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Heartland hotspots for a local night out

Another night, another dinner at Rob Quay? Away from the shiny centre of the red dot lies the island’s heartlands – the authentic side of Singapore where wet markets bustle, Mama shops overflow with all manner of wares, void decks house communities as they catch up on gossip, and the clacking sound of mahjong tiles serve as a soundtrack. However, not only will you find a slice of true life here, but also some cool local hangouts connecting the masses and concocting inventive food and drink menus. Read on for some of our favourites.

Cocktails in Woodlands

O/T Bar
Run by the Tipsy Collective, this bespoke bar is inspired by a 1940s Manhattan office, seats around 50 people, and boasts a hidden karaoke lounge. O/T Bar’s signature drink is the Royal Recognition, a barrel-aged Remy Martin 1738 Accord Royal, served straight-up with a mini apple. Pure hip in the heartlands.
 6 Woodlands Square, #01-02, Woods Square, 737737
 tipsycollective.com/otbar

Japanese in Kovan

Tachinomiya Japanese Izakaya & Bar
Izakayas are famously intimate bars in Japan – and you can find one under an HDB block in Kovan. This little diamond first opened in 2017 to cater to working-late locals returning home who fancied a quick bowl of ramen noodles or pan-fried gyoza. Since then this charming neighbourhood haunt has gone from strength to strength; today you’ll find Kushiyaki, Crispy Chicken Karaage, Japanese liquor, and Sapporo Premium Draft pints attracting punters from across the island.
 211 Hougang Street 21, #01-285, 530211
 tachinomiya.com.sg

Korean in Jurong West

Courtesy of. Hyundai

Na Oh
Three-Michelin Star Korean-American chef Corey Lee opened Na Oh in June. As if being in Jurong isn’t different enough, it’s located inside an actual car showroom as part of a collab with the Korean motoring group, Hyundai. The 40-seat restaurant features clean lines, high ceilings, glass walls, and fabric dividers. It offers traditional Korean food that updates four times a year, including dishes like Golden Queen rice cooked in a gamasot pot, chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, and house-made buckwheat noodles served in chilled beef broth.
Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS), 2 Bulim Avenue, Level 3, 640536
hyundai.com/sg/naoh

Italian in Sengkang


Essen @ The Anchorvale
Extend an evening stroll along Sengkang’s Riverside Park with a stop at Essen @ The Anchorvale. This food hall features stalls serving Italian, Western, and Asian cuisine to tables of diners enjoying the sounds of live music. Offering indoor and outdoor seating, this is a go-to come rain or shine and is especially buzzy on Friday nights. Who needs central?
 59 Anchorvale Rd, #01-06, 544965
 facebook.com/EssenDiningandBar

Pub Grub in Hillview


The Jolly Roger
Craving a pork pie and a cold pint? Head to Cornwall, England, via Hillview, Upper Bukit Timah. The Jolly Roger has been a beloved fixture since June 2012 with its distinctly Brit-pub vibes which draw inspiration from Cornish tales of turbulent seas and piracy. You’ll find the full English breakfast, Fish ‘n’ Chips, Bangers and Mash, and a classic English roast (including Yorkshire pudding!) on the menu. Wholly unpretentious, there’s indoor and outdoor seating, a pool table, and a solid range of draught beers, ciders, and pilsners. The only thing missing? The English weather (phew!).
15 Chu Lin Road, 669907
 thejollyroger.org

Craft Beer in Clementi

Get Some
Look for the neon sign flanked by HDB buildings and you’ve found Get Some, a local crowd-pleaser known for its extensive selection of craft beers on tap (the majority from local breweries, rather than the usual Heineken and Tiger). Rumour has it that this place popped up in 2022 after a group of foreign oil riggers, who were building an oil rig out in Jurong, lived in a condominium across the road from the restaurant. The homely bar has a cosy feel, with much of its decor being gifts from customers. Indeed, it’s so beloved that Get Some now also has outlets in Ang Mo Kio and on Guillemard Road.
 727 Clementi West Street 2, #01-282, 120727
 getsome.sg

 

Fitness after 50: A fun guide to active ageing

  •  Sponsored Content 

Let’s be honest, chasing six-pack abs and ripped biceps may not be your health goal, but staying active after 50 is more important than ever, especially as we’re now being told that we’re going to live until 100 years old!

A recent study published in the The Journal of Preventive Medicine found that regular exercise can actually reverse cellular aging on a genetic level. Strength training, in particular, was shown to lengthen telomeres, the little caps on our chromosomes that shorten with age. Longer telomeres are linked to a healthier life, both physically and cognitively. This research debunks the myth that decline is inevitable and underscores the power we hold to influence our own cellular health.

Here’s our 6-point reckoner of how you can maximise your health post 50.

1. Get Up & Glow!

Active ageing is your runway, and it’s time to strut. Whether you’re dancing like nobody’s watching (except maybe the dog), twisting into yoga poses with the grace of a seasoned pro, or outpacing the local wildlife in your morning walk, it’s all about embracing the “move more, sit less” motto. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a fabulous pair of comfortable shoes.

2. Rest Your Brain. NOT.

Mindfulness: It’s not just for monks and those under thirty. Meditation isn’t just sitting silently and trying not to think about snacks. It’s about giving your brain the kind of spa day your body is jealous of. So, breathe in deeply (smell that? It’s the scent of serenity), breathe out slowly (that’s your inner skeptic leaving the building), and find peace in knowing that this is the kind of mental gymnastics your doctor approves of.

3. Eat Like a Gourmand

Turning the dietary don’ts into do-please. Forget what you think you know about dieting. It’s not about removing the joy from your meals; it’s about adding colours to your plate that aren’t just various shades of beige. Dive into the world of vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like an explorer discovering treasures. Who knew that brussels sprouts could be the main character?

4. Yearning to Learn

Because ‘know-it-all’ is not in our vocabulary. Pick up a new hobby, learn a language that’s not “teenager,” or finally figure out what exactly is the Cloud and why everyone’s stuff is apparently up there. Your brain wants to lift weights too, metaphorically. Let’s flex those neurons!

5. Too Cool for Solely School Friends

Fifty-plus and fostering new friendships? It’s time to expand your social circle beyond people who only remember rotary phones and the original price of a movie ticket. Connections matter, whether it’s rekindling old flames (strictly platonic, please) or sparking new ones.

6. Time Out for Me

Because self-care isn’t selfish, it’s absolutely necessary. Whether it’s treating yourself to that spa day, diving deep into your hobbies, or simply sitting in silence (because, let’s face it, silence is golden and sometimes unheard of), it’s about cherishing YOU. Because if you don’t, who will?

Let’s not just age like fine wine; let’s live like with class, sass, and a glass half full (preferably with something sparkling, that is NOT kombucha!)

Because beyond the grey lies Greytt!

To start you off on this journey, we have just the right Fit-for-50+ wellness solution at Greytt Moves!

Our wellness services are custom-built for 50+ passion areas and life stage requirements and delivered by ‘Fit for 50+’ expert coaches in core methodologies, including Somatic training, Strength Training, Yoga & Pilates.

Greytt Moves offers 12 custom designed programmes around passion areas like golf, hiking, cycling, traveling or racquet sports, alongside programs solving for life stage needs including menopause management, joint health, flexibility and better sleep.

From now till 30th Nov, Greytt is extending a special promo for all ANZA members over 50.
Just use the code GREYTTDEALANZA at checkout for any of the programs and get SGD 50 off!

For the ladies, we have a highly curated digital event on the topic of Menopause.
You can find out more and claim your free pass at https://www.moves.greytt.com/pages/takethatpause

To find out more, you can explore the programs at www.moves.greytt.com or Whatsapp us at +65 82928429

About Greytt

We are a premier Fit for 50+ platform, with services across wellness, travel, gigs, finance & more. We are on a mission to power purposeful and passionate lives for the ageless. Using Greytt experts, AI, and data we build age-centered products & services to match aspirations of the 50+!

Greytt’s foundation is built on a powerful manifesto that challenges societal perceptions of aging. It’s about celebrating the vigour and aspirations that don’t fade with the passing of years. Greytt embodies a spirit of adventure, wisdom, and the relentless pursuit of growth!

Because, beyond the grey lies Greytt!

Learn more about us at https://www.greytt.com and get to know our founders here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HevaNWc6cB4.

Simplify your overseas property purchase in Oz

  •  Sponsored Content 

Looking to buy property in Australia while living overseas? It can be simpler than you think. Many Australian expats face challenges such as time zone differences, staying updated with market conditions, and navigating mortgage requirements. However, with the right guidance, these hurdles can be overcome.

Despite being abroad, Aussie expats can access the same home loan products and rates as residents. While you might need additional documentation, you can typically borrow up to 80% of the property value. Knowing the right methods and lenders can even help you secure higher amounts. One common issue is getting lenders to accept 100% of your foreign income, as some may discount it by 20-40% due to currency fluctuations. However, with expert assistance, these challenges can be managed effectively.

Managing taxes can be equally challenging since, as an Aussie expat, you’re still subject to Australian tax laws. This includes declaring income earned abroad and understanding your tax obligations in both countries. Australian tax laws are complex, and staying compliant while living overseas requires expert knowledge and careful planning.

Careful planning

As an Australian expat, tax season can be a stressful time. You’re still subject to Australian tax laws, the complexity of which requires expert knowledge and careful planning to ensure compliance.

You need to declare any income earned in Australia, including rental income, wages, business income, and capital gains from selling assets. Unfortunately, expats do not qualify for the 50% capital gains tax discount. You can still make contributions to your superannuation as an expat, and it’s crucial to continue paying your student loan if you have one.

Filing your annual tax return from overseas involves navigating complex residency rules, gathering necessary documents, dealing with time zone differences, and meeting submission deadlines. Using a professional tax lodgement service can ensure accuracy and efficiency, helping you to minimise your tax liability and avoid penalties.

How Odin Mortgage & Tax can help

Odin Mortgage & Tax offers an integrated approach, combining Australian property purchase services with tax consultation. This ensures a seamless experience, saving you time and stress. Our one-stop solution allows you to focus on your life abroad while our specialists handle the complexities.
As the financial year 2023/24 concludes, we’re here to help you file your tax return back home. This year, we’re offering:

  • A 30-day guarantee on your tax return lodgement
  • An extended deadline until 15 May 2025
  • Maximised savings and ensured compliance

Talk to us

Book a free consultation with our mortgage specialists or tax accountants today to start optimising your financial situation.

BOOK A MEETING

 

 +61 480 026 116
support@odinmortgage.com

 

FREE TAX CONSULTATION

 

+61 485 980 277
 support@odintax.com

 

ANZA Netball hit Perth!

The largest ANZA Netball contingent ever participated in the Western Australia Association Championships in Perth this year. This event remains a highlight on our netball calendar and 2024 did not disappoint! The event resulted in a high-level, challenging competition for all the teams against tough opponents, with both ANZA Suns and ANZA Lightning impressively battling it out for the top spots in their respective divisions.

Adding to the trip was the infamous ANZA tour dinner held on the final evening. This was a huge success, with a trivia quiz, team dress-up (including managers and coaches), and a presentation ceremony.

A huge thanks goes to the amazing support crew of coaches and managers for their efforts in ensuring the girls had an awesome time. Thanks also to the wider support crew of parents, grandparents, and siblings who braved the early starts and pesky rain showers to cheer from the sidelines. You each helped make the trip such an adventure for the players. Bring on next year!

Perth Tour Facts Uncovered!

  • Six ANZA teams with 10 players in each
  • 12U x 2, 13U x 2, 14U, 16U
  • 13 support crew including coaches and managers
  • ANZA players from 10 different nationalities
  • One team (16U) braved an ocean morning swim!
  • ANZA teams came second, third and fourth in their divisions

Player Highlights

Our netball players reveal some standout moments

“My most memorable moment in Perth were the bus rides, as they gave me time to bond with my teammates and make more friends. The netball was very intense but fun, and it was a good opportunity for my teammates and me to play against new people and learn more skills. Another favourite moment was the Suns winning the netball/Aussie slang trivia competition at the tour dinner.”
Beatrice, ANZA SUNS 12U

“My most memorable experience was going shopping with all of my friends. This gave me a chance to make stronger connections with my teammates and get to know them better. We basically joked and laughed the entire time! For me, I saw the trip as a chance to bond and make new memories with one another. I think our time away will benefit us in the future as now we will understand each other better while playing netball.”
Willow, ANZA CYCLONES 13U

“I’d describe the ANZA Perth trip 2024 as SO MUCH FUN! I had the best time ever playing netball, shopping, eating, sleeping; literally, everything I did in Perth was amazing! It’s a big thanks to the parents, coaches, and organisers for making this brilliant trip happen!”
Stevie, ANZA COMETS 12U

“It was amazing to come on the Perth trip again. Having the opportunity to play netball at such a high level and competing with girls I’ve been teammates with for over eight years is very special. The Perth trip also creates a great bond between the different age groups – there’s always a lot of support during the matches!”
Rosie, ANZA LIGHTNING 16U

“One of my favourite memories from Perth was the ‘dress-up’ ANZA tour dinner. My team laughed so much while picking out our costumes and seeing what the other teams were wearing. It was also fun to play netball outside in the rain!”
Lily, ANZA TORNADOES 13U 

The team dress-up was taken very seriously

“What made the Perth tour so memorable for me was getting to spend time with my team on and off the court. Dressing up as a team for the gala dinner was a highlight. Of course, the netball was really good too!”
Charlotte, ANZA GALAXY 14U

Christmas in the Garden 10 December

Don’t miss ANZA’s ‘Christmas in the Garden’

Join us for Christmas in the Garden at the stunning Australian High Commissioner’s Residence on Tuesday, 10 December, from 7pm to 10pm. Celebrate the festive season with fellow ANZA members in a beautiful garden setting under the stars.

Indulge in a delicious grazing table brimming with gourmet cheeses, artisanal cured meats, and a tempting array of delectable accompaniments. Every bite is thoughtfully paired with free-flowing sparkling, red and white wine, beer and soft drinks to keep your glass topped up all night!

Adding to the festive atmosphere, enjoy the enchanting sounds of holiday music and a special Christmas performance by ANZA’s very own talented Singing Group, making this a very special evening.

One lucky guest will also walk away with a very special door prize—a dining experience for two with wine pairing at Butcher’s Block, Raffles Hotel, valued at over $800!

This event promises an evening of festive cheer, great company, and holiday spirit in a unique and exclusive setting.

Tickets are limited, so secure yours now and let’s kick off the party season together!

Members $60
Non members $80

Dress Code: Smart casual – a touch of festive cheer optional!

Venue: Australian High Commissioner’s Residence, 9 White House Park, Singapore 257605, SG

‘The event is not an official Australian High Commission event, nor an endorsement of the organisation’s products or services.’

Event SOLD OUT – Please join the waitlist by registering below

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Looking for escape? Find self-discovery & relaxation in Bali

It takes me approximately 82 minutes to feel so at home at Revivo Wellness Resort that I fall asleep in yoga and wake to find the teacher and several unknown faces gazing down at me. Obviously, I am mortified (was my mouth open? was I snoring?), but any embarrassment dissipates within – ooooh – seconds. After all, I’m not on a solo trip in Bali to care about what I look like; my focus here is on what I feel like.

Considering how I feel is not a pastime I do often; checking in with myself is not a priority. But it appears I need to get with it. According to all the brain experts, dedicating just a small portion of time to yourself can reduce stress, foster self-improvement, and ensure you’re well-rested to face what’s to come. What’s more, according to all the travel experts, holidaying alone is excellent for the soul and a key opportunity to recalibrate yourself – something that is equally as important for mental health as connection to others. A single sojourn to a wellness retreat is just the ticket then.

Forming a deep connection with the pool

Emotional health

Being a tailor-made resort, service at Revivo starts before my arrival with the completion of a comprehensive questionnaire about my life. It covers all manner of subjects from menstruation to marital situation, and as a result the on-site doctor places me on their Emotional Health & Mindfulness package.

Revivo is just a half-hour drive from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport in a countryside setting. Walking inside feels like receiving a massive hug. The staff are serene and smiley, and the natural landscape dotted with majestic frangipani trees and low-rise buildings is minimalist and instantly calming. With only 16 villas, a restaurant, lounge, fitness studio, Remissio spa, yoga studio, meditation rooms, and luxurious large pool, it’s intimate enough to not feel overwhelming, but large enough to allow guests to blend into the background if you so wish.

At check-in I’m invited to start my pre-prepared personalised package with a gentle yin yoga session. As I stretch out by the studio’s open floor-to-ceiling doors, dappled rays of light beam onto my feet. Just like that, I’m out like a light …

“54% of individuals planned a solo trip in 2024”
Skyscanner

Initial consultation

Everyone at Revivo is assigned a bespoke programme, but the mission for all remains the same: to help guests find “mind-body harmony and happiness” through self-discovery and healing. Aside from my Emotional Balance & Mindfulness programme, signature packages include De-stress & Relax, Sleep Well, Detox, Longevity & Anti-Ageing, Press Reset, and more. Each package starts at three nights and includes retreat consultations, spa treatments, movement classes, healthy meals, and nighttime rituals. Mindfulness practices and journalling are ecouraged throughout to keep you on track.

My initial consultation with wellness consultant Didi sets me up for what lies ahead. We talk through my questionnaire and I have my body composition, posture, and circumferences taken via a super-tech 3D body scanner. The results point to areas in which I need help – pain in the body, bad posture, excess fat. We also discuss personal goals for my stay and write them down – this provides motivation to stay focused.

Days at Revivo are structured but not rigid. They generally start at 7.30am with homemade Trio Shots of lemon, kombucha and turmeric, and coconut. I’m assigned three tailored meals and snacks plus one activity class in the morning and afternoon. In the evenings there’s a holistic spa treatment before bed. I am not booked in for any of the more vigorous workouts available in the fully equipped gym, but I do add swimming and time at the on-site hot and cold plunge pools into my schedule.

Sense of peace

I’m excited to embark on the wellness activities assigned to me. Morning hatha yoga energises me for the day, and the hot stone massage, herbal bath, and vibrational sound therapy calm my nervous system and instill a sense of peace. My first private breathwork session facilitated by Sofia is both fascinating and valuable. As I lay in a comfortable position, she uses the vibrations of the Indian harmonium and a selection of gongs to decompress my mind and body, before guiding my breath into a deeper state of relaxation.
I love the group mandala meditation which sees me creating my own mandala with fresh petals. According to modern medicine, doing so evokes calm and channels concentration. In addition, my acupuncture session session with wellness consultant Dr. Jay leaves me feeling super-chill. As two tiny needles are placed on my third eye and the top of my scalp for mental balance, I have a side order of moxibustion – a Traditional Chinese Medicine where mugwort leaves are burned around the body to stimulate Qi (energy), strengthen the blood, and maintain general health.

My first foray into a TCM gua sha facial massage is also a revelation. This practice – which massages with a rose quartz gua sha tool – breaks up blockages, improves blood flow, lessens toxins, and reduces pain. As a nighttime teeth grinder, this feels positively pleasant on my vice-like jaw.

“Light beams onto my feet and I’m out like a light”

Self-confidence

Latest research points to single travel being a major travel trend, and that more married women than ever are travelling without their other half. Indeed, the clientele at Revivo comprises singles and couples of all ages, male and female. It is over a dinner of hearty kale miso soup; chunky fish, sweet potato, and falafel; and chocolate brownies that fellow guests Cathy and Ingrid, two lifelong friends from Australia and Scotland, reveal they are on their third visit. They make it a tradition to “meet in the middle” here once a year.

Says Lucia from Spain, “My children have flown the nest, and I have more time to focus on my passions for yoga and nutrition. My husband has knee issues and doesn’t share my interest in wellbeing. He supports that I travel solo as I support his golf.” Also a third-timer to Revivo, Lucia adds, “Coming here is like coming home. I reconnect to the curious and independent person I am who has somewhat disappeared. I experience something new about myself when I holiday alone, especially when it comes to self-confidence.”

As for me, three days of head-to-toe healing has been a precious opportunity to focus on things that I may not have faced had I not stopped and spent dedicated time on myself. After 72 hours I feel physically healthier, mentally stronger, and ready to handle life’s challenges. One major discovery on my journey to me? I can’t wait to return to Revivo.

 revivoresorts.com
 revivo_wellness_resorts

5 reasons why self-connection matters

  1. Enhances Self-Awareness
    Connecting with yourself helps you understand your emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. This self-awareness allows you to make better decisions, improve relationships, and live a more fulfilling life.
  2. Boosts Mental Health
    Taking time to connect with yourself can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It provides an opportunity to process your thoughts and emotions, leading to a calmer and more balanced state of mind.
  3. Increases Resilience
    When you have a strong connection with yourself, you’re better equipped to deal with life’s obstacles. Inner strength and clarity help you bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive outlook.
  4. Fosters Personal Growth
    Self-connection encourages introspection and self-reflection. By understanding your motivations, you can set meaningful goals and pursue life with confidence.
  5. Improves Relationships
    Knowing yourself better enables you to communicate more effectively and set healthy boundaries. This can lead to deeper, more authentic connections with others.

Statistics source: skift.com

Secrets of Emerald Hill 29 October

Emerald Hill is not only a hotspot for bars and nightlife, but also a beautiful neighbourhood just off busy Orchard Road, showcasing some of the finest Chinese Baroque shophouses built in the early 1900’s. This tour will begin with an overview of the area from the rooftop of Orchard Central. We’ll learn why Emerald Street was called Theatre Street and what Postmaster General William Cuppage had to do with the settlement of the elevated hill called Emerald Hill. We’ll also discover how the old nutmeg and gambier plantations along Orchard Road transformed into a thriving upscale residential neighbourhood, home to wealthy Chinese merchants, and discover what inspired playwright Stella Kon to write Emily on Emerald Hill in 1983.

Date: Tuesday 29th October

Time : 10.00am – 12.00pm

Meet point: 9.50am, outside Orchard Central, corner of Killiney & Orchard Road (near the Nutmeg Grove sculpture)

Cost: $35 ANZA Member, $40 Non-Member

EXERTION: High: Substantial walking/exertion required in the heat. Expect to be on your feet for most of this tour. Infrequent rest stops

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The Connection Cure

Raising children in 2024 feels more complex than ever. Gone are the days when a call to Grandma or a flick through a Gina Ford book provides all the answers. Today’s parents are surrounded by a barrage of information, much of it conflicting, leaving them uncertain about whom to trust (including themselves).

Traditional wisdom feels inadequate in today’s world where societal norms and technology evolve rapidly. Could the primative act of tuning into ourselves and our core beliefs be the answer to better, more confident and focused childcare?

For Singapore expat Rachel McLean, it was a bid to develop her communication style and connect more easily with her children, James, 15, and Jessica, 8, that led her to sign up to a six-week course at her kids’ school, Tanglin Trust, last February. Doing so not only changed her relationship with her kids, but the entire family dynamic and her direction in life.

The advice shared on the course was simple, yet effective. “It encouraged parents to actively engage with their children by listening attentively and validating their feelings, thereby creating an environment where open communication can flourish,” Rachel shares.” In just a few weeks, our family home transformed into a more peaceful, calm, caring, empathetic, respectful and organised environment as a result. It was quite unbelievable.”

Cultivating communication

The course Rachel attended was an introduction to the principles of The Virtues Project (TVP). Originating in Canada in 1991 and practiced in over 100 countries across the globe, the project offers a framework for cultivating communication and deepening connections with others alongside recognising and nurturing the virtues within yourself.

Buoyed by such positive results, Rachel signed up for TVP’s facilitators course and is now a professional guide. “TVP feels like every useful parenting or self-help book I had ever read simplified into just five comprehensive strategies,” she says. “This makes the processes easy to understand, remember and implement.”

Continues Rachel, “Through the course, I discovered that my own personal ‘core virtues’ are idealism, determination, love and curiosity. With these in mind, I could relate TVP principles to creating changes within my family. For it to work, every member needs to try to embody the virtues that are meaningful to you. As the adults, it’s especially important that we role model with words and body language. Our children may not always do what we say, but they usually copy what we do.”

Here she shares the five TVP principles for stronger communication and connection with children.

The 5 Virtues

  1. Language Of The Virtues
    You say: “You’re so lazy! This room is a tip. You never put things away.”
    New way: “I can see your commitment to get to the end of the book you’re reading. We have 10 minutes before we leave for swimming, are you going to put your things in your drawers first or hang up your shirts?”If we label our children with negative words, they’ll live up to those labels which can mean they’ll feel shame or guilt. If we spot the good in them, they’ll want to do their best so we notice again. Their self-esteem will be raised. When we speak “the language of the virtues” we’re naming the virtues we see in our children, rather than blaming them.
  2. Recognising Teachable Moments
    You say: “You’re always making us late. Can’t you just sit down and get your shoes on!”
    New way: “I can see your enthusiasm for our trip to the park. What do you need to do so that you are ready? You need your shoes on. Show me your independence to sit down and put your shoes on. Are you going to wear your sandals or trainers?”If our children aren’t listening to us, or doing something we don’t like, call them to the virtue that we want to see. For example, if your child is running around instead of getting their shoes on to go out, approach this in a way that will make them feel good and encourage cooperation. In the example above, the child is being called to the virtue of independence and being told exactly how they can achieve it – by sitting down and choosing which shoes to put on. After they’ve done so, use the language of the virtues to acknowledge their efforts. See them swell with pride – they’ll want to do it again next time!
  3. Boundary Setting
    If we don’t express what we expect of our children, they won’t know what to aim for or what make us happy. Boundary setting at home models assertiveness and expresses what’s acceptable and what isn’t. As children become teens and adults they’ll encounter situations that push their boundaries and it’s essential they have the tools to say “no”.Perhaps bedtime is like herding cats? Let your child list what they need to do before they go to sleep. They can then take responsibility to tick off the checklist before you read a book together. If screen time is an issue, develop an agreement around usage for the whole household, including yourself. You’ll be surprised how children will remind you to put your phone away, rather than reaching for theirs, if they spot you breaking the rule.
  4. Honouring Your Spirit
    Making time for the things we love doing helps us to self-regulate so that we can effectively manage our own emotions, rather than be reactive with others. Take time to think about what you enjoy. A friend of mine goes to a cafe on the way home to sit alone, reflect, breathe, and have a coffee for 20 minutes. This gives her space to detach from the stress of her job and switch into “Mum Mode”. Other ways we can honour our spirit are through meditation, walking, exercise, reading a book, sketching, dancing, listening to music, spending time in nature – anything away from a screen that brings us back to the present.
  5. Companioning
    Have you ever noticed that when you speak to a friend about an issue they often jump in with, “Oh yes! That happened to me …” and then the attention is turned onto them. Nurture the skill to sit back and listen. Children don’t always need you to solve their problems but they do need you to listen so that they can work things out for themselves.Use “How…?” and “What…?” questions to help your child get to the root cause of their issue. Bring them out the other side to assist them to problem solve and put their solution into action. What do they need to find within themselves? Perhaps it’s courage to tell a friend that their behaviour is unacceptable; self-discipline to put homework before playing computer games; or flexibility to see an issue from someone else’s point of view.When they find a solution, acknowledge the virtue they’ve demonstrated, such as love for their friend, the maturity to be more self-disciplined, or empathy to step into someone else’s shoes. Being present but remaining detached will improve your ability to remain calm and instill a growth mindset in your children.

For more information on The Virtues Project, contact Rachel McLean on +65 9247 6121

ANZA Tennis Clinics Starting 16 October

ANZA Tennis Clinics

The ANZA Tennis Clinics are a 6-week programme designed for newcomers wanting to learn the basic skills of tennis, or for players wanting to refresh their technique. Savitar Tennis Centre’s skilled team of tennis coaches will cover all the fundamentals of tennis including forehand, backhand, volley, serve, overhead, and basic match play. Emphasis will be on enjoyment of the game and players will receive an excellent foundation to improve and develop.

Cost: $210
When: Wednesdays
Start Date: 16 October
Time: 11am – 12pm
Where: Savitar Tennis Centre, Fairmont Hotel, Raffles City
What to bring: Tennis racquet, towel, plenty of water

Make-up sessions: if sessions are canceled due to inclement weather make up sessions will be in 30min blocks added to subsequent sessions ie: two sessions of 1.5 hours.

Please join the WhatsApp group so we can update you of any changes to the sessions due to weather etc… The link will be provided on your confirmation notice after you have completed registration.

Useful location info: To get to the Savitar Tennis Centre, take the lift to the 8th floor of the Fairmont Hotel and walk through the spa to the swimming pool. The courts are accessed via a walkway behind the pool. The Savitar Tennis Centre is situated directly above the Raffles City Shopping Centre and lots of parking is available below.  The City Hall MRT is nearby.

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How can you plan ahead for your 2025 financial goals?

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Achieving financial success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires intentional planning, a clear vision, and a strategy that will guide you toward your goals.

Here are five steps to help you plan effectively for your 2025 financial goals.

Know Your Purpose

Before you can achieve your financial goals, you need to define what they are. Simply saying “I want to save more” isn’t enough – that’s just an intention. Money is a tool to reach your “real” objectives, so be specific about what you’re saving for. Here are some examples:

  1. Build an emergency fund of X SGD, enough to cover at least three months of living expenses.
  2. Save X SGD for a deposit on a property in your home country.
  3. Allocate no more than 40% of your income toward dining out and holidays.

The clearer you are about your purpose, the easier it will be to create a strategy to reach it.

1. Set a Time Frame

Once you have your goals, it’s essential to establish a timeline for achieving them. A great way to visualise this is by drawing a timeline with 2025 as your starting point. Place each goal along the timeline according to when you expect to reach it. This financial road map helps you stay focused and provides a clear path to follow.

2. Prioritise Your Goals

In a perfect world, we’d have unlimited resources to accomplish all our goals simultaneously. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. You need to prioritise how you allocate your resources effectively. Don’t fall into the trap of focusing only on short-term goals because they seem closer. Consider what’s most important in the long run and balance your efforts accordingly.

3. Create an Actionable Trigger

It’s time to take action. But where do you start? Often, the first step is the hardest, but it’s crucial for gaining momentum. Let’s say you know someone who’s been wanting to learn to play the guitar for years but hasn’t done anything about it. What advice would you give them? Probably something simple like, “Sign up for a lesson.” The same principle applies to your financial goals.

For example, if you want to save for a holiday, consider opening a separate savings account dedicated solely to that goal. This makes it easier to take concrete steps toward your objective.

4. Set an Autopilot Plan

Now, the best part: automation. In my eight years of helping clients achieve their financial goals, I’ve found that the key to success is automating as much as possible. Once you’ve defined your goals, set a timeline, and created a strategy, put your savings on autopilot. For example, if you need to save 3,000 AUD per month for retirement, set up automatic transfers so that amount is invested each month without you needing to think about it.

This removes the human factor – and the temptation to skip a month or two – ensuring that you stay on track. We all struggle with discipline, but automation makes it easier to stick to the plan and reach your goals.

By making your goals specific, setting timelines, prioritising effectively, taking actionable steps, and automating the process, you can set yourself up for financial success in 2025 and beyond.

 

Côme Doléac
Associate Partner, Select Investors
come.doleac@sjpp.asia
+65 82840434
www.selectinvestors.sg

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

 

 

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