MAKING A DIFFERENCE TO THE LIVES OF HIS SOLDIERS

He once had a soldier who was sent to the detention barracks. But the Full-time National Serviceman (NSF) emerged a changed person and eventually became a trained Guardsman.

Being able to make such a positive impact on the lives of young servicemen was a big reason Senior Lieutenant Colonel (SLTC) Bernard Tay chose to become a career soldier.

"I believe that every soldier wants to find his purpose and be recognised. It is our duty as leaders to help shape the conditions for them to fulfill their potential," said the 37-year-old Guards officer.

Sharing knowledge

When it comes to helping to improve the lives of his soldiers, SLTC Tay goes the extra mile – for example, he wrote an e-book to share his knowledge on managing personal finances.

"I felt it would be useful for them to learn how to manage their money before they receive their first paycheck," said SLTC Tay, now a Senior Force Transformation Officer.

One book that he highly recommends is Grit: Why Passion And Resilience Are The Secrets To Success. Sharing a key concept from the book, he said: "We tend to overrate talent — and overlook the time and effort to develop a skill.

"I've seen many instances of soldiers who don't come in as the most talented, the fittest, and the strongest.

"But when they complete their National Service, they are, in fact, much better as an individual and as a soldier (because they put in more effort than the rest).

"And so I really encourage people to pick up this book. I think it will really give them a good insight (into) what are the important ingredients for attainment of long term goals."

SLTC Tay has a special copy of the book to give away!



To participate:

Comment on our post on Facebook or Instagram and tell us an instance of how you and/or your buddies have become a better person during NS.

Catch this video on how SLTC Tay helps his soldiers to become the version of themselves.