July 22nd, 2010 
DianaIn my early twenties, when I was a new graduate and just secured a job with my first pay cheque, I always do mountains of shopping along Orchard Road in Singapore and become almost broke before the end of the month. Yes, I was a spendthrift as that seems to be the only activity for the week end after church service near Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. I will indulge in good food and spend money on branded clothes, costume jewellery, etc. On the outside, I look good and successful, but sometimes, my bank account is low in savings. Singapore is a good place to earn money as the conversion rate is more than 2 times, but not an ideal place to stay as you tend to keep up with the Joneses. There is peer pressure to wear and look presentable at all times, especially during my wealthy relatives’ dinner at expensive Chinese restaurants during birthdays, Chinese New Year and Christmas.
Now, with more years added to my age, I am wiser now and am happily settled in Penang, earning an income monthly for my retirement. What’s more? I have a dream job to work in my home office for the last 6+ years and for as long as my boss is healthy and able to drive long distances between Penang and KL frequently. No longer do I do mountains of shopping as now I tend to save more than I spend – all for my retirement years ahead. Hopefully my retirement will be golden years and not woeful years with insufficient cash to tide over like some people.
What I have discovered is that shopping and purchasing will make you feel good for a while and then comes the pain when you have to pay your credit card bills when you get the statement. It is not a lasting satisfaction which only makes you poorer and your pocket seems to have holes in it and not able to retain money for investment or savings. So, my advise to all those who just graduate and are getting their first cheques, make sure you save up for rainy days and save more than you spend for a secure future!
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