Women we know #38 - Michelle Hon

Michelle is wearing Henna Mendhi blouse & Geometric curve bottom

 

Michelle, sassy mom of 3 kids, author of THE CHILL MOM, international model turned mumpreneur.

 

You wear so many hats, which is your favourite?

 

This is a hard one. I enjoy each role equally. But I suppose my favourite is being a mum. I get much satisfaction from work, but nothing beats walking through the door and having the children calling mummy and giving me hugs.

 You have a high following on your instagram @thechillmom. We love the content you put up, how else do you engage with your followers? Any tips for any mothers who just started out blogging? 


I try my best to reply to my followers' DMs and comments on my Instagram. I also have a blog and a Facebook page, so I do chat with them there too. As for tips for mothers who just started blogging, know what your strengths and interests are. Make sure your blog and social media accounts reflect that upon first impression. People aren’t hanging around to figure you out. They need to get who you are immediately.

Share with us about your business, The Chill Mom Maternity Concierge.


The Chill Mom Maternity Concierge is a one-stop-shop for all your baby planning needs. I’m a baby planner and I help expecting parents plan the arrival of their babies. Similar to a wedding planner, I help parents with everything they would need - from baby nursery set-up, baby products recommendation to supplying post natal help like confinement nanny, lactation consultant and jamu masseurs.

How do you manage work and spending time with your family? Is Singapore permanent for you?


I work from my home office and my breaks are spent mostly with the children. I’ve always shared that striking a balance is almost impossible. There will never be a balance. Some days/weeks, I’m bogged down by work and I tell myself that it’s ok, because some days like Sundays especially, it’s mostly family day when I spend an entire day with them.

Singapore is pretty permanent for the time being. I’ve been here for 10 years and all my children are born here. From time to time, my husband and I do entertain the thoughts of relocating back to Australia, mainly because we want to spend more time with our aging parents. But Singapore is a very comfortable place to live in. Perhaps when my kids are older. Never say never.



Michelle wears Azure sports bra and Precious porcelain mid waist bottom

How do you stay so slim? Is it the food or the exercise?


Most likely food because I don’t have an exercise routine. I know I should but I just don’t have the time. I don’t have a strict diet either. I try to eat healthily and in moderation. I also believe in listening to your body and give in to strong cravings. It’s our bodies telling us what we need. Indulge and move on.

What or who are your style influences?


I don’t think I’m influenced by any style icon in particular. I know what kind of styles suit me and just browsing Instagram keeps me up to date with the current trends.


 

Michelle wears Henna Mendhi blouse


What is the hardest life hurdle you’ve gone through and what did you take away from it?


Losing my mum at the age of 13. Being the oldest amongst my siblings made me grow up up very quickly and I supposed it forms my view about life. Life is short, you won’t know when it’s going to end, just do your best and right by yourself.

What is the one life lesson you learned that can’t be taught in school?


To me, people skill is one of the most important skills to have in life. That includes understanding how people think, why they do certain things, putting ourselves in their shoes, having empathy, and being able to communicate our thoughts across to others, especially those who are different from us. Collaboration over competition.

What is your definition of success?


My definition of success is having made a difference to the world - raising my children to be loving, useful, contributing members of the society, helping others and living a happy life doing everything to my best ability.

Where do you see yourself in five years?


In five years, I’ll probably be doing the same thing - with older kids and spreading the message of The Chill Mom. I'm hoping to have my second book be out by then and I’m looking to add more products to my brand.

Is there a song lyric or a quote you live by?


Happiness is our own responsibility.