I am surprise and very ignorance..........................however our lecturer, En Amin Ali has managed to make us better understand the subject matters.
We now not only have a better understandings oif the scope and objectives of Management Accounting but also learned and able to apply the various terms and calculations on ABC, Support Cost Allocations, Balanced Scorecard, Mix Products, etc
We are lucky to have such a wonderful lecturer and Thanks En Amin !
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Famous Quotes
Here are a few of my favorites:
1. "Well done is better than well said."Benjamin Franklin(1706-1790)
2. "A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to put its pants on."Winston Churchill(1874-1965)
3. "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."Mother Teresa(1910-1997)
4. "Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth."George Washington(1732-1799)
5. "The time is always right to do what is right."Martin Luther King, Jr.(1929-1968)
6. "All the adversity I've had in my life, has strengthened me. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you."Walt Disney(1901-1966)
7. "Leave nothing for tomorrow which can be done today."Abraham Lincoln(1809-1865)
8. "The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will."Vince Lombardi(1913-1970)
9. "It is better to light the candle than to curse the darkness."Eleanor Roosevelt(1884-1962)
10. "A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both."Dwight Eisenhower(1890-1969)
11. "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."Nelson Mandela(1918 - )
12. "We must become the change we wish to see in the world."Mahatma Gandhi(1869-1948)
13. "The best and most beautiful things in life cannot be seen, not touched, but are felt in the heart."Helen Keller(1880-1968)
14. "Failure is only the opportunity to begin again more intelligently."Henry Ford(1863-1947)
15. "Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music."Ronald Reagan(1911-2004)
1. "Well done is better than well said."Benjamin Franklin(1706-1790)
2. "A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to put its pants on."Winston Churchill(1874-1965)
3. "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."Mother Teresa(1910-1997)
4. "Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth."George Washington(1732-1799)
5. "The time is always right to do what is right."Martin Luther King, Jr.(1929-1968)
6. "All the adversity I've had in my life, has strengthened me. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you."Walt Disney(1901-1966)
7. "Leave nothing for tomorrow which can be done today."Abraham Lincoln(1809-1865)
8. "The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will."Vince Lombardi(1913-1970)
9. "It is better to light the candle than to curse the darkness."Eleanor Roosevelt(1884-1962)
10. "A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both."Dwight Eisenhower(1890-1969)
11. "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."Nelson Mandela(1918 - )
12. "We must become the change we wish to see in the world."Mahatma Gandhi(1869-1948)
13. "The best and most beautiful things in life cannot be seen, not touched, but are felt in the heart."Helen Keller(1880-1968)
14. "Failure is only the opportunity to begin again more intelligently."Henry Ford(1863-1947)
15. "Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music."Ronald Reagan(1911-2004)
Sunday, May 24, 2009
The 4th Autoclave @ ACMSB
From the left is Lee (Finance) , Chan KC (Materials) , Joseph from Sholz Germany, Myself & Teoh (IS)Sunday, May 17, 2009
7 Habits of Highly Effective People
While I was in Hong Leong Group, above training is mandatory across the board for Executives and above - Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
Habit 1 - Be proactive
This is the ability to control one's environment, rather than have it control you, as is so often the case. Self determination, choice, and the power to decide response to stimulus, conditions and circumstances
Habit 2 - Begin with the end in mind
Covey calls this the habit of personal leadership - leading oneself that is, towards what you consider your aims. By developing the habit of concentrating on relevant activities you will build a platform to avoid distractions and become more productive and successful.
Habit 3 - Put first things first
Covey calls this the habit of personal management. This is about organising and implementing activities in line with the aims established in habit 2. Covey says that habit 2 is the first, or mental creation; habit 3 is the second, or physical creation.
Habit 4 - Think win-win
Covey calls this the habit of interpersonal leadership, necessary because achievements are largely dependent on co-operative efforts with others. He says that win-win is based on the assumption that there is plenty for everyone, and that success follows a co-operative approach more naturally than the confrontation of win-or-lose.
Habit 5 - Seek first to understand and then to be understood
One of the great maxims of the modern age. This is Covey's habit of communication, and it's extremely powerful. Covey helps to explain this in his simple analogy 'diagnose before you prescribe'. Simple and effective, and essential for developing and maintaining positive relationships in all aspects of life.
Habit 6 - Synergize
Covey says this is the habit of creative co-operation - the principle that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, which implicitly lays down the challenge to see the good and potential in the other person's contribution.
Habit 7 - Sharpen the saw
This is the habit of self renewal, says Covey, and it necessarily surrounds all the other habits, enabling and encouraging them to happen and grow. Covey interprets the self into four parts: the spiritual, mental, physical and the social/emotional, which all need feeding and developing.
[Have U heard of the 8th Habits ? If interested, get in touch with me]
Habit 1 - Be proactive
This is the ability to control one's environment, rather than have it control you, as is so often the case. Self determination, choice, and the power to decide response to stimulus, conditions and circumstances
Habit 2 - Begin with the end in mind
Covey calls this the habit of personal leadership - leading oneself that is, towards what you consider your aims. By developing the habit of concentrating on relevant activities you will build a platform to avoid distractions and become more productive and successful.
Habit 3 - Put first things first
Covey calls this the habit of personal management. This is about organising and implementing activities in line with the aims established in habit 2. Covey says that habit 2 is the first, or mental creation; habit 3 is the second, or physical creation.
Habit 4 - Think win-win
Covey calls this the habit of interpersonal leadership, necessary because achievements are largely dependent on co-operative efforts with others. He says that win-win is based on the assumption that there is plenty for everyone, and that success follows a co-operative approach more naturally than the confrontation of win-or-lose.
Habit 5 - Seek first to understand and then to be understood
One of the great maxims of the modern age. This is Covey's habit of communication, and it's extremely powerful. Covey helps to explain this in his simple analogy 'diagnose before you prescribe'. Simple and effective, and essential for developing and maintaining positive relationships in all aspects of life.
Habit 6 - Synergize
Covey says this is the habit of creative co-operation - the principle that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, which implicitly lays down the challenge to see the good and potential in the other person's contribution.
Habit 7 - Sharpen the saw
This is the habit of self renewal, says Covey, and it necessarily surrounds all the other habits, enabling and encouraging them to happen and grow. Covey interprets the self into four parts: the spiritual, mental, physical and the social/emotional, which all need feeding and developing.
[Have U heard of the 8th Habits ? If interested, get in touch with me]
Saturday, May 16, 2009
The Count-Down.....ITM Exam
Above are the pix taken (by our Professor Dr Azizi) during our ITM examination session and .....you will notice most are wondering where to find the answers. Very ingenious way of creating the questions......which is not more than 3 lines....easy Q BUT hard and difficult answers.
Well, I think most must have done well as the lecturer did prepared us well with all the assignments we need to go thru......
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
PDCA
PDCA which stands for Plan, Do, Check and Act !
On Tues ( April 28th 2009), had a meet up with my depatment (Operations Support) and attended by all the Managers and Executives.
Took an hours to run through the PDCA with them as well as some assignment so that they understand the concepts and the importance of this.
I hope they can practise this not only at work place but also at home.
On Tues ( April 28th 2009), had a meet up with my depatment (Operations Support) and attended by all the Managers and Executives.
Took an hours to run through the PDCA with them as well as some assignment so that they understand the concepts and the importance of this.
I hope they can practise this not only at work place but also at home.
Class of ITM - UUM, MBA @ Kulim 2009
This is the case of the FIRST !!!
The first we had weekly assignments....The first for the students to have our own blog........The first to have a Group Chat on the subject matters........The first for us to dress-up for our presentations and......again, last Sun the first for us to have group photograph with our lecturer, Dr Azizi (seated in front right at the center).
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
747-8 Intercontinental Passes 25 Percent Design Milestone
These images are available for editorial use by news media on: boeingmedia.com
EVERETT, Wash., April 27, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has passed a major milestone in the design of the 747-8 Intercontinental, completing 25 percent of the design releases for the new passenger airplane. This means a quarter of the information needed to build parts and tools for assembly has been completed and released for fabrication or procurement. "We have made tremendous progress on the design engineering," said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager for the 747 Program. "The engineering is proceeding as planned and we are a step closer to bringing the 747-8 Intercontinental to market."
Since much of the design is the same as the 747-8 Freighter, which Boeing is building first, the engineering focus is on work that is unique to the 747-8 Intercontinental, comprising mostly fuselage and interior design. The most obvious difference is that the 747-8 Intercontinental fuselage will boast an extended upper deck.
On the interior, the airplane will incorporate features from the 787 Dreamliner, including a new curved, upswept architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The architecture will be accentuated by lighting technology that provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight.
"The 747 family has been a favorite among passengers," said Michael Teal, 747-8 chief project engineer. "The 747-8 Intercontinental will build on the memorable experiences they've had on a 747. The moment passengers step aboard a 747-8 Intercontinental, they will know it's a brand new airplane and enjoy a more relaxing flying experience."
As for the airplane's performance, the 747-8 will be stretched 18.3 feet (5.6 meters) from the 747-400 to provide 467 seats in a three-class configuration and a range of approximately 8,000 nautical miles (14,815 kilometers). It will deliver nearly equivalent trip costs to those of the 747-400 and 13 percent lower seat-mile costs, plus 26 percent greater cargo volume. The 747-8 Intercontinental also will be 16 percent more fuel efficient and create a 30 percent smaller noise footprint than its predecessor.
"The 747-8 Intercontinental will be a great airplane for our customers," said Yahyavi. "Our team is focused on completing the remaining detailed design needed to deliver the airplane in late 2011."
The 747-8, which includes the 747-8 Intercontinental and the 747-8 Freighter, was launched in November 2005 by Cargolux Airlines and Nippon Cargo Airlines. Lufthansa was the first airline to order the 747-8 Intercontinental in December 2006.
EVERETT, Wash., April 27, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has passed a major milestone in the design of the 747-8 Intercontinental, completing 25 percent of the design releases for the new passenger airplane. This means a quarter of the information needed to build parts and tools for assembly has been completed and released for fabrication or procurement. "We have made tremendous progress on the design engineering," said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager for the 747 Program. "The engineering is proceeding as planned and we are a step closer to bringing the 747-8 Intercontinental to market."
Since much of the design is the same as the 747-8 Freighter, which Boeing is building first, the engineering focus is on work that is unique to the 747-8 Intercontinental, comprising mostly fuselage and interior design. The most obvious difference is that the 747-8 Intercontinental fuselage will boast an extended upper deck.
On the interior, the airplane will incorporate features from the 787 Dreamliner, including a new curved, upswept architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The architecture will be accentuated by lighting technology that provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight.
"The 747 family has been a favorite among passengers," said Michael Teal, 747-8 chief project engineer. "The 747-8 Intercontinental will build on the memorable experiences they've had on a 747. The moment passengers step aboard a 747-8 Intercontinental, they will know it's a brand new airplane and enjoy a more relaxing flying experience."
As for the airplane's performance, the 747-8 will be stretched 18.3 feet (5.6 meters) from the 747-400 to provide 467 seats in a three-class configuration and a range of approximately 8,000 nautical miles (14,815 kilometers). It will deliver nearly equivalent trip costs to those of the 747-400 and 13 percent lower seat-mile costs, plus 26 percent greater cargo volume. The 747-8 Intercontinental also will be 16 percent more fuel efficient and create a 30 percent smaller noise footprint than its predecessor.
"The 747-8 Intercontinental will be a great airplane for our customers," said Yahyavi. "Our team is focused on completing the remaining detailed design needed to deliver the airplane in late 2011."
The 747-8, which includes the 747-8 Intercontinental and the 747-8 Freighter, was launched in November 2005 by Cargolux Airlines and Nippon Cargo Airlines. Lufthansa was the first airline to order the 747-8 Intercontinental in December 2006.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
What Is Right ?
I am confuse........but not lost but any comments are welcome.
When You are nice .......People just have the mind to think otherwise. If you are nice to a lady, People probably think we want to get "fresh" with the lady. In my life I can said many ladies have make my life different and this of course starts with my most valuable mother. A mum is everything a child needs. Frankly, they are many ladies who have also helped me in one way or another in some parts of my life.....so again to all the ladies, thanks and you are not forgotten.
When You are nice to the lecturer(s), other students think that you are trying to get close or in Malay is termed as "Kipas". Just fyi I am taking an off-campus course in MBA by UUM at Kulim, Kedah (Malaysia). All the lecturers travel 3.00 - 4.00 hours (both journeys) from their homes. They spend about 6 - 8 hours a day in the class with us. This is not easy and I know as I have worked outstation before. These are the people that put their weekends away to impart their knowledges and skills to make people like me, to be more knowledgeable and have a better qualifications. Lecturers like us, are human too and little appreciation can go a long way.
Similarly, in many cases People always treat kindness as weakness and sometime, this is very foolish and stupid. Their actions drive another human's behaviors.
When You are nice .......People just have the mind to think otherwise. If you are nice to a lady, People probably think we want to get "fresh" with the lady. In my life I can said many ladies have make my life different and this of course starts with my most valuable mother. A mum is everything a child needs. Frankly, they are many ladies who have also helped me in one way or another in some parts of my life.....so again to all the ladies, thanks and you are not forgotten.
When You are nice to the lecturer(s), other students think that you are trying to get close or in Malay is termed as "Kipas". Just fyi I am taking an off-campus course in MBA by UUM at Kulim, Kedah (Malaysia). All the lecturers travel 3.00 - 4.00 hours (both journeys) from their homes. They spend about 6 - 8 hours a day in the class with us. This is not easy and I know as I have worked outstation before. These are the people that put their weekends away to impart their knowledges and skills to make people like me, to be more knowledgeable and have a better qualifications. Lecturers like us, are human too and little appreciation can go a long way.
Similarly, in many cases People always treat kindness as weakness and sometime, this is very foolish and stupid. Their actions drive another human's behaviors.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
An Evening with our beloved ITM lecturer
On the evening of April 25th 2009, some of the students for UUM-MBA @ Kulim gathered at one of the nasi kandar in Kulim ......... to spend time with our beloved lecturer, Prof Madya Azizi Bin Zakaria for some light refreshments. Prof Madya Azizi is our ITM lecturer for the Feb-May 2009 semester.Although we were given many (too many) assignments, we also cannot denied that we have learned alot from him and towards the end of the class, each of the students have our own blog and I think this is the real great achievement for us as individuals.
Apart from this, in terms of IT knowledge I dare to speak on-behalf of the class that we have better knowledge and become more IT savy too.
Is interesting to note that learning is an on-going process and I infact, learned alot from this class.
This is especially helpful for me as IS Department is part of my scope and responsibility in Asian Composite Manufacturing (M) Sdn Bhd (ACM), Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah. I do find that I have more confident in dealing the day-to-day issues as well as discussions with vendors and suppliers. The best part is that this course provided me the confidence and competency to go into meetings with our Customers as well as our share-holders like Boeing, USA on IT matters.
So, to our beloved Prof Madya Azizi, Terima Kasih and you will not be forgotten.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Money is Not Everything
I used to have one Asst Manager by the name Mr Poh and at that time I was working in Acidchem (M ) Sdn Bhd. He was my best friend as we work half day on Saturday and will normally have lunch and the rest of the Saturday together. Then one day he complaints about a serious headache and one of the team members (a lady) told him to go for a check-up.
After the check-up and when the results were known, things changed. He was dignosed with Cancer and.....he went to Singapore for operations. Actually he was meant to be promoted to full manager and as manager, he has so much benefits compare to his existing position as Asst Manager.
Our Marketing Manager, Mr Jason Lee accompanied him. In the office, we do not like him as he is Mr Perfect. But, the I realised Jason is a very kind hearted man.
After the operation in Singapore, he returned but they found fluid in his head. He went for further operations but was done in Penang. Things did not improve. We visited him at his house and noted his mum feeding him milo even though he is not taking any.
We visited him at Bagan Specialist and by this time, he is no longer conscious. He left us and we were at his funeral. To me, I lost not only a potentially good boss but a good friend.
Today, at ACMSB I was told that someone also dignosed of cancer and I quickly got in touch with another person who survived colon cancer. He was 50 with a son at 3 years old then. he is now based in Hong Kong and his only advice is to Pray Hard !! and Fight it throught !!!!
I lost Mr Poh and therefore, I am not prepare to loose anyone else. Let's pray and "doa" for this very special and kind hearted lady.
After the check-up and when the results were known, things changed. He was dignosed with Cancer and.....he went to Singapore for operations. Actually he was meant to be promoted to full manager and as manager, he has so much benefits compare to his existing position as Asst Manager.
Our Marketing Manager, Mr Jason Lee accompanied him. In the office, we do not like him as he is Mr Perfect. But, the I realised Jason is a very kind hearted man.
After the operation in Singapore, he returned but they found fluid in his head. He went for further operations but was done in Penang. Things did not improve. We visited him at his house and noted his mum feeding him milo even though he is not taking any.
We visited him at Bagan Specialist and by this time, he is no longer conscious. He left us and we were at his funeral. To me, I lost not only a potentially good boss but a good friend.
Today, at ACMSB I was told that someone also dignosed of cancer and I quickly got in touch with another person who survived colon cancer. He was 50 with a son at 3 years old then. he is now based in Hong Kong and his only advice is to Pray Hard !! and Fight it throught !!!!
I lost Mr Poh and therefore, I am not prepare to loose anyone else. Let's pray and "doa" for this very special and kind hearted lady.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
My Salute to the Traffic Police of Alor Star.
On the same day the Autoclave arrive at ACMSB, many did not realised that this is one of the teams that help make it happen. They accompanied the equipment from Kuala Kedah on Friday @ 10.00 pm sharp and rode with the equipment till arrived at ACMSB @ 7.30 am on Sat. They brave through rains, flood and without sleep.....they are the hero in my eyes.
In our life, we must learn to appreciate as little appreciation can go a long way....
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Story of a Blind Girl
Someone sent me below and I think is not only interesting but I like to keep this and share with those around me.....to calibrate ourselves once awhile.....
A Story to live by There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.'
One day,someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including herboyfriend. He asked her, 'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her lifeled her to refuse to marry him. Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for beforethey were yours, they were mine.'
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes.Only a very few remember what life was like before, and whowas always by their side in the most painful situations.
Todaybefore you say an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak. Beforeyou complain about the taste of your food - Think of someonewho has nothing to eat. Beforeyou complain about your husband or wife - Think of someonewho's crying out to GOD for a companion. Todaybefore you complain about life - Think of someone who diedtoo early on this earth.Beforeyou complain about your children - Think of someone whodesires children but they're barren... Beforeyou argue about your dirty house someone didn't clean orsweep - Think of the people who are living in the streets. Beforewhining about the distance you drive Think of someone whowalks the same distance with their feet.And whenyou are tired and complain about your job - Think of theunemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had yourjob. Butbefore you think of pointing the finger or condemninganother - Remember that not one of us is without sin. And whendepressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile onyour face and think: you're alive and stillaround.
======================I PRAYTHIS MOVES AROUNDTHE ENTIRE UNIVERSE...
A Story to live by There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.'
One day,someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including herboyfriend. He asked her, 'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her lifeled her to refuse to marry him. Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for beforethey were yours, they were mine.'
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes.Only a very few remember what life was like before, and whowas always by their side in the most painful situations.
Todaybefore you say an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak. Beforeyou complain about the taste of your food - Think of someonewho has nothing to eat. Beforeyou complain about your husband or wife - Think of someonewho's crying out to GOD for a companion. Todaybefore you complain about life - Think of someone who diedtoo early on this earth.Beforeyou complain about your children - Think of someone whodesires children but they're barren... Beforeyou argue about your dirty house someone didn't clean orsweep - Think of the people who are living in the streets. Beforewhining about the distance you drive Think of someone whowalks the same distance with their feet.And whenyou are tired and complain about your job - Think of theunemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had yourjob. Butbefore you think of pointing the finger or condemninganother - Remember that not one of us is without sin. And whendepressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile onyour face and think: you're alive and stillaround.
======================I PRAYTHIS MOVES AROUNDTHE ENTIRE UNIVERSE...
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Autoclave for ACMSB
This is the 4th Autoclave for ACMSB but the largest so far we have.
This picture was taken on April 7th 2009 at Kuala Kedah. Autoclave is still on the barge and when we move this to ACM, you will be surprised that Tenaga, Telekom and Police are involved.
This equipment is so large that it cannot use the highway.
This equipment is all the way from Germany. Today I am very proud that the Consultant, Contractors and ACM hold hand in making this happens. Thanks everyone for the job well done !
Values in US
Core values are critical in building a successful company or living a successful life.
What is that?
For all of us our core values serve as critical guides for making important decisions. And when in doubt, they will cut through the fog like a beacon in the night. Without core values, and your commitment to reinforce those values, there can be no long term success. Short term, maybe, but...long term success and true fulfillment will escape you.
It's not what you say, but how you say it that turns the switch from "off" to "on."
I have yet to meet anyone who would say they didn't want to operate from a position of a solid set of values. I think most of us want to be good to the core. On the surface, the concept of values is intellectually easy to understand. And so I assumed, and maybe you do too, that most of us understand and try live by our values.
However, I've found that it is more challenging than it would appear to be on the surface. In leadership workshops all over the world, I have seen the stunning realization people face when they are given a blank sheet of paper and challenged to write down their own core values.
What I have also seen, among very busy people, is that once they begin to think about it - once their inner flame is stoked - they have a natural burning desire to reconnect to their values. They are inspired when they reconnect to their core. And it is good. Very good!
Hope is that you will be challenged to search inside...To investigate the real value of knowing your values. To indicate your own values. To integrate your values into the fabric of your life.
In doing so, I hope you become an orchardist who plants seeds of your core values into the culture of your organization. Most importantly, hope you will be inspired to truly live your core values. Intention is to certainly challenge you, but the greatest desire is to walk with you through the orchard of your mind, heart and soul on a journey back to the core. I am convinced when we arrive there, you will be exponentially more valuable.
First, from a personal perspective: exploring your personal core values. In doing so, you will be more valuable to your family, your community and certainly within the organization in which you work.
Second, from an organizational perspective: thinking about the values that are the fabric of the culture in which you work. Do they exist? How well are they known? How consistently are they lived? Most importantly, my wish is that you experience a sense of hope, desire and confidence. Values have a way of revealing the truth. As truth would have it - we build value through values.
We can all be good to the core.
What is that?
For all of us our core values serve as critical guides for making important decisions. And when in doubt, they will cut through the fog like a beacon in the night. Without core values, and your commitment to reinforce those values, there can be no long term success. Short term, maybe, but...long term success and true fulfillment will escape you.
It's not what you say, but how you say it that turns the switch from "off" to "on."
I have yet to meet anyone who would say they didn't want to operate from a position of a solid set of values. I think most of us want to be good to the core. On the surface, the concept of values is intellectually easy to understand. And so I assumed, and maybe you do too, that most of us understand and try live by our values.
However, I've found that it is more challenging than it would appear to be on the surface. In leadership workshops all over the world, I have seen the stunning realization people face when they are given a blank sheet of paper and challenged to write down their own core values.
What I have also seen, among very busy people, is that once they begin to think about it - once their inner flame is stoked - they have a natural burning desire to reconnect to their values. They are inspired when they reconnect to their core. And it is good. Very good!
Hope is that you will be challenged to search inside...To investigate the real value of knowing your values. To indicate your own values. To integrate your values into the fabric of your life.
In doing so, I hope you become an orchardist who plants seeds of your core values into the culture of your organization. Most importantly, hope you will be inspired to truly live your core values. Intention is to certainly challenge you, but the greatest desire is to walk with you through the orchard of your mind, heart and soul on a journey back to the core. I am convinced when we arrive there, you will be exponentially more valuable.
First, from a personal perspective: exploring your personal core values. In doing so, you will be more valuable to your family, your community and certainly within the organization in which you work.
Second, from an organizational perspective: thinking about the values that are the fabric of the culture in which you work. Do they exist? How well are they known? How consistently are they lived? Most importantly, my wish is that you experience a sense of hope, desire and confidence. Values have a way of revealing the truth. As truth would have it - we build value through values.
We can all be good to the core.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
To a Child, LOVE is spelled T-I-M-E
In the faint light of the attic, an old man, tall and stooped, bent his great frame and made his way to a stack of boxes that sat near one of the little half-windows. Brushing aside a wisp of cobwebs, he tilted the top box toward the light and began to carefully lift out one old photograph album after another. Eyes once bright but now dim searched longingly for the source that had drawn him here.
It began with the fond recollection of the love of his life, long gone, and somewhere in these albums was a photo of her he hoped to rediscover. Silent as a mouse, he patiently opened the long buried treasures and soon was lost in a sea of memories. Although his world had not stopped spinning when his wife left it, the past was more alive in his heart than his present aloneness.
Setting aside one of the dusty albums, he pulled from the box what appeared to be a journal from his grown son’s childhood. He could not recall ever having seen it before, or that his son had ever kept a journal. Why did Elizabeth always save the children’s old junk? he wondered, shaking his white head.
Opening the yellowed pages, he glanced over a short reading, and his lips curved in an unconscious smile. Even his eyes brightened as he read the words that spoke clear and sweet to his soul. It was the voice of the little boy who had grown up far too fast in this very house, and whose voice had grown fainter and fainter over the years. In the utter silence of the attic, the words of a guileless six-year-old worked their magic and carried the old man back to a time almost totally forgotten.
Entry after entry stirred a sentimental hunger in his heart like the longing a gardener feels in the winter for the fragrance of spring flowers. But it was accompanied by the painful memory that his son’s simple recollections of those days were far different from his own. But how different?
Reminded that he had kept a daily journal of his business activities over the years, he closed his son’s journal and turned to leave, having forgotten the cherished photo that originally triggered his search. Hunched over to keep from bumping his head on the rafters, the old man stepped to the wooden stairway and made his descent, then headed down a carpeted stairway that led to the den.
Opening a glass cabinet door, he reached in and pulled out an old business journal. Turning, he sat down at his desk and placed the two journals beside each other. His was leather-bound and engraved neatly with his name in gold, while his son’s was tattered and the name “Jimmy” had been nearly scuffed from its surface. He ran a long skinny finger over the letters, as though he could restore what had been worn away with time and use.
As he opened his journal, the old man’s eyes fell upon an inscription that stood out because it was so brief in comparison to other days. In his own neat handwriting were these words:
Wasted the whole day fishing with Jimmy. Didn’t catch a thing.
With a deep sigh and a shaking hand, he took Jimmy’s journal and found the boy’s entry for the same day, June 4. Large scrawling letters, pressed deeply into the paper, read:
Went fishing with my dad. Best day of my life.
It began with the fond recollection of the love of his life, long gone, and somewhere in these albums was a photo of her he hoped to rediscover. Silent as a mouse, he patiently opened the long buried treasures and soon was lost in a sea of memories. Although his world had not stopped spinning when his wife left it, the past was more alive in his heart than his present aloneness.
Setting aside one of the dusty albums, he pulled from the box what appeared to be a journal from his grown son’s childhood. He could not recall ever having seen it before, or that his son had ever kept a journal. Why did Elizabeth always save the children’s old junk? he wondered, shaking his white head.
Opening the yellowed pages, he glanced over a short reading, and his lips curved in an unconscious smile. Even his eyes brightened as he read the words that spoke clear and sweet to his soul. It was the voice of the little boy who had grown up far too fast in this very house, and whose voice had grown fainter and fainter over the years. In the utter silence of the attic, the words of a guileless six-year-old worked their magic and carried the old man back to a time almost totally forgotten.
Entry after entry stirred a sentimental hunger in his heart like the longing a gardener feels in the winter for the fragrance of spring flowers. But it was accompanied by the painful memory that his son’s simple recollections of those days were far different from his own. But how different?
Reminded that he had kept a daily journal of his business activities over the years, he closed his son’s journal and turned to leave, having forgotten the cherished photo that originally triggered his search. Hunched over to keep from bumping his head on the rafters, the old man stepped to the wooden stairway and made his descent, then headed down a carpeted stairway that led to the den.
Opening a glass cabinet door, he reached in and pulled out an old business journal. Turning, he sat down at his desk and placed the two journals beside each other. His was leather-bound and engraved neatly with his name in gold, while his son’s was tattered and the name “Jimmy” had been nearly scuffed from its surface. He ran a long skinny finger over the letters, as though he could restore what had been worn away with time and use.
As he opened his journal, the old man’s eyes fell upon an inscription that stood out because it was so brief in comparison to other days. In his own neat handwriting were these words:
Wasted the whole day fishing with Jimmy. Didn’t catch a thing.
With a deep sigh and a shaking hand, he took Jimmy’s journal and found the boy’s entry for the same day, June 4. Large scrawling letters, pressed deeply into the paper, read:
Went fishing with my dad. Best day of my life.
Motivation
“To get what you’ve never had, you must do what you’ve never done.”
Understanding this short quote can be the difference between winning or losing; between greatness or mediocrity. It captures the essence of discipline.
Understanding this short quote can be the difference between winning or losing; between greatness or mediocrity. It captures the essence of discipline.
Inspire Personal Accountability
As a leader, deciding to make changes is the easy part. Getting your people on board is much more difficult. Why is that? Quite simply, change is an emotional process. We are all creatures of habit who usually resist it, and welcome routine. Unchartered waters are scary!
In the long run, however, sameness is the fast tract to mediocrity. And, mediocre companies won’t survive. Tuli Kupferberg said it best… “When patterns are broken, new worlds emerge.” And, that is your challenge…to convince your team that the new world you are trying to create is better than the one you’re in. Is it easy? Of course not. It takes planning, commitment, patience and courage.
The truth, of course, is that change can be a wonderful gift. In fact, it is the key that unlocks the doors to growth and excitement in any organization. And, most importantly, without it…your competition will pass you by. A big part of success, as a leader, will be your ability to inspire your team to get out of their comfort zones; to assure them that even though they are on a new path, it’s the right path, for the right reasons.
In the long run, however, sameness is the fast tract to mediocrity. And, mediocre companies won’t survive. Tuli Kupferberg said it best… “When patterns are broken, new worlds emerge.” And, that is your challenge…to convince your team that the new world you are trying to create is better than the one you’re in. Is it easy? Of course not. It takes planning, commitment, patience and courage.
The truth, of course, is that change can be a wonderful gift. In fact, it is the key that unlocks the doors to growth and excitement in any organization. And, most importantly, without it…your competition will pass you by. A big part of success, as a leader, will be your ability to inspire your team to get out of their comfort zones; to assure them that even though they are on a new path, it’s the right path, for the right reasons.
Power To Focus
The power of focus is critical to your success in business…and also in life. I must admit, however, that this is something that took me a while to learn, and I have a few “battle scars” to show what happens to slow learners regarding this issue. “More is better” sounds reasonable, but I’ve learned the opposite is usually true. Less, I’ve discovered, is usually more. The reason, of course, is that there is something powerful about laser-like focus. Having a simple, clearly defined goal can capture the imagination and enthusiasm of your people. It can cut through the night like a beacon. It can bring an idea to life.In 1985, Jan Carlson had just been named the CEO of Scandinavian Airlines. His company was in trouble. They had just been ranked by a consumer poll as the worst airline in the world. Last in service, last in dependability, and last in profits as a percentage of sales. Yet one year later, in the same poll, they were ranked number one in all three categories. What happened?
Carlson had decided to focus on what he thought was the most critical issue…serving the customer. He wanted to keep it simple: identify every contact between the customer and the employee and treat that contact as “a moment of truth.” He set out to let his people know the importance of that moment…the captain, the ticket agent, the baggage handler, the flight attendant. “Every moment, every contact” he said, “must be as pleasant, and as memorable as possible.” He figured that he had approximately ten million customers each year, and on average each customer made contact with five of his people for approximately fifteen seconds apiece. Therefore, in his mind, these fifty million contacts, fifteen seconds at a time, would determine the fate of his company.
He set out to share his vision with his twenty thousand employees. He knew the key was to empower the front line. Let them make the decisions and take action, because they were Scandinavian Airlines during those fifteen seconds. He now had twenty thousand people who were energized and ready to go because they were focused on one very important thing…making every moment count.
Carlson had decided to focus on what he thought was the most critical issue…serving the customer. He wanted to keep it simple: identify every contact between the customer and the employee and treat that contact as “a moment of truth.” He set out to let his people know the importance of that moment…the captain, the ticket agent, the baggage handler, the flight attendant. “Every moment, every contact” he said, “must be as pleasant, and as memorable as possible.” He figured that he had approximately ten million customers each year, and on average each customer made contact with five of his people for approximately fifteen seconds apiece. Therefore, in his mind, these fifty million contacts, fifteen seconds at a time, would determine the fate of his company.
He set out to share his vision with his twenty thousand employees. He knew the key was to empower the front line. Let them make the decisions and take action, because they were Scandinavian Airlines during those fifteen seconds. He now had twenty thousand people who were energized and ready to go because they were focused on one very important thing…making every moment count.
Intelligent !?
A big city lawyer went duck hunting in rural North Cowra. He shot and dropped a bird, but it fell into a farmer’s field on the other side of a fence.
As the lawyer climbed over the fence, an elderly farmer drove up on his tractor and asked him what he was doing. The litigator responded, “I shot a duck and it fell in this field, and now I’m going to retrieve it.”
The old farmer Peter replied, “This is my property, and you are not coming over here.”
The indignant lawyer said, “I am one of the best trial lawyers in Australia and, if you don’t let me get that duck, I’ll sue you and take everything you own.”
The old farmer smiled and said, “Apparently, you don’t know how we settle disputes in North Cowra. We settle small disagreements like this with the ‘Three Kick Rule.’
The lawyer asked, “What is the ‘Three Kick Rule’?”
The Farmer replied, “Well, because the dispute occurs on my land, I get to go first. I kick you three times and then you kick me three times and so on back and forth until someone gives up.”
The lawyer quickly thought about the proposed contest and decided that he could easily take the old codger. He agreed to abide by the local custom.
The old farmer slowly climbed down from the tractor and walked up to the attorney. His first kick planted the toe of his heavy steel-toed work boot into the lawyer’s groin and dropped him to his knees!
His second kick to the midriff sent the lawyer’s last meal gushing from his mouth. The lawyer was on all fours when the farmer’s third kick to his rear end, sent him face-first into a fresh cow pie.
Summoning every bit of his will and remaining strength the lawyer very slowly managed to get to his feet. Wiping his face with the arm of his jacket, he said, “Okay, you old fart. Now it’s my turn.”
(I love this part)The old farmer smiled and said, “Nah, I give up. You can have the duck.”
When you are educated, you’ll believe only half of what you hear. When you’re intelligent, you know which half?
As the lawyer climbed over the fence, an elderly farmer drove up on his tractor and asked him what he was doing. The litigator responded, “I shot a duck and it fell in this field, and now I’m going to retrieve it.”
The old farmer Peter replied, “This is my property, and you are not coming over here.”
The indignant lawyer said, “I am one of the best trial lawyers in Australia and, if you don’t let me get that duck, I’ll sue you and take everything you own.”
The old farmer smiled and said, “Apparently, you don’t know how we settle disputes in North Cowra. We settle small disagreements like this with the ‘Three Kick Rule.’
The lawyer asked, “What is the ‘Three Kick Rule’?”
The Farmer replied, “Well, because the dispute occurs on my land, I get to go first. I kick you three times and then you kick me three times and so on back and forth until someone gives up.”
The lawyer quickly thought about the proposed contest and decided that he could easily take the old codger. He agreed to abide by the local custom.
The old farmer slowly climbed down from the tractor and walked up to the attorney. His first kick planted the toe of his heavy steel-toed work boot into the lawyer’s groin and dropped him to his knees!
His second kick to the midriff sent the lawyer’s last meal gushing from his mouth. The lawyer was on all fours when the farmer’s third kick to his rear end, sent him face-first into a fresh cow pie.
Summoning every bit of his will and remaining strength the lawyer very slowly managed to get to his feet. Wiping his face with the arm of his jacket, he said, “Okay, you old fart. Now it’s my turn.”
(I love this part)The old farmer smiled and said, “Nah, I give up. You can have the duck.”
When you are educated, you’ll believe only half of what you hear. When you’re intelligent, you know which half?
Mindset Change
Many of us do not realise or take it for granted on Change. Everything is changing every second, minute, days ….the list can go on. However, the fact is that Change is not avoidable and we have not only learn to accept but also to deal with it. We grow older as time passes….
Thus’ it become more important that we stay postive and think positively. This is the mindset of individual. In one of the course that I attended, they talk about “Law of Attraction”. If you are postive, you tend to attract alot of positive people around you. But if you are negative, chances is negative ideas or things will creep towards you.
In this sense, we have to stay positive and be positive !
Thus’ it become more important that we stay postive and think positively. This is the mindset of individual. In one of the course that I attended, they talk about “Law of Attraction”. If you are postive, you tend to attract alot of positive people around you. But if you are negative, chances is negative ideas or things will creep towards you.
In this sense, we have to stay positive and be positive !
One Word that can change your life
“Life’s not about waiting for the storms to pass…It’s about learning to dance in the rain.”~Vivian Greene.
This beautiful quote by Vivian Greene was one of Author’s inspirations to write the book…Learning to Dance in the Rain…The Power of Gratitude. The quote was sent to him by a friend about six months ago and he thought…that’s it! We all face adversity in our life. However, it’s not the adversity but how we react to it that will determine the joy and happiness in our life. During tough times do we spend too much time feeling sorry for ourselves, or can we, with gratitude…learn how to dance in the rain?
It almost sounds too simple to feel important, but one word…gratitude, can change your attitude, and thus, your life forever. Sarah Breathnack said it best…”When we choose not to focus on what’s missing from our lives, but are grateful for the abundance that’s present…we experience heaven on earth.”
WEATHER REPORT~by BJ Gallagher
“Any day I’m vertical is a good day”…that’s what I always say.
If you ask me,“How are you?”
I’ll answer, “GREAT!” because in saying so, I make it so.
When Life gives me dark clouds and rain, I appreciate the moisture that brings a soft curl to my hair.
When Life gives me sunshine, I gratefully turn my face up to feel its warmth on my cheeks.
When Life brings fog, I hug my sweater around me and give thanks for the cool shroud of mystery that makes the familiar seem different and intriguing.
When Life brings snow, I dash outside to catch the first flakes on my tongue, relishing the icy miracle that is a snowflake.
Life’s events and experiences are like the weather - they come and go, no matter what my preference.
So, what the heck?!I might as well decide to enjoy them.
For indeed, there IS a time for every purpose under Heaven.
And each season brings its own unique blessings.
This beautiful quote by Vivian Greene was one of Author’s inspirations to write the book…Learning to Dance in the Rain…The Power of Gratitude. The quote was sent to him by a friend about six months ago and he thought…that’s it! We all face adversity in our life. However, it’s not the adversity but how we react to it that will determine the joy and happiness in our life. During tough times do we spend too much time feeling sorry for ourselves, or can we, with gratitude…learn how to dance in the rain?
It almost sounds too simple to feel important, but one word…gratitude, can change your attitude, and thus, your life forever. Sarah Breathnack said it best…”When we choose not to focus on what’s missing from our lives, but are grateful for the abundance that’s present…we experience heaven on earth.”
WEATHER REPORT~by BJ Gallagher
“Any day I’m vertical is a good day”…that’s what I always say.
If you ask me,“How are you?”
I’ll answer, “GREAT!” because in saying so, I make it so.
When Life gives me dark clouds and rain, I appreciate the moisture that brings a soft curl to my hair.
When Life gives me sunshine, I gratefully turn my face up to feel its warmth on my cheeks.
When Life brings fog, I hug my sweater around me and give thanks for the cool shroud of mystery that makes the familiar seem different and intriguing.
When Life brings snow, I dash outside to catch the first flakes on my tongue, relishing the icy miracle that is a snowflake.
Life’s events and experiences are like the weather - they come and go, no matter what my preference.
So, what the heck?!I might as well decide to enjoy them.
For indeed, there IS a time for every purpose under Heaven.
And each season brings its own unique blessings.
What is Integrity ?
This is the most powerful word in the work place as well as our individual life.
This is the value and principles we carry ourselves wherever we go. Without which we can incline to do something which is immoral or unethical. Therefore, some functional or departments can be consider more expose than the others. For such departments, they ought to have a high intergrity.
I am delighted to said that among the member of my study group, one of them has showed tremendous positive integrity. I remembered one night when we were preparing the Access assignment, another peron was asking for advice to hack into others computers and he did not agree. And, in the next occasion when he was asked to check for examination questions, again he did not agreed. I have so high respect for him !
This is the value and principles we carry ourselves wherever we go. Without which we can incline to do something which is immoral or unethical. Therefore, some functional or departments can be consider more expose than the others. For such departments, they ought to have a high intergrity.
I am delighted to said that among the member of my study group, one of them has showed tremendous positive integrity. I remembered one night when we were preparing the Access assignment, another peron was asking for advice to hack into others computers and he did not agree. And, in the next occasion when he was asked to check for examination questions, again he did not agreed. I have so high respect for him !
"Duck to Eagle School"
A few years ago Mr X had lunch with a top executive from a company known for their legendary retail service. His wife and himself are both big fans, and over lunch he shared with Mr Y some of the great service stories his people had provided the Anderson family. Mr Y said, “With the service your people give…you must have a training manual 2 inches thick.”
Mr X looked up and said, “Mr Y , we don’t have a training manual. What we do is find the best people we can find and we empower them to do whatever it takes to satisfy the customer.”
Then he said something Mr Y’ll never forget. He said, “We learned a long time ago that you can’t send a duck to eagle school.”
“Excuse me,” Mr Y said. He repeated… “You can’t send a duck to eagle school.” Mr X said, “You can’t teach someone to smile, you can’t teach someone to want to serve, you can’t teach personality. What we can do, however, is hire people who have those qualities and we can then teach them about our products and teach them our culture.”
As long as Mr Y live he will never forget this simple analogy about hiring people. It is branded on my brain forever. And since that day, with every hiring decision Mr Y’ve made, Mr Y find himself asking the question: “Am I hiring a duck thinking they will become an eagle?” I can also honestly say that asking this simple question has saved me from making some important hiring mistakes. I just wish I’d heard it 20 years sooner.
The “Duck to Eagle School” lesson is one of many “simple truths” of leadership that Mr Y’ve learned on my journey as an entrepreneur. In the past 30 years, Mr Y ’ve had the good fortune to be involved with three successful start up companies, each becoming a leader in its niche. And, as you can imagine, there have been many peaks, valleys and “lessons learned” along the way.
I’ve also been very fortunate to have met a lot of people who are a lot smarter than Mr Y . Successful entrepreneurs, authors, speakers, educators, coaches, and CEO’s of large companies, have all helped shape my thinking. It has been their wisdom and their knowledge, combined with my own life experiences, that have helped shape who Mr Y is today.
For me, one of the most exciting things about business and life, is that one great idea can change our life forever.
Mr X looked up and said, “Mr Y , we don’t have a training manual. What we do is find the best people we can find and we empower them to do whatever it takes to satisfy the customer.”
Then he said something Mr Y’ll never forget. He said, “We learned a long time ago that you can’t send a duck to eagle school.”
“Excuse me,” Mr Y said. He repeated… “You can’t send a duck to eagle school.” Mr X said, “You can’t teach someone to smile, you can’t teach someone to want to serve, you can’t teach personality. What we can do, however, is hire people who have those qualities and we can then teach them about our products and teach them our culture.”
As long as Mr Y live he will never forget this simple analogy about hiring people. It is branded on my brain forever. And since that day, with every hiring decision Mr Y’ve made, Mr Y find himself asking the question: “Am I hiring a duck thinking they will become an eagle?” I can also honestly say that asking this simple question has saved me from making some important hiring mistakes. I just wish I’d heard it 20 years sooner.
The “Duck to Eagle School” lesson is one of many “simple truths” of leadership that Mr Y’ve learned on my journey as an entrepreneur. In the past 30 years, Mr Y ’ve had the good fortune to be involved with three successful start up companies, each becoming a leader in its niche. And, as you can imagine, there have been many peaks, valleys and “lessons learned” along the way.
I’ve also been very fortunate to have met a lot of people who are a lot smarter than Mr Y . Successful entrepreneurs, authors, speakers, educators, coaches, and CEO’s of large companies, have all helped shape my thinking. It has been their wisdom and their knowledge, combined with my own life experiences, that have helped shape who Mr Y is today.
For me, one of the most exciting things about business and life, is that one great idea can change our life forever.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
My study group members!! Cheers...
This is the study group where I am associated and wonder what will it be without them. Apart from sharing, learning and exchanging ...we also car pool to reduce the cost and expenses on each of us.
This is the picture taken in the Dmen office in Kulim Hi Tech. We are the gang - UUM-MBA !!
Well, I am personally very glad to have them as part of my student life. We are not only study together but they also manage to cheer and boost my energy when I am down.........:)
So guys, no words can describe my appreciation for each and everyone of you. All the best to each of us in our journey towards the UUM - MBA !!!!
The Team consists of David Khor Wei Min, Jacky Teo, Mark, Ghaful & KC Lim.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
My Blog !!
Hi all,
This is my first blog and this is one of the assignment requested by the lecturer for Information Technology for Manager's subject. First of all, I would like to thank my lecturer to give such a topic so that as I can have this opportunity to own a blog of my own.
Secondly, I would like to express my thanks to all those who has assisted me to create this blog in internet
Last but not least, pls feel free to comments and post in my blog and provide advice, comments or ideas ....
Thanks in advance. Good luck and keep in touch.............DK-MY
This is my first blog and this is one of the assignment requested by the lecturer for Information Technology for Manager's subject. First of all, I would like to thank my lecturer to give such a topic so that as I can have this opportunity to own a blog of my own.
Secondly, I would like to express my thanks to all those who has assisted me to create this blog in internet
Last but not least, pls feel free to comments and post in my blog and provide advice, comments or ideas ....
Thanks in advance. Good luck and keep in touch.............DK-MY
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