by Alexandra Nicole Nuralam

Lawyer Hazell Ng Talks Success & Self-Care Practices to De-Stress

Hazell Ng is a lawyer by day and a loving wife and self-proclaimed “tiger” mum by night. She grew up in Kuala Lumpur but moved to Singapore to further her studies, before going on to read law in the UK. Today, the working mother of two little girls—ages three and one!—is the Equity Director and founding partner of local law firm WMH Law Corporation.

We chat with Hazell as she tells BEAUBIT about the beginnings of her career, her idea of success, beauty must-haves and more.

How did you get started in your field?

I spent my days growing up in a law firm. My mum worked as a lawyer and ran her own law firm before her retirement. My brother and I practically spent most of our after-school hours in one of the empty boardrooms in her office, waiting for her to end work. Naturally, I got used to the hustle and bustle of a legal firm: seeing lawyers and support staff dashing through the hallway, rushing out bundles of documents to meet deadlines and hearing the photocopier machine zapping away non-stop. All of these became very familiar to me. I guess this was also the main factor that propelled me to pursue a legal career and start my own law firm thereafter.

What are some valuable professional lessons you have learned?

Understanding your capabilities and limitations, but not being hindered by them! There are many permutations when it comes to dealing with a problem, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Also, staying positive and being open to suggestions and ideas, whether it comes from your superiors, co-workers, employees, clients, regardless of whether they are more or less experienced than you. And when you’re all ready to go, be confident!

What is your idea of success?

My idea of success has vastly changed over time. I used to think that it was all about career progression, aiming to work to the top of the field. But motherhood has definitely changed my perception of success. I now count my small successes every day: getting my daughters to finish up their vegetables, making them nap, putting them to bed.

“Motherhood is altogether a challenge, but yet it gives you a sense of achievement and fulfilment like no other job could offer.”

Why is it important for women to think outside the box when it comes to their career paths, especially in generally male-dominated fields?

I think everyone—not only young women—should be thinking outside the box when it comes to their careers. Times are changing, trends are also constantly evolving, and so are the expectations of clients. Clients no longer come to you for a simple solution, they want something more: clear, transparent communication, a long term trusting relationship, value-added advice, etc. They are more appreciative when their relationship with you is worth more than the legal work you perform.

I wouldn’t say the legal industry is generally male-dominated too! There is an increasing number of prominent female judges, senior counsels, litigators and corporate lawyers, each of whom is highly capable and respected in their work and, even more so than their male counterparts.

Talk us through your skincare routine and your favourite beauty products.

My skincare routine is essentially: Cleansing (double-cleansing in the evening), toner, essence, moisturiser and sunscreen. I don’t have a particular favourite product as I’ve always loved to try out different skincare products, but my top pick is definitely the SK-II LXP Ultimate Perfecting Essence. I don’t think I’ve gotten any restful sleep since my eldest daughter was born; the lack of sleep has definitely made my skin more dry and sensitive, but the Essence has been helpful in calming my skin and giving it a quick boost of moisture.

I’m also a firm believer in sunscreen, given my sensitive skin. I’ve been using the IDS Non-Tinted Sunscreen daily for 7 years.

What is the first thing you do when you wake up? How do you get your day going?

I check on my daughters. They sleep with me, so I’ll hug and kiss them the first thing when I’m awake! Tea is my go-to. More specifically green tea, with no frills—no sugar, milk or cream. I always start my day with a cup of hot tea, and more throughout the day to give me that much-needed boost of caffeine.

Are you a no-makeup makeup person, or actually no makeup?

No makeup at all! But when I do need to put on makeup for occasions, I like to go all glam.

How does self-care come into play in your beauty routine? Do you have any practices that help you cope with stress?

Being a busy mum doesn’t give me much time to visit beauty salons on a regular basis, that is why I like to treat my beauty routine as a form of self-care. However, I would always make an effort to put on a face mask (and some DIY light therapy) at least once or twice a week after the kids are in bed. Occasionally when I have more time and feel like pampering myself, I’ll visit the salons to get lash extensions and a manicure or pedicure.

Whenever I feel stressed, I try to take a break from whatever I’m doing and have a cup of tea to unwind. I love taking a stroll down memory lane and looking at my daughters’ photos or videos on my phone. It’s a seemingly simple act of reminiscing, but definitely one that makes me smile and count my blessings. When all else fails, a bit of retail therapy certainly helps!

What are your plans for the future? What would you like to have accomplished in the next five years?

I am currently heading the Matrimonial and Private Wealth Practice of WMH Law Corporation, a firm started by my husband, myself and another fellow partner. We are currently working to expand our law practice in the region and I’m currently working to build a new practice group focusing on social media law and legal services targeting social media influencers, brand ambassadors, and influencer marketing agencies.

Aside from my professional work, I’ve always had an interest in couture fashion and makeovers for little girls. The local market for this is rather limited and I usually have to source for couture dresses for my daughters from overseas or have one made from scratch by local gown designers (which could fetch a premium price). I would love to pick up designing and dress-making skills, just for the fun of it! I’ve always hoped to dress my daughters with my own creations. Who knows, it could also be a business worth considering!

Hazell’s Beauty Picks

SK-II LXP Ultimate Perfecting Essence, SGD415
IDS Non-Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++, SGD73
LUMI Beauty Vitamin Glow Super Serum, USD38
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Fresh Hair Mist Spray, SGD75
Dior Lip Tattoo, SGD52

Want more ‘BEAU-FILES’? Hit that ‘Sign Up’ button at the bottom to receive the latest updates.