Reaching the milestone of turning thirty, I've pondered over whether I've been pursuing wealth or dreams. Gradually, I realized the prevalent advice urging one to prioritize "financial management" or finding a "stable" job over chasing dreams. Indeed, the notion of "suffer now, enjoy later" isn't entirely flawed. Many cautionary tales preach that indulging too early may lead to poverty or disgrace. But few emphasize the importance of honesty and kindness, or actively support ventures into adventurous dreams.
But truth be told, does life become smooth sailing after buying a house, getting married, and having children? It feels like the conclusion of a fairy tale, where the princess marrying the prince leads to a happily ever after. Yet, every marriage entails the complexities of daily life, and who can guarantee true happiness after the princess marries the prince? Otherwise, there wouldn't be paparazzi or "catching cheating spouses" industries, and famous figures wouldn't have affairs.
After traveling, I've been reflecting on the "direction of life." Especially during my travels in Southeast Asia, where I discovered that the average nightly accommodation costs only 250 TWD. Why do youth hostels in Taiwan cost around 600 TWD per night? Even youth hostels in Tokyo aren't as expensive as imagined. This signifies that there are various levels of accommodations, just as there are in life.
Perhaps I'm more suited for accommodations priced at 250 TWD, so why am I forced to choose rooms priced at 600 TWD? With a daily income of just 400 TWD, I can afford my daily necessities. So why should I strive for a monthly income of 50-60 thousand TWD? Expanding one's endless desires only leads to losing sight of dreams and failing to balance the desired lifestyle. Travel destinations become a waiting game until retirement.
If accumulating wealth in youth is to ensure a better life in the future, why not consider reducing current living costs? This way, there's no need to waste precious time chasing more money to satisfy the inner beast of materialism.
Three Money-Saving Strategies
1. Stop Extravagant Shopping Behavior
- Taste doesn't equate to high prices. Markets can offer quality, and cooking at home can be enjoyable. Shopping should be within one's means.
- Fashion trends aren't about copying everything but selecting what suits one's style. When you have a strong personal style, you become a fashion icon.
- Stop mindless gift shopping. Thoughtful friendships matter more than the value of gifts.
2. Abandon Indulgent Eating Habits
- Previously, I believed in indulging in fine dining frequently. However, these expenses add up. Saving one month's dining expenses could fund a trip to Japan.
- Recent food safety scandals made me realize that our diets often include processed foods with questionable ingredients. Simple, healthy meals suffice.
3. Invest in Your Dreams, Not Others
- Income inequality is discussed often. However, time is equal, and dreams are universal. You can choose to invest your limited resources in the life you desire.
- Not every girl dreams of being a celebrity, nor does every boy aspire to political prominence. The best investment is in the present, not the future.
