7 Skills Malaysians Should Pick Up In 2024

By Lara Kramer  •  04 Jan 2024 in Features

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Ah, the sweet aroma of a new year, a fresh start, and the perfect excuse to reinvent ourselves. As we embark on the journey of 2024, why not pick up some skills that scream fun and practicality?

Here’s a sneak peek into the unassuming skills that will satiate you for years to come:

Home/Space Organisation – Because Chaos Is So 2023

Cluttered workspaces and private spaces are the epitome of disorder, and busy people rushing to meet deadlines are often the architects of this.

The satisfaction derived from an organised living or working space, though, is unparalleled. We know that working from an organised space, or returning to an orderly home after a hectic day provides a sense of calm and control. Knowing where everything is placed and having a designated spot for each item also fosters a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, well-organised spaces contribute to mental well-being by reducing stress and sharpening focus. In a world where time is a precious commodity, a decluttered environment not only saves time but enhances overall efficiency.

Interestingly, what was once considered a personal skill has now transformed into a potential career or small-scale business opportunity. In an era where individuals are constantly pressed for time, many find it challenging to maintain organised spaces on their own. In other words, entrepreneurs with a keen eye for organisation can turn their skills into a lucrative career by offering home or office organisation services!

Personal Finance/Business Knowledge Goes A Long Way

Mastering personal finance stands out as perhaps the most practical on this list. Learning to stretch your resources is vital, and it becomes even more impactful if you’re a natural at balancing your finances or invest time in workshops to refine these skills.

The ability to navigate personal finances wisely is a game-changer – you’ll want to know how to make informed decisions, cultivate savings, and thrive in a financially unpredictable world. Workshops and classes dedicated to personal finance offer structured guidance on budgeting, investing, and strategic financial planning.

For business owners, financial skills are paramount for success and growth. Business coaching goes beyond basics, offering insights into strategies for expansion, risk management, and maximising profitability. Acquiring these skills not only benefits you, but could also pose a positive ripple effect on the community if you choose to share your knowledge, or go into coaching.

Effective Communication Workshops – Because Words Matter

In an ever-changing world, one constant remains – communication is always key. You’ll want to ensure that every interaction becomes a meaningful exchange… Or at least one that doesn’t end in tears or rage.

Whether you’re a natural conversationalist or someone navigating the ebb and flow of communication, these sessions invite you to fine-tune your skills.  Mastering the nuances of communication etiquette, body language, and the art of conveying messages with clarity and impact will only lubricate your path to success – whether it’s headed toward business, family or even securing you a date with that special someone. 😉

Sweeten Your Baking Skills

Whether you’re a casual baker or someone diving headfirst into the dough, these workshops just scream joy and satisfaction. From pulling a perfectly golden batch of cookies from the oven or the cozy aroma of a cake that screams homemade, baking skills are rewarding in more ways than one.

Besides the gratification of successfully creating the perfect confection, the delightful clumsiness experienced during your initial attempts (yes, even the sunken centre of your first butter cake) adds a unique joy. These sweet delights serve as an ideal mood lifter after a challenging day. Additionally, for those who cherish sentimentality and enjoy infusing thought and a personalised touch into their gifts, a batch of cookies or a cake tailored to the occasion or recipient is truly heartwarming.

Now, about turning this one into a career – sure, it’s a possibility. The competition is real, but the world does love a passionate baker!

Community Event Planning – Give Back To The People!

Honing community event planning as a skill or trying it out when you have extra time can be incredibly rewarding. It provides an avenue to give back to the people and make a positive impact on lives, even if it’s just in the vicinity of where you reside.

Sponsorship and participation from local entities often play a crucial role in the success of these events, contributing not only to their prosperity but also to the economic vitality of your community. This involvement creates a win-win scenario, where businesses can support worthy causes while gaining visibility and connection with the local population!

Engaging in this is perfect for philanthropists, individuals with spare time and  compassionate hearts, and those seeking deeper connections with the people around them. Especially if your 2024 vibe is channeling positive energy, creativity, and resources into projects that enhance the well-being of the community.

Blogging – Way More Than Just Typing Out Words On A Computer

Girlblogging is the new in-thing on social media nowadays, and the (unisex) practice has long been revered for its versatility and positive impact on the human spirit. Similar to journaling, it serves as a therapeutic outlet, allowing individuals to express their thoughts and feelings, plus learn how to turn their experiences into something creative and reflective.

This is also a wonderful option for those who want to pick up the habit of reading, or improve their vocabulary, but can’t get through a full-length novel just yet.

Beyond its therapeutic aspects, blogging also provides a platform to connect with a diverse audience. Through the online community, bloggers have the chance to meet people from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. This is deeply beneficial for those who find trouble interacting face-to-face, and can also offer you the opportunity to delve into your interests and cultivate new ones this year!

Plus, if writing is your thing, blogging might just be the best way to refine your skills, and put yourself out there and get discovered. 😉

Proud Malaysian? Try Your Hand At Local Tour Guiding

If you find yourself being intimately acquainted with the local culture, history, and hidden gems, consider that this would make you an invaluable guide in the eyes of tourists seeking authentic experiences.

Being a local tour guide allows you to showcase your hometown in a unique light, steering away from typical tourist attractions to offer a genuine and immersive experience – and not just about leading a group from point A to B.

Moreover, in the digital age, travel blogs and vlogs have gained immense popularity. If you can articulate your knowledge and experiences effectively, these platforms become powerful tools for reaching a broader audience. Your insights into local attractions, cultural nuances, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries can resonate with a global audience, contributing to the success of your content. Yes, we’re saying this could kickstart your travel influencer era.

Invest In Yourself With (Proper) Self-Care

Efficient self-care involves understanding the nuances of personal hygiene and grooming, which many people overlook. From the correct way to wash your hair to the precise steps of a skincare routine, knowledge about these practices is crucial.

You don’t need to go full Cassie, but identifying the right products for your skin type and discerning which colours complement you can significantly enhance the efficacy of your self-care routine, and elevate your life in ways you never thought possible.

It may be tempting to simply follow in the footsteps of that one beauty guru on Instagram – but it’s important to note that what works for someone else may not work for you.

Applying the correct techniques and using suitable products tailored to your needs can lead to tangible benefits. Not only does it contribute to physical health and well-being, but it also has emotional and psychological dividends – not to mention, fostering a sense of self-worth and satisfaction.

We’re leaving the belief that self-care is vain and superficial in 2023. We know that when you invest in understanding your body’s needs and treating it with the care it deserves, the payoff is remarkable.

That’s it from us! Here’s to a year of self-discovery, skill mastery, and the countless possibilities that await us. 

Cover image via Imglip