Midlife Wonders?

After working flat out for the same company for 17 years, I just want to spend some time doing things that would make me happy. Who would say no to taking some time off from the busy routines? This has been a nagging thought in my head for more than a couple of years. Time to act on it.

I did not have a gap year after graduated from university and I have moved across seven countries/regions for my career. From Oxford back to Hong Kong, then to Singapore and back to Hong Kong, Macau, Beijing, Phnom Penh and now in Kuala Lumpur. Been a long trek, my body and soul is ready for some rejuvenation.

It was enjoyable when the work you do is rewarding and helps you grow. Though once that spark goes out, it becomes transactional. I can see myself powering through for another ten years and continue to make progress on my career as there is still room. Then I will probably hit the runner's wall at age 50 and go through the cliche midlife crisis. Instead of slowly walking into this possible midlife crisis, I thought, why not take charge, be young once again, and reignite that spark, that curiosity, that has brought me all these interesting experience and thoughts thus far in life.

Worried about losing the income, and the lifestyle it brings, I guess I have been quietly ignoring this inner voice. I have been in denial.

I have spent more than a year setting myself a tight(er) budget with a self-imposed shopping ban, to experiment how much money I need to maintain a certain standard of lifestyle.

Turning 40 took place during the pandemic lock down, which has given me the gift to appreciate, if one is richer with the time, one needs lesser money to appreciate what the nature, and a simple life, has on offer for me (for us).

The world has slowed down for us to think, to wonder, are there other ways to make the journey more meaningful, more wonderful. Kudos to my friend Lily: being 40 feels nicely grown up to have perspective, but still young enough to make some big decisions.

So before I arrive the midlife point, I will see where this wondering mind will take me. I am excited to be capturing my Midlife Wonders here.

Starting a journey of wonder.