Our Founders' story
I guess we are really blessed. Many people spend their life time searching for a soul mate. We were soul mates right from the beginning. In some magical connection of our hearts and minds, we understand one another - a twitch of the nose, a slight tilt of the head, that one second glance - we would know what the other is thinking and might be needing. Sometimes we complete each other's statements, sometimes we back each other up because we just know what the other wants. It is comforting because no matter what we might be going through, we know we can count on one another to be there, to unconditionally support one another, provide that listening ear, and pull each other along.
Being identical twins, we do spend a lot of time together and share many things with one another. But yes, we do too have our fair share of struggles. Because we are often in pairs, others might be inclined to draw comparisons - perhaps you could argue that it might help us to understand our respective strengths, or that in so doing, we might create some healthy competition and find a hidden drive to improve and do better. However, comparisons can be judgmental and biased, and it can create negative feelings, anxiety and insecurities. Other times, we might find ourselves uncertain about what we might stand for and wonder how the other twin might react in the same circumstance. At times like this, we needed to build greater confidence to walk a path alone, and define who we really are as unique individuals.
What our experience of being twins really taught us is the importance of trust and choice, and leaving no man behind. We know the horrid feeling of comparisons and its potential negative impact on relationships, and esteem. To fight it and ensure it does not affect our bond, we chose to embrace our strengths, and help one another along. It taught us to embrace diversity, to see each others as equals while learning the power of teamwork, and that what others say about us do not define us. We can work on becoming who we want to be. As we appreciate each other's strengths, and also explore areas of our development, we find options and ways to overcome challenges together.
As we all grow up, we all struggle with our perception of ourselves and defining our identity. It is not just an internal battle, but an ongoing negotiation and reconciliation with the society and world we live in. We question who we are as a person and as a being in relation to others and the world. We wonder about our purpose and meaning while being pressured to live in accordance with societal norms. With this is mind, Shane and Shamantha obtained their Bachelors of Art and Social Science degree (with Honors) in Psychology and Sociology respectively at the National University of Singapore, seeking to understand what makes people tick from the lens of an individual and from the societal context, systems and structure; and how empowered each individual can be to navigate through life and grow meaningfully in a connected world for the well-being of all.
What our experience of being twins really taught us is the importance of trust and choice, and leaving no man behind. We know the horrid feeling of comparisons and its potential negative impact on relationships, and esteem. To fight it and ensure it does not affect our bond, we chose to embrace our strengths, and help one another along. It taught us to embrace diversity, to see each others as equals while learning the power of teamwork, and that what others say about us do not define us. We can work on becoming who we want to be. As we appreciate each other's strengths, and also explore areas of our development, we find options and ways to overcome challenges together.
As we all grow up, we all struggle with our perception of ourselves and defining our identity. It is not just an internal battle, but an ongoing negotiation and reconciliation with the society and world we live in. We question who we are as a person and as a being in relation to others and the world. We wonder about our purpose and meaning while being pressured to live in accordance with societal norms. With this is mind, Shane and Shamantha obtained their Bachelors of Art and Social Science degree (with Honors) in Psychology and Sociology respectively at the National University of Singapore, seeking to understand what makes people tick from the lens of an individual and from the societal context, systems and structure; and how empowered each individual can be to navigate through life and grow meaningfully in a connected world for the well-being of all.
Our vision
Grow in a meaningful and connected world!
Our mission
To be the catalyst for awareness, growth and relationships
- Connect with Self: Deepen Self Awareness
- People are able to look within to bring out the best in themselves
- Connect with Others: Develop Empathy
- People are able to form meaningful and supportive relationships with diverse others
- Connect within Organisations: Demonstrate Community
- People are engaged, purposeful and collaborate to create possibilities within a psychologically safe community
Our philosophy
|
Everybody is a bean, a seed. There is a seed in every aspect of who we are. And what we become is a result of how our seeds have germinated and grown to make us the person that we are. There are so many seeds in each of us, leadership seed, entrepreneur seed, communication seed, etc., each waiting to sprout and grow. But not all of our seeds mature.
|
|
Getting to maturation can be challenging, requiring nurturing and a confluence of favourable factors beyond pure chance and opportunity. A seed or bean has a higher likelihood of bearing fruits with the convergence of two factors. First, a conducive environment that allows a bean to realise its potential within. Second, a dedicated nurturer who provides nourishment and support, ensures needs are met and removes any potential obstacles.
|
|
Personal development is like bean development. We seek safe and conducive environments and a dedicated nurturer to support the development of ‘seeds’ within our inner core before our potential is unleased. Growthbeans provides that supportive environment for people to pollinate ideas and cultivate seeds of wisdom to learn, grow and overcome obstacles, and find a sense of purpose to create positive impact on those around them.
|
|
At Growthbeans, we enable your growth within a safe Circle supported by nurturers. Be part of our ecosystem circle that begets an upwards spiral of growth. Be nurtured within a circle of friends to overcome all odds and take on a growth mindset to bloom in society. We are always connected and ready to put that halo in all spheres of your life. Come and stimulate the seed within you to grow and succeed. We make it personal for you.
|
Our values
GGenuineGrowth Focus |
RRespect
Responsibility |
OOpenOriginality |
WWelcomingWell-being |
Three experiences in our lives helped us to realise the key elements of well-being. These elements do not discriminate and everyone of all ages need them. We have experienced the ups and downs in our lives and we realised it is these three elements that make a difference. It has become our imperative to bring these elements to the world to enhance the well-being of all.
Find value beyond job titlesAt a mentoring session, our mentee shared she had just left her job of many years to set up a company. She was frustrated because she did not have a name card yet. At networking events, she did not know how to introduce herself. That hit us. “How would you know how to introduce yourself when you retire?” we asked. She looked at us with a new realization on her face - she had gotten stuck in titles. We need to recognize that while our jobs and titles can give us a sense of accomplishment, it is not what defines us. It is not the only value we offer to others. |
Build meaningful relationshipsIf our well-being and fulfillment are closely linked to work and productivity, then there must be an added ingredient(s) to support individuals with spinal cord injuries who will not be able to regain the same level of productivity again. When we spoke to the psychologist, she told us "First deal with their depression. Then help them find meaningful relationships. " Meaningful relationships is really the key ingredient for everyone's happiness regardless of age and differences. |
Listen non-judgmentally“If life was ideal for you, how would you describe it?” we asked. “Happy” the 16-year old girl said, as big fat tears rolled down her cheeks. Unhappy for 8 years, family stressors in her life had caused her health and a downward spiral. “I know it is bad, but I had a boyfriend once and he was very good because he listened.” she said. We gave her a listening ear and helped her to take ownership of her health and happiness. Everyone needs a non-judgmental sounding board. |
