The Journey of Affluence: A Personal Reflection on Financial Awakening
I am so delighted to be sharing my honest thoughts on what it is like to suddenly find oneself in a more affluent position. As someone in my early 40s, I have experienced a profound transformation in my life. This journey has been marked by both joy and a certain level of disorientation, a testament to the complex emotions that come with financial awakening.
Factors that Influence My Experience
Factor 1: Career Choice and Personal Fulfillment
One of the factors that considerably affect my experience is my profession. I made the decision to leave my full-time job to pursue part-time work in mental health counseling. Despite my skills and dedication, the field of mental health counseling does not typically offer abundant financial rewards. Often, individuals in this field must work multiple jobs just to secure their clinical hours and make a living. This validates the importance of not just the amount of money but also the fulfillment and meaning derived from one's work.
Factor 2: Lack of Social Network
Another significant factor is the absence of financially successful or high-status friends in my life. My best friend earns approximately $200,000 per year, while my brother-in-law, recently a partner at a high-income law firm, is a rare instance of a financially successful person. However, we are limited to meeting during holidays and have minimal interaction. While this can be isolating, it also allows me to appreciate my own financial achievements on my own terms. I can't share this significant milestone with anyone, which adds a layer of singularity to my journey.
Factor 3: The Weight of Loans and Rejection
A major lesson learned and a lingering pain has been the numerous times when I have lent money to others only to be burned. Repeatedly lending money and not getting it back has been detrimental to my mental health. The emotional impact was substantial, and it has taken a considerable amount of therapy to overcome this trauma.
Observations and Reflections
The process of gaining wealth has also changed my view on material possessions. Once owning a Ferrari or other luxury vehicles that symbolize wealth seems trivial. My new aspiration is actually to own a big, tough Ford Dually diesel pickup. These vehicles represent something more than mere status; they embody toughness, practicality, and perhaps a sense of freedom.
Another significant factor is the feeling of guilt, especially when I see others struggling in life. While acknowledging the importance of empathy, I also remind myself that we all have unique journeys and paths. The concept of guilt during this journey serves as a reminder to remain compassionate and understanding in the face of others' adversities.
The Role of Self-Comparison and Legacy
A constant challenge in this journey is self-comparison. As an Asian individual raised in a culture that places a high value on status and success, it is difficult to let go of the comparison mindset. Nevertheless, I remind myself that everyone has their unique strengths and struggles. The memory of these comparisons becomes less intrusive as I internalize that it is not a race but a personal journey.
A house, no matter how grand, is devoid of love without it. This realization has shifted my focus to the importance of love and connection. I find solace in the thought that the legacy I leave behind can have a positive impact on animals, specifically dogs and cats, ensuring that they live their lives with love and care.
Conclusion
Overall, my experience of becoming financially stable has been a complex yet transformative process. It has enhanced my appreciation for the human aspects of life, whether it is my insecurities, my trauma, or the opportunity to use my gifts to help others. In this chaotic and often divisive world, I am grateful for the peace found within myself and the hope that brings to others.
I extend my gratitude to all who have taken the time to read this personal account. I hope this shares a genuine glimpse into my journey, and I wish you all inner peace and understanding amidst the chaos of modern life.