A Podcast-Inspired Reflection

Hi,

I was listening to a podcast while I was running the other day, and it reminded me that I haven't given you an update on my machine. Well, it's back from its little vacation! Turns out it just needed some serious TLC, no actual repairs needed. And the best part? It only cost me RM150. The same guy from Fitness Concept came out, just like a couple of years ago when it was still under warranty. 

So, back to the podcast! They were chatting about how we get nervous before big things in life. And guess what? A little bit of nerves can actually be a good thing! It shows that you care, right? Like, you're putting your heart into it and want it to go well.  It's like your body's way of saying, "Hey, this is important, let's focus!" And sometimes, that little push of nervous energy can even help us perform better. And that... resonates with me so much.

And you know what's even cooler? If you still care about something after all these years, like, it's in your blood, it means you genuinely love it.  It becomes a part of you.  And because of that, you always want to give it your all, even if you've done it a million times before. You just can't help but try to make it the best it can be. You pour your heart into every detail, no matter how small, because you know it all adds up.😊

Now, where was I? Oh, the podcast! Okay, they were talking about a musician, actually. Someone who'd been playing the violin since they were tiny, practically a part of their DNA. But even after all these years, before every performance, that familiar flutter would return. It wasn't fear, exactly. More like… anticipation? It was their love for the music, bubbling up and demanding to be heard.

So, it got me thinking about something I really relate to as an academic. When they were talking about how we get nervous before big moments, and it really hit home. Like, before a conference presentation, or leading a big event, or even just teaching a new class, I still get those butterflies.🦋It's funny, because you'd think after doing this for a while, it would go away. Doesn't quite work that way for me. My stomach does the butterfly dance every time.😅

But what the podcast pointed out, which I thought was spot on, is that being nervous isn't necessarily a bad thing. Turns out, it can be a positive! And honestly, I think that's kind of beautiful. It reminds us that we're human, and we care deeply about the things we do. It can even give you an extra boost of adrenaline, help you focus and exert your best efforts.

My all-time favourite.

Blooming flowers are delicate and fragile (representing the nervous stage).

But it symbolizes growth, potential, and the blossoming of something beautiful.

And that, is where my head's at today. From elliptical to tulips, podcasts to presentations, it all comes down to passion. Caring. Putting your heart into what you do. And sometimes, that means embracing the butterflies. Now, I'm going to go listen to another one, not running this time. 😁

Crafting Memories

Hello,

Can you believe it's already second day of February? Where did January go?! 🤔 I have a feeling this year is going to fly by, being a whirlwind too, but.. no time to dwell. Let's keep the momentum going!

I'm currently on a short break from work, and honestly? It feels like I've barely escaped! My mind keeps drifting back to the office, like a mosquito buzzing around my ear. But I'm trying my best to stay focus on the kids. School holidays are in full swing, and I need to make the most of this time with them. Wish me luck!

While we were in KL recently, the kids got to experience the MRT for the very first time! The train ride from Putrajaya to Titiwangsa was quite an adventure for them! Their eyes were wide with wonder as we zoomed through the city. It was such a cool experience! However, all that excitement eventually caught up with the boy, and he drifted off to dreamland before we even reached halfway. 😂

 We snagged seats at the very front of the train and the kids pretended they were on a high-speed VR rollercoaster. 

And then, we also spent a night at Splash Mania Waterpark, and let me tell you, kids and water parks are the best combination ever! They could have stayed in that water all night if I let them. Seeing their faces light up on those water slides was priceless.

We created some amazing memories somehow. The thrill of the train rides and the laughter, also the way they'd splash each other and then collapse on the poolside, exhausted but happy.  Both were filled with pure joy and those infectious giggles that only kids can make. And.. happy kids meant a happy mom.😊

Okay, I have just a few more days of this trip! I'm going to make the most of every moment. Then, back to reality and focusing on work.

See you again. Bye!