This month, we are highlighting discipline as the structure and consistency we need to build a solid foundation. How it is essential to allow some flexibility into the process, specifically by not getting attached to the results.
The journey toward true discipline is not just about relentless effort, but also inquiring why we are making the effort to begin with. Finding the harmony between striving and but enjoying the process while getting things done.
We had the honor of interviewing Munyee Lau, a Storytelling Marketer from Malaysia, who currently serves as the Head of Branded Content and Social at TIME dotCom Berhad. Munyee’s career journey began with content creation and blogging, evolving into a specialization in content marketing, social media, advertising, and web articles.
We began the interview by discussing the balance between structure, flexibility, and discipline. Munyee emphasized that discipline is a core principle to be held closely, encompassing habits, principles, and beliefs. She advocates for holding on to these anchors while also allowing them to be fluid and adaptable, as this fluidity signifies growth.
To practice true discipline, Munyee believes we must identify our main purpose, not just in our professional lives but in all aspects of life. This involves understanding the roles we are meant to fulfill—whether as employees, leaders, parents, children, or partners—and ensuring these roles hold meaningful significance to us. She refers to this guiding principle as the “big why,” which helps us find a balance that brings contentment.
Munyee shared an experience from her career when she was overly focused on results, rigidly prioritizing clients over her team’s well-being. Her sole aim was financial gain, disregarding what was best for her team. When her team confronted her, she humbly accepted their feedback. This taught her that meeting KPIs doesn’t always require a harsh rigid approach. She realized the importance of leading with respect, kindness, and understanding, and that team harmony is the true foundation for productivity.
When Munyee was younger, she lacked a good manager, which inspired her to become the mentor she never had for the next generation. She aims to be a significant checkpoint in her team’s professional journeys, providing the guidance and support she once missed. This aspiration is her “big why.”
One day, in the midst of her busy routine, Munyee felt an inexplicable unease deep within her soul. She questioned herself, “What’s wrong? The money is good, it’s close to home, so why aren’t you happy?” This introspection led her to realize that she had strayed too far from her “big why.” This misalignment made her feel upset, demotivated, and lazy because she wasn’t building the foundation she needed to become the person she aspired to be—someone who helps as many people as possible. This realization marked the beginning of her journey to rediscover her purpose.
Discover more about Munyee Lau’s journey to maintaining discipline and finding purpose by watching the full interview on our YouTube channel.