It's not about the money.

"너가 한국말을하니까 편하다. ㅋ"

Sometimes the most unexpected things can bring a smile to your face. (Especially when you are on a morning peak hour train that is stalling in between every station.)

Just a little bit more and I will be free. But just let me rant a bit.

There are times I ask myself what I am doing with my life. Mom bemoaned the fact that I will have no savings by the time I am thirty, which is about two years from now.

And I kinda shocked myself with my calm reply to her. "Yes, I will think about this when I am there."

Now, this is a little unlike me, since I like to be prepared.

But one thing I've learned in my short life so far is that you cannot be prepared for anything. Sure, you can have emergency funds for a rainy day but then what?

That money is just that. Having a surplus does not improve your quality of life. What you need is an amount that is just right.

I have to admit, it is not a bed of roses to have to keep track of my expenses so tightly. But I somehow do not want to be too comfortable. I am afraid that will stop me from takng risks and doing what I really want.

When that happens, I will turn into yet another aimless Singaporean. Go to school. Get a degree. Work. Use my bonus to go on holidays. Get married. Save like mad to hold a meaningless wedding banquet. Save like mad to make sure I have a shelter over my head and food on the table. Save like mad to bring my children up.

When I was, sixteen, that was the life I thought I would have. It sounded more positive then.

Now I've come to realise how meaningless that kind of life is. It is full of societal expectations and none of what I actually want for myself and for my existence.

So, today, I know what I want. It may not be an easy road, but I would gladly trade a comfortable life for hard work.

I want to earn a comfortable life. I want to experience life. And most importantly, I want to be myself while I work towards my dream.

I am worried for myself, but I will continue to keep myself positive by ignoring all the negativity and search for solutions instead.

And of course, I will continue to appreciate the little everyday moments that keep my spirit strong.