On Risk

by Thomas Heng

Risk is inherent in today's world. Some may believe that in an increasingly risky world, it would be best not to do anything at all and watch the world go by or sort itself out, that it is better to wait till it's 'safe' again. Nothing could be further from the truth.

While it may seem that the world has become a lot more dangerous today than ever before (by the way I would disagree with that, though it will probably best be left to another post!), the opportunity for ordinary people to become all that they can be is also greater than ever. Having said that, it would be prudent to examine the nature of risk before plunging headlong into a venture based on a nebulous concept of reward. For to undertake any meaningful enterprise without clarity as regards its potential risks and rewards is, well, very risky indeed.

It is essential to distinguish between the risks that are external to oneself, and those that are created within. Risks that are solely external to oneself are few and far between; most of the time such risks occur suddenly without forewarning, and can at best be managed only after the event. However, it is precisely the management of risk that can and should be the premise of the individual, that is, risk management is wholly internal in nature.

This insight provides comfort for those of us who feel that life is increasingly outside of our control, that business is becoming unsustainable, and that the future of our very existence lies in the hands of people (or other entities) whom we do not know, let alone understand. One of the keys is in our perception of risk and the occurrence of unexpected events. How one handles major global events is not identical to how another deals with them. Which means that we have the power of choice to determine the precise meaning of each event that 'happens' to us.

A strategic approach to life and business that incorporates the principle of risk management does not mean that we start treating the people in our lives as chess pieces. Rather, it means that we are acutely sensitive to the environment around us, and that we pay particular attention to how, on an individual level, affect others around us, and ponder upon our words, thoughts, and actions as we release them from our inner being.

On Respect

by Thomas Heng

Realise that while each of us is different, we are altogether not that much different after all
Edify one another through each simple thought, word and deed
Strengthen one another in times of trial, even in the midst of one's own
Place one's emphasis on the other, rather than the self
Encourage one another to share the deepest of emotions through revealing one's own
Clarify one's thoughts through discussions of candour
Thank one another for the audience granted, the support rendered, and the time shared

On Causes

by Thomas Heng

Commit to causes that resonate with you, and you will create maximum value.

Causes of value are those that generate the most goodwill to youself and the ones whom the cause directly impact upon.

Causes of comparison lead you to the path of mediocrity;

Causes of value lead you to the path of excellence.

There are many causes out there, so choose wisely!

On Charisma

by Thomas Heng

Charisma is the ability to draw from the audience the questions that it is dying to enunciate, but is for one reason or another fearful to do so.

Charisma is the ability to intimately relate to the deepest experiences of another person, and to enable him to create meaning from these experiences.

On Public Speaking

Nick Morgan wrote a book entitled "Give Your Speech, Change the World: How to Move Your Audience to Action". It's a great book and I would recommend it to anyone who would like to go into the field of public speaking.

When I think a little deeper about it, the only worthwhile reason for giving a speech, a group presentation, or even a one-on-one meeting for that matter, is to change the world.  Indeed, what other purpose could there be?

May I always bear this in mind whenever I communicate with another person...