Singapore’s education system is highly competitive, and while parents want their teens to excel, they also fear the impact of stress and burnout. Studies show that 70% of students experience school-related anxiety, leading to lack of motivation, poor focus, and even mental health issues.

So how can parents support their child’s success without pushing them too hard?

Ace Digital sat down with Gary Tong, a Certified Mental Toughness Coach, NLP Practitioner, and Psychology Expert with 15+ years of experience. As the author of Empowered Learning: Helping Your Teen Thrive in a Competitive World, Gary shares 5 game-changing strategies that help students thrive academically and emotionally.

The Problem:
Many parents fixate on grades, unintentionally making their child feel only as good as their report card.

The Fix:
Shift focus to effort and progress. Research on Growth Mindset found that students praised for effort performed 30% better than those praised for intelligence.

"Instead of asking, ‘Why did you only get 75 marks?’ try ‘What did you learn from this?’” Gary suggests. This builds confidence and motivation.

The Problem:
Nagging, bribing, and punishment don’t work. Teens who study only out of fear tend to lose motivation.

The Fix:
Link their studies to their future goals or interests. A Singapore Institute of Mental Health study found that students with intrinsic motivation performed 20-40% better than those studying under pressure.

"If a teen sees how subjects connect to their dream career—be it medicine, business, or design—they naturally take ownership of learning," Gary explains.

The Problem:
Stress is inevitable, but many students don’t know how to manage it.

The Fix:
Teach these proven stress-busting techniques:

✅ Deep breathing (2 minutes) – Reduces anxiety instantly.

✅ The Pomodoro Technique – Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.

✅ Mindfulness exercises – Lowers stress by 30% in students.

"The goal isn’t to eliminate stress, but to manage it in a way that keeps teens in the optimal performance zone," Gary explains.

4. Prioritize Sleep &amp; Physical Health

The Problem:
60% of Singaporean students get less than 6 hours of sleep, even though teens need 8–10 hours for peak brain function. Lack of sleep lowers focus and memory by 40%.

✅ Set a regular sleep schedule (even during exam periods).

✅ Limit screen time before bed for better sleep quality.

✅ Encourage exercise, which boosts brain function by 15%.

"No amount of tuition can fix a sleep-deprived brain," Gary warns.

5. Create a Supportive Environment, Not a Pressure Cooker

The Problem:
Teens often feel like they can’t talk to their parents about school struggles.

✅ Listen, don’t lecture – Let them express their struggles without fear of judgment.

✅ Celebrate small wins – Reinforce their effort, not just results.

✅ Be their ally – Show them they’re more than just their grades.

"When teens feel emotionally supported, they perform better—not just in school, but in life," Gary emphasizes.

Final Thoughts: Help Your Teen Succeed with Less Stress

Academic success and mental well-being can go hand in hand. By focusing on progress, motivation, stress management, sleep, and a supportive environment, parents can help their teens thrive—without unnecessary pressure.

For a free personal assessment and consul<a href="https://www.cruxialteentest.online/">tation with Gary Tong, visit:
👉&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>https://www.cruxialteentest.online/

Ace Digital: Bringing Singaporeans the Insights That Matter
At Ace Digital, we help Singaporeans navigate the challenges of education, career, and personal growth by bringing expert perspectives on topics that impact their lives.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover, let us know! Your challenges shape the stories we tell. 🚀

Is Your Teen Struggling to Excel Without Burning Out?
Singapore’s education system is tough—but pushing too hard can lead to stress, burnout, and lost motivation. So how do you help your teen succeed academically without breaking their mental well-being?
We spoke with Gary Tong, a Certified Mental Toughness Coach & Psychology Expert, to uncover five game-changing strategies that help students thrive. From boosting self-motivation to reducing stress without lowering expectations, these science-backed tips can transform how your teen approaches school.
Want to help your child excel without constant pressure? Read the full interview here. 👇
 👉 https://www.cruxialteentest.online/
 <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/8315e3eb-c364-404d-baa6-4611dede4800/public" alt="In many Singaporean homes, stress shows up quietly—between good intentions and overwhelming expectations" /><h3>Helping Teens Succeed Without Burnout</h3>Singapore’s education system is highly competitive, and while parents want their teens to excel, they also fear the impact of stress and burnout. Studies show that 70% of students experience school-related anxiety, leading to lack of motivation, poor focus, and even mental health issues.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/03943be4-8451-4b15-fe35-e770110efb00/public" alt="70% of students in Singapore report school-related anxiety, according to national mental health surveys" />So how can parents support their child’s success without pushing them too hard?Ace Digital sat down with Gary Tong, a Certified Mental Toughness Coach, NLP Practitioner, and Psychology Expert with 15+ years of experience. As the author of Empowered Learning: Helping Your Teen Thrive in a Competitive World, Gary shares 5 game-changing strategies that help students thrive academically and emotionally.<h2>1. Focus on Progress, Not Just Results</h2>The Problem:
Many parents fixate on grades, unintentionally making their child feel only as good as their report card.The Fix:
Shift focus to effort and progress. Research on Growth Mindset found that students praised for effort performed 30% better than those praised for intelligence."Instead of asking, ‘Why did you only get 75 marks?’ try ‘What did you learn from this?’” Gary suggests. This builds confidence and motivation.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/cd71712e-27ed-4dbf-b49c-8816e3b74000/public" alt="🌱 “Focusing on progress builds resilience — and helps your teen feel seen beyond their grades." /><h2>2. Help Your Teen Find Their “Why”</h2>The Problem:
Nagging, bribing, and punishment don’t work. Teens who study only out of fear tend to lose motivation.The Fix:
Link their studies to their future goals or interests. A Singapore Institute of Mental Health study found that students with intrinsic motivation performed 20-40% better than those studying under pressure."If a teen sees how subjects connect to their dream career—be it medicine, business, or design—they naturally take ownership of learning," Gary explains.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/97fcbe1a-f294-409e-ce87-d7c02fc85800/public" alt="When teens see how school connects to their dream future, learning becomes personal and powerful." /><h2>3. Teach Stress-Management Techniques</h2>The Problem:
Stress is inevitable, but many students don’t know how to manage it.The Fix:
Teach these proven stress-busting techniques:✅ Deep breathing (2 minutes) – Reduces anxiety instantly.✅ The Pomodoro Technique – Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.✅ Mindfulness exercises – Lowers stress by 30% in students."The goal isn’t to eliminate stress, but to manage it in a way that keeps teens in the optimal performance zone," Gary explains.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/85c3b2f7-f46d-4415-fe6c-315f04ea9700/public" alt="A few minutes of deep breathing or Pomodoro practice can shift a teen’s focus and reduce anxiety fast." /><h2>4. Prioritize Sleep &amp; Physical Health</h2>The Problem:
60% of Singaporean students get less than 6 hours of sleep, even though teens need 8–10 hours for peak brain function. Lack of sleep lowers focus and memory by 40%.The Fix:✅ Set a regular sleep schedule (even during exam periods).✅ Limit screen time before bed for better sleep quality.✅ Encourage exercise, which boosts brain function by 15%."No amount of tuition can fix a sleep-deprived brain," Gary warns.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/c0760dc4-f066-48e5-ee59-178f9c878e00/public" alt="Good sleep is still the #1 academic performance booster — and often the most overlooked." /><h2>5. Create a Supportive Environment, Not a Pressure Cooker</h2>The Problem:
Teens often feel like they can’t talk to their parents about school struggles.The Fix:✅ Listen, don’t lecture – Let them express their struggles without fear of judgment.✅ Celebrate small wins – Reinforce their effort, not just results.✅ Be their ally – Show them they’re more than just their grades."When teens feel emotionally supported, they perform better—not just in school, but in life," Gary emphasizes.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/f456db86-8496-4991-7170-d8380ed31000/public" alt="When teens feel safe to express themselves at home, school stress becomes easier to manage" /><h3>Final Thoughts: Help Your Teen Succeed with Less Stress</h3>Academic success and mental well-being can go hand in hand. By focusing on progress, motivation, stress management, sleep, and a supportive environment, parents can help their teens thrive—without unnecessary pressure.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/59130c33-0d6a-43b8-9145-8fb52cb10900/public" alt="Confidence doesn’t come from pressure — it grows from clarity, support, and purpose." /><h3>Free Assessment With Gary Tong</h3>For a free personal assessment and consul<a href="https://www.cruxialteentest.online/">tation with Gary Tong, visit:
👉&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>https://www.cruxialteentest.online/<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/46f0650d-c506-4cbc-ba00-ff39820b4800/public" alt="Want to know exactly how your teen learns and communicates? Book a free session with Gary Tong today" /><h3>About Ace Digital</h3>Ace Digital: Bringing Singaporeans the Insights That Matter
At Ace Digital, we help Singaporeans navigate the challenges of education, career, and personal growth by bringing expert perspectives on topics that impact their lives.If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover, let us know! Your challenges shape the stories we tell. 🚀

Childbirth / Childcare

Kids / Baby / Maternity

Cram school / Preparatory school / Online education

Childcare / Early childhood education

Coaching / Mentoring / Consultation

Is Your Teen Struggling to Excel Without Burning Out?
Singapore’s education system is tough—but pushing too hard can lead to stress, burnout, and lost motivation. So how do you help your teen succeed academically without breaking their mental well-being?
We spoke with Gary Tong, a Certified Mental Toughness Coach & Psychology Expert, to uncover five game-changing strategies that help students thrive. From boosting self-motivation to reducing stress without lowering expectations, these science-backed tips can transform how your teen approaches school.
Want to help your child excel without constant pressure? Read the full interview here. 👇
 👉 https://www.cruxialteentest.online/


5 Simple Ways to Help Your Teen Excel—Without Sacrificing Their Mental Health

Postpartum recovery comes with uncertainties, whether after a natural delivery or cesarean birth. Beyond the initial month of postnatal massages, new mothers often find themselves on a solitary path of discovery, grappling with the demands of breastfeeding and work commitments. Amidst discomfort from traditional binders and the constraints of this transformative period, Lazywaist emerges as a supportive solution with its targeted recovery shapewear that provides compression support at the flexible schedules of busy moms.&nbsp;

Recommended by gynaecologists for post-birth shaping&nbsp;

Postpartum recovery spans a year, with the initial six months being particularly vital. While aesthetics is the key motivation for many, Lazywaist recognises the fundamental need for structural support during this phase. The exploration undertaken by Lazywaist to address the gap in postpartum care is rooted in an extensive research and development process: involving engagement with gynaecologists for insights into specific areas of concern and recovery requisites for new mothers, including support for c-section incision wounds and weakened abdominal muscles.&nbsp;

Compression Shapewear: "The Slim" targets the lower body

Compression Shapewear: "The Sculpt" targets the arms

For new mothers who've undergone C-sections, a hypoallergenic, allergen-free, and post-surgery suitable solution is essential. Through meticulous rounds of testing and exploration, Lazywaist's compression shapewear ("The Slim" and "The Sculpt”) integrates a medically graded material in Korea used by plastic surgeons for post-liposuction compression. In tandem, expert consultations guided the brand towards identifying the optimal compression level of 35 mmHg for effective recovery. With a carefully crafted construction, the shapewear discreetly prevents stitch lines from coming into direct contact with the body’s incision wound spot, enhancing overall wearability and minimising discomfort. The result is shapewear that not only delivers but enhances the experience of postpartum recovery. The shapewear also employs high-quality nylon with antibacterial properties for long-term wear.&nbsp;

Personalised to fit your lifestyle&nbsp;

Embracing each new mother’s unique journey, Lazywaist emphasises yet another importance of finding shapewear that fits your natural size, rather than shopping for an idealised one. Hence, a home fitting session and an 8-week progressive regime are offered in its postpartum bundles. This comprehensive package includes “The Slim” which targets the lower body, supporting thighs, hips, and calves as well as its signature waist trainers (“The Shape” and “The Fix”) targeting the midsection, focusing on the waist, tummy, and pelvic support for new mothers as they attend to their baby's needs throughout the day.

Co-Founder Jas Chua's motivation is deeply rooted in supporting new mothers beyond aesthetics. "Our brand is about being a help to mommies. Through extensive research, collaborative consultations with gynaecologists, and tested materials, along with curated regimes, we aim to guide new mothers with progressive and safe solutions." Jas's personal experience drives Lazywaist's commitment to science-backed solutions and personalised care. The regimes have also undergone rounds of testing to ensure their effectiveness on all body types. This journey of innovation continues, with the launch of a nursing bra and upcoming activewear additions to the postpartum range.&nbsp;

When it comes to waist shaping, it is in fact not exclusive to new mothers; it’s a personal journey for women of all shapes. Just as how braces and retainers gradually transform smiles, Lazywaist’s waist trainers progressively and safely help with inch loss. It starts with “The Shape”, a signature 9-steel-boned shaper to hold and secure your waist as you gradually drop the hook sizes. Once you have achieved your desired waist shape, “The Fix” is the retainer. Crafted from nylon and neoprene, this dual-layered zipper shapewear has no steel bones, making it ideal for body conditioning and workouts, acting as a sweat booster.&nbsp;

Waist Trainers: "The Shape" at the top and "The Fix" at the bottom

Designed for new mothers and Asian bodies, the Postpartum Bundles, Nursing bra and signature waist trainers are available on www.lazywaist.com and Mothercare Paragon from now until 31 October 2023.&nbsp;

For high-resolution images, please download from this <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/home/Lazywaist%20Launch%20Media%20Kit?share_manage_access=false&amp;sharing_recipient_info=">link</a>.&nbsp;

<h1>A solution for postpartum recovery: Lazywaist closes the gap in postpartum care</h1>Medically graded material: Provides support for c-section incision wounds and weakened abdominal muscles and offers an optimal compression level of 35 mmHg for effective recovery
 
Safe and progressive solution: Lazywaist’s 8-week regime guides new moms along this journey and offers the convenience of a home fitting service to ensure the perfect fit.Postpartum recovery comes with uncertainties, whether after a natural delivery or cesarean birth. Beyond the initial month of postnatal massages, new mothers often find themselves on a solitary path of discovery, grappling with the demands of breastfeeding and work commitments. Amidst discomfort from traditional binders and the constraints of this transformative period, Lazywaist emerges as a supportive solution with its targeted recovery shapewear that provides compression support at the flexible schedules of busy moms.&nbsp;Recommended by gynaecologists for post-birth shaping&nbsp;Postpartum recovery spans a year, with the initial six months being particularly vital. While aesthetics is the key motivation for many, Lazywaist recognises the fundamental need for structural support during this phase. The exploration undertaken by Lazywaist to address the gap in postpartum care is rooted in an extensive research and development process: involving engagement with gynaecologists for insights into specific areas of concern and recovery requisites for new mothers, including support for c-section incision wounds and weakened abdominal muscles.&nbsp;Medically graded material&nbsp;<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/fe096ff513968a42ddae223a1a34543e86d77dd9f3f4947ab2e6945f9eadd42e/Lazywaist%20-%20The%20Slim.png" alt="Compression Shapewear: "The Slim" targets the lower body"/>Compression Shapewear: "The Slim" targets the lower body<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/5b655da3b2d5bd7bb3525ea33b5046c0a15a4372a55c3926daad88c04c381054/Lazywaist%20-%20The%20Sculpt.jpeg" alt="Compression Shapewear: "The Sculpt" targets the arms"/>Compression Shapewear: "The Sculpt" targets the armsFor new mothers who've undergone C-sections, a hypoallergenic, allergen-free, and post-surgery suitable solution is essential. Through meticulous rounds of testing and exploration, Lazywaist's compression shapewear ("The Slim" and "The Sculpt”) integrates a medically graded material in Korea used by plastic surgeons for post-liposuction compression. In tandem, expert consultations guided the brand towards identifying the optimal compression level of 35 mmHg for effective recovery. With a carefully crafted construction, the shapewear discreetly prevents stitch lines from coming into direct contact with the body’s incision wound spot, enhancing overall wearability and minimising discomfort. The result is shapewear that not only delivers but enhances the experience of postpartum recovery. The shapewear also employs high-quality nylon with antibacterial properties for long-term wear.&nbsp;Personalised to fit your lifestyle&nbsp;Embracing each new mother’s unique journey, Lazywaist emphasises yet another importance of finding shapewear that fits your natural size, rather than shopping for an idealised one. Hence, a home fitting session and an 8-week progressive regime are offered in its postpartum bundles. This comprehensive package includes “The Slim” which targets the lower body, supporting thighs, hips, and calves as well as its signature waist trainers (“The Shape” and “The Fix”) targeting the midsection, focusing on the waist, tummy, and pelvic support for new mothers as they attend to their baby's needs throughout the day.Co-Founder Jas Chua's motivation is deeply rooted in supporting new mothers beyond aesthetics. "Our brand is about being a help to mommies. Through extensive research, collaborative consultations with gynaecologists, and tested materials, along with curated regimes, we aim to guide new mothers with progressive and safe solutions." Jas's personal experience drives Lazywaist's commitment to science-backed solutions and personalised care. The regimes have also undergone rounds of testing to ensure their effectiveness on all body types. This journey of innovation continues, with the launch of a nursing bra and upcoming activewear additions to the postpartum range.&nbsp;When it comes to waist shaping, it is in fact not exclusive to new mothers; it’s a personal journey for women of all shapes. Just as how braces and retainers gradually transform smiles, Lazywaist’s waist trainers progressively and safely help with inch loss. It starts with “The Shape”, a signature 9-steel-boned shaper to hold and secure your waist as you gradually drop the hook sizes. Once you have achieved your desired waist shape, “The Fix” is the retainer. Crafted from nylon and neoprene, this dual-layered zipper shapewear has no steel bones, making it ideal for body conditioning and workouts, acting as a sweat booster.&nbsp;<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/43c05e7f515eb068371f4e12674df652956aadfe230cb1ed371a75ecbad35e89/Lazywaist-%20Nursing%20Bra.jpeg" alt="Love-me-Tender Nursing Bra"/>Love-me-Tender Nursing Bra<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/173429a194f9f88b48c64c017d766b4169261dbcc0ed03b10e8fdc8650da9469/Lazywaist%20-%20Waist%20Trainers.png" alt="Waist Trainers: "The Shape" at the top and "The Fix" at the bottom"/>Waist Trainers: "The Shape" at the top and "The Fix" at the bottomDesigned for new mothers and Asian bodies, the Postpartum Bundles, Nursing bra and signature waist trainers are available on www.lazywaist.com and Mothercare Paragon from now until 31 October 2023.&nbsp;For high-resolution images, please download from this <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/home/Lazywaist%20Launch%20Media%20Kit?share_manage_access=false&amp;sharing_recipient_info=">link</a>.&nbsp;Lazywaist Co. is a luxury shapewear brand that is dedicated to empowering women to look and feel body confident. Incorporating touches of femininity in our designs, Lazywaist aims to shape every woman's desires with sexy and functional collections at the highest level of style. Focusing on the quality and natural material properties of materials – we pride ourselves on only the highest quality of shapewear that is functional, comfortable, and effective.Er Pei Yi
Communications, Senior Manager
peiyi@abrandaday.com

Christabel Tee
Brand Manager
christabel@abrandaday.com

Advertising / Promotion / PR

Ladies' Fashion

Female Related

Medically graded material: Provides support for c-section incision wounds and weakened abdominal muscles and offers an optimal compression level of 35 mmHg for effective recovery
 
Safe and progressive solution: Lazywaist’s 8-week regime guides new moms along this journey and offers the convenience of a home fitting service to ensure the perfect fit.