coffee with

Michiru

Michiru is a Data Strategist at Synthesis, specialising in the Japanese market. She spends her time uncovering exciting trends and unique audiences in beauty, entertainment, F&B and travel. She is passionate about using data to weave together an intriguing story.

The last series I watched

Beef. A road rage incident featuring Ali Wong and Steven Yeun that snowballs into the worst scenarios you could ever think of. The show has such a great plot that highlights how everyday small stress points and emotional reactions can trigger the biggest chaos. It was really refreshing to see the characters go crazy with their intrusive thoughts. Jeopardising their career, romantic relationships, family, pride, sense of self – things that seem to matter the most as grown people. Definitely recommend to people who have a lot of built up stress, and need to let it out with a good laugh.

My favourite quote is

なんくるないさ (nankurunaisa). Its Okinawan for saying things will all work out in the end.

The last thing I bought and loved

Spontaneous ticket to Bali. I called my friend last night without notice and said “We are going to Bali!”. Thankfully, they were also up for it and we planned the trip, booked our tickets, searched and booked a villa during the 2 hour call we had. We had a great time and I was so happy that I just went for it.

The thing I cannot go on holiday without

My skincare and haircare kit. Beauty is my passion. I don’t care where I go, I’m definitely taking care of my skin and my hair!

The place that means a lot to me

Okinawa. Especially the ocean. My dad is Okinawan and his family lives there so we used to visit my grandparents there every year - ever since I was a baby! After moving to Singapore for uni it became hard for me to join the annual family trips, so its a rare and important occasion. Its a place where I can reconnect with my roots and see my extended family, bask in the sun, listen to the calm waves and stare into the sparkling waters.

When I need to feel inspired

I lift weights. Going to the gym has become a huge part of my life after I realized the amazing effects it has had on my physical and mental wellbeing. I love it so much, I even took my graduation pictures in my school gym.

In my fridge you’ll always find

Eggs and meal-prepped chicken. Protein is king.

The best bit of advice I ever received

My parents telling me that “When things get difficult, remember that there is always an option to quit.” In a world where we are told (or rather expected) to see everything through or start what we finish, it's hard to escape from pressure. But knowing that there really is nothing you can’t opt-out of helps to remind me that I never need to force myself.

As a child my dream was to be

I love singing and performing. I remember myself as a child calling my parents to the living room just to showcase my newest performance. I am super grateful that I’ve had many opportunities during my school years to perform as a band on stage in both Tokyo and Singapore. I had a blast! It felt like my dreams really came true in that moment.

My hidden talent is

I draw stuff sometimes! I don’t get to do it very often these days but I love creating some copic illustrations.

My ideal pet would be

A super fluffy cat and a desert rain frog. I like animals that are quiet and like to keep to themselves. A comfortable support system with good distance.

I am most looking forward to

Going back to Tokyo in the winter to see my family and friends.

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