5 quotes that shape me and my work

Words matter, and the things you say do shape how people feel, possibly inspiring them. I recently made the leap to move to Stockholm, commonly referred to as the silicon valley of Sweden (Amazing team and environment!). And as with every leap, comes a reflection period.

Emerging from my reflection are 5 things that 5 individuals said. These notes inspire me at work and life, and I take them with me as I embark on a new adventure. I share these in hope that they will inspire you too. I attempt to share these quotes as how they've been etched in my memory. However, you might note that memory lapses and subjectivity exist :)

(1) "Just keep reading. One day, you will understand." - Chen Yew Nah, then Managing Director of DP Information Group

It was my first job out of university. I had a degree in Psychology and knew little about the economy. Corporate communications and media relations in business intelligence and for a credit bureau was a steep learning curve but what Yew Nah said to me in one of our first meetings has been my mantra ever since. Nothing's ever too tough if you put your mind to it. Just keep going at it and one day, you will understand. Sometimes, all you need to do is to perservere and give it time.

(2) "Customer service is often a hugely undertapped resource for content marketing." - Joe Escobedo aka The Brand Builder

Your audience is king when it comes to content marketing. As an individual contributor at Bridge Alliance then, covering a wide breadth from content marketing to media relations while managing the enquiries inbox, what Joe said was gold. What are the frequently asked questions? They hint at what your audience is interested in. So many ways to look at this, but best for another sharing. In the meantime, more tips from Joe's blog here.

(3) "If your advice to your staff only improves things by 10 per cent, hold it back and let them run with the 90 per cent so they feel motivated and learn in the process. Give them that support and confidence." - Ong Geok Chwee, CEO of Bridge Alliance

I was a new manager and was trying to figure out how to be a better for my team. When I heard Geok Chwee share this while speaking at an event, I realised that her approach helped keep me motivated in my work. It made a difference in my self confidence at work. I felt more empowered. More drops of wisdom shared at the event here.

(4) "Never cut the price. Always add value." - Arthur Panos and friends, while having pasta

This was about customer marketing. At the same time, an SME owner I had the pleasure of working with early on in my career told me "you don't have to be the cheapest. Just show me where your value is." A huge lesson not just for when I experimented with freelancing, but in managing stakeholders. Be able to show and articulate your value so others feel like they are getting what (or more than what) they're paying for. Also, unrelated takeaway: pasta with friends is often a good idea.

(5) "You are good at what you do because you do it with your heart." - Altan Cingoz, Director of Roaming & New Business at Bridge Alliance

Might sound naive of me, but I feel the fire to do things because I care. Hearing this from Altan made me realize that that's what makes me good at what I do. Because I take pride in my work. Because I care about it and the team. It is normal to feel disheartened at times but bringing this to mind helps me reframe and refocus.

What are some moments or words shared that have helped you or inspire where you are today? Or even if it's something you'd like to consider for the future? Do share them in the comments!