Friday, January 9, 2009

My year-end thoughts to my clients in 2008...

“Tough Times Don’t Last, Tough People Do”

The phrase above is the title of a book written by Robert Schuller, pastor and the founder of the Crystal Cathedral in California. In times of uncertainty like what we are facing now, it is important to remind ourselves that well…tough times don’t last but tough people do.

This past year, I had to make my first critical illness claim. I am happy to share that the client has recovered and is back to work. What I am more excited to share is that I have seen for myself how a positive attitude, a supportive family and a strong faith can help anyone overcome extreme difficulties.

This brings me the sobering reminder that ultimately, the most important priorities in life are not anything material. Another way to put it is that “The most important things in life aren’t things”. They are people, they are relationships, they are memories and they aren’t anything that can be measured materially.

I hope there will be no more claims next year but that is beyond my control. What is within my control is to make sure that every client will be well served. This I will resolve to provide.

As I reflect this year, I am thankful that I had people like you who supported me when I started my career in the most inauspicious of times in June 2002. The global economy at that time is not in a better shape than now.

Times may be hard for many but let’s focus on what we can control. My strategy for the coming year is simple. Treasure the important people, work harder than ever before and give thanks for everything I already have.

The relationship we share is the most precious present you have given me and I assure you that this gift of friendship is very much appreciated. I have a belief that I should only “Sell What I Am Proud To Service” and I am very proud to have you as a client, a friend and a source of inspiration.

I wish for you and your family an abundance of good luck, good fortune and most importantly, good health in 2009! Happy New Year!