backed by next to nothing, save for being a well-armed nation

The FED is a 'private' institution

The two WWs were triggered by their desire/want to dominate controls of resources and economies

Cyclical movements and reactions are the reflections of the aggregate of psychological response to a given situation

Why are there a "4years", "10years", "60years" cycles? Generally, every 4-5 years there is an election (political changes).  Every 10 years or so, a person move onto his next stage of life. Example, 10years schooling, then joins the workforce after graduation (20years), career development and around 50-60yo, retires.

Index                52Week(Hi/Lo)         Current

DJIA                 41,585/32,327            40,345

S&P500            5,669/4,103                5,408

Nasdaq             18,671/12,543            16,690

Nikkei 225       42,426/30,235             36,391

HSI                   19,706/14,794            17,444

STI                   3,509/3,041                 3,454

FTSE                8,474/7,279                8,181

FTSE Bursa     1,684/1,412                1,653

Gold(US$)       2,559/1,809                2,526

CrudeOil(US$) 95/67                         68

Bitcoin(US$)    73,759/24,952           54,204

The chart above is other's work & due credit should be given to the Author        

Year 2024

The 4-year cycle is a near perfect reflection of market Highs/Lows as mass psychology are captured and reflected. When this short-term cycle coincides with the longer 10years and 60years cycles, the impact is greater, yet forceful. All, if not most, of the markets saw a 4year cyclical low in 2020 before recovering 

Expect (stock) markets to see a cyclical low anytime soon, especially the West [has been on the rise for the last 5years] whereas the East (using China/HK as a barometer) has been declining. Japan will be affected likewise. Will there be a shift of smart monies from the West to the East? 

Technically, yes. The East valuation (PEs) is cheaper compared with the West but trade sanctions, embargo and limping FDI/investment will impede substantial recovery

Expect intense volatility ahead - markets reward the brave but penalize the reckless. Everyone wants to make money but few do their homework

Money, smart money and fiat money, [government-issued currency that is not backed by physical commodity eg, gold, but the issuing government] need to find safe heaven to grow and hedge against depreciation; where else is better than the capital/stock markets. Investment in commodities markets is an ideal alternative.

Investing in stock markets is as safe as when there is no war, social unrest and political uncertainty.

Until the valuation is adequately adjusted in the overpriced markets, you have a choice of investing in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, HK(proxy for China), Taiwan, Singapore and India

It is wise to take some money off the market in this counter-trend rebound and await an impactful sudden downswing. [Short sellers stay short but with tight stops]. What if the market continues it's uptrend? Well, nobody goes broke by taking profits

I am not a doomsday sayer and neither am I a blind bull; trade at your own risks

 

Trap And Entrap

an unsettled mind is hyperactive...

Whoever says that everyone is entitled to success

Who can ever promise that you will get whatever you want and wish for just because you worked hard for it 

Nothing is promised ~ even your renowned Master and fortune tellers cannot be sure

Why get bottled up and worked up over something that nobody can assure you

Seek peace with yourself and GOD, for HE shall deliver

Trust that the paths forward are paved and ideal for you... be patient

Do your best & leave the rest

Read and learn more, upskill and upgrade and be EQ, AQ & CQ ready - EQ: Emotional Quotient smart AQ: Adaptability Quotient: One's ability to adapt to changes. CQ: Curiosity Quotient: Curiosity and open-mindedness

Fight or flight is only a letter different but always fight to win and flight to survive

Walk away when it gets hot under the collar

The persistent negativity is a norm in human affairs in any decent society; root out one and another pop up. Be resolute against negatives 

Positive energy eliminate and minimize the negatives 

Do not press ahead when you are weak and not ready. Confidence alone cannot win if the foundation is unstable and inadequate

Be optimistic and positive but be aware of your own weaknesses and unpreparedness

A restless person makes the journey more dangerous and prone to failures due to impatience and misjudgement

Knots are to be untangled, not cut

Not every journey can be completed in one breath 

In a world of more than 8bil people, only over 190 sprinters have run faster than 10 seconds since 1968 when Jim Hines broke the sub-10 barrier and won the 1968 Summer Olympics

When fires and water interplay, the situation is blurred and grueling and the final result is reconstruction and restoration ~ nothing will be the same again

Only brutal truths and consistency can shield one from negativity 

Ideally, live the life of a pig; eat your fill, drink enough, rest well, sleep soundly and dream exotically

Tomorrow is never promised and the next stop could be the abattoir

There are no leftovers of a pig. Much is consumed and it's a base for medicines manufacturing

Live well today and every moment ~ day in, day out

Your dreams and aspirations will materialize so long as you live to harvest... a dead Man has no dreams

The trapped mind that's mired in worries, unfulfilled goals and broken dreams will end up sick... very sick indeed. Sleep your worries away or leave your worries in your dreams; wake up without it

Without good health, nothing can be achieved

A healthy person is almost free from sicknesses

For whatever come may, the positively strong mind weaned off negativity 

We can hope and pray for a better future but if you cannot live well and happy today, whatever tomorrow bring will not satisfy you; you are caught in the circular wave of disenfranchisement

Make hay when the sun shines as you will make lemonade out of lemons

Get away from noises and unnecessary disruptions that drown your tempo

If there is nothing better to do, do nothing

 It is knowledge and wisdom, not age, that builds characters 

长江后浪推前浪这是智慧，不是年龄

You are born free, so remains free

 

Make Peace With Yourself

peace comes with a price...

I love to be alone, to reflect and to meditate

Alone is not loneliness and it's neither void

When the sea ends, land resumes

There is opportunity, hope and healing ~ just be patient, acceptable to changes and have empathy 

Nobody is a loser neither a 'born loser'; you maybe born poor but you need not die a pauper

Through GOD, there is Hope

Even the atheist may seek a glimpse (ray) of hope when his life's near 'the end'; hoping it would not end

People speak loosely about wars and warmongering, conveniently forgetting the potential of agony, suffering, destruction, damages and lost of lives

Reconstruction and repairs cannot heal the emotional damage, destruction and dented souls; the hate will be deeply ingrained and remembered

In today's MAD [Mutual Assured Destruction],  mad world - a war will likely end all wars with nukes flying around

Nobody, NOBODY, no country... will surrender and be defeated if he has nuclear weapons without firing any of them to 'seek equality in sufferings'

Peace begets prosperity, wars give destruction

The rich will have to eat money if the poor do not sell their food supplies to them; the rich cannot live in  a sea of poor

We should consciously reject all negative vibes and vigorously embrace the positives

In turbulence and uncertainty, remain calm

Watch, observe, stay off the line of live firings and stay indoor until the ill winds blow over

When all's burnt to the ground, a new lease begins with ... hope, reconstruction and repairs

It's darkest before dawn (breaks) 在黎明之前是最黑暗的

Make peace with everyone; like the mother's love that never fades

Whether you are 1yo or 99yo, you will always be the baby in your mother's eyes

Never let gossips, half-truths, accusations and ostracism dent your spirit and determination

Be truthful, knows your limits and build a steely grit and take all challenges as a flow; everything come and go

No matter what(ever) may go wrong, a wholesome, united family stands steadfastly together will tame the challenges

GOD is the defender & definitor  

Money and the fool will soon part

The western markets [DJIA, S&P500, NASDAQ] have been enjoying a good bull run for the past 5years whereas the eastern markets [HK/China] were bear whipped for the same period

Will the overvalued West be undermined by the cheaper East? It is "yes" and when...

 Smart monies are never loyal but sniff and seek better & safer haven somewhere when opportune arise

钱不是万能 但没钱万万不能

Money can and do buy peace

The world produces more than enough food to feed everyone & if the wealthy don't hoard food, there will be no poverty

Wars and warmongering are the works of the wealthy, owners of military complexes and hawkish politicians seeking personal vanity and gains

The world will be destroyed by the Greed, the Envious and the Schemer ~ politicians backed by evil monies are a "time-bomb" 

Belief in GOD and trust yourself; nobody will shed a tear for you when you pass on, save for your immediate family

Everything that were yours will be thrown and disposed off except for your money and assets, if any

Enjoy every moment now, for tomorrow is never promised

I Am The Catalyst: Every Gloom Has Its Sparks

be the light upon oneself ...

When your parents are wealthy, powerful, famous and established, use their network to manifest your career and business

When your parents are working class and commoners, academic excellence and doing businesses are the easiest ladders to climb the social ladder

Not everyone is cut up to do business but everyone can glide up the social ladder by/via EQ, IQ and AQ [adversity quotient]

When the going is tough, the tough keeps going

Live best when others live worse

Nobody cares if you are down, unwell or 'hit the rocks' & there is no point sharing your sufferings with anyone as 80% do not care and 20% are happy that you are in a quagmire

Sticks and stones break bones but not words; ignore the criticisms, gossips and heresays

Nobody gets hurt for ignoring the negative vibes

Lie low when your chips are low and never swim against the tides ~ the rules of Survival is to go with the flows

When money speaks, nobody checks the grammar; money buy most things

Everyone works hard and fights for the best returns and rewards

Nobody is a weakling ~ the birds eat the ants and when the bird dies, the ants feast on its body

Be yourself and defend with patience that the/all failures will pass - the steadfastness of character and truths will overcome all challenges

When you are tired, rest but don't quit... every tiny step is a walk in the park

I am the light onto myself; the lighthouse that brightens when I am down but not out

I have avoided the unnecessary publicity and uncalled & baseless criticisms which undermine me

I shall go with the flow and return a better self

Like the Eagle and the Trout, fly high to get a clear picture and swim upstream to spawn - take the journey that few dare

On the wider perspective, many are telling me that 'time is tough, the going is rough, it's doom & gloom', & asked "what will tomorrow bring?" When everybody is drowned in sorrows, then "it is fine" because you are not alone in this tough environment

Life is cruising at norm

Rough weather shalt pass too

Let us be consistent; keep the smiles and grit for GOD will deliver

Some say tomorrow will be better but I live best & to the fullest today

In GOD I trust... I am the driver and HE is my GPS

Trust NO One

Nothing can heal & compensate for emotional hurts except to ignore...

Workers work for remuneration while the Management works to control and for rewards

Politicians work for power, status and money ... & control

Some suggest that "so long you get what you want, take & walk" as different strata in Society demand  satisfaction differently

Yes; so long as you can 'stomach' the hurts and losses, take and walk away... what if you can't? Ignore the pains and walk away

Fight to win ~ you only fight back if the chances of winning is high(er); never be the sacrificial lamb

Live to fight another day

Hurts heal over time and losses can be made back if only you live healthily and await your time

Chance must be managed & not taken recklessly 

Believe in & accept Karma 因果 - 种因得果 It is not unlike "everything happens for a reason"

In most religious teachings, you are told to accept things that you cannot change and everything happens for the better

This is not to say "remain a weakling and never fight back!" It is a reminder to learn from the setback, train & upskill, and be alerted not to foolishly do the same thing again

Most live less than 36,500 days but all die only once ... never live the life of a coward

You may be born poor but do not die a pauper - nothing is permanent

Nothing is guaranteed nor certain, even failures

Life, like sunrise and sunset, it's normal; the rest, only time can tell & change is the only constant

Rooted too tightly and grand like the old, oak tree but couldn't withstand the onslaught of the winds and storm whereas the blade of grass dance merrily in the breeze

Never take advantage of the less able and less well off; give a helping hand if you can 

Never assume someone that who didn't respond or return a favor is bad as he could in worse dire straits than you are aware of 

BUT, move away those that had bitten your hands after you had helped them -  avoid them like a plague - they are parasites ever ready to 'milk you dry'

Be smart, do good but ... watch out who you wanna help

Unrepentant, serial liars, traitors, substance abusers, violent persons, demanding and unappreciative persons do not deserve any help.

Everyone deserves something, punishments included

Help only if you can and are willing & expect nothing

Trust GOD, most others have failings 

 

 

My Time Is Limited

nothing can predict and anticipate the future...

For someone who has not suffered any serious illness before, the first attack is both unbelievable and unsettling

GOD  has a way to stop any mortal on his tracks; HE served the second attack, followed by a third

You call this a trial or a warning; I don't know

Medical issues must be handled by the medical specialists; no amount of detest and "why me" nor superstitions help. Stay calm, seek medical professionals opinions and second opinions, then choose your course of action

Getting well again is the key; takes time though

Patient... be very patient and let it heal and trust GOD ~ HE stops you from racing blindly towards the end. You are not needed yet

No matter how fast you race ahead, clearing all obstacles & ignore wiser advice, HE will stop you with HIS ways [methods]

I had my share

No regrets but accept ~ nobody can swim against the tides

I am grateful for my renewed health but this also makes me 'more mortal'

活在当下  不求天长地久  只要潇洒过一生

When your health deteriorates or there is a sudden attack, it is a clear signal to "slow down, relax, rejuvenates, repairs and let your physical body reboot"   

There is a need to fine tune and rebalance the mind and your physique

Problems do not go away but manifest 

Circumstances may change to ease the obstacles & restore a balance ... sometimes, called "LUCK"

BUT, but... few are endowed with blessings of abundant luck

Almost everyone needs to manage and overcome the consequences to become better ~ there is 'no free lunch'

Walk away from unnecessary troubles, gossips, conflicts, hearsays and irrelevance 

Tomorrow will be better

Stay healthy, happy and be cheerful; tomorrow is never promised

有个平常心  过一天赚一天

Everyone at every ages make wishes & prays that the GOD will grant readily; me too

But, now my wish is to "stay healthy, happy and ignore the irrelevance of disruptive noises"

I can plan, I will work towards my goals but I have also accept that whatever comes is a bonus without which I loss nothing

I am trying to leave bondage and cultivate wisdom

The material well being is good to have but not in excess

无为无不为 I am not giving up but I will go with the flows

 

Some Day Soon, Everyone Will Be History

after I walked past, I may not return...

The trials and tribulations are passing moments ~ be patient, let go and be relieved of burden of hates and regrets

Today's gains maybe tomorrow's losses; you may win an argument but you loss the relationship

Never win a battle to loss the war

Home is not a place for reason(ings) but plentiful of 'gives and takes'. At most times, you give & the rest take 

Resentment, envy and hates are toxins that cannot be ignored but need to be neutralized

Fight against negative and you receive more negatives; fighting fire with fires is possible if you are prepared for colossal destruction

面子不值钱 ~ 放下面子 钱财两得 

Put on a mask, build a facade and face the unreal world

Speak to the audience & please their ears; music to their ears is better than any orchestra. Delivering a successful sales pitch is an Art; "no best deal can be adopted if its too truthful"  甜蜜的谎言

见人说人话 见鬼说鬼话 ~ 这世界真正喜欢听好听的话 不是真话

In psychology, it's empirically proven that the "Man loves to loss". 

Before he starts to gamble, he'd say "at most I loss $10,000". He places his stake and wins... he'll bet bigger. Finally, he will attempt a "double or quit or show-hand". Why? He is prepared to loss

Nobody can help unless he has the resources and abilities; be empowered

Built your resources; with excess resources, you can 'buy' labor and solutions 

Every steps I take, I leave a footprint [along the path]

Every praises and criticism are not my choice; safely ignore

Words never hurt but being emotional is inherently damaging

Victory is sweetest when glory returns ... but, enjoy the small victories too

Never indulge in regrets nor let others words affect you

Fight to win if need be

Live in the currency of life; today is perishable

Whether you are 21yo or 71yo, live your best today and everyday

Growing old is a privilege as not everyone live to see their twilight years

If you don't explore & build your pipeline of achievements, defeats included, you may have no memories to recall nor story to tell

My future is dictated by my current mental and physical capabilities; there is no chance to rush as, sometimes, the spirit is willing but the physique limit 

天时地利人和  也要有好运

I am waiting patiently

Be Discipline Or Be A Failure

discipline or the lack of discipline can be fatal...

Theory, philosophy, great teachings aplenty but without discipline and conscientious application, it is void 

No amount of learning helps unless  it is applied with discipline and honesty

It is like giving you the map and direction but you'd still get lost

I have taken lengthy routes to reach where I am today, with some hits and misses

The world is never stagnant and every ten years (cycle), you will take monumental changes; sometimes not by choice

If there is nothing better to do, remain still ~ alas! an easy idea but few can consciously practice

If there is nothing better to say, say nothing & never say anything when you're angry nor make promises when you are happy

I have paid dearly for lack of discipline

Never seek recognition for fame, power and money; foolish vanity pays bad dividends

When you are down, lie low and guard your last penny; read, listen & watch more, speak less 

You may be born poor but the world is yours to conquer; it is your own doing if you die poor(er)

Never indulge in idle gossips nor bask in fortuitous compliments - such words have no bearings and only return to haunt when the hustle is over - a hollowed happiness 空虚

Humans thrive on hopes, promises, potentials, dreams, possibilities ... but, there is a patent need to work & crystalize them

No amount of hard work can replace smart judgements and strategic, streetwise decisions

Alas!! Some days are simply bad

Regrets cannot save a sinking boat; only patience, grit and wisdom can salvage the situation

不要脸就是无敌   When you can adamantly ignore the criticism, displeasure and belittlings, nothing hurts   ~   脸：不是人给的而是自己丢的

Confidence and smartness, I have but with repeated defeats I will crash too

My suave facade hides a crashed internals 

At times, I wished I can walk away into the wilderness to heal but reality is always cruel

It is a "now or out" game; stay cool, breathe easier and look blankly but smartly

The eyes of the eagle never betray

Hold the facade & fort and let the internal heals ~ pain is temporary

70% of the world is not interested in a failure while 20% is glad that you fail... the 10% cannot be found

You came alone, die alone and, needless to say, suffers alone

Keep your head down when you are lost (a loser) but look straight, recompose, heal, rejuvenate and return a  WINNER

Winning is everything

The winner is not the strongest nor the smartest but the one who outlasts everyone

Positive Attitude Wins Any Day

believe in yourself that you will make it...

Attitude is everything

If you think you can [do it], half the battle is won

Nobody can run you down without your approval

The King of the Jungle, the Lion, believes it dominates & rules and can eat any other species

The world is not bothered with your self-esteem and self-actualization. You are expected to demonstrate and display your quality

Talents: Don't wait to be discovered! Show it if you have ~ the unpolished gem is a stone

Even with the best FengShui风水, waiting to be discovered is a lost cause

The truths must stand out against the fakes; the earlier the better to ease future consequences, made worse by half-truths, self-entitlements and ulterior motives

Do your best 做好本分 ~ the army cannot fight on empty stomachs and the Chef keeps their spirits going  ~ the spirit is willing but the body is weak. The wok is as powerful as the guns

Fortune foretelling, occult, soothsayer and the likes can, or may, tell your future but what's the point of knowing if there is no solutions to possible bad outcomes? Believe in yourself that you are the definitive decider

You are born to express, not to impress. If all else fails; my life, my rules ~ bend a little isn't impossible

Need not be arrogant but you must take a stand... a "no" is a "NO" 没事就没事 有事可成大事 Never gamble with your (own) integrity, credibility and moral inclinations

Winning is everything and do your utmost zest to win... without underhand tactics and schemes

Whatever is yours shalt be yours

I am a fighter, a warrior; never a coward with traitorous thoughts

I live 'forever' and only die once  ~ between being born and dying, I wanna live my dreams and crystalize my goals

Breathe.. breathe, let go of stress! You deserved a good, free life, void of unwanted interference; a positive attitude wins all

There is no hardship in life; it's all about attitude. Get it right and get going; no one can stop a runaway train

Never gamble with outright risks - Starting from zero to zero is zero, but strive to win by at least ONE. It motivates

Beggars haven't much choices but, without life, you can't even be one. Live to fight another day

Attitude overcomes fear and paralysis & positive begets more positive responses

时也命也

Sometimes, I feel that I want to live another 50years but I reminded myself that quality beats quantity & I'm living it now. If HE calls me back now, I wouldn't be able to refuse but, perhaps, with a few brownie points collected over time, slight extension is still possible

Man proposes, GOD disposes & I am disposable

Live your best today, any day & every day

Suffer Not : You Are The Decider Of Your Life

 no pity; empathy maybe...

 
In the rat race, when you fall along/on the way, too bad

Nobody's gonna pity you and you can step aside, rest and return to the race or opt out

The dishing out of vouchers, rebates, discounts, offers of helps and assistance are 'cosmetic' assistance that do not cure the problems

Unemployment & underemployment of locals are painfully real and destroy the morale, self-esteem, integrity and 'the feeling of usefulness'

Glorifying the MBAs, tertiary-educated who 'choose' to drive Private#Hire#Drivers, deliveries and to do sundry & part time work is demeaning, at best! No pity for you who fall by the wayside 

Reality is always cruel but to be an unprioritized, second class citizens, who gave much to the Nation, including serving NS, is indeed a complete 'sold-out'; there again, sadly, "you asked for it". If nobody, or fewer, vote for Trump, he will not be the President

When things go wrong, don't start to blame the world except yourself

You, YOU, are the change agent

You cannot change the world without changing yourself ~ YOU are the catalyst 

Don't seek pity; fight the unfairness, challenge the bullies, unseat the Reps, overthrow the deadwood & freeloaders. From zero to zero, you loss nothing 光脚的不怕穿鞋的

When you ask or beg for help, you are at someone's else mercy & your well being is being questioned & ransomed

Fight to win & restore your direction and change your fate ~ be the author of your own life

The world loves a WINNER; losers bite the dusts

The wealthy will always say "be contented, count your blessings, be glad that you have what you have...!" Wisdom indeed; so they are 

Don't expect pity, empathy maybe 

It is unfortunate that in a rush to get/move ahead, selfishness and greed rule. The elites feel entitled. The middle class are squeezed and the others 'live with the crumbs'  

The earlier you accept that the world will never be equal, the happier you will be

Do everything within your means; without bondage, life and living is a breeze 

You are (can be) empowered to reroute your life if you try

By the way, Do your Best & Leave the Rest for GOD/He is always there to sort out

Life is never miserable if you recognize your limits

Go slow... slow down a little ~ we are all walking towards the end 

Between being born and returning (death), you can make your own choices & be the author of your life

 

 

 

Whatever Doesn't Matter, Doesn't Hurt

sidestep all interference ...

Willing buyer, willing seller is an ideal

Buying and selling is emotionally driven and so is boy/girl, friends & family relationship

The negative effects of shopping therapy is excessive buying, made worse by compulsiveness

If, and when, your wallet can afford it, nobody and nothing get hurt

Finding the right partners in business and life is nearly impossible except if one, or all, are accommodating ~ ideal partners look out for one another

Greed, selfishness, ego and lackadaisical attitude almost always undermine any relationship

How to overcome relationship issues? Avoid the toxic ones

In the beginning, everyone hunts alone

It is the expectation of a larger harvest that resources are pooled and specialization kicks in ~ the factory concept that more are produced and traded

But, every industry & every aspect of life needs a Leader, either solely or to lead the pack

There will always be differences when you work with people - Theory X & Theory Y; the freeloaders vs the initiators   

At extremes, Capitalism and Socialism are bad

At personal level, survival of the fittest warrants everyone to care and love oneself before extending your generosity to others & outsiders

We are taught to trust but many fell for scams and cheats because of trusts. Trust no one is a necessary survival kit

If you are not paid or rewarded materially or in kind for your efforts, don't do

Many are leeching on charity and charitable acts to enhance their own well being and wealth

Exploitation is the norm ~ politicians exploit the people's trusts, internet scams prey on human weaknesses and gullibility and weak people will almost always suffer exploitation

The world forward will be populated by the selfish, self-entitled, egoistic grandiose ~ those with grandiose narcissism; aggressive, dominant, and exaggerate their importance.

The best defense is NOT to give them any attention - ignore them completely 

Whatever you don't receive or allow indulgence doesn't matter and never hurts

This is life: 吃喝玩乐

吃 - eat to live, not live to eat

喝 - drinking, without excessiveness, is poetic relieve & enjoyment

玩 - it's not just about play but to create a balance between the physical and your mind

乐 - pleasure without excessive indulgences develop a healthy balance of mind and body

You  can do all the above by yourself, not necessarily with groups or others

Relieve yourself from bondage and nobody can enslave you