Beginning of a new phase | National service

“Just like every young man serving the country, like it or not, it is still a compulsory two years that we have to go through. Two years is definitely not a short time, whether will it be filled with either tears of joy or sorrow is for ourselves to decide. I believe each and every phase of our lives has something important for us to take away with, which in turn, will turn us into better people, so cherish every of our moments with our hearts.”

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Like every other Singaporean young man out there, I was a little apprehensive about my time in national service. How was I going to best prepare myself mentally with the fact that my freedom was going to be compromised in weeks to come? Let’s just admit, it was only through those times that you started realizing how important every second was and you fought for whatever time remained to pursue the things you love to do.

Fast forwarding time ... 

The time for enlistment was finally here, 15^th July 2015. I woke up to a heavy heart not knowing what was expected of me inside the army, but only one thing for sure was that I will miss my beloved ones. I swear my soul was not with the army despite being there physically on that day. Many thoughts were running through my mind.  I was introduced to the sergeants and officers in-charge of our company and my platoon respectively. That day was considered the best day of my recruit life as the sergeants and officers were friendly and nice to us, contrary to what many described as to be. However, there’s always a saying, “The only easy day was yesterday”. It was true enough.

The next morning after our enlistment day was a major culture shock. We were required to fall in at ridiculously early timings as well as abiding to seemingly impossible fall in timings. It was certainly not easy at the start. The adjustment period, known as the confinement week, had definitely helped most of us to get used to the culture. Adjusting to life in army was no easy-feet. Seeking permissions for every single thing wasn’t a habit initially. Then, of course, many of us learnt our lessons through the tough way. We were punished as long as our discipline expectations were not met with what was minimally set. 

Second to discipline which many of us, including myself, dreaded the most were physical trainings. One of the commonly dreaded PT would be AGR, which stands for Ability Group Running. We had to run continuously for a required duration and every session only saw increased duration which explained why many of us were not looking forward to it. Despite the negative feedback, as a recruit who has gone through AGR, I have got to admit that my stamina has improved! 

As weeks passed by ...

We were punished almost every single day for every other mistake that someone has made. Despite the harsh punishments, we have bonded better as one in the process. Nothing else also mattered when you witnessed your fellow friends carrying out the similar punishments as you. Over time, we were still punished over the same old mistake which led me pondering for the reason: Was it carelessness, selfishness or laziness that resulted in us committing the same mistake? Or it could be just a choice that we have chosen? I was pretty aware that everyone knew what was right and wrong. And so, I concluded, choice really mattered, as your next course of outcome was based on it.

Trainings would only get tougher over time, just like what SAF has always told to the parents: progressive trainings. The toughest time was during outfield. How was I going to survive among hard soil, trees and with limited access to clean water? The combat ration was already a bad enough experience for me. Every inch of the outfield was pushing me out of my comfort zone. To make things worse was the digging of what seemed forever to take shape shell scrape. I have tried my best to make my first attempt a good one, yet circumstances were not in my favor. Honestly, I hated the times in outfield but when one asked me of my experience in BMT, outfield was the first thing that surfaced upon my mind. 

Nearing the end of BMT ...

Around this timing, recruits would have completed 90% of the required key activities before they could POP. The spirits in every recruit was high as they could finally celebrate all the hardships they had gone through, what’s even best were being witnessed by their loved ones. I was no exception. I wanted everything to end it immediately but before that there was a 24km route march. It was a major hurdle for me. I had many reservations whether I could complete it as I was carrying a heavier load and marching a much longer distance this time. I knew I was not the only one worried about the 24km route march. Many of my peers were feeling the same as well. However, we cheered and told each other that we will complete it and make it to the stadium to toss our jockey caps. That mental support built much positivity in me. 

Graduation Parade!!

I was so proud of myself for completing the 24km route march as I had many reservations about my physical level. We made it to the stadium at around 1:21am after a long 6 hours of marching where we slept inside for only about 2 hours before waking up to give our final best shot in BMT. This parade was also the time where many recruits have waited for! As it signifies the end of our recruit lives! Haha.

What's up next?

Two months indeed passed by within the blink of an eye. It was a short yet hectic one for us to go through. I'm rather looking forward to my next posting! I don't know what will I be expecting again! And I'll have to go through the same old shit (cycle) again. Before that, I shall enjoy the short hiatus from army! See ya guys when I have time to write up about my life again!

7 Text Messages Your Guy Will Love To Receive

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Having a hectic schedule ahead for the week, thus not being able to hang out with your loved one too often? One can always turn to text messages to communicate or contact your loved one, so as not to miss each other too dearly. Through this, you can also brighten up or motivate each other’s day! If you feel that you are running out of ideas on how to brighten up your guy’s day using text messages. Do not stress over it, I will be helping you by giving a little inspiration! These text messages will be likely to make your guy feel happy and blessed as well as feeling appreciated by you. You might also be the reason behind his motivation and positive outlook for the day or week just because of one of these text messages! 

1.          “I miss you”

Very often, we text people to express how much we miss them – friends and families – serving as a reminder to them that they are remembered. It’s perfectly normal to send this text a few times within a day, as it will make the other party feel cherished by you. Although it is a simple and sweet text, it holds significant meaning! If you are only beginning to see the guy more often, hold back a little! As he might feel rushed, and this forms an impression that you’re rather clingy. Do not worry so much, if you’re a committed couple as it shows your love for him.

2.          “You always have your ways to make me feel happy”

If you do feel blessed and happy when you’re with your guy, do let him know how he has managed to achieve it! This will serve as a direction for him as well as greater motivation to thrive for the relationship. It is always good to admit what you enjoy receiving from him and it also gives him greater confidence since he knows that positive impression has been made so far! 

3.          “I had a great time spent with you”

It is important to show that you enjoyed the moments spent with him. As it reassures him that his company is important and has lightened up your mood for the day! If your relationship is new, this can also encourage him to invite you out for another date. It also does not matter if you’re together for years because it will remain as an important form of reassurance to both parties forever. This can help to create a healthy relationship! 

4.          “You’re so attractive”

You can admit that which part of his physical appearance has attracted you! Although, it is usually taught that what’s inside is much more important, it is certainly good to let your guy know that a certain feature of his has captured or melted your heart. As who wouldn’t love to receive compliments? This will certainly make his day! Girls will also love to receive them too!

5.          “You compliment my life”

If you find that your guy has certain traits that compliment your life, let him know about it! If the both of you are a new couple, he will certainly be more than happy to know that you find him suitable for you. On one hand, it gives him confidence! On the other hand, he knows that you are thinking about him as well as for the future! He will be extremely glad for it!

6.          “I can’t wait for the next outing with you”

Let him know how much you love being with him. As he will be informed that you enjoy his company as well as how good you think of him! In return, he will certainly enjoy the time spent with you in the next outing better. He will also feel more relaxed if the both of you are in the beginning phases of a new relationship. In short, being expressive about your likes or dislikes can forge a stronger relationship between the two of you. 

7.          “I need you”

Telling your guy how much you need him at one moment of your life can make him feel that how important he is to you. However, if the both of you only started the relationship recently, try not to express your current needs using the word “need”. As it may make your guy feel pressured. Find other ways to hint him that you need him now and he will put in the effort to ensure that you’re in his safe arms. Conversely, in a devoted relationship – this will strengthen the bond between you and him as well as brighten up his day!

10 Subtle Signs A Guy Has Feelings For You

If you have a hard time in determining whether your friend has interests in you, these 10 subtle signs might help you. I admit, it is not that easy to tell sometimes, but with extra attention paid the next time you are with him – you should have an answer. The signs alone may not be true at every situation, so try to put all of these signs together and discover the magic! This list may not be exhaustive, and of course, there are many more!

1.          He texts you when he is out with friends or family

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One of the more common signs is finding the time and effort to type you sincere and cute messages to entertain you. This indicates a high chance he has feelings for you, but it may also means that he is bored and needs someone to chat with. Even if it’s the latter case, he has thought of you and texted you while he’s out. Also, if he tries to keep the conversation with you alive for quite some time … then you should be clear that he may have something for you. 

2.          He remembers almost all of your preferences and interests

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It is uncommon for a guy to remember a woman’s preference and interests. The reason is that majority of the guys do not take notice of events or happenings not of their interests. This can make a woman so mad at times, but hey, that’s just us. So, be extremely delighted and blessed if a guy does it so to make you feel important and wanted.. 

3.          He gets nervous

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If he is able to communicate normally with everyone, but he acts weirdly with you … do not worry! That happens most of the time when people meet their crushes right? If he gets only nervous with you, it means he has something for you. A guy will not simply be nervous with a girl he has no feelings for! Look out if he acts differently only with you, before jumping to a conclusion that condemns him to be weird. As he is trying his best to give the best impression!

4.          He gets a little touchy with you

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In a date, if you find him trying to slightly lay his hand on or over your shoulder occasionally, it is a strong indication that he wants to be close with you.

In a group outing, if he tries to stay near to you as well as taking notices and responding to your needs among everyone quickly … then he certainly likes you more than just a friend.

5.          The eye contact he gives

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Eye contact is an important and easiest way to figure out whether someone has feelings for you. Ever experienced an eye contact that seemed full of sincerity and genuinity? If you did feel it before, believe and listen to your heart’s say! There is a high possibility that the guy likes you and wants you to know it. 

6.          He asks you out

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When a guy asks you out for a date, it is just one of his many ways to get to know you better as a person. It is also one of the many strong signs that he has feelings for you. He wants to test it out with you! Surely, social media platforms can serve this purpose too, but what beats communicating face-to-face as it is so much more sincere and convenient! Only if you feel comfortable with him, then shall you accept his invitation. 

7.          He gets jealous over your other guy friends

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If you find a guy getting jealous easily over other guy friends you have been hanging out or chatting with, then that should be it! - He likes you. It goes the same when you really feel that he is checking out your guy friends by constantly asking questions related them. Also, if his replies looked a little different and a tinge of jealously could be felt within it … then yeah he certainly has feelings for you.

8.          He teases you slightly

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Does the guy always try to pull off some jokes on you? That is one of the ways to make the outing more lively and enjoyable for both. If he keeps placing the effort to make you laugh, then he does like you. This sign alone will not help you that easily to tell whether he has feelings for you, so try compiling with the other signs and you will notice! 

9.          He opens up to you

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All humans are indifferent – be it man or woman – and it is universal and known to everyone that an individual only opens up to someone important to him or her. If he talks to you about his past, current or future life, he wants to hear what you think and whether are you concerned about it. He wants you to know him better and hope that you would share back too! This will create a closer bond between you and him.

10.        He does the extra mile for you

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Whether are the exams coming or an important event is coming up in your life, if a guy does something simple, may be just writing a sincere note, or special to encourage you and keeping your spirits up – you are blessed. He remembers it and he wants you to know that there is always someone you can count on in the most challenging and difficult situations.

7 Signs you are crushing on someone

How often do you get trapped in the maze of love? Everyone was borned into this universe to feel and appreciate the beauty of our nature and surroundings. That had also made us fall in love with people whom we just know or had been around us all the while. As commonly, we would take some time before we realize or notice the beauty within people.  Situations whereby we fell so hard in love with a person whom we just know also exist, but there is nothing wrong as long as you know the reason for it. Humans are emotional species and most of the time; what becomes the pillar and provides motivation for us to fight on or pursue our dreams are our loved ones.

So what will be the 7 signs that you are crushing on someone?

1.          Finding ways to keep the conversation going  

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You will crack your brain juices to figure every possible ways to keep the conversation going. This will also be the time where you find out your real creativeness. Go ahead being nonsensical and becoming other sides of yourself, and who knows the other party might find you interesting to talk to. Just a word of caution, do not deviate from your real self too much. You will understand it why when it becomes a real setting.

2.         She or he is constantly on your mind      

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This is an universal indication to everyone. We all know it. Being largely distracted as a result of it, is a strong signal that you are not giving up on this feeling. And of course, you will feel really motivated and driven in this moment! (:

3.           On cloud nine when the they respond positively  

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Ever experience nights whereby you can't sleep because of excitement and happiness? 

4.           You can’t take your eyes off of them 

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You always take chances to secretly glance at them. Yes, you probably have a crush on them then! 

5.           You get nervous before you see them

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If you tend to get nervous before meeting someone, chances are you have a crush on them. Your heart feels fluttery and there are butterflies in your stomach. However, it will be better to sort out your nervousness or anxiety, as these may be tell-tale signs to the other party that you are feeling uncomfortable with them. 

6.           You wonder what they think of you 

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Being overly particular over how will that someone think about you? Then you might have a crush on them! You may want them to think that you're an interesting and fun person to be with! Also, leaving a good impression on the first date.

7.           You secretly hope that they will ask you out again

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If you secretly hope that this person will ask you out, then you absolutely have a crush on them! Being in love can be a good thing if both makes the effort to keep the fire and passion going. Be sure to be a responsible lover to your crush! (:

Let's welcome the Goat Year. Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Good afternoon peeps! 

It has been a long while since I posted anything on my blog. So I will be sticking to the tradition of sharing about my life! That is also the main purpose of writing a blog – to stay connected with my old and current friends.  

Before I go on writing, I will like to wish all my Chinese friends a Happy Chinese New Year and may all spend time to catch up and show concern for their loved ones in this joyous festive season. To my non-Chinese friends, I wish all of you happy holidays and may this be a time for you and your loved ones to catch up after a hectic year.

I hope everyone will prosper in the Year of the Goat. I wish your family be filled with bountiful happiness and a smooth-sailing year for all.

I do not know if anyone still follows up on my blog, so I apologize for not being able to update for the past several months. As my commitments in both school work and personal had left me with not much time to write up a post. But fret not; I am finally over with my polytechnic studies and I am back! 

So what’s next up for me? I am in the midst of applying into local universities as well as government and institutes scholarships. Not to forget, I will be entering National Service to serve the nation very soon. I will say that year 2015 will be one of the most exciting years, as there will be plenty of surprises – good or/and bad ones. It's also a year whereby I decide where and what I do for the next 10 years. I will keep the tradition alive to update everyone on where I go in the near future. Meanwhile, I like to take this chance to wish everyone that they get what and where they dream to go! Don't be too discouraged by unpleasant outcomes. It's perfectly okay to feel upset and disappointed for just a short period. As it has been said, "Failure is hard, but it is worse to have never experienced it". There will always be ways to find out the real purpose in you. I sincerely hope everyone is able to reach their goals! 

I guess I have more or less summed up the recent events in my life to everyone. I know it's a little short but I swear any more details will certainly bore you. So I hope being short and sweet will be nice for you. (I hope so!) Hmm oh ya, I am now in the midst of generating new topic ideas to write for my blog. It can be similar to the ones I previously wrote on. (i.e. 10 things your partner never says, but you need to know it, 7 bitter life truths you have to know) if you want me to write something that you will be interested to see, you can tell me here and I will be likely to select the ones which I am most prepared to write on: 

http://goo.gl/forms/EXkbRGmBgU

I wish everyone a blessed and purposeful year ahead!