The challenges of immigration – developing strength through courage

In recent two years, more and more Hongkongers are considering immigrating to other countries.  It is common for most of us to have friends planning to immigrate and even departing without thorough preparation.  It is quite a challenge for people in different age groups to relocate themselves in a new country with only minimal planning …

From the movie, Soul, to whether there is a “self”

Many people had already seen the animated movie, Soul, and found it very inspiring and touching.  The middle school music teacher, Joe Gardner, aspired to be a jazz performer.  After being selected by the jazz legend Dorothea Williams in an audition to be a performer in a night show, he fell down a hole on …

To embrace the dark side of finding our meaning and being authentic

A client of mine experienced depressive mood and anxiety due to the feeling of being trapped by his current job.  He worked in an upper management position in a multinational company and enjoyed high income and social status.  However, he found himself having low motivation for work in recent one year after a further promotion.  …

A suggestion on taking the middle path in finding who we are

“Who am I?” is a common question we frequently ask ourselves throughout our lives.  I frequently come across adolescents, emerging adults, middle-aged adults and even elder people asking this same question without a clue how to answer it.  Are we the job that we work at?  Are we the appearance that others define me?  Are …

A broad perspective on identity development as Hongkongers

Since 1997, Hongkongers face changes in many aspects in this city.  Many people asked me about the concept of identity and the issue of identity development when they think about what their fellow Hongkongers are facing.  What is identity?  How can we conceptualise identity development of a human being across one’s life span? As we …