Finding Wisdom at Work: My Journey Through WorkingWise #5 JB as a Buddhist
This year has been one of the most emotionally challenging periods in my career. I found myself overwhelmed by stress, unsure whether I should quit my job, and constantly questioning if I could survive financially afterward. I was searching for clarity, for something that could help me realign my life.
After attending a session on managing stress and anger at Metta Lodge, Teacher Sok Cheng noticed the inner conflict I was facing. She gently suggested I join WorkingWise #5 JB, a program designed to help working adults navigate the complexities of modern life through Buddhist wisdom. As a Buddhist, I hesitated at first—worried there might be too many chanting sessions or that I wouldn’t fully relate to the teachings.
But I took the leap. And I’m glad I did.
What I Learned
WorkingWise wasn’t just a series of talks—it was a wake-up call. There are 6 modules. Each module offered practical wisdom that I could immediately relate to and apply.
The Wise Networking & Friendship module helped me realize I was wearing too many hats and mixing with people who didn’t align with my values. It taught me to be more intentional with my relationships and to protect my energy.
The Wealth Management module was another eye-opener. I had never seriously looked at my finances until I saw how much I was spending on medical bills, with barely anything saved for emergencies or retirement. That pushed me to open ASBN accounts for my kids and start thinking long-term.
And then came Managing Office Politics & Dynamics—a topic I used to avoid. I learned that politics isn’t about manipulation; it’s about influence and awareness. Master Hsing Yun’s concept of 老二哲学 (Second-in-command philosophy) taught me how to navigate workplace dynamics with humility and strategy. Now, I simply follow my boss’s instructions without overthinking, and it’s made my work life less stressful.
How It Changed Me
The impact of WorkingWise didn’t end with the sessions. It followed me into my daily life. I started making small but meaningful changes. I opened ASBN accounts for my kids, something I had postponed for months. I became more mindful about who I network with, choosing quality over quantity.
At work, I stopped overthinking and simply followed my boss’s instructions. It sounds simple, but it helped me reduce stress and avoid unnecessary conflict. I also began to see office politics not as something toxic, but as a reality that requires awareness and skill. I now understand that being politically competent doesn’t mean being manipulative. It means knowing how to navigate relationships and influence outcomes wisely.
Most importantly, I discovered that Buddhist teachings aren’t just about suffering—they also offer guidance on balance, relationships, and personal growth. That shift in perspective gave me a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in a long time.
The Community Experience
One of the most comforting parts of WorkingWise was the people. From the very first session, I felt welcomed and respected. The instructors weren’t just knowledgeable in Dhamma—they also brought decades of experience from industries like finance, beauty manufacturing, consulting, and conglomerates. Their stories made the teachings feel real and relevant.
I also gained two mentors and made several new friends. For someone who felt isolated after becoming a parent, this sense of connection was deeply healing. It reminded me that I’m not alone in my struggles, and that support can come from unexpected places.
Why You Should Join
If you’re a non-Muslim / Buddhist like me, you might wonder whether a program like WorkingWise is meant for you. My answer is: absolutely. The teachings are rooted in universal values—wisdom, compassion, balance—and the modules are practical for anyone navigating work and life challenges. Whether you’re struggling with stress, finances, relationships, or workplace dynamics, this program offers tools and insights that schools and workplaces rarely teach. It’s not about religion—it’s about learning how to live and work wisely.
Joining WorkingWise was one of the best decisions I made this year. It gave me clarity, community, and the courage to move forward.
@lerlerchan by LerLer Chan
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