Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

Frequently Asked Questions (updated Feb. 11, 2007)

Q. Where in the world does this dude come from?

A. I come from the sunny island state of Singapore. My ancestry can be traced back to China though. My ancestors came to Singapore in search of a better life more than a hundred years ago.

Q. Why did you decide to blog?

A. I think blogging is a wonderful tool in this age. Firstly, it allows me to express myself, and make what I think easily accessible to anyone who cares to read. Secondly, it allows people who know me to keep themselves updated about what is going on in my life. It’s not exactly easy to meet up with everyone frequently, so I guess the next best thing is to have a blog! Lastly, it’s quite painless (at least for me) to maintain a blog!

Q. What does the name Ng Yi KAi, Aaron mean?

A. For chinese names, the last name/surname/family name is placed in front of the given/first name. Therefore, my last name is Ng. My last name is the Teochew pronunciation for the chinese character 黄 (pronounced as huang in mandarin)，which literally means the colour yellow. My ancestry can be traced back to the Teochew province in China, hence, my family name in the Teochew dialect.

My chinese given name is 毅 (Yi) 凯 (Kai), which is pronounced just like how it is pronounced in mandarin (I suspect it’s because there’s no Teochew dialect version of these two words). The character 毅 comes from the word 毅力, meaning determination, and the character 凯 comes from the word 凯旋, meaning victory. I suppose my chinese given name thus means with determination comes victory.

I was also given an English first name, Aaron. To some extent, I’m quite grateful to have been given one because it makes it much easier for those who are unfamiliar with chinese enunciation to call me. The name Aaron has its origins in the Old Testament. Aaron was the elder brother of Moses, and was also the first high priest of the Israelites.

Q. What is your personal philosophy?

A. Don’t be dependent on others. Go out there and win it yourself.

Q. What is your educational background?

I received the bulk of my education in Singapore. My primary education was completed at Shuqun Primary School, my secondary education at The Chinese High School, and my junior college education at Hwachong Junior College. The Chinese High School and Hwachong Junior College merged in 2005 to form Hwachong Institution, offering a seamless 6 year education programme instead of the older system of 4 years in secondary school and 2 years in junior college.

I am currently pursuing a bachelors degree with honours at the Communications and New Media programme at the National University of Singapore. I am expecting to graduate in May 2007, and based on my current CAP, I will graduate with class 2A honours.

Q. You attended very good schools, and have good grades. Are you a nerd?

I would like to think that I’m not a nerd. I had been (and currently still am) active in non-academic related activities. I’ve held key leadership positions in NUS Students’ Arts and Social Science Club, NUS Students’ Union, NUS Students’ Communications and New Media Group and I’m currently in the Boon Lay Youth Executive Committee.

I also spend plenty of time on brushing up my print and web design skills, playing online games and going on dates with my fianceé. As for studying, well, I do that sometimes.

Q. As a new media major, you must be very good at using Internet software and technology.

Well, yes and no. I do dabble in quite alot of internet related technologies. I have my own personal domain, and I did up a couple of other websites before. I’ve installed and administered blogs and online forums. I’ve also tried making a podcast. Currently, I’m still in the midst of trying to learn how to effectively use Content Management Systems (CMS) like Joomla!, as well as trying to learn how to set up shopping cart software and payment mode for online shopping.

I do have knowledge of some software for non-internet related purposes. I’ve produced magazines before, so I’m familiar with layout software. Of course, I do know how to use the standard Office applications as well. In a nutshell, here are all the software I’m familiar with:

Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign (CS2)
Macromedia Dreamwaver 8
Microsoft Office Standard Edition

Q. I hear that you are married?

Well,yes and no again. No, because if you ask me for the certificate of marriage, I can’t produce one. Yes, because I regard myself as being married and I treat my 7 year relationship with my fianceé as though it’s a marriage. I believe in a being a one-woman man, and I’m indeed a one woman’s man (no ex-girlfriends, ex-fianceé or whatever).

Q. Why do you like to write in such a brutally frank fashion?

Do I write like that? All I know is that when I write, I write what I honestly feel. Maybe that makes me appear to be brutally frank, or even insensitive at times. However, frankness isn’t exactly a bad thing, isn’t it? It may make some people uncomfortable, but at the same time, being frank means that what has been said can be taken at complete face value. Do people who continously talk in a nice, politically correct style scare scare you? It does scare me, because I don’t know what they are actually thinking. For all you know, behind the smiles lie a set of venomous fangs.

Most of the time, I may call a spade a spade, but I do not write with the intention to cause discomfort or unhappiness. I write to state a case and I welcome discussion. If you are interested in a frank and intellectual discussion on my blog, I will respond to you. If you are not, please go away and don’t whine about me. I don’t want to deal with kids.

Q. What is your personality like?

I believe very strongly in the accuracy of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality test. I find it to be highly accurate about myself, both in terms of positive traits and negative traits. You too can find out about your MBTI type by doing an online test that’s free at similarminds.com.

My personality type according to MBTI is that of an ESTJ. I’ve taken information about my type from what I considered to be the most comprehensive online source on the various MBTI types to share with you. For complete information, please visit http://www.personalitypage.com/.

If you believe in the influence of astrology in someone’s personality, you can read what the fortune-tellers have to say about my personality as well. Just scroll down for it.

The MBTI Perspective: potrait of an ESTJ

As an ESTJ, your primary mode of living is focused externally, where you deal with things rationally and logically. Your secondary mode is internal, where you take things in via your five senses in a literal, concrete fashion.

ESTJs live in a world of facts and concrete needs. They live in the present, with their eye constantly scanning their personal environment to make sure that everything is running smoothly and systematically. They honor traditions and laws, and have a clear set of standards and beliefs. They expect the same of others, and have no patience or understanding of individuals who do not value these systems. They value competence and efficiency, and like to see quick results for their efforts.

ESTJs are take-charge people. They have such a clear vision of the way that things should be, that they naturally step into leadership roles. They are self-confident and aggressive. They are extremely talented at devising systems and plans for action, and at being able to see what steps need to be taken to complete a specific task. They can sometimes be very demanding and critical, because they have such strongly held beliefs, and are likely to express themselves without reserve if they feel someone isn’t meeting their standards. But at least their expressions can be taken at face-value, because the ESTJ is extremely straight-forward and honest.

The ESTJ is usually a model citizen, and pillar of the community. He or she takes their commitments seriously, and follows their own standards of “good citizenship” to the letter. ESTJ enjoys interacting with people, and likes to have fun. ESTJs can be very boisterous and fun at social events, especially activities which are focused on the family, community, or work.

The ESTJ needs to watch out for the tendency to be too rigid, and to become overly detail-oriented. Since they put a lot of weight in their own beliefs, it’s important that they remember to value other people’s input and opinions. If they neglect their Feeling side, they may have a problem with fulfilling other’s needs for intimacy, and may unknowingly hurt people’s feelings by applying logic and reason to situations which demand more emotional sensitivity.

When bogged down by stress, an ESTJ often feels isolated from others. They feel as if they are misunderstood and undervalued, and that their efforts are taken for granted. Although normally the ESTJ is very verbal and doesn’t have any problem expressing themself, when under stress they have a hard time putting their feelings into words and communicating them to others.

ESTJs value security and social order above all else, and feel obligated to do all that they can to enhance and promote these goals. They will mow the lawn, vote, join the PTA, attend home owners association meetings, and generally do anything that they can to promote personal and social security.

The ESTJ puts forth a lot of effort in almost everything that they do. They will do everything that they think should be done in their job, marriage, and community with a good amount of energy. He or she is conscientious, practical, realistic, and dependable. While the ESTJ will dutifully do everything that is important to work towards a particular cause or goal, they might not naturally see or value the importance of goals which are outside of their practical scope. However, if the ESTJ is able to see the relevance of such goals to practical concerns, you can bet that they’ll put every effort into understanding them and incorporating them into their quest for clarity and security.
Whether you’re a young adult trying to find your place in the world, or a not-so-young adult trying to find out if you’re moving along the right path, it’s important to understand yourself and the personality traits which will impact your likeliness to succeed or fail at various careers. It’s equally important to understand what is really important to you. When armed with an understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, and an awareness of what you truly value, you are in an excellent position to pick a career which you will find rewarding.

(Adapted from http://www.personalitypage.com/)

Suitable careers for ESTJ personality types

ESTJs generally have the following traits:

• Natural leaders - they like to be in charge
• Value security and tradition
• Loyal
• Hard-working and dependable
• Athletic and wholesome
• Have a clear set of standards and beliefs which they live by
• No patience with incompetence or inefficiency
• Excellent organizational abilities
• Enjoy creating order and structure
• Very thorough
• Will follow projects through to completion
• Straight-forward and honest
• Driven to fulfill their duties

ESTJs have a lot of flexibility in the types of careers that they choose. They are good at a lot of different things, because they put forth a tremendous amount of effort towards doing things the right way. They will be happiest in leadership positions, however, because they have a natural drive to be in charge. They are best suited for jobs which require creating order and structure.

The following list of professions is built on our impressions of careers which would be especially suitable for an ESTJ. It is meant to be a starting place, rather than an exhaustive list. There are no guarantees that any or all of the careers listed here would be appropriate for you, or that your best career match is among those listed.

Possible Career Paths for the ESTJ:

• Military leaders
• Business Administrators and Managers
• Police / Detective work
• Judges
• Financial Officers
• Teachers
• Sales Representatives

(Adapted from http://www.personalitypage.com/)

Relationships of ESTJ personality types

ESTJs are very enthusiastic people who are driven to fulfill their obligations and duties, especially those towards their families. Their priorities generally put God first, family second, and friends third. They put forth a tremendous amount of effort to meet their obligations and duties, according to their priorities. They are dedicated and committed to their relationships, which they consider to be lifelong and unalterable. They like to be in charge, and may be very controlling of their mates and children. They have high esteem for traditions and institutions, and expect that their mates and children will support these as well. They have little patience and need for dealing with people who see things very differently from the ESTJ.??

When an ESTJ says “I do”, you can bet that they will put forth a tremendous amount of effort and energy into fulfilling their commitment to the relationship. They seek stability and security in their lives, and once they have made a commitment, it is lifelong and unalterable. They bring with them into the relationship a strong and dependable nature, which is oriented in traditions and security. They are highly energetic people, who never seem to lose their energy when performing duties and fulfilling obligations.

ESTJs usually feel very strongly that they are right and that if everyone else would listen carefully to what the ESTJ has to say, then they would understand the way things really are, and the world would be a better place. Such a strong, confident self-image is an asset in many ways, but can also be a detriment in close interpersonal relationships, if the ESTJ’s mate does not feel valued for their contributions as an individual. This is a potential pitfall for ESTJs, who should try to be aware of the fact that other people have things to offer, even if they do not exactly follow the ESTJ’s way of thinking. If it’s not possible to do this on a larger scale, the ESTJ should perhaps focus on this area with respect to their partner’s contributions.

Sexually, the ESTJ is likely to be robust, enthusiastic, and athletic. They will tend to be traditional, and to expect sexual encounters on a relatively scheduled basis. They’re likely to approach intimacy as a physical experience of closeness, rather than as an opportunity to express and receive expressions of love and affection. The ESTJ will probably have to work on remembering to express their feelings verbally, but their mate’s appreciation will make it well worth it for those who do.

In many ways, ESTJs are Guardians and Protectors by nature. They enjoy shielding and protecting their families, and are usually quite good at it. Their partners will appreciate and enjoy the benefits of the ESTJ’s efforts in this respect, but they may also resent the more controlling aspects of the ESTJ’s personality, which goes along with their strong desire to shield their loved-ones. The ESTJ may consider it their duty to instruct their spouses how to behave or what attitude to take in certain situations, which may not be appreciated.

Conversely, the ESTJ freely gives approval and affirmation when they are happy or impressed with their mate’s behavior. Whether positive or negative, the ESTJ’s expression can be taken at face value, because these individuals are very honest and forthright about how the feel.

ESTJs enjoy spending time with others socializing, and are likely to strongly desire that their partners also take part in these social activities. They are especially interested in any event which is associated with the family, work, or any organization which the ESTJ is part of. Since they are social creatures, they’re likely to bring an emphasis on socializing to the relationship - but only after all of their work is done.

ESTJs are not naturally in tune with what others are feeling, and they may even tend to be very unobservant in these respects. This can cause problems with mates who have a Feeling preference, who may feel hurt or neglected by the ESTJ. If these feelings are pointed out to the ESTJ as an important dynamic of the relationship, rather than harbored internally by the Feeler, the ESTJ is likely to attempt to be more aware of their mate’s feelings and emotions.

The ESTJ gladly performs their duties in life, and wants to be appreciated for doing so. This is the greatest gift that their mates can give them - gratitude.

Strengths in a relationship:

• Generally enthusiastic, upbeat and friendly
• Stable and dependable, they can be counted on to promote security for their families
• Put forth a lot of effort to fulfill their duties and obligations
• Responsible about taking care of day-to-day practical concerns around the house
• Usually good (albeit conservative) with money
• Not personally threatened by conflict or criticism
• Interested in resolving conflict, rather than ignoring it
• Take their commitments very seriously, and seek lifelong relationships
• Able to move on after a relationship breaks up
• Able to administer discipline when necessary

Weaknesses in a relationship:

• Tendency to believe that they are always right
• Tendency to need to always be in charge
• Impatient with inefficiency and sloppiness
• Not naturally in tune with what others are feeling
• Not naturally good at expressing their feelings and emotions
• May inadvertantly hurt others with insensitive language
• Tendency to be materialistic and status-conscious
• Generally uncomfortable with change, and moving into new territories

(Adapted from http://www.personalitypage.com/)

The Astrological Perspective

I’m posting 2 sets of astrological information, one from Chinese astrology and the other from ‘western’ astrology. My Chinese sign is that of the Dog, while the ‘western’ sign is that of Scorpio.

**New: A analysis based on the Eight Characters (八字算命). From http://www.k366.com/bzyc/

Characteristics of the Dog sign (from Astrohoroscopes.com)

You have an honest and courageous nature, ready to fight for a worthy cause or to defend friends in trouble. You are sensitive to others and empathize with them, particularly if they have suffered an injustice, reacting quickly with the same feeling, as though you had been personally offended. Your friends value this trust and loyalty, and know that you can be relied upon to keep a promise or remain cool in a crisis. It is rare for you to betray a confidence or withdraw from a commitment.

When you are told a story or hear of an event you need to know all the facts, and are dissatisfied if you fell you have only been given half the story; but it is precisely this search for the truth that can make you over-critical. You feel it is your duty to point out weaknesses - no out of spite, but because you feel honesty is the best policy. There are many times, however, when your advice is welcomed and your enthusiasm appreciated. You can inspire confidence without being forceful, and you are not usually misled by appearances nor preoccupied with the superfluous.

There is a pessimistic side to your character and your spirit is drained when you hear of situations beyond your control, such as natural or human disasters. You sometimes find the world overwhelming and need to withdraw from crowd to a quiet place where you can mull over these worries. You want everything to work out in the best possible way and are anxious about the potential problems that may befall you or those around you.

You can be relied upon to act responsibly, and can be trusted with sensitive information. You need to have a clear sense of the job description and its final aim but once sure of your role, you are a dedicated and steady worker. Avoid aggressive and competitive occupations, as these will only make you nervous; focus instead on work that enables you to build trusting relationships with other people.

You are a conscientious colleague, and once you have made a commitment you fulfill it to the best of your ability. Although you can be hesitant - particularly if you are faced by a sudden deadline - you work well as a member of a team, but are also an accessible leader. You like to keep the peace with your colleagues, but you are not afraid to stand up in defense of a good cause and will work tirelessly on behalf of others. You are suited to a career in education, law, social work or research. You would also be a good teacher, doctor, counselor, campaigner or member of a religious order.

Characteristics of the Scorpio sign (from elore.com)

The ruler of Scorpio is Pluto. Prior to the discovery of the ninth planet, Scorpio was ruled by Mars, which is still considered co-ruler. The sign of cosmic purpose, Scorpio is considered the success sign. Self contained and self centered, concentrated Scorpios usually succeed in what they set out to accomplish.

Scorpions are known for their intense and powerful natures. They are willful, proud and calm with an electrifying undercurrent of seething intensity. Purposeful and animated with force, they project a magnetic personality.

Their demeanor is dignified and reserved, affable and courteous, and many have a gaze that is both direct and penetrating. Their secretive natures make them natural detectives. Many Scorpios possess a suspicious outlook, and need to know the reasons behind everything. Scorpio does nothing in half measures. An all or nothing attitude permeates their entire life. When fixed on something or someone, the scorpion perseveres. Scorpio never settles. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest or not at all.

Scorpio will rarely be found in the center of activity, but will always know just what is going on of concern to him. Their tenacity and willpower are enviable, their depth of character and passionate conviction admirable, but it is their deep sensitivity that makes them the best and most loyal friend. This same quality makes them the most treacherous of enemies.

Their sensitivity, and pride allow them to be easily hurt, quick to feel insult or injury, even when none is intended, and easily roused to heights of anger. An angry Scorpio is a sight to see. Unlike Leo, who can have a temper tantrum and five minutes later be quite himself again, Scorpio seethes, and doesn’t give it up.

When they harness their abundant energy constructively, their self-confidence tempered with shrewdness, and their ambition coupled with generosity toward others, they excel at whatever they undertake. Scorpios are demanding of others, but never ask someone to do what they would not do themselves. They can be fanatically focused and work till they drop, and ask the same of those around them. No middle ground for a Scorpio, all or nothing.

Scorpio imagination and intuition are excellent. They possess refined critical perception and strong analytical ability. In addition, they seem to demonstrate a natural healing power. These abundant gifts allow Scorpions to penetrate the most profound subjects. They are serious folk, but quite charming to people they like, and when social events call for it. Their tragic flaw is their immense pride. Once wronged, once Scorpio’s pride has been diminished, the game of courtesy is over.

Their inner intensity can result in the ice-cold restraint and detachment of the surgeon, the concentration of the research scientist and the heroism of the soldier. Any profession in which analysis, investigation, research or dealing with the solving of mysteries are present appeals to Scorpio. Police and detective work, espionage, the law, physics or psychology are attractive professions to the Scorpio. As writers and orators they excel. The Scorpio character is the one you see up on the podium delivering “fire and brimstone” speeches. They succeed because they communicate the power of their convictions.

The Eight Character Analysis (translation after the chinese version):

Personality and Character

You are a dedicated and devoted person and you do not like to mince your words. You are analytical, judgmental and to compromise is almost impossible. You like to honor your promise even though it is detrimental to you. Your remarks or speech can be harsh, witty and sharp and also sometimes sarcastic but at the same time can also be nice, full of brotherly/sisterly love and caring. Willingness to accept failure as antidote, allows you to laugh off not only at the world but at yourself as well.

You are a flexible person, like a candle flame and not sturdy. Always seeking self-improvement you will always probe into the details and get to the bottom of things before making a deal or making an assessment. Though you are a fun and carefree person but in fact you are an intense and emotional person.

Romance and Compatibilities

You want somebody to respect you and a lover as a companion. Once you are disappointed in a love affair you will not want to take another chance. A nit-picking person you are always hunting for flaw in a relationship. So it is quite difficult to have a happy relationship unless your partner and lover can understand and tolerate you. You loath, when your mate or lover are on a defensive once you blow your top and the best advice for him or her is to pretend not to hear you in an argument. Cancer, Virgo, Capricorn and Pisces born in Tiger/Horse/Rabbit years can tolerate and understand you.

Where love affairs are concerned you are very passionate and your relationship is normally a long and lasting affair. You do not only consider the physical aspect but also the spiritual aspect and thus keep the burning passion lasting over a longer period than most people. You are bright, interesting and attractive but independent and not the clinging type and cannot tolerate unfaithfulness.

Profession

You are a critical and an analytical person, so jobs like social work, journalist and city planner are suitable for you. You hate routine and require freedom of action in you work since you like challenges in your job. Other jobs suitable for you are photographer and trouble-shooter.

You have high energy and want excitement in life, which make careers like entertainment, public relations, marketing, broadcasting, advertising, journalism and creative professions suitable for you. You do not mind taking risks and you can be a speculator or even a gambler if you do not choose the correct profession.