Tough love is a prime example of the philosophy ‘the ends justify the means’. As Michael Scott says in the hit TV show, The Office, “Tough love is when you have to be mean to somebody because you love them. And the more you love a person, the meaner you have to get.”

“I’m scared that life will pass me by,” a close friend confided in me recently over a cup of coffee. “I’m afraid that I’ll wake up one day, realise I’m 50 years old, and wonder where all the time has gone.” It is a valid worry, and one I personally relate to. Deep down, I am also worried that I’ll #hustle and #girlboss my way through life without stopping to smell the flowers.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health issues contribute to approximately US$1 trillion in lost productivity each year. Mental health is not just an individual's concern; it is a shared responsibility that requires the involvement of every individual and organization

School has provided its own slew of challenges since the beginning of time: from organising which subjects to take that semester, navigating your way to classes, managing your schedule, getting to know your teachers once again, meeting new friends that you can connect with, not to mention exams, the never-ending demand of assignments and everything in between.

Language is a powerful tool that can either build relationships and connect people or create barriers that affect a person's sense of belonging. The words we use shape our perception of the world and those around us. They can convey hope and opportunity or reinforce negative stereotypes and low expectations.

I used to keep my feelings, thoughts, and opinions to myself. I never explored my emotions thoroughly before. I would push them aside whenever I interacted with people or worked because I didn't want anyone to know the challenges I faced at work, except for my closest friends. Writing has become a powerful tool for me.