In a recent LinkedIn post, Choo Ann NGOH explores the age-old adage “The early bird catches the worm” and contrasts it with modern interpretations of work-life balance, particularly during weekends.
NGOH begins by questioning the premise of the common saying, humorously asking, “But but but why the worm wake up so early???” This sets a reflective tone, inviting readers to consider the pressures and expectations associated with early starts and constant productivity.
“I’ve always been fascinated with this saying”
The narrative takes a personal turn as NGOH recounts a recent experience during a morning walk. The author details hearing a knocking sound, initially fearing an animal was trapped. However, the source of the noise turned out to be a woodpecker, leading to a lighthearted moment and a connection to the theme of dedication, or perhaps over-dedication, to tasks.
The Woodpecker Analogy: Laser Focus vs. Weekend Reality
NGOH uses the image of the woodpecker to draw a parallel to professional life. The author poses a direct question to their audience, inquiring about their own work habits:
“(Raises hand)🙋When it comes to work, are you as laser focused as Woody ie you work 25 hours a day, 8 days a week OR weekends means strictly no work?🤷”
This rhetorical question highlights the spectrum of work-life integration that professionals navigate. NGOH’s own response reveals a different reality for them, one that prioritizes family obligations over personal downtime.
Navigating Weekend Responsibilities
Shifting from the general to the specific, NGOH shares their personal approach to weekends, which involves fulfilling family duties that they humorously liken to being an “unpaid Grab driver.” This analogy underscores the time and effort dedicated to family logistics, even during traditional rest periods.
“Weekends I work as an unpaid Grab driver”
Further elaborating on these responsibilities, NGOH states:
“Ferrying my Finance Minister and minions lah”
The phrase “saya yang menurut perintah,” meaning “I who obey orders,” adds a touch of self-deprecating humor, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of these family commitments. Through this personal anecdote, NGOH provides a candid look at the balancing act many individuals perform, where personal time is often repurposed for familial support.
Choo Ann NGOH’s post serves as a relatable reflection on the demands of modern life, prompting a broader conversation about the definition of productivity and the importance of acknowledging the diverse ways individuals spend their time, especially outside of standard working hours.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Choo Ann NGOH on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 2, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →