2011 has been a pretty momentous year because in the last twelve months, I have reached several milestones in life – selected Finance as my major, worked for local SMEs, earned my first paycheck, and began planning for a new life in a new country.
Major Decision
I chose Finance not due to a strong interest or burning passion in the subject, but because it’s probably the best decision I could make in the circumstances. Even if I don’t end up working in the Finance sector, the knowledge could come in handy for say, investment decisions, to perhaps supplement an otherwise meagre income. And a natural flair with numbers made the decision all the more clearer. But of course without the undying desire to proactively learn more, it didn’t turn out that well.
Value of Happiness
Over the course of the year, I also got a taste of working life. While I’d like to work for an MNC one day, I learnt quite a bit from the 2 SMEs I worked for – one part-time and the other full-time. I finally understood the meaning of hard-earned money when I received my first paycheck. It certainly wasn’t a lot, but the experience made up for it. Many dream of making it big, earning big bucks – well, I do too. But honestly, I think I’d be happier making less if it leaves me time to spend with my family or pursue other interests in life.
A New Life
But nothing excites more than the prospects of “starting life afresh abroad” in US – with no friends, no family, and nary a worry on my mind (yet). It’s the first time I’ll be away from home for so long but I reckon it’s going to be fun and an adventure in itself! In about 3 weeks, I’ll be in the land of dreams though I’m sure I’m going to miss home and everyone here. But in exchange for an unprecedented experience, I believe it’s gonna be worth it.
In a year of mostly ups and some downs, I think I’ve accomplished quite a bit and got through just fine. One day, I’ll look back at 2011 and see it as a turning point in life. As the year winds down, it’s farewell 2011 and here’s to a brand new start in 2012!