Relationships & Sex - Sassy Mama Hong Kong - 1 https://www.sassymamahk.com/category/mama/relationships/ Hong Kong Wed, 29 Nov 2023 05:55:23 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://www.sassymamahk.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Group.png Relationships & Sex - Sassy Mama Hong Kong - 1 https://www.sassymamahk.com/category/mama/relationships/ 32 32 The Family Hack You Need To Keep Your Kids Safe https://www.sassymamahk.com/safety-words-family-code-word-parenting-family-life/ Wed, 29 Nov 2023 22:00:59 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=174992 The one little phrase that helps empower your kids and keeps them safe and secure. As parents, all we want to do is keep our children safe. Of course, we’d also like them to grow up happy, with a childhood full of fun, laughter and love too! The comfort of knowing that your family is […]

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The one little phrase that helps empower your kids and keeps them safe and secure.

As parents, all we want to do is keep our children safe. Of course, we’d also like them to grow up happy, with a childhood full of fun, laughter and love too! The comfort of knowing that your family is a safe and secure place, both physically and emotionally can’t be underestimated. We can’t be there to protect our kids 24/7, so it is essential that we teach them the skills to navigate tricky situations.

We are so fortunate that Hong Kong is such a safe city. Not to say that nothing bad ever happens here, but it’s often more stressful watching kids cross the road than keeping an eye on them at the playground. You’ve probably already had your child memorise your phone number in case they get lost. Maybe you’ve had them identify safe adults in various locations, for example, pointing out the uniformed staff members in a shopping mall or theme park. Having a family safe word, or a code word, is an extra tool you can add to this list. It can help them feel secure day to day, but it could also help keep them safe from potentially abusive situations.

Read More: How To Recognise And Prevent Child Sexual Abuse


safety words hong kong grandparents

What Are Safety Words?

For kids, safety words can be a powerful tool in fostering a sense of security and empowerment. In a nutshell, parents and caregivers can teach children to use a special family code word as a discreet means of communication. Then, in situations that make them feel uncomfortable, they can quickly let their safe adults know that they need help. It should be a simple, easily remembered phrase that is shared only with trusted adults. After all, our children are just that, children. It’s not up to them to protect themselves, that’s our job as parents.

Read More: Beyond “Beautiful” — Practical Ways To Start A Meaningful Conversation About Body Image


safety words hong kong family code words night fair

How To Use Safety Words With Young Kids

For young kids, safety words can be used in two main ways. The first is as a way to combat stranger danger. Thanks to our amazing domestic helpers, it would take a pretty unusual scenario for your kids to be picked up from school by someone they didn’t know. But let’s say someone approaches your child in the playground and says they are a friend of their Mum and Dad and the child should go with them. Your child can ask if they know the code word as an easy security check.

Day to day, a safety word can be used, if a child finds themselves in a situation where they feel uneasy or threatened. This may include scenarios like playdates, outings, or even at school. They can use the safety word to discreetly communicate their discomfort without drawing attention. This allows caregivers to intervene or provide support without causing unnecessary alarm. It could be a bullying situation, unwanted peer pressure or something else entirely.

It is also useful when travelling. The downside of the relative safety of Hong Kong is that our kids can sometimes be a little naive when it comes to personal safety. That big extended trip overseas can be confusing for kids who might only see their extended family a few times a year or less. Having a family code could help your kids feel a little more comfortable. Perhaps your kid doesn’t want to hug Great Aunt Mabel but doesn’t want to be rude. Or maybe, they’re not used to the way their cousins play. The safe word could be a way to get your attention and communicate their feelings without causing a fuss or offence.

Read More: Child Psychologists, Counsellors And Therapists For Children In Hong Kong


safety words teen party teenagers safe

Teaching Your Tweens And Teens To Use Safety Words

The teenage years come with their own set of challenges! Safety remains a top priority for both parents and teens, but they do need increased independence and social exploration.

Just as kids could use the code word to get your attention in person, this comes in particularly handy when your kids start attending parties or social gatherings solo. A prearranged word with trusted friends or family members can serve as a subtle signal for when a situation becomes uncomfortable or unsafe and they want to leave. For example, if a teen feels uneasy about a particular scenario, maybe something involving alcohol, drugs or anything that pushes their comfort boundaries. They can simply text or communicate the safety word, prompting a supportive response or intervention.

Another popular approach is the X-Plan. Essentially, if your child is out and about they can text a simple “x” to any family member. Immediately, that family member will respond with a family emergency that requires them home immediately. The key to a successful X-Plan is allowing your teen to save face in front of their peers and being their safe place free of any repercussions (yes, even if they’ve gotten into mischief that you don’t approve of!).

Empowering teens in this way fosters a sense of agency and security, promoting responsible decision-making as they navigate the complex landscape of adolescence. It can also set them up for conversations around enthusiastic consent once they are ready.

Read More: 10 Practical Tips To Improve Your Mental Health


safety words whatsapp scam

Family Code Words To Avoid Scammers

You might think that safe words are just for your kids, but they could come in handy for you, or even your parents. There are new scams going around all the time. Some are relatively simple, but others are far more complex. Did you know that AI can mimic the voices of your family members? Technology really is terrifying sometimes! How often do you answer the phone only to find a bot on the other end? Unfortunately, that’s all it takes to collect a voice sample these days.

Then there’s the “Hi Mum” scam. Essentially, the scammer contacts you on WhatsApp and says something along the lines of “Hi Mum, I’ve lost my phone/ run out of battery/ run out of credit/ insert other excuses for contacting from an unknown number”. They then go on to ask for a sum of money to be transferred with urgency.

Whether it’s an AI call or a WhatsApp claiming to be a loved one, in both situations the identity could be verified with a family code word.

Read More: Mental Health For Kids — How To Start The Conversation


How To Pick A Family Code Word

Before you choose a safety word there are a few things you’ll need to consider.

  • What will your child remember? Especially important if they are still quite young.
  • Are they mature enough to ONLY use it in an emergency?
  • Like a password, you’ll need to change the safety word if it gets used.

You’ll need to make it something common enough that it won’t raise suspicion, but unique enough that it will be immediately recognised and not mistaken.

For example, it could be “pepperoni pizza” when you know that it’s their least favourite. It wouldn’t arouse suspicion in anyone but you.

How does it work in practice? Imagine your child approaches at a family gathering and says, “Hey mum, I’d really like pepperoni pizza for dinner tonight.” Completely normal and reasonable to anyone listening, but an instant red flag for you. Amongst teens at a party, “Hey Jane, should we order pizza? I’m craving pepperoni right now.”

The most important thing to keep in mind is that for safety words to work it’s crucial to create an environment where your children feel they can use them without fear of punishment. Regular conversations about personal safety, open communication, and building trust are essential. With safety words in their vocabulary, kids have an added layer of protection, promoting a sense of confidence and assurance as they navigate the world.

Read More: Raising Girls Who #BreakTheBias In Hong Kong

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3 Expert Tips To Navigate Your Divorce In Hong Kong https://www.sassymamahk.com/allied-divorce-consultancy-family-life/ Mon, 30 Jan 2023 22:00:52 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=161739 When it comes to getting a divorce in Hong Kong there’s no better way to navigate the process than with an expert divorce consultant at the helm. We chat with Antonia Basile Wilson at Allied Divorce Consultancy to get her top tips on how you can get the best results for yourself and your family. […]

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When it comes to getting a divorce in Hong Kong there’s no better way to navigate the process than with an expert divorce consultant at the helm. We chat with Antonia Basile Wilson at Allied Divorce Consultancy to get her top tips on how you can get the best results for yourself and your family.

Going through a divorce can be daunting. There is just so much uncertainty. If you’ve been contemplating or have made the decision that permanently separating is the way to go, you’ll want to make sure that you emerge from the process feeling content with the outcome. So how can you make that happen? Enlisting a divorce consultant to expertly guide you through, especially before you start the process and hire lawyers, certainly helps. Antonia Basile Wilson, the founder of Allied Divorce Consultancy, offers three tips on how to make the process of getting a divorce in Hong Kong easier so that you can get the outcome you deserve.

⇓ Read on to find out how to get a free complimentary call with Antonia, plus, get your hands on an exclusive 10% off your first session.


covid fatigue journal

Divorce In Hong Kong, Tip 1: Get Prepped Before The Process Begins

Utilising her extensive experience in Hong Kong’s legal and court system and strong financial expertise as a Chartered Accountant and CEDR Accreditated Mediator, Antonia knows all too well how important it is to get your ducks in a row before you start the divorce process. Under her guidance, you’ll feel prepared by getting your finances organised, knowing how to minimise your divorce costs and which are the right questions to ask your lawyers, just to mention a few things.

“The choices made prior to starting a divorce will set the tone for how the entire process will unfold, and will ultimately impact the final outcome.”

Having helped numerous clients navigate the process, she’s honed the practice of getting the best result. She has a strategic and focused approach in place for your situation before starting the divorce process, as well as pragmatic solutions to deal with your financial, co-parenting and practical challenges.

“The more informed and prepared people are at the start of the process, the better the outcome will be.”

It’s important to seek this advice before starting the process, to help mitigate any issues and avoidable costs further down the line.


Allied Divorce Consultancy, managing divorce in Hong Kong

Divorce In Hong Kong, Tip 2: Separate Facts From Feelings

Making big future and financial decisions while simultaneously dealing with the emotional turmoil of a marriage breakdown isn’t easy. Most people struggle to think clearly and make good decisions when emotions are running high. However, setting aside your emotions makes decision-making more manageable and the process becomes a lot more pragmatic and smooth.

Antonia always ensures that her clients are thinking with their heads and not their heart.

“Having the right mindset and facts to approach divorce, as you would a business deal, puts people in the best position to achieve the outcome they deserve and ensure the divorce process is cost-effective, timely and less stressful.”

This leads to tip number three…


Allied Divorce Consultancy, managing divorce in Hong Kong

Divorce In Hong Kong, Tip 3: Know The Outcome You Want And Plan For Your Future Needs And Long-Term Goals

When getting a divorce, you’ll need timely, critical, and savvy advice.

“You should know the outcome that you want before the start of the divorce process so that you pick the best options to achieve it.”

If you want an amicable, less expensive and faster divorce, then litigation will not be your best option.

You will also need to think about the future and your financial needs for yourself and your children. Antonia will help you work this out and ensure that you’re able to effectively negotiate a settlement that meets these financial needs and long-term goals. Most importantly she’ll focus on how to protect your loved ones.


Allied Divorce Consultancy, managing divorce in Hong Kong

Want To Find Out More?

Getting a divorce doesn’t have to be a long, stressful, or drawn-out process. With her years of experience and a professional, caring approach, get in touch with Antonia to find out how Allied Divorce Consultancy can help. It’s her mission to get you through the divorce process in a calm, cost-effective and timely manner to get the outcome you deserve. Book your complimentary 30-minute discovery call to find out more.

sassy mama perk

Sassy Mama readers can receive 10% off for the first session with Allied Divorce Consultancy when mentioning “Sassy Mama” while booking.

Allied Divorce Consultancy9886 8141info@allieddivorceconsultancy.com, www.allieddivorceconsultancy.com

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Rekindle The Romance With A Day-Time Date https://www.sassymamahk.com/family-life-adventure-date-helicopter-junk-cooking/ Wed, 25 Jan 2023 22:00:41 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=136826 As much as we love a good date night, sometimes it’s just too big an ask to get out of the house after a long day. Enter the day-time date! Rather than settle in for a good meal (although you can always do that too!) grab your other half and set off for a romantic […]

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As much as we love a good date night, sometimes it’s just too big an ask to get out of the house after a long day. Enter the day-time date!

Rather than settle in for a good meal (although you can always do that too!) grab your other half and set off for a romantic little Hong Kong adventure. Keep the spark alive by taking turns to plan some quality Hong Kong time and give yourselves something to talk about at the dinner table. Here’s some inspiration to get you started!

Read More: Romantic Restaurants In Hong Kong — Where To Go For Your Next Date Night


couples adventure dates hong kong day time date

Get Back To Nature

As much as we love taking the kids on our hiking adventures, there’s something really nice about tackling some longer trails or venturing a little further off the beaten path with your other half. Make a full day of it and explore the white sandy beaches of Tai Long Wan or make it a “real” date by choosing a trail that ends in a feast.

Read More: Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas For Sassy Couples


m plus alternative date ideas hong kong

Get Your Culture Fix At A Museum Or Art Exhibition

There’s no doubt the kids’ exhibits at the Science Museum are fantastic, but taking the time to really browse the halls of M+, the galleries of the Hong Kong Museum of Art or the priceless artefacts of the Palace Museum is best done with adult company.

Read More: The Best Museums To Visit With Kids


kowloon street markets hong kong alternate date nights

Explore The Streets Of Kowloon

The frantic streets of Mong Kok, Jordan, Sham Shui Po and Kowloon City are wonderful to explore but can be overwhelming with little ones in tow. Save it for a day out with your partner. Pick up things you didn’t know you needed at the street markets and eat your way around town on cheap and cheerful roadside snacks. For an added romantic touch, swing by the Flower Markets and pick up a fresh bouquet.

Read More: Best Florists, Flower Shops And Flower Delivery In Hong Kong


day time dates adventure date hong kong kayak

Hit The Water

A day at the beach post-kids just isn’t what it used to be. Reminisce on the good ol’ days by packing the sunscreen and a good book and laying your towel on a quiet stretch of sand together. Or, get adventurous and rent a kayak or SUP to explore the stunning coastline around Sai Kung, Stanley or nearby islands.

Read More: Best Beaches In Hong Kong 


four seasons couples spa hong kong valentines day

Book A Couples Spa

It will be much easier to get into a romantic mood with a little relaxation. If you’re still dealing with interrupted sleep at home, take the chance to relax together with a curated spa experience. We’ve got our eye on the Urban Wellness Escape for couples at the Four Seasons which includes 30 minutes in the private couples’ treatment room with a glass of champagne, a 30-minute body scrub and your choice of a 90-minute massage of facial.

Read More: Couples Spa Hong Kong — Where To Get Pampered Together

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Making Friends In Hong Kong: How To Meet New People As Parents https://www.sassymamahk.com/family-mum-friends-pregnancy-relationships-friendships-new/ Sun, 01 Jan 2023 22:00:34 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=134884  Making friends as adults in Hong Kong is no easy task, let alone when you have kids! But finding your mum or dad squad is the best way to get through the ups and downs of parenthood. We’ve put together a useful guide on how to meet people and make friends as parents in Hong […]

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 Making friends as adults in Hong Kong is no easy task, let alone when you have kids! But finding your mum or dad squad is the best way to get through the ups and downs of parenthood. We’ve put together a useful guide on how to meet people and make friends as parents in Hong Kong.

There is nothing more life-changing than becoming a new parent. The sleepless nights, the crying babies, the endless diaper changes; how do we get through this new life stage? With the help of other parents, of course! Whether you’ve lived in Hong Kong for a while or just moved here, here are some tips on making friends in the 852!

Read More: The Ultimate List Of Things To Do In Hong Kong For Kids And Families


Making Friends Meet New People Hong Kong

Sassy Mama number peach 1Take The Kids Out To Play

One of the best ways to meet other parents is to take the kids to one of the many indoor playrooms, outdoor playgrounds or picnic spots in Hong Kong. You’re bound to bump into and have conversations with other parents as you sit on the bench and watch the littles play! You’ll notice the same faces frequenting your regular spots and your kids may even make the introductions on your behalf.

Read More: Picnics in Hong Kong – The Best Picnic Spots For The Family


Sassy Mama number peach 2Join Facebook Groups Specifically For Parents Making Friends

It’s easy to find Facebook groups for mums and dads based on where you live, your country of origin or areas of interest. Many groups are private and parents are willing to offer advice and have discussions regarding homes, children, buying, selling, helpers, pets, schools and any other topics that are useful for new families. Hong Kong Moms and Hong Kong Breastfeeding Facebook groups are good places to start, but there are also location-specific Facebook groups such as Discovery Bay Mums and Dads or Sai Kung Mummies and nationality-specific groups such as German Mums In HK and Russian Mums In Hong Kong.

Read More: Discovery Bay Hong Kong – Restaurants, Kids Activities And Things To Do In DB


Making Friends Meeting New People Meet People Hong Kong

Sassy Mama number peach 3Reach Out To Old Connections

If you’ve lived in Hong Kong for a while, chances are you know at least a handful of people. Don’t be afraid to drop them a message on social media to say hello and set a coffee date! Even if it’s a distant connection, the worst that could happen is they don’t remember you and don’t respond, but if they do, it might just be the start of a lifelong friendship.

Read More: That Mama – Anjali Harjani Of Malabar Baby Talks About Life As A Working Mum


Sassy Mama number peach 4Find Your Community On Instagram

Sharing your parenthood journey on Instagram is a wonderful way to connect with like-minded mamas and papas. Who knows, your IG story about your kiddo smirking after painting the walls with crayons may prompt other parents to relate and reply to it! Similarly, you can also follow other mums on Instagram and strike up a conversation when they post something that you relate to.


Making Friends Meeting New People Hong Kong Volunteer School Charity

Sassy Mama number peach 5Volunteer At Schools, Nonprofits And Charities

We know that taking care of the kids keeps you busy enough. But if you can find the time, volunteering at NGOs and charity organisations is not only meaningful but also gives you an opportunity to connect with other parents who share similar interests. You can also ask about the parent committee at your child’s school and volunteer to help out at bake sales, sports days and other special events where you’ll surely meet other parents.

Read More: Where To Volunteer In Hong Kong – 20 NGOs And Charity Organisations


Sassy Mama number peach 6Create a Bumble BFF profile

We’ve all heard some good (and not-so-good) stories when it comes to dating apps. But Bumble is one of the few apps where people have met and formed genuine, long-term connections! It has a BFF section which is a friend-finding mode that connects people from all walks of life, including parents. Simply create a profile, add some fun photos and make sure you answer a couple of prompts that show your personality!


Making Friends Workout Class Meet People Meet New People Hong Kong

Sassy Mama number peach 7Join A Workout Class

Whether you’re into yoga, pilates, spinning or HIIT, there’s definitely a workout class for you out there! Put on your favourite activewear, work up a sweat and don’t forget to strike up a conversation with your fellow gym-goers before or after. If you’re a new mom, there are postnatal fitness classes where you’ll definitely connect with other new moms.

Read More: Postnatal Fitness, Yoga and Pilates In Hong Kong


Sassy Mama number peach 8Making Friends On Meetup

Another great social media platform to meet people is Meetup. Browse around the website or type in your activity of choice and your neighbourhood, and you’ll find a list of groups or events that are happening around you. You can even create your own group or organise an event so if you don’t find anything you like, you can always start your own!


Making Friends Meeting People Cultural Groups Hong Kong

Sassy Mama number peach 9Search For Cultural And Spiritual Groups

If you practice spirituality, joining a group that emphasizes community and celebrates special occasions together is a great way to meet new people. Find your nearest cultural society or religious organisation and you might just create your supportive network of mums and dads.

Read More: Sassy Mama’s Guide To Festivities Around The Globe


Making Friends Meeting New People Creative Classes Pottery

Sassy Mama number peach 10Sign Up For Creative Classes And Workshops

Being a parent shouldn’t deter you from keeping in touch with your interests, you’re your own person after all! Whether you’re into calligraphy, glassmaking, pottery or even leather crafting, there are many workshops and creative classes that’ll only take up an hour of your day. If you want to try something new, look for beginner-level workshops at Klook and HK Ticketing; you can learn a brand new skill and meet new people along the way!

Read More: Arts And Crafts – The Best Art Supply Stores In Hong Kong


Editor’s Note: Making Friends In Hong Kong: How To Meet New People As Parents was updated in January 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

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Considering A Divorce In Hong Kong? Here’s What To Look For In Your Divorce Lawyer https://www.sassymamahk.com/payne-clermont-velasco-divorce-lawyer-hong-kong-family-life/ Thu, 09 Sep 2021 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=157552 If you’ve reached the point of no return, it’s probably time to call in the divorce experts to navigate you through. No one sets out in a marriage to think about divorce but it is something that many families face, and it might possibly be the healthiest next step for you. Navigating a separation can […]

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If you’ve reached the point of no return, it’s probably time to call in the divorce experts to navigate you through.

No one sets out in a marriage to think about divorce but it is something that many families face, and it might possibly be the healthiest next step for you. Navigating a separation can be challenging at the best of times, let alone during a global pandemic with travel restrictions looming over, and the thought of doing it miles away from your home country if you are not originally from Hong Kong (or even if you are).

If you and your spouse have reached a point of no return, calling in the experts to help might be the logical next step. But where do you start? And what should you look for in your divorce lawyer in Hong Kong?

Divorce in Hong Kong with Payne Clermont Velasco

Getting A Divorce In Hong Kong

Firstly, you have the emotional implications to contend with when facing a separation from your spouse. Secondly, is the financial impact. But getting a divorce in Hong Kong doesn’t have to put you in an unnecessarily difficult situation. If you’ve never been through a process like this before then ideally you’ll want:

Sassy Mama number peach 1A divorce lawyer with plenty of experience

Sassy Mama number peach 2A team that will aim for the most cost-effective solution

With over 60 years of combined litigation experience, Payne Clermont Velasco acts on the behalf of clients from all walks of life. A leading specialist litigation law firm in Hong Kong, Payne Clermont Velasco focuses on civil and commercial litigation, with a particular expertise in matrimonial disputes and representing victims of cyber fraud.

You can expect practical and cost-effective legal solutions to suit your individual needs, with exceptional service – something that’s appreciated at times like these. The team knows how tricky this might be for all involved, so why make it harder than it has to be?

Divorce in Hong Kong with Payne Clermont Velasco

Finding A Divorce Lawyer In Hong Kong

You’ll want to find a divorce lawyer that is the right fit for you and comes with a wealth of experience to boot. Jaerey Velasco, Partner at Payne Clermont Velasco, leads the family law and matrimonial practice of the firm. She has extensive experience in a wide range of family law matters, both contentious and non-contentious with international experience, to help put your mind at ease.

Getting A Divorce In Hong Kong: What Is Involved?

It might seem like a daunting task but the team will help with all family matters, including:

  • Children custody and care arrangements
  • Financial settlement
  • Maintenance claims
  • Claims of unmarried couples
  • Guardianship and estate planning

Jaerey is also a qualified collaborative practitioner assisting clients to resolve outstanding issues in a non-adversarial manner, working together to reach the best resolution for everyone involved.

Find the right path with the help of a team that knows how to help you through, and start the next chapter of your life with your best foot forward.

sassy mama perk

Sassy Mama readers will get one complimentary meeting with Jaerey Velasco when mentioning “Sassy Mama” while booking (no obligation to purchase).

Payne Clermont Velasco, Units 2401-2403, 135 Bonham Strand Trade Centre, 135 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 2527 9538, enquiry@payneclermont.com, www.payneclermont.com

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Coaches In Hong Kong: Where To Find The Guidance You Need https://www.sassymamahk.com/family-life-coaches-in-hong-kong/ Sun, 22 Aug 2021 22:00:06 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=157006 Sometimes we need more than love, comfort and nudging from friends and family. If you are seeking some professional support to reach certain goals, look at these well-qualified coaches in Hong Kong who are trained to offer the guidance you need. We’ve all had that moment where we question the path we’re on. Not literally […]

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Sometimes we need more than love, comfort and nudging from friends and family. If you are seeking some professional support to reach certain goals, look at these well-qualified coaches in Hong Kong who are trained to offer the guidance you need.

We’ve all had that moment where we question the path we’re on. Not literally (although as a hiker with a terrible sense of direction, I may have done this more than once!) – I’m talking more about our life path, or our career, or our health.

The pandemic has caused many of us to take stock. We may have faced the terrible reality of being furloughed or made redundant, the challenge of being far away from family, homeschooling kids, and living through some of the most uncertain times in recent memory. Our ability to rebound has taken a battering and we need support to get us back in the game. For others, this may have given them an opportunity to think more deeply about what they truly want for themselves. There may be ideas about retraining, upskilling, or starting something new. It could simply be that there’s a sense that life, whilst not entirely bad, could also be so much better.

Change can be a messy process, and we often need support to explore our choices, ensure they make sense, and provide meaning to our lives. Many people hire a coach to help them achieve their goals faster or to help them find clarity in the many choices or challenges in front of them. There’s no surprise that the recent growth in demand for coaching services has led to an increase in qualified coaches across Hong Kong, covering many areas of expertise.

Read more: Business Advice For Mumtrepreneurs: How To Cope During Times Of Crisis

what is coaching

What Is Coaching?

Before we begin, it’s important to understand what coaching is and how can it help us achieve our goals.

The International Coaching Federation, one of the leading coaching and accreditation organisations, defines coaching as:

“Partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximise their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership.”

Coaching is sometimes confused with counselling, as both are focused on helping the individual move forward. Counselling can work with past pain and trauma, helping an individual to recover or heal and move ahead. It is a highly regulated industry and there are some excellent counsellors in Hong Kong.

Coaching, on the other hand, is future-focused. It uses frameworks, questioning and techniques to help individuals find clarity and awareness and move towards their desired outcome. Another difference is that currently, anyone can set up as a coach with minimum training.

How To Find A Coach In Hong Kong

Since it’s (relatively) easier to become a coach, you have to be careful about finding the right fit. It’s always best to check these two items before working with a coach:

Sassy Mama number peach 1Check the credentials of your chosen coach and whether they are relevant for their field or industry and your needs or goals.

Sassy Mama number peach 2Ask for a “chemistry” meeting. This should be free of charge, to ensure you’re comfortable working together.

Our goals vary as we progress through life. Parents and expats in a new city know this more than others! Coaching is often focused on some key areas where we need support, or want to make improvements at the moment or with an eye to the future. With that in mind, here are some of the leading coaches in Hong Kong across various fields.

Read more: Adapting To Change By Setting Goals In Your Life

Career Choices For Expats In Hong Kong: How To Get Back To Work

leadership coaching in hk

Coaches In Hong Kong: Leadership Coaching

Liesbeth Van Der Linden

With a background in consulting, Liesbeth works with women executives to develop leadership skills, maximise potential and enhance personal effectiveness.

Liesbeth Van Der Linden5592 4144, liesbeth.vanderlinden@gltd.co, www.gltd.co

Ffyiona Yong

As the youngest Head of Operations for Shell, Ffyiona uses her experience in the corporate world to specialise in intergenerational leadership.

Ffyiona Yong, admin@wholistic-cc.com, www.wholistic-cc.com

Coaches In Hong Kong: Career Coaching

Nerice Gietel

Drawing on her own personal experiences and career choices, Nerice took to coaching as a means to help experienced professionals find meaningful job opportunities. She is a great resource for parents and professionals juggling work and family commitments, or those looking to return to the workplace.

Nerice Gietel, 5519 4661nerice@thecareerlounge.co, www.thecareerlounge.co

Read more: Career Choices For Expats In Hong Kong: How To Get Back To Work

health coaching and coaches in hk

Coaches In Hong Kong: Health Coaching

Sandra Carvajal

A nutritionist, yoga instructor and health coach, Sandra helps her clients to achieve balance in their nutrition, emotions and lifestyle habits. Contact her at the Central location of Central & Stanley Wellness practice.

Sandra Carvajal, www.stanleywellnesscentre.com

Helen Revans

Combining health coaching, life coaching and school wellbeing, Helen brings her experience as an educator to her clients, working with students and adults alike.

Helen Revanshelen@nurtureyourlife.com, www.nurtureyourlife.com

Neelam Daswani

Neelam focuses her coaching on nutrition, sleep and time management. She combines this with an emphasis on self-care to support her clients’ long-term health goals. Besides being a PR professional, is also part of the team at Central Health.

Neelam Daswani, WhatsApp: 9126 5052, ndaswani@centralhealth.com.hk, www.neelampurehealth.com

Coaches In Hong Kong: Personal Branding Coaching

Janine Manning

Bringing clarity and confidence to her clients, Janine works with them to bring authenticity to their brand and to work smarter (not just harder) on building their presence.

Janine Manning, The Hive, 1/F 33-35 Hillier Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 6193 0943, janine@janinemanning.comwww.janinemanning.com

Tracy Ho

Tracy helps her clients to be seen, be heard, be known. Her services include international etiquette and multi-cultural communication, key skills in Asia and across the world today.

Tracy Ho, 8193 2105, WhatsApp: 9730 0542, info@frameandframe.com, www.frameandfame.business.site

Nidhi Kush Shah

From presentations and public speaking to personal branding and leadership presence, Nidhi coaches her clients around many communication skills required to make an impact.

Nidhi Kush Shah, nidhi@alchemyconsulting.asia, www.alchemyconsulting.asia

Read more: Interview Tips: How To Land Your Dream Job

life coaches in hk

Coaches In Hong Kong: Life Coaching

Rachel Shieff

Following a successful career in corporate communications whilst raising a family, Rachel brings her positivity and warm approach to her coaching practice. She helps her clients to discover themselves and focus on the next stage in their life journey.

Rachel Shieff, WhatsApp: 6233 2195rachel@rachelshieff.net, www.rachelshieff.net

Monica Browning

Helping clients to find the distinction between who they are, and what they do, so they can live life with authenticity and confidence, Monica coaches around getting clear on where her clients want to be, and how to get there.

Monica Browning9440 6864, mb@couragethroughcoaching.com, www.couragethroughcoaching.com

Mehroo Turel

As a business and life coach, our former That Mama, Mehroo aims to support women entrepreneurs to create a life filled with confidence. She works with them to get them to build resilience and work towards their personal and business goals.

Mehroo Turel, mehroo.turel@gmail.com, LinkedIn: @mehrooturel

Coaches In Hong Kong: Relationship Coaching

Valentina Tudose

TEDx speaker, podcast guest, live Facebook coach, Valentina brings humour and real-world practicality to her coaching, helping clients to find their inner queen!

Valentina Tudosevalentina@happyeverafter.asia, www.happyeverafter.asia

Stephen Clasper

Using a blend of NLP and coaching, and with qualifications in Reiki and DNA Theta healing, Stephen brings warmth and a Zen-like focus to his clients at Shakti Healing Circle. He helps them to find ways to communicate and move forwards in their relationships.

Stephen Clasper, 1206-1207 Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2521 5099, info@shaktihealingcircle.com, www.shaktihealingcircle.com

Read more: Sassy Mama’s Roundup Of Couples And Family Counsellors In Hong Kong

communication coaching hk

Coaches In Hong Kong: Communication Coaching

Malcolm Andrews

With many years’ experience in Sales, Publishing and Consultancy, Malcolm’s soft skills and coaching can help his clients to overcome blockages and develop confidence in executive communication.

Malcolm Andrews, 22/F Three Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 9263 8594malcolm@andrews.hk, www.malcolm.andrews.hk

Carole Lewis

Carole works with senior leaders, emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. She helps them make their voices heard, and work on developing the skills to present with confidence, clarity and conviction.

Carole Lewis, Level 19, Two ChinaChem 26 Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong, carole@carolelewis.hk, www.carolelewis.hk

Read more: Skills That Our Children Will Need In 10 Years’ Time

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