Why do we seek to prolong life? This calm yet provocative question came from a close friend whose parent, at over 80, had just undergone a costly self-funded treatment that amounted to half a million dollars. He wondered why humans can’t simply live out their natural lifespan and pass peacefully when the time comes like…
Lessons from the book The Great Depression: A Diary: Navigating Through the Current Market Challenges
In the context of recent economic turbulence, many individuals are feeling a sense of uncertainty, drawing parallels to the fears experienced during the Great Depression. A compelling resource that I read recently offers insight into this period is “The Great Depression: A Diary” by Benjamin Roth which chronicles the struggles faced by those living through…
The Price of Prosperity: A Reflection on Consumption and Morality
Recently, I had an eye-opening conversation with a self-proclaimed successful salesperson, Mr. B, who epitomized the luxury of our consumer-driven society. This was not our first encounter, but it was, by far, the most illuminating. Dressed in a tailored suit that likely cost more than my monthly mortgage, he exuded an air of success, punctuated…
Minimalist in the City – Reflections of 2024
I’ve finally settled back into my routines and resumed blogging after an extended school holiday break with our Europe trip. While I’m focusing on posting less frequently on my blog and more on LinkedIn these days, I’m grateful to kick off my first blog post of the year with reflections on 2024. As 2024 comes…
Travelogue Series – June 2024 – Malaysia Road Trip (Johor/Malacca/Kuala Lumpur/Ipoh) – 11D10N
Here’s a nostalgic reflection on our longest family road trip to our cherished neighbor, Malaysia, during the June school holidays. We spent months planning this family adventure, and it truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our kids loved it so much that we might make road trips a regular occurrence, as they are much easier…
How Minimalism Can Combat Burnout and Boost Your Mental Health
This is my contribution towards the celebration of World Mental Health Day! Finding Hope in Addressing Burnout and Mental Health in Singapore Singapore currently faces some of the highest burnout rates in the world (CNA video), highlighted by long hours, a challenging work-life balance, and intense competition that often creates unrealistic expectations. According to a…
Living Simply: The Minimalist Wisdom of Forrest Gump
Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to watch “Forrest Gump” on Netflix, a multiple award-winning gem from 1994. This film had been on my radar for years, yet the timing never felt right until now. It’s a powerful story filled with timeless philosophical insights, including the unforgettable quote: “Life is like a box of chocolates.…
Some reflections about Moral Dilemma after watching a viral video about a MIT Educated Neurosurgeon, who became Unemployed and is now alone in the Mountains
I just finished watching a viral YouTube video about a MIT graduate who worked as a neurosurgeon for 9 years before deciding to quit his job. The video has gained almost 7 million views in just a few days. I found it surprising that I was able to sit through the entire 48-minute clip as…
Travelogue Series – Nov / Dec 2023 – Japan Road Trip (Shizuoka / Kanagawa / Chiba – Disneyland) 15D14N – Part 2 of 2
This is the 2nd part of our road trip in Japan and you may click here for the 1st part. Day 7 (Shizuoka – Nippondaira Hotel) We set our course for the Shizuoka prefecture, making our way to the picturesque Makaino Farm Resort. Here, the kids relished the opportunity to feed and ride horses, learn…
Travelogue Series – Nov / Dec 2023 – Japan Road Trip (Tokyo / Yamanashi) 15D14N – Part 1 of 2
A throwback to our much-anticipated road trip with our extended family felt like a long-awaited reunion after the trials of the Covid era. As 2023 unfolded, it seemed that travel was on everyone’s agenda, with “revenge travel” plans in full swing. The prospect of returning to Japan, a place we hadn’t visited since 2019 when…