It was instinct, really. One Tampines Hub, need a spot, Starbucks is right there. Shao Chun replied that the hawker centre would do fine.

That $6 latte I didn’t buy tells you everything you need to know about Shao Chun — and embarrassingly, everything you need to know about me.

Shao is hard to miss. Put him in the right robe, and you could genuinely mistake him for a Shaolin monk who got lost on the way to the temple. The bald head is real. The demeanour — unhurried, bright, like someone who has stopped checking his phone for notifications that don’t matter — is also real.

His CV reads like a millennial highlight reel. NTU banking degree, 2010. Equity analyst at Merrill Lynch. Then JPMorgan. Then the pivot to tech — LinkedIn, and eventually Google, where he stayed for nearly eight years before a round of layoffs made the decision for him.

Most people in that situation would have panicked. Shao moved to Chiang Mai.

His wife is Thai. (I told him that a foreign spouse is a Singaporean’s best retirement plan. He agreed without hesitation.) The cost of living is a fraction of Singapore’s. He makes YouTube videos for his channel, 9to5millionairemindset, at a pace of about one a month. He has around 20,000 subscribers — which, if you know how YouTube economics work, is a long way from stable income.

But here’s the thing about income. It’s not just what comes in. It’s what comes in minus what goes out.

And Shao has engineered the “what goes out” side of that equation with the kind of precision he probably once applied to equity research.

His friends tell him he doesn’t need to be so frugal. He could make more videos, build the channel faster, ramp up income to match his old lifestyle.

He told me this and I waited for him to say he was considering it.

He wasn’t.

We ended up on the businessman and the fisherman — you’ve probably heard some version of it. Businessman meets a fisherman on the beach, catches enough fish each day to feed his family, spends the rest of his time napping and playing with his kids. Businessman tells him he should scale up, build a fleet, IPO the operation, and then — only then — he’d be able to relax on the beach.

Fisherman asks: what do you think I’m doing right now?

Shao is already the fisherman. The beach is Chiang Mai. The fish is sufficient. Why would he go one big round just to end up exactly where he already is?

I had no answer for him. I still don’t.

A few days after we met, a friend messaged me on Instagram. How’s family, how’s work?

Family is great, I replied. Work… is work.

And that’s the honest version. No matter how you frame it — fractional, gig, part-time, portfolio career, whatever language makes it sound like a choice — work has a way of being annoying. It follows you. It has opinions about your calendar. It exists, with needs, on days when you’d rather it didn’t.

I want to retire by 55. I don’t know exactly what that looks like — some version of enough, I think, where work becomes optional rather than load-bearing.

But I also have four kids. Shao’s equation works because he built it to work — fewer obligations, lower overheads, deliberate choices about what he actually needs versus what he’d been conditioned to want.

I haven’t made those choices yet. I still suggested Starbucks.

Frugality, I think, is not really about money. It’s about figuring out the smallest number of things you actually need to be fine — and then protecting that number from everything that wants to inflate it.

Shao looks like a monk because he’s done the accounting. Not of his bank balance. Of his actual life.

The hawker coffee was $1.20. It was fine. It was, genuinely, fine.

I think about that more than I expected to.

No longer workplace jargon, the rise of fractional work reflects an evolution in how white-collar workers earn a living.

In Singapore, the number of LinkedIn profiles containing “fractional” in their job description has surged past 1,000. Specialised directories like The Fractional Directory have popped up to connect these high-level talents with a hungry market.

Even the government has signalled that this isn’t a passing fad. In 2025, Workforce Singapore launched pilot programmes specifically designed to match start-ups with seasoned experts in HR, finance, and operations. But is fractional work just a corporate fad, or is it something deeper?

DIFFERENT FROM FREELANCE OR PART-TIME

It took me two years of living the fractional life before I even knew the term existed. When I started in early 2022, I called myself a “Part-Time CMO.” It sounded practical, but it didn’t quite capture the weight of my responsibilities.

It took a client to point out that what I was doing was fractional work. I swiftly updated my LinkedIn headline while we were still on the Zoom call.

While “fractional” certainly sounds sexier than “part-time” or “freelance”, there is a structural difference. Fractional work isn’t just about the hours; it’s about the nature of the relationship.

If you hire a freelance graphic designer on Fiverr, you are buying a specific output, such as a logo, banner or deck. In a fractional arrangement, you aren’t an extra pair of hands for a one-off project. You are a supplier of high-level strategy, embedded in the senior management team. Beyond doing the work, you own the outcome.

There are several reasons for the rise of fractional work. The COVID-19 pandemic was the catalyst, breaking the psychological barrier that workers must be seen in an office from 9 to 6.

Once companies realised their people could work effectively via Zoom and Slack, the geographical and temporal chains were broken. And let’s be honest: C-Suites do not “strategise” for eight hours straight. Most of their time is swallowed by board meetings and office theatrics, so less time does not mean fewer outcomes.

Then there is the economic pressure. Payroll is typically the heaviest burden on any ledger. Amid the economic uncertainty of 2026, companies are prioritising short-term agility. They need a heavy-hitting chief financial officer to guide them through a Series B or a merger, but they may not have the US$300,000 annual budget for a full-time hire.

But for me and many others, the driver is personal. As I age, my inability to tolerate corporate politics has grown. I’ve spoken to peers, such as a CFO at a major Southeast Asian media company, who are similarly jaded. They are tired of the constant reorganisations and the fear that their job is a line item waiting to be deleted. Under a fractional model, we can contribute our best work without the emotional tax of office politics.

PRICE AND ACCESS

For businesses, the value proposition of fractional workers comes down to price and access. Asking a start-up to hire a 20-year veteran on a full-time basis is usually impossible. But they can “buy” 20 per cent of that person’s brain. They will also be able to tap into the fractional worker’s network, which can be more valuable than their actual hours.

One question I get is how fractional workers can be C-suite executives for three different companies at once. In 2022, the answer was “very little sleep.” In 2026, the answer is artificial intelligence.

AI is the silent engine behind the fractional boom. It can handle the heavy lifting of data processing and drafting, which are the time-consuming parts of any executive role.

For instance, when I’m acting as a fractional CMO, I use AI to synthesise months of customer interview transcripts, or to build complex market simulations that used to take a week of manual spreadsheet grinding. This leaves me more time to do what the client actually pays for: high-level judgment, cultural navigation and relationship building.

Fractional work is going mainstream – it is now a searchable job type on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn. Barring a global financial collapse, the costs of rental and full-time payroll will only continue to rise. Fractional work is simply the professionalisation of the gig economy for the C-suite.

My take? It’s not a fad. It’s the future of how expertise is traded.

This article is originally published on CNA. You can find other articles I’d written for them here.

On collection day, he was still going. Still singing the car’s praises as he drove me over to pick it up. At some point, I turned and asked, almost as an afterthought: so what do you drive?

A Subaru.

The world didn’t end, exactly. But something shifted. Not because he’d lied since he hadn’t. He was probably a perfectly good salesperson doing his job with genuine enthusiasm. But there’s something about that moment that lodges in you. If the car is this good, why isn’t it good enough for you?

The Verna, as it turned out, was not great. The fuel efficiency was poor — I was at the petrol station embarrassingly often. The pickup was weak, especially going uphill. It spent more time at the workshop than I’d like to admit. Eventually, the car and I parted ways. I don’t miss it.

But I’ve thought about that moment many times since. Because I keep seeing the same thing play out, just at a much larger scale.

The pattern has a name.

Researchers call it the “say-do gap”: the well-documented disconnect between what people and organisations claim they believe and what they actually do. Studies suggest that stated preferences predict real behaviour with only about 34% accuracy. In other words, what someone tells you they’ll do is wrong two-thirds of the time.

Companies are not immune to this. In fact, they might be the worst offenders, because the stakes of the gap are higher and the audience is larger.

Take the AI industry right now.

You’re scrolling LinkedIn. The usual parade - someone just automated their entire sales pipeline with Claude, someone else dissolved their BDR team and replaced it with an AI agent, someone’s closing deals while they sleep. You’ve seen this post seventeen times this week, different avatar, same energy.

Then you check Anthropic’s careers page.

At the time of writing, Anthropic - the company whose product everyone on LinkedIn is using to replace their sales teams - has 133 open roles in their sales department. One hundred and thirty-three. Salaries ranging from $116K to $290K. Business Development Representatives, Account Executives, Growth roles. A full-scale human sales operation, being built in parallel with a product marketed as making human sales teams obsolete.

And Anthropic isn’t alone. A few months ago, Salesforce made headlines for aggressively hiring salespeople - this while actively marketing agentic AI to customers as a tool for reducing headcount in, you guessed it, sales.

We’ve seen this movie before.

There’s a concept in the tech industry called “dogfooding” — the idea that a company should use its own product internally before asking customers to rely on it. Microsoft popularised the term back in 1988. The logic is simple: if it’s good enough to sell, it should be good enough to use yourself. When companies do this, it builds credibility. When they don’t, it should raise questions.

A high school friend once tried to convince me to quit smoking. He made a pretty compelling case. He was smoking while he said it.

The crypto era is instructive here too. I know this one personally.

A friend got me into crypto around 2021. He was genuinely pumped — the kind of conviction that feels like insider knowledge when you’re on the outside of it. I trusted him. Put in $30,000. By the time the music stopped, I had $200 left. I later connected the dots: he had every incentive to bring people in. His reputation took a significant hit afterwards, and I wasn’t the only one who got burned.

I don’t think he set out to con anyone. But he was selling a story he personally stood to gain from, and I took the excitement at face value instead of asking harder questions. The loudest voices in the crypto conversation were often the ones most financially exposed to your belief in it.

Then there’s the online course industrial complex. Someone builds a modest income teaching people how to build a modest income. If the method worked as advertised, why would they bother teaching it to you? The question answers itself.

In a noisy, TLDR world, the loudest claim wins by default. Most people don’t have the time, or the incentive, to check whether the person selling the vision is actually living it. That ease is exactly what gets exploited.

So how do you tell the bluff from the real thing?

Get a little more cynical. Not paranoid butcynical. Paranoid is assuming everything is a lie. Cynical is asking, quietly, who benefits from you believing this.

A few things worth keeping in mind:

Watch what they hire, not what they announce. Press releases are marketing. Job postings are operational reality. When a company posts aggressively for roles they claim their product eliminates, that tells you where the technology actually stands. The hiring budget doesn’t lie the way the keynote does.

Are they eating their own dog food? If the AI company isn’t using AI to run its own sales pipeline, that’s worth noting. If the salesperson drives a Subaru, that’s worth noting too. Behaviour leaks out if you look closely enough. Even if there are legitimate reasons for the gap, the optics take a hit — and optics are often the point.

Who’s getting rich from the idea - and how? The crypto evangelist made money from your belief in crypto, not necessarily from crypto itself. The course seller made money from selling courses about making money. When the messenger profits more from the message than the method, slow down.

Give it time. NFTs had a very loud two years. Then the music stopped. Most hype cycles have a shelf life. The question isn’t whether something is exciting now — it’s whether the people selling it are still around in five years, building on it quietly rather than loudly.

None of this means AI isn’t genuinely transformative. It probably is, in ways we’re still figuring out. The honest version of the story - AI handles the volume, humans handle the stakes - might turn out to be exactly right.

But “might turn out to be right” is very different from the confident, frictionless certainty that fills your feed every morning. The LinkedIn version has already closed the deal, collected the commission, and is posting about it.

My Verna salesperson wasn’t dishonest. He was enthusiastic about something he had good reasons to be enthusiastic about. But he drove a Subaru home every night.

Ask people what they drive. It tells you more than the brochure ever will.

Battle of Fates is a Korean survival show where 49 fate readers — shamans, tarot readers, saju masters, face readers — compete to prove they can actually read destiny. On paper it sounds like glorified entertainment. Forty-nine mystical figures in a room, one winner. I went in half-sceptical, half-curious, the way you approach anything that sits just outside what you’re willing to believe.

What I didn’t anticipate was how human they all were. And I mean that in the heaviest sense of the word.

Every single one of them had a story. Not a fun origin story — the kind with a montage and a triumphant score. The kind you carry quietly. Grief, loss, illness, years of being misunderstood. The kind that doesn’t resolve, it just becomes part of how you move through the world.

The one that stopped me was Young Master Byeon. He started his journey at five years old. Five. We’ve all seen this archetype in other forms — the piano prodigy who was practising Chopin while other kids were watching cartoons, the chess grandmaster who never really had a childhood to speak of. We tend to celebrate these stories. But watching Byeon, the feeling I got wasn’t admiration. It was something closer to grief. Whatever opened in him at that age, he never really got to be a child after that. No clean stretch of ordinary life before the weight arrived. It just arrived early and stayed.

I sat with that for a while.

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We romanticise people like him. The gifted one, the seer, the person who can perceive what the rest of us can’t. There’s a kind of glamour to it — in movies, in folklore, even in the way we half-jokingly consult fortune tellers at Waterloo Street and then think about what they said for three days after. The gift feels powerful from the outside.

But watching these 49 people, I kept wondering: what if it’s less gift, more weight? What if the sensitivity that lets you read someone else’s fate also means you can’t quite switch off? What if the same thing that makes you perceptive also makes ordinary life feel a little harder to inhabit?

I don’t know if fate reading is real. I genuinely don’t. But I think that question might be less interesting than this one: what does it cost the person doing it?

Byeon wasn’t an exception. The more episodes I watched, the more I noticed the pattern.

There was Seolhwa, who was told she would have a short life. She knows this. She continues anyway — reading other people’s fates, showing up, doing the work — with that knowledge sitting somewhere in her. I don’t know what to do with that kind of person. I’m not sure I have the vocabulary for it. “Brave” feels too clean.

Then there were the shamans who are parents. What struck me about them wasn’t the rituals or the intensity, though there was plenty of both. It was something smaller: the fear that their children might inherit this path. They didn’t choose to become shamans — in Korean shamanic tradition, the calling chooses you, often through illness or crisis. You resist it, you suffer more. You accept it, and your life becomes something most people wouldn’t recognise as ordinary.

And these people, who have built their entire identity around this path, quietly hope their kids are spared.

If that’s not a review of the life, I don’t know what is. Nobody lies awake worrying their child will inherit something good.

Here’s what makes it complicated though.

People still seek them out. In droves. The show’s guests — celebrities, ordinary people — sit across from these fate readers and open up in ways they probably don’t with their therapists. They cry. They nod. They say how did you know that.

So there’s something being exchanged in that room, regardless of what you believe about the metaphysics of it. These wounded people, with their heavy histories, are giving something real to the people who come to them. Maybe the suffering is precisely what makes them good at it. Maybe you can only see certain things clearly if you’ve had to look at hard truths your whole life.

None of them chose this. Not Byeon at five. Not Seolhwa with her shortened timeline. Not the shamans who resisted the calling until resistance became its own kind of suffering.

But here they all are. Showing up. Reading strangers. Carrying their weight and somehow still making it useful.

And they’re not alone in that. Most people carrying a hard hand never end up on a show. They’re just out there — the single mother holding three jobs together with sheer will, the kid who grew up too fast because someone had to, the person who rebuilt quietly after losing everything. No cameras. No audience. Just the daily decision to keep going anyway.

We don’t get to choose the hand we’re dealt. Some people get a harder one than most, and no amount of positive thinking changes that. But what stays with me, watching all 49 of them, is that the hand isn’t the whole game.

You still get to decide how you play it.

If that scene made you wince a little, good. Because that instinct to immediately locate the gap instead of celebrating the ground is exactly the problem Tim Ferriss was circling in his recent piece on the self-help trap. His line hit me cold: to continually improve yourself, you must continually locate the ways you are broken. We’ve built an entire culture around doing exactly that, and we’ve gotten very good at it.

Singapore is a spectacular case study. Back in 2016, PM Lee told us to have Divine Discontent — never to be fully satisfied, to always be reaching. Noble idea. Except somewhere along the way, Divine Discontent stopped being a personal philosophy and became a national anxiety. Ministers remind us to reskill and upskill or risk irrelevance. Every other LinkedIn post screams that 90% of people are using AI completely wrong. Oh, and if you want the cheat code, just comment WOOHOO and they’ll DM you a PDF (that nobody reads past page 3).

I should know. I have a Notion page stuffed with AI prompts I’ve collected like a man preparing for an apocalypse that requires very specific text inputs. You know what that Notion page taught me? That I am an excellent collector of prompts. That’s it. That’s the whole lesson.

And here’s the phrase we’ve collectively forgotten how to say: good enough.

Not in a defeatist, give-up-and-rot sense. But in the honest, clear-eyed sense of: I am doing well. The goalpost keeps moving, and maybe I should stop chasing it. You score 100? Now you need to score 100 consistently. You graduate from a local university? Last generation, that was a golden ticket. Now you need seven internships, a specialisation, an online certification, a side hustle, and probably to make offerings at Tua Pek Kong for 49 days straight. And still, maybe, possibly, a job.

This screenshot I’ll drop here says it all. Nobody — nobody — needs anything that sophisticated. We’re solving problems we don’t have with tools we’ve barely started using.

Ferriss puts his finger on something deeper, though: the optimisation obsession starts with a foundational belief that you are broken. That the glass is perpetually half-empty when it comes to yourself. Keep seeing yourself that way long enough, and it stops being motivation — it becomes a kind of low-grade misery you’ve learned to call productivity.

Think of it this way. You finally add a car perfume to your car after years of meaning to. Does the car suddenly feel new again? For about four minutes, maybe. That 0.00001% improvement you chased didn’t change anything fundamental. But somehow we keep believing the next upgrade will be the one that finally makes us feel complete.

Most of us are, in fact, doing remarkably well given everything we’re dealing with. That deserves more than a footnote.

So what instead? Not nothing. Not abandoning growth entirely. But maybe redirecting the energy toward what actually matters — friends, family, a hobby you do just because you like it, meals you cook for someone else, conversations that don’t have a productivity angle. Anything, really, except trying the new technique that meshes Pomodoro with time-blocking while listening to a binaural beats playlist your LinkedIn connection swears by.

Life is already here. Already happening. Already, in most of the ways that count, pretty good.

The 98 marks are right in front of you.

My first thought — embarrassingly honest — was: must be nice to live in Australia.

Work-life balance. Shops that close at a reasonable hour. A culture that doesn’t celebrate staying at the office until 9 pm as a personality trait. I told myself that’s why he has time for all this, and I don’t.

Then I caught myself.

He has 24 hours a day. I also have 24 hours a day. The math is the same. The question isn’t time. It’s what fills it.

I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. Specifically about how I spend the hours that aren’t work. The honest answer, for a long time, was: social media rabbit holes. Netflix until I couldn’t keep my eyes open. The particular exhaustion of consuming a lot while doing nothing.

Recently, I built a book nook. If you haven’t seen one: it’s a miniature diorama — in my case, a tiny Shakespeare bookshop, complete with shelves, a staircase, and a sign that reads “Welcome to My Book Store” — that sits between books on a shelf. It does nothing. It solves no problem. It cannot be monetised. I bought a kit on a whim and spent many afternoons assembling it, and somewhere around the third tiny shelf I realised I hadn’t looked at my phone once, hadn’t thought about work, hadn’t thought about much at all except whether this miniature plant was going in the right corner.

I felt better afterwards than I had in weeks.

There’s a name for this. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi spent decades studying what he called “flow” — the state of being fully absorbed in a task, where self-consciousness drops away and time stops registering normally. The activity has to be the right level of challenging: too easy and your mind wanders, too hard and you freeze. Building flat-pack furniture, apparently, sits right in that sweet spot for me.

The research on hobbies is more robust than you’d expect. A 2023 study published in Nature Medicine tracked over 93,000 people aged 65 and above across 16 countries for up to eight years. People with hobbies consistently reported better health, greater happiness, and fewer symptoms of depression than those without. That’s not a small convenience sample. That’s a serious longitudinal study across diverse cultures pointing in the same direction.

At the neurological level, engaging in an enjoyable hobby triggers the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine — the chemical tied to pleasure and motivation, which then reinforces the desire to do it again. It’s one of the few legal, free ways to reliably hack your own reward circuitry.

There’s also a stress angle. One study found that roughly 75% of participants saw their cortisol levels drop after making art — even those who didn’t identify as artistic. The act of making something with your hands, it turns out, has a physiological effect that passive consumption simply doesn’t replicate.

But here’s what I find most interesting, and what I think is most relevant for people like me who have spent years optimising everything: the identity buffer argument.

When your professional identity is the only one you have, any failure at work becomes a failure of self. A bad performance review, a project that doesn’t land or a period of unemployment all start feeling like existential threats. You’ve put all your eggs in one basket.

I felt that after exiting from my recruitment business after 11 years. Without any other identity, I was thrown straight into an identity crisis which took months to get out of.

A hobby cracks that open. If you’re also someone who grows aquatic plants, or builds speaker systems, or does weekend barbecue with genuine investment, a bad week at work is still a bad week at work, but it doesn’t touch the part of you that knows how to keep a planted tank alive. Your self-concept has more surface area. It distributes the load.

One scientific review catalogued more than 600 distinct ways hobbies can benefit people — from reduced stress and improved mood to the development of creativity, resilience, and self-confidence. Six hundred!

There’s a particular trap worth naming here, especially for people with an entrepreneurial reflex: the temptation to monetise.

The moment a hobby becomes a side hustle, something changes. The thing you did because it absorbed you completely is now subject to performance metrics. Are people buying? Is the audience growing? Could this scale? The frivolousness and the uselessness were precisely what made it work. Turning it into a revenue stream strips the very quality that gave it its restorative power. And the exhaustion from managing a side hustle has a way of bleeding into everything else.

Some things are allowed to just be for you.

I know the objection. I’ve made it myself. Time is the real constraint. Between work and family and the ten thousand administrative tasks that constitute modern adult life, where exactly do the hobbies go?

But I keep coming back to my friend’s husband and his aquatic plants. He’s no less busy than me in any meaningful structural sense. He’s made a different set of choices about what the non-work hours are for. Something more like an investment in a version of himself that isn’t legible on a CV.

If you spend three hours a day on your phone — which, per most screen time reports, is a conservative estimate for a lot of us — and redirected even 15 or 20 minutes of that toward something that required your hands and your full attention, the research suggests it would matter. Not in a productivity-hack way. Not in a way that optimises your output or builds your personal brand. More quietly and durably, being good at something for no reason tends to matter.

The frivolousness is the point. That’s what makes it work.

First, you don’t retire with money—you retire with memories, and some experiences have real physical expiry dates, so postponing them can mean missing them forever.

Second, I reframe retirement planning by treating net worth peak as a date, not a number, and explain how dying with unspent money can represent thousands of hours worked for nothing, while the fear of running out is often bigger than the math.

Third, I walk through Perkins’ “time bucketing” exercise—mapping life in five-year blocks and assigning goals to realistic windows—plus my own buckets for travel, family, and work changes, to stop drifting and start choosing intentionally.

00:00 Munger’s Wish for Time
00:27 Book That Changed Me
01:05 Retire With Memories
02:06 Experiences Expire
03:19 Peak Net Worth Date
04:11 Fear of Running Out
05:09 Time Bucketing Method
06:16 My Time Buckets
07:07 Bucket List vs Buckets
07:54 Closing Takeaways

Charlie Munger, at one of his final birthdays, was asked what he wished for. His answer: to be 83 again.

Here was one of the wealthiest, sharpest minds alive — a man who could literally buy almost anything — and his greatest wish was simply more time. Not more money. Not more status. Time.

That’s the cruellest joke of life. You can compound your wealth. You cannot compound your years.

Sit with that for a moment. I’ll wait. (Unlike time, which will not.)

We All Live Like We’re Immortal

For the longest time, I was firmly in this camp.

Save more. Spend less. Delay gratification. Retire comfortably. Die... having done what, exactly?

Confronting your mortality is deeply uncomfortable. Almost as uncomfortable as discussing finances with your spouse — and if you’ve attempted that conversation, you know exactly the specific silence I’m describing. But Die with Zero by Bill Perkins forced me to do both, and I’m genuinely glad it did.

(My wife is also glad. Mostly because it means I’ve stopped judging her Grab Food orders as “unnecessary spending.”)

Three chapters left a deep impression on me. I’ll save my favourite for last, so stay with me.

CHAPTER 1: We Don’t Retire with Money. We Retire with Memories.

When we’re on our deathbed, the account balance is meaningless. The memories are all that remain.

One of my most vivid memories is a trip to Hong Kong with colleagues from my first job. We were earning $1,500 a month — and this trip cost a significant chunk of that. Worth every single cent, and I remember it far more clearly than whatever I spent the other months’ salary on. (Probably nothing exciting. Probably chicken rice.)

Here’s something Perkins made me realise: there are experiences you can only have when you’re young. A backpacking trip. Staying in hostels. Sleeping on a cold wooden bench at the firing range during NS — I did this, effortlessly, at 18. I couldn’t now if you paid me and provided a chiropractor on standby.

By your mid-40s, travel looks different. You’re constantly yawning. Your body needs two days to recover from one day of fun. You’ve developed an eight-step bedtime routine and you will tell people about it unprompted. How do you build great memories when you need a risk assessment before staying up past 11pm?

The book also makes a reassuring point for younger readers: your income almost certainly grows over time. You can make up the savings shortfall later. You cannot un-miss experiences.

CHAPTER 2: Think of Your Net Worth Peak as a Date, Not a Number

I know people in their 80s who still manage five properties, obsess over yield optimisation, and calculate rental returns at the dinner table. The time they spend playing landlord logistics could be spent living — but more pressingly, it could be spent not making everyone at dinner very uncomfortable.

Perkins cites a striking example: if you die with $130,000 unspent and you spend $32,000 per year, that’s 6,600 hours of your life worked for nothing. Over two and a half years of 50-hour weeks. Gone. For money sitting in an account, quietly judging your heirs.

I was reminded of a conversation with Ashok Samuel, who was head of private equity at GIC. He told me simply: “55 is my retirement. No buts, no ifs.” Decisive. No hedging. Meanwhile, I’m over here negotiating with myself about whether I can afford an extra side dish.

A note on the numbers (because I know you’re quietly panicking):

Many people overestimate how much they need to retire. And I say this as someone who has definitely Googled “how much do I need to retire” at 2am and immediately felt worse about my life choices.

Here’s why the fear is overstated: your remaining money doesn’t sit still while you draw it down.

Say you have $500,000 saved and spend $30,000/year:

• Your balance earns 1.5% interest → $7,500 in year one

• Inflation at 3% adds only ~$900 to your annual expenses

• Net: you’re still $6,600 ahead from interest alone in year one

Even as you withdraw $30k, your remaining $470k earns $7,050 the following year. The math is genuinely kinder than the fear. (And yes, this is precisely why financial advisors have every incentive to keep you saving longer than necessary — looking at you, and your very confident PowerPoint projections.)

CHAPTER 5 (My Favourite): Time-Bucket Your Life

I have this on my wall now. My family thinks it’s morbid. I think it’s the most useful thing on the wall, which previously just had a motivational print I stopped reading in 2019.

The concept: draw a timeline from today to your expected death. Divide it into five or ten year buckets. Then list everything you want to experience — travel, giving, gardening, visiting every park in Singapore, learning something, building something — and assign each to the bucket where it realistically belongs.

What this exercise reveals is quietly devastating: you have far less time than you think.

I haven’t filled in my 70s and 80s yet. Partly because it’s a bit confronting. Partly because I’m hoping my 70s are still far enough away that Future Me can deal with it. But even seeing my 40s, 50s, and 60s laid out — with physically demanding travel needing to happen sooner, giving requiring financial readiness, and some experiences having hard expiry dates I never consciously acknowledged — it changes everything about how you prioritise.

A bucket list made at 70 is reactive. Time-bucketing is proactive. You stop drifting through life on autopilot and start making actual decisions — which, as it turns out, is both terrifying and oddly liberating.

The Business of Life is the Acquisition of Memories

Charlie Munger wished he could be 83 again.

You cannot buy time back. But you can choose, starting today, to stop treating your future self as the only one who deserves to actually live.

Save, yes. Be responsible, yes. But ask yourself honestly: where is your life energy going — and is it building the memories that will matter when the balance sheet is completely irrelevant?

I asked myself that question, and the answer was uncomfortable enough that I changed a few things. I’m a work in progress. But at least now I have a wall chart.

What’s in your time bucket?

Yes, and we all die eventually, but that's not the point today.

I get flustered when I hear such high-level, obvious statements. As Hongkongers like to say—who doesn't know your mother is a woman? It's bordering on Captain Obvious territory. Telling us many more times will not move the needle.

The Paralysis of Too Many Options

We don't need someone to tell us for the 400th time that we need to upskill. We just need to know what step one is and which step one we should take. I always like to contrast it to walking into a Hong Kong cafe with 200 items on the menu—you freeze and walk out. Or spending 30 minutes scrolling through the million options on Netflix and falling asleep before starting any show.

I do agree that creativity and critical thinking would be a competitive edge for anyone, more so in Singapore, where our best natural resource is our people. Creativity can flow into many aspects of our society to solve deep problems and even create new opportunities.

So how does one begin to acquire them? Let me share my health story first.

My Health Story: Learning to Walk (and Lift) Again

Two years ago, I had my first slipped disc surgery. I had to literally relearn how to walk. I thought all was good, and I was on track to normalcy when another one hit me, this time near my neck. The second surgery hit me when I was already on track to recovery from my first. I was distraught.

So another surgery, and I was back to square one. My doctor told me to never stand near a gym, but I can't. Day by day, I put in the reps and worked myself back to fitness. Fast forward to today, my PB deadlift is 120kg.

Creativity and Critical Thinking Are Muscles

Creativity and critical thinking skills are the same. We're all at baseline, and we need to start somewhere. In the advertising world, people hand-copy Ogilvy ads to train themselves on how he thinks and writes. Similarly, many painters—think Picasso, Van Gogh—would copy the greats before developing their own style over time.

For many of us, we may not endeavour to become pro artists, just like I have zero intention to even sign up for Hyrox (I just want to keep fit), but we need outlets where we can put those into practice.

Finding Your Starting Point

For me, this has been in the form of my video content, which I've been posting on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Facebook. Except for one, none of them is an original idea. You've likely seen similar skits floating around. I'm doing my equivalent of copying from Ogilvy as my first step to work on my creativity. Over time, I may be able to reach the equivalent of my 120kg deadlift and do original content, but that isn't really the point. Working on my creative muscles has allowed me to expand my viewpoint on other areas and see (most of the time) funny angles that I never caught, which is why comedians are funny. They're really observant, and it's a skill to sharpen.

Similarly, on the critical front, you've probably seen many of my rants on LinkedIn. I may be right and mostly wrong, but it again allows me to build that particular muscle. Granted, some people flame me, but you don't need to go public like me. Feel free to write for yourself and not the world. I don't share my workout videos, but that doesn't mean I'm not working out.

Your Turn

These are what work for me and may not be for you. You need to find your equivalent of what can help you put those into practice. Because as competition heats up not just among humans but also from AI, these skills are more important than ever to help you stand out in the market. Or who knows—maybe help you create your own market in the future.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for Tech Companies - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

That phrase really stuck with me. I found myself rewatching a recent reel by Dr Jason Leong, a Malaysian comedian who recently moved to Australia with his family. I'd heard about his plans earlier in a podcast where a comedian friend mentioned Jason was debating between Singapore and Australia. Australia won out. Better culture, less pressure-cooker environment for his daughter, and lower cost of living overall.

All of it came together for one reason: so his daughter could have a fair shot at life.

Granted, he is speaking from a Malaysian POV where the Malay-first policy may disadvantage the Chinese. But what he said still lingers deeply in me.

I don't need to belabour the point, but the Singapore Dream narrative hasn't aged well. The 5Cs (Cash, Car, Condo, Credit Card, Country Club) seemed entirely achievable when I was growing up. The formula was simple: study hard, get a degree, land a job at an MNC, and you'd make it to the middle class. It wasn't just propaganda. It actually worked.

The costs were within reach, too. Check what an ICON condo in Tanjong Pagar sold for in 2000. Sure, you could argue that money worked differently back then, but I've also heard stories from ex-colleagues in the stockbroking industry about 12-month bonuses being the norm. That could easily cover half an HDB flat. One bonus. Half a flat. Try telling that to a millennial today and watch them weep into their avocado toast.

There was an implicit social contract: work hard, play by the rules, and you'll get your piece of the pie. For a generation of Singaporeans, that promise was kept.

The Cracks Are Showing

Right now, you see friction everywhere. Left, right, centre.

Let's start with education. Loiter outside any tuition centre and you'll notice many parents aren't local. They brought their families here hoping for a better future, and they're investing heavily in their kids. Learning Lab can costs $1,000 per month per subject, and some kids do multiple subjects to prep for PSLE.

Let me repeat that. One thousand dollars. Per month. Per subject. That's more than some people's car instalments. For a 12-year-old's math tuition.

For parents who can't afford those supplements, their kids naturally fall behind. And those spots, whether in schools or later in life, naturally go to those who performed better. It's an arms race where the entry fee is your child's childhood and your retirement savings.

And here's the kicker: I hear about Asian migrants doing the same thing in Australia, and it's genuinely facepalm-inducing. Like, guys, you literally moved countries to escape this. Why are you recreating it? If you want a pressure-cooker environment, Singapore will gladly welcome you back. We've got the infrastructure down to a science.

Then there's housing. My first HDB flat in Tampines, a 5-room, cost me $250,000. That same flat now? Easily $800,000. Even getting a BTO takes half a lifetime. By the time you finish paying it off, you barely have anything left to retire on unless you cash out and downgrade. Which, if you think about it, means you spent your entire working life paying for a house you'll eventually have to leave anyway. Fantastic investment strategy.

The math just doesn't work anymore. A fresh graduate today, even from a decent university with a decent job, is looking at decades of debt for a home that's smaller than what their parents had. We're not even talking about condos anymore. Just basic HDB flats.

And speaking of smaller: houses are shrinking. Despite official claims that newer flats are "bigger," anyone who's actually viewed them knows the truth. I've seen shoe boxes with better proportions. What bought you genuine space and breathing room in 2000 gets you a layout where you can touch three walls simultaneously today. Add in longer work hours, longer commutes, and the constant grind just to maintain the same standard of living our parents had.

It's the treadmill effect: running faster just to stay in place. Except the treadmill is also getting more expensive, and the gym keeps shrinking.

What Does "Fair" Even Mean?

So what does Jason mean when he talks about giving his daughter "a fair shot at life"?

I think it's about the gap between effort and outcome. It's not that Singaporeans don't work hard. We're famous for it. We're so good at working hard that we've turned burnout into a competitive sport. It's that the effort required to achieve what used to be a normal middle-class life has become borderline superhuman.

You're paying more for less space while your kids are competing in a high-stakes academic Olympics (that somehow starts at age 7), and you're left wondering: what exactly are we working so hard for? The privilege of doing it all over again?

Fair doesn't mean everyone gets the same outcome. But it should mean that hard work and playing by the rules get you somewhere reasonable. That the game isn't rigged from the start. That your kids can have a childhood instead of a resume-building exercise complete with enrichment activities, leadership camps, and a LinkedIn profile before they hit puberty.

Australia isn't perfect. No place is. But I imagine for Jason, it represents something fundamental: the possibility of a life where success doesn't require sacrificing everything else. Where his daughter can be a kid. Where a decent job means a decent life, not just survival with aspirations.

The Question I Can't Shake

Singapore has given me opportunities I'm grateful for. The efficiency, the safety, the infrastructure. These aren't small things. But when I look at the trajectory we're on, I wonder if the next generation will say the same thing. Or if they'll look back and ask: why did you stay when the writing was on the wall? And also, why is this wall so expensive?

Jason made his choice. He looked at the options, weighed what mattered to him, and decided that Australia offered his daughter something Malaysia couldn't, or wouldn't, provide anymore.

I don't know what my choice will be. But his words keep echoing: "a fair shot at life."

That's not asking for much. It's asking for what we were promised. What our parents had. A life where hard work pays off in ways that matter, where your kids can thrive without being crushed by the system, where the dream isn't just survival.

Maybe that's still possible here. Maybe it's not. But the fact that so many people (smart, successful, integrated people) are asking the question at all tells you something has shifted.

The Singapore Dream isn't dead. But it's certainly on life support.

And more people than ever are wondering if it's worth waiting around to see if it recovers.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for Tech Companies - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

I reflect on the evolution of content creation from blogging to contemporary practices involving AI, and emphasise the importance of maintaining authenticity in one's tone of voice.

Also, a shout-out to ⁨Typeless:⁩ to help you align spoken and written content, and announces plans for more monologue episodes. Stay tuned for a candid look into the world of content creation and personal growth.

00:00 Welcome Back: Where Have I Been?

00:11 The Journey of My Podcast and Book

01:16 Current Work and Future Plans

02:14 The Evolution of Content Creation

03:09 The Importance of Authenticity in Writing

06:03 Tools and Tips for Content Creation

07:20 Conclusion and Future Episodes

The PropertyLimBrothers saga isn't just a scandal; it's a masterclass in what NOT to do, wrapped in a case study of brand destruction.

For those who somehow missed it, let me recap: Melvin Lim, CEO and co-founder of PropertyLimBrothers, and Grayce Tan, VP of Strategy with 190K Instagram followers, allegedly had an office affair that went viral thanks to a leaked video. The cherry on top? Their neighbouring PropNex office could hear everything through the thin walls. Both have since resigned "with immediate effect," but not before Reddit detectives uncovered every detail of their lives, from Grayce's $230K salary (despite only two years of experience) to the company's now-ironic motto: #RealEstateWithIntegrity.

This week’s recommendation: WayShot

Finally, photos my wife actually wants to post

I used to get endless complaints about my photography skills - wrong angles, bad lighting, random people in the background. Then I found Wayshot.

Now I just point and shoot, and the AI does everything else: perfect framing, pro-level edits, ideal lighting adjustments, and it even removes photobombers automatically.

My wife's Instagram has never looked better, and I've never heard "can you retake that?" fewer times. If you're tired of being the designated photographer who can't seem to get it right, Wayshot is honestly a relationship saver.

The Soundproofing Industry's Biggest Win

Let's start with the most obvious business opportunity here: soundproofing. If there was ever an advertisement for investing in acoustic barriers, this is it. Imagine being so confident in your discretion that you forget your competitor's office shares a wall with yours. The PropNex agents didn't even need to try - The surveillance practically delivered itself.

I'm envisioning a whole new product line: the OpacityMax™ series, specifically designed for modern offices where boundaries (both physical and professional) tend to blur. Key features would include:

• PropNex-proof acoustic barriers (tested against thin walls)

• Moan suppression technology (patent pending)

• Lock-sound dampeners (because apparently that matters)

• "Working late again honey" voice modulator

The marketing practically writes itself: "Never again let your neighbouring competitor's office become unwitting witnesses to your poor decision-making."

The Reddit Detective Prevention System

Speaking of prevention, let's talk about the Reddit Detective Survival Kit. When r/SingaporeInfluencers starts their investigation, you need more than just prayers and deleted Instagram stories. These digital sleuths found everything - wedding photos, vacation pictures together, salary discrepancies, Glassdoor reviews, and probably their favourite bubble tea orders.

The kit would need to include:

• Wayback Machine blocker (spoiler: doesn't exist)

• Screenshot detector (also fictional)

• Stress ball shaped like upvote/downvote arrows (this one's real)

• "Don't Read The Comments" motivational poster

The harsh truth? Once Reddit gets involved, you're already cooked. The screenshots are forever, the memes are eternal, and your Google search results are permanently compromised. But at least you can protect yourself from what you CAN'T protect yourself from... the awareness!

The Salary Justification Generator

Now here's where things get really interesting. How do you explain paying your affair partner $230K after two years of experience (starting as an $800/month intern, no less) while your co-founder with 18 years of experience makes $60K? This is where the Salary Justification Generator comes in handy.

This revolutionary AI would auto-generate "merit-based" explanations, create retroactive "special project" documentation, and produce talking points about strategic vision and influencer marketing value. It would even include a comparison tool that searches the entire industry until it finds someone, somewhere, making comparable money with similar experience. The premium feature would make the co-founder's salary look intentional, perhaps suggesting he preferred equity over cash, or that he simply handles "operations" (read: the actual work).

The Brand Integrity Scrubber

PropertyLimBrothers built their entire brand on integrity. Their website proudly proclaimed #RealEstateWithIntegrity. Melvin was a Christian blogger who wrote about family values. The cognitive dissonance is almost impressive in its completeness.

Enter the Brand Integrity Scrubber™. It’s a service that removes all evidence of your formerly wholesome branding. It would erase website mottos, hide Christian blog posts, archive "family values" content, and rewrite Instagram captions to remove all mentions of God, integrity, and family. One satisfied customer testimonial would read: "Changed our motto from 'Integrity' to 'Results' in under three hours!" Another might add: "Successfully pivoted from 'faith-based real estate' to 'real estate' in record time!"

The Spouse Damage Control Package

Let's address the elephant in the room: both parties were married. Melvin has four children.

Enter the Spouse Damage Control Package:

The "I Can Explain" Starter Kit:

• Pre-written apology scripts (tested on focus groups)

• Couples therapy referral list (extensive)

• "It meant nothing" phrase variations

• Tissue boxes (industrial quantity)

The "My Wife Saw It On Reddit" Emergency Kit:

• Crisis PR consultant on speed dial

• "How do I explain this to my 4 kids?" guide

• Asset protection attorney hotline

• Children's therapist database

The "Both Our Spouses Know" Nuclear Option:

• Dual family crisis management

• Divorce lawyer coordination service

• "Starting fresh" rebranding package

• New country relocation guide (non-extradition countries highlighted)

The truth is, no product can fix this level of damage. Those four kids will eventually Google their father's name. Both spouses discovered their marriages were a lie via internet sleuthing. No amount of crisis PR can rewrite that reality.

The Christian Influencer Crisis Kit

For when your faith-based brand collides with your faith-based scandal, you need specialised tools. The Christian Influencer Crisis Kit would include "We're all sinners" theological defences, "God forgives" redemption timelines, church statement templates, and Matthew 7:1 ("Judge not") auto-responders for the comment section.

The bonus feature? A "Testing my faith" persecution narrative builder that helps you reframe public accountability as spiritual warfare. One success story: "Turned my scandal into a testimony! Book deal pending!" The reality check: your church small group is very awkward now, and probably will be forever.

The Resignation Letter Templates

When stepping down becomes non-optional, you need the right words. Here are your options:

The Graceful Exit:

• "Personal reasons" (vague but effective)

• "Family priorities" (true but deeply ironic)

• "Time to reflect" (on mistakes)

• "Full responsibility" (but no details)

The Deflection:

• "Misunderstanding" edition

• "Media speculation" blame version

• "For the good of the company" noble sacrifice

• "Let the team move forward" martyr script

The "At Least I'm Honest" Version:

• "I messed up" admission

• "Crossed boundaries" confession

• "Personal mistake" acknowledgement

• "Privacy for families" plea

All templates include "immediate effect" phrasing because there's no transition period when PropNex has audio evidence.

The Actual Lesson

Behind all this satire lies a genuine tragedy. Two families are shattered. Four children are dealing with their father's very public infidelity. A brand built over years collapsed in days. Careers are destroyed. And for what? A moment of poor judgment that neighbouring offices could literally hear through the walls?

The real opportunity in this crisis isn't about selling products. It's about learning what not to do:

• Don't have affairs (obviously)

• Don't have office affairs (especially obvious)

• Don't have affairs when you're married with four kids (morally bankrupt)

• Don't build your brand on "Integrity" if you're having affairs (cosmically ironic)

• Don't forget PropNex is next door with smartphones (practically stupid)

• Don't pay your affair partner $230K while your co-founder makes $60K (forensically obvious)

Singapore is a small country. Everyone knows everyone. The internet never forgets. And thin walls make terrible co-conspirators.

The Bottom Line

If you're reading this and thinking, "this could never happen to me," you're probably right because you have the common sense not to have an affair in an office that shares walls with your competitor. But just in case, maybe invest in soundproofing anyway. Prevention is always cheaper than crisis management.

And if you find yourself becoming the next viral scandal? Well, at least you'll know there's a whole suite of satirical products waiting for you. They won't save your marriage, career, or reputation, but they might help you organise your crisis efficiently.

Remember: in Singapore's tight-knit business community, today's scandal becomes tomorrow's cautionary tale at every industry networking event. Choose your actions wisely, because Reddit never forgets, and neither does PropNex.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for Tech Companies - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

Two years ago, I had my first slipped disc surgery due to compression on the discs around my lower back. Early last year, I went for another one, this time nearer to my neck. Somewhere in there now sits a titanium clip that will remain long after my body goes up in the furnace.

But the health issue I'm still grappling with? GERD. And if you've never heard of it, stick around – because it might be what's been quietly wrecking your voice too.

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When Your Voice Just... Stops Working

Here's the thing: I was in choir throughout high school and could sing pretty well. I auditioned for competitions. Even though singing never became my career, I always walked into a KTV session knowing I'd impress someone. That confidence carried me through my entire 20s and 30s.

But when I hit my 40s, something was off.

I could no longer hit the high notes I used to nail, let alone falsettos. Initially, I chalked it up to being rusty – I wasn't singing as much as before. So I'd practice occasionally when driving alone in my car, belting out old favourites.

No matter how much I practised, things didn't improve. In fact, they got worse. Some days my throat felt so stuffy I could barely speak without clearing my voice incessantly.

The Expensive Detour

Could it be a technique thing? I can't believe I fell for that myself, but I signed up for a voice projection course thinking it would fix everything. Eight lessons and several hundred dollars later, I was exactly where I started. Turns out you can't technique your way out of a medical problem – though apparently I needed to learn that the expensive way.

The Dentist Who Solved the Mystery

It took a routine dental checkup to crack the case.

My dentist pointed at my teeth and said, "The surface is highly eroded. This is probably from excessive acid production in your stomach flowing upward – especially when you're sleeping – into your mouth." He paused. "And if this isn't taken care of, it'll burn your throat too."

EUREKA.

My throat issue wasn't from underusing my vocal cords or using them wrong. It was a health condition that had taken me more than five years to identify.

This is exactly why I'm sharing this. A year ago, when I posted about my second slipped disc surgery, it reached someone who'd been experiencing the same pain for years. My story motivated her to see the neurosurgeon who operated on me, and she finally resolved the pain that had plagued her for half a decade. If this post does the same for even one person with mysterious throat issues, it's worth writing.

What Actually Is GERD?

I went to see a GP who referred me to an ENT specialist. After scoping my throat, he confirmed it: GERD.

GERD – Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease – is basically chronic acid reflux on steroids. Your stomach acid regularly backs up into your esophagus and throat, causing damage over time. For a month, I was on medication to suppress the acid overproduction and bring me back to baseline. And oh my god, my throat hadn't felt that liberated in years.

The Diet That Made Me Question Everything

But medication is only half the equation. The tougher part? The diet restrictions. GERD is triggered by food, and I was told to avoid:

The Annoying Stuff: citrus, tomatoes, mint

The Painful Losses: fatty and fried foods, chocolate, coffee and tea

The Soul-Crushing Eliminations: garlic and onion (which are in everything)

When I saw this list, I was stunned. So many items were my daily staples. This sounded worse than keto.

But GERD doesn't give a shit about your feelings. I know because I tested it. Sneaking in a coffee? Instant regret. One piece of KFC? Nearly turned into a sore throat. Even this morning, I tried having coffee again. Didn't go well.

The Medication Maze

I'm already supplementing with Nexium, which my dentist recommended after discovering the erosion. Getting that drug was surprisingly difficult – until I miraculously found it in a vending machine while stuck at San Francisco airport. (Yes, apparently American airports sell prescription-strength antacids in vending machines. What a country.)

Now I get my supply from JB pharmacies, where prescriptions aren't needed, because cross-border healthcare arbitrage is apparently part of my life now.

My current regimen: Nexium 30 minutes before breakfast and dinner, plus Weisen-U after dinner (I switched from Gaviscon because it tastes like liquid chalk). The situation has improved significantly, though there are days when I ask for trouble by eating things I shouldn't.

The Depression That Wasn't

Here's something else: because excess acid causes heartburn, I'd been waking up with a heavy chest. For a long time, I genuinely thought I was developing depression. Nope. Just heartburn masquerading as existential dread.

If This Sounds Familiar

If you're suffering from similar symptoms – mysterious voice loss, chronic throat stuffiness, unexplained chest heaviness – please do yourself a favour and get checked. Especially if, like me, your job requires you to talk.

I spent five years losing my voice to something I didn't even know I had. You don't have to.

Don't lose your voice to GERD. Or at least, don't lose it for five years before figuring out what's actually wrong.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for Tech Companies - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

One—go back 20 years with all the knowledge you have now. Basically a do-over.

Two—take 25 million dollars.

Guess which one won?

You got it. The cash.

Why would anyone turn down a second chance at life with a cheat code? Turns out, most of us would rather take the money and run.

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I've lived a do-over. At 15, I had to repeat Secondary 3 because my grades were terrible.

It was like Groundhog Day.

Same curriculum, same teachers, same everything. Imagine beating a video game and then having to replay it from the start. You skip all the cutscenes, grab the important items, speed through because you already know where the enemies spawn.

It was my easiest academic year, even though I stayed laid back about studying and spent most of my time playing basketball.

Sounds great, right?

It wasn't.

Even when you know what's coming, the re-do is dreadful.

What if you mess it up and things turn out worse? There are a thousand ways things could get worse. Sure, you might say you'd just go back and buy Bitcoin at a dollar. Fair enough.

I'd probably do that too. But your entire life trajectory would change. The butterfly effect isn't just movie magic. Whatever you have now that you appreciate and feel grateful for? It might vanish after your do-over.

That relationship you cherish? Gone. That random conversation that led to your current job? Never happens.

And then there's the weight of knowing. The pressure of a second chance when everyone's watching. What if people knew you were doing it over? The expectations alone could crush you.

(Spoiler alert ahead)

This is why I'm captivated by Chef Choi, who won Culinary Class Wars Season 2.

He'd competed in Season 1 and got eliminated midway through. He could've walked away. He'd already won MasterChef Korea - he had nothing left to prove. Taking the metaphorical "25 million option" and moving on would've been so much easier.

Instead, he and another white-spoon chef came back for Season 2. After all the pressure, the scrutiny, the trials, he emerged the winner.

He captured it perfectly in episode one: "They say if you do nothing, nothing ever happens to you." That's why he returned. He was determined to get it right this time.

He's Mr. Do-Over. And he chose the hard way.

So what made his do-over different from my miserable repeat year? He wasn't just going through the motions. He came back with something to prove - to himself, not just others. The experience of failure wasn't baggage. It was fuel.

Chef Choi's made me think about my old goals.

The 2025 goals I set and missed. Hell, some are from way before that—I'm nothing if not consistent at missing targets.

The instinctive reaction? Shrug it off. Move on. The "new year, new me" hashtag window has closed anyway.

But should I revisit them? Try again? If they were goals to begin with, they must've mattered. And with the experience of failure under my belt, wouldn't I have a better shot at hitting them now?

Remember when Loki tried to convince Thanos he'd be useful in Avengers Endgame? Thanos mocked him, saying his experience was nothing but failures.

Loki's response? "I consider experience, experience."

Maybe that's the difference between a do-over that drains you and one that drives you. It's not about replaying the game with a walkthrough. It's about taking everything you learned from failing and using it differently.

For those of us still figuring out what we want from 2026, maybe we can take inspiration from Chef Choi.

Maybe you don't need new goals.

Just do-over your old ones.

Your future self will thank you.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for Tech Companies - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

We were all aspiring entertainers in our 20s.

Growing up on Channel 8 dramas, I didn't just admire what I saw on screen—I was drawn to the lives behind it. The recognition. The freedom. The idea that this could be me someday.

So I tried. I landed a cameo in a period drama on Channel U. Then a police officer extra with dialogue. For a brief moment, it felt like progress. I had ONE whole line.

Then came the opportunity: a supporting role in a series about army life.

My big break had arrived.

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This is where my story diverges from Jimmy O. Yang and Lee Je-Hoon.

All three of us started with a dream. We all got our foot in the door. We all faced a moment where the journey demanded something from us.

Jimmy's moment: Driving Uber to survive while performing stand-up at night. Years of half-empty comedy clubs before he was cast in Silicon Valley.

Je-Hoon's moment: During the 1997 IMF crisis, his family's rice shop closed. He dropped out of college to pursue acting—years of uncertainty, audition rejections, and instant noodles before landing Taxi Driver.

My moment: I had to shave my head for the role.

At the time, I had long hair. Glorious, flowing locks. Shaving it all off felt unthinkable. What would I look like? What would people say?

So I said no.

And just like that, my acting journey ended.

Jimmy endured years of financial struggle. Je-Hoon lived through a national economic crisis. And I walked away from a haircut.

A reversible haircut.

The Real Difference

The difference between us wasn't talent or luck or opportunity.

It was our relationship with discomfort.

Jimmy and Je-Hoon embraced the pain. They made peace with years of struggle because they loved the craft more than they feared the cost.

I walked away from a single haircut.

Bruce Lee once said: "Don't pray for an easy life. Pray for the strength to endure a difficult one."

I wanted the easy life. I wanted the outcome (the recognition, the freedom, the career) without the process.

Looking back, the irony stings. If I'd truly been committed, I would have done what serious actors do: trained, studied the physicality of a soldier, done my own "BMT" prep.

But I didn't.

Because deep down, I wanted the outcome, not the journey.

I wanted to be Christian Bale in The Machinist (minus the dramatic weight loss). I wanted method acting without the method. I wanted the Oscar without the suffering.

The Universal Pattern

This pattern plays out everywhere with our New Year's resolutions.

We want six-pack abs. We want social media success. We want financial freedom.

But we're far less excited about the daily grind behind them.

Six-pack abs? That means 5:30 AM alarms when your bed feels like heaven. That means meal prep every Sunday instead of Netflix. That means grilled chicken over char kway teow five days a week.

That means leg day when your quads are still screaming. That means saying no to your aunt's CNY pineapple tarts and watching her face fall. That means showing up even when you don't feel like it. Which is most days.

As Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson puts it: "Success isn't always about greatness. It's about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come."

The Rock wakes up at 4 AM to train. I wake up at 4 AM to pee and consider it my cardio.

Financial freedom? That means automatic transfers to investment accounts before you see the money. That means driving a five-year-old car while your peers lease new BMWs. That means packing lunch in Tupperware while colleagues eat out at that new Japanese place.

That means watching friends plan trips to Maldives while you're googling "budget hostels in Johor Bahru." That means explaining for the seventh time why you're not upgrading your phone when it works perfectly fine.

That means compound interest working silently for 15 years before the numbers feel significant. Fifteen. Years.

Warren Buffett said: "Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago."

Most of us want the shade right now, and we want someone else to have planted the tree.

The Question That Changes Everything

The most important question to ask yourself in 2026 isn't:

What do I want to become?

It's this:

What pain am I willing to endure to get there?

Because the dreams are easy. Everyone has dreams.

It's the 5:30 AM alarms that separate the dreamers from the doers.
It's the years of financial discipline that build wealth.
It's the shaved head" (or whatever your version of that sacrifice is) that determines whether you're serious.

As Muhammad Ali put it: "I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'"

The suffering is part of the deal. It's not a bug; it's a feature.

So this year, let's not fixate on outcomes. Let's get honest about the price tag attached to them.

And then let's ask ourselves: Am I willing to pay it?

Because if the answer is no, that's okay. Genuinely. Not everyone needs six-pack abs. Not everyone wants to be an influencer. Not everyone needs to be a millionaire by 40.

But then let's stop pretending we want the dream.

What we want is the dream without the work.

We want the cheat code. The shortcut. The montage scene where you go from zero to hero in 90 seconds with uplifting music.

And that doesn't exist.

Unless you're in a Channel 8 drama. In which case, carry on.

For the rest of us? We're going to need a better plan.

And maybe, just maybe, a willingness to shave our heads when the moment calls for it.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

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It’s fascinating how our minds often forget the wonderful things we’ve accomplished, thanks to the ‘recency effect’ that weighs heavily on our immediate sensations. For those of you who may not take many photos or even use Google Photos, I highly encourage you to establish some kind of system to track your achievements, whether big or small. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we haven’t done anything noteworthy throughout the year. Trust me, that couldn’t be further from the truth!

This year, I’ve decided to narrate my thoughts on the SpeakApp rather than spend time writing. Time is a precious commodity, and I often find myself with so little of it. Plus, I’d much rather spend my moments enjoying life than scripting lengthy reviews. While my dictation journey is still a work in progress, it’s proven to be an incredibly effective method to put my thoughts together quickly.

Part One: Professional Milestones and Creative Ventures

The Second Book Contract: From “How” to “Why”

First and foremost, I’m beyond excited to announce that I’m receiving my second book contract! After months of anticipation, I finally heard from my editor back in November. This opportunity materialised after I published a roundup post based on 25 different solopreneurs/business owners on my podcast. My editor saw the post and suggested that this should be a book.

I’m aiming for this new book to resonate with the same vibe as my first one, “No More Bosses,” but with a twist.

This time, we’re exploring the philosophical “why” instead of the practical “how.” Fingers crossed for a smooth journey ahead!

A New Office Routine: The Regus Experience

In another update, I’ve started working out of Regus with one of my clients. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday have become my dedicated office days at Asia Square.

I must say, having that structured office environment has done wonders for my productivity and discipline. The best part? With my Regus card, I can explore different locations whenever I need a change of scenery. And yes, that means free coffee, which is always a plus!

To top it off, I’ve recently taken on a second Fractional assignment, so I’m currently juggling two.

Podcast Evolution

I’m wrapping up Season 5 of the Rolling Stories podcast, which I currently co-host with Manu Khetan, the founder and CEO at Rolling Arrays.

When I took over from the previous CMO, we started our journey with audio formats, transitioned to virtual, and are now upgraded to in-person sessions. It’s been an incredible experience, and I’m enjoying doing it with the new co-host which I must admit I was a bit worried for at first since this is new to him. But he picked it up like fish to water.

Beyond wrapping up the latest season of my own podcast (The Adrian Tan Show) in June, I also got move involved with projects from The Financial Coconut.

I co-hosted an episode supported by Ministry of Finance, a couple of live podcast by OCBC and not forgetting the ones at FLIA 2025 and during 2025 Election.

Live show really bring things to a whole new level of excitement and allowed me to think on my feet, which is a skill I’ve honed over the years of podcasting and moderation work.

Expanding into Video Content

Still on the topic of creativity, I recently worked on a fun sponsored post for XCoffee that required a video format.

While I’ve recorded plenty, I still get a bit awkward seeing myself on screen. Let’s just say influencing isn’t my usual forte! However, I also had the chance to help Manu with some videography at his place, capturing his insights and transforming them into short clips for his leadership journey. It all came together seamlessly thanks to my YouTube experience, especially the longer form content I put up on my travel channel.

Guest Appearances and Professional Networking

My journey also led me to several guest appearances. I had the pleasure of participating in a side hustle panel at the Seedly Financial Festival, where I brought along my friend Nancy to join in the conversation.

Additionally, I was a guest on the Curious Co. podcast where we delved into parenting, and I even shared a bit about my book during a “Let’s Read” series.

Recently, I was also featured in the Imagine That podcast that focused on my solopreneur journey. We discussed challenges, growth, and of course, my book.

I also moderated a marketing roundtable for a company eyeing the Singapore market. I’m honestly not sure why I agreed to do it pro bono, as I typically shy away from such commitments. But the thrill of working with a fresh target audience made it an enjoyable experience.

Lastly, I had the opportunity to serve as a judge at an event hosted by NUS, where I met a professor from NTU. We hit it off quite well, and I owe him a lunch, which I really should prioritise in the coming weeks.

LinkedIn Growth and Authentic Expression

Looking back over the past year, I’ve garnered an incredible 7.3 million impressions on LinkedIn. That is a 285% increase compared to the previous year. This growth has left me pleasantly surprised; I had always believed that 2024 was my peak. However, I realised something had changed in my writing style. It’s become more reflective and unapologetically direct. While I’m not tethered to a particular genre, I find joy in voicing thoughts that resonate with many.

This shift has not only been liberating for me but has also struck a chord with my audience. While it may not directly lead to higher conversions, the messages I receive from readers affirm that I am speaking truths they’ve long wanted to voice themselves. It’s fulfilling to play a role akin to an activist, calling out the nonsense we often encounter.

It all came from a pivotal moment in my journey that occurred during a speaking engagement in Thailand years ago. A professor from Switzerland made a series of bold statements that had the audience in stitches. His parting words resonated deeply: “You know why I can say all this right now? Because I’m retired, so I don’t care what people think.” We all laughed, but it struck me. Why should we wait until retirement, until our time is almost up, to speak our minds? That seemed sadly ironic, and I vowed then not to become that person.

I want to be vocal now, engaging with issues I disagree with in a thoughtful and logical way. It appears that this authenticity resonates with others, and I’m committed to continuing this journey.

Part Two: Health Challenges and Physical Transformations

Second Slip Disc Surgery: A High-Stakes Procedure

Early in the year, I faced a significant medical challenge: my second slip disc surgery. This surgery was closer to my neck, and the risks were high, with my neurologist warning me about the potential for paralysis. What triggered my concern was a tingling sensation that started whenever I look down at the urinal. An uncomfortable reminder that things weren’t right. Having dealt with slip discs in my lower back before, I tried to shake it off, but the discomfort persisted. After visiting the doctor, it became clear that surgery was my best option.

I’m relieved to report that my recovery has been much easier compared to my first surgery, where I had to almost relearn how to walk. This time, however, I only have a constant numbness in my fourth finger on my left hand, which I suppose is a small price to pay for avoiding paralysis.

Ongoing Medical Monitoring and Upcoming Tests

Looking ahead, I have a follow-up appointment in Kuala Lumpur at the end of December for a full-body checkup. I had an ECG done a few months back, which revealed some abnormalities. This means I’ll also have to undergo a treadmill test. A friend recently recounted a terrifying story about someone who collapsed during a similar test, which leaves me a bit anxious. So, if I go quiet on here, you might have an idea why.

Maintaining Fitness Against Medical Advice

Despite the challenges, I’ve maintained a regular exercise routine, something my neurologist advised against. It’s tough to hear, especially since hitting the gym almost every day has been a big part of my life. That said, I did have a bright spot: I signed up for BFT (Body Fit Training) and even joined sessions in KL and Norway. The vigorous workouts have been beneficial, although I wake up aching most mornings.

Aesthetic Transformations: Eye Bag Surgery

On a more aesthetic note, I underwent eye bag redistribution surgery earlier this year. My eye bags had begun to age me, and after a trip to Korea, I decided to address the issue. The procedure was quite the experience. I was awake, feeling every moment of it, and the doctor also suggested I take care of my sunken cheeks by extracting some fat from my tummy and injecting it into my cheeks. The swelling from that transformation took a good three months to go down, but I’m pleased with the results overall.

Letting Go: Hair Perming Gone Wrong

Lastly, I made a decision that may not strictly fall under health but certainly relates to my well-being: I’ve given up perming my hair. I had a panic attack after one particularly bad experience, and I figured it was best to let that go.

Part Three: Family Life and Parenting Milestones

Watching My Children Grow: School Transitions

As a parent, there’s a certain bittersweet joy that comes with witnessing your children reach new milestones. Recently, I experienced that feeling firsthand as my oldest son, Kyan, graduated from secondary school. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown. With four kids, I’ve adopted a more free-range parenting style, avoiding the “tiger parent” approach that many might expect. My philosophy has always been to let them learn and grow through their own experiences rather than pushing them too hard academically.

I’m pleased to say that Kyan took his studies seriously and worked diligently to achieve the grades he aimed for. Though he fell slightly short, I believe that the effort he put in reflects his maturity and dedication. Qualities that will serve him well as he embarks on this new chapter, leaving behind the school that wasn’t his first choice and stepping into a fresh environment. It’s exciting to see him venture forward, especially since many of his friends from primary school are also transitioning with him.

Meanwhile, my younger son, Kingsley, has also completed his journey through primary school. With three kids now in secondary school and one still in primary, our household is bustling with activity.

Navigating the Teenage Years

Speaking of transitions, my daughter Kylie is on the brink of her teenage years. I can already sense the “teenage vibe” kicking in, complete with closed doors and a newfound sense of independence. This shift is particularly poignant for me because Kylie has always been the child I have shared the most time with. It reminds me of Barack Obama’s insightful words about growing up: “They will turn 16, close the door, and come out when they’re 21.” While that timeline may vary, the essence remains the same.

New Family Members: Lumi and Milo’s Great Escape

On a lighter note, we recently welcomed two new family members - lovebirds named Lumi and Milo. Unfortunately, after just a week, Milo managed to escape due to a slight oversight during cleaning. In a twist of fate, Lumi also made a getaway shortly thereafter but seemed to navigate her neighborhood with a surprising sense of familiarity. I quickly located her a floor above our home, and it was a relief to bring her back into the fold.

Family Adventures: Swimming and Outdoor Exploration

As the family continues to grow, so does our love for outdoor activities. After much anticipation, we finally took our dogs swimming! Initially nervous about the water, they eventually warmed up to it, and watching them frolic was a blast for the kids. We plan to make swimming a regular activity because it brought so much joy to all of us.

Outdoor adventures have been plentiful this season. We’ve visited the science center, explored the wonders of the rainforest, and even participated in dragon boating organised by Kingsley’s school. These bonding experiences create lasting memories and reinforce the importance of spending quality time together as a family.

Part Four: Hobbies and Personal Pursuits

Discovering the Joy of Gardening

If you’ve struggled with wilted plants like I have, I have some fantastic tips for you. The first secret weapon in my gardening arsenal is hydrogen peroxide. By diluting hydrogen peroxide with water and mixing it into the soil, you can effectively eliminate most pests lurking beneath the surface. It’s a simple yet effective way to nurture your garden and support your plants’ growth.

Another great addition to my gardening routine has been using banana peels. I learned from social media - thank you, Instagram! - that soaking banana peels in water overnight releases nitrogen, which is incredibly beneficial for plants. I use the banana-infused water to nourish my plants, and I must say, they seem so much happier now!

If you’re an aspiring gardener or even if you consider yourself to have “brown fingers,” I encourage you to give these tips a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes!

Reading Reflections: A Year of Fewer Books

Reflecting on my reading habits, I’ve come to a rather unfortunate realisation: I’ve read the fewest number of books this year than in the past six to eight years. Just six books in total! With constant online distractions, staying focused has become increasingly challenging. I genuinely hope to read and reflect more in the coming year, and I’ve started scheduling “thinking sessions” in my calendar as a step towards that goal. However, I’ve switched from using my iPad or computer to pen and paper. You’d be amazed at how much clearer your thoughts become when you eliminate distractions and just allow yourself to think.

Part Five: Travel Adventures Around the World

This year has been an incredible journey for me as I’ve had the opportunity to travel to many diverse destinations.

Scottsdale, Arizona: Kicking Off the Year

Earlier in the year, I visited Scottsdale, Arizona, for the first time. This trip was part of a kickoff event for a client and marked the beginning of my travel adventures this year. Scottsdale was beautiful, and it set the tone for my busy travel schedule ahead.

Southeast Asia: Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Bangkok

Next on my itinerary was Kuala Lumpur, where I was attending another event related to my work. Following that, I headed to Jakarta. In Jakarta, I stayed at the Park Hyatt, an absolutely insane hotel! The toilet bowl is more sophisticated than my iPad!

In June, I flew to Bangkok for an HR tech event. While I was there, I recorded a podcast with Panchalee, the CHRO of Central Retail Group. This collaboration was particularly special for me as it leveraged my experience and specialised equipment.

Earlier this year, I also traveled to Seoul, primarily for a medical procedure. However, I quickly learned that I prefer slow travel, especially when my travel companions were continually stopping at the same store, Olive Young, day after day. Their indecisiveness drove me a bit crazy, as I like to know what I want and just get it done in one go!

I also had a trip to Malacca, where I created a video about my experiences.

I also made another trip to Kuala Lumpur, but this time I enjoyed being a passenger instead of the driver. It was a refreshing break, and I’m looking forward to returning there soon for my medical check up.

Australia: Hunter Valley and Melbourne

My travels also took me to Hunter Valley for the first time. Unfortunately, upon landing, I discovered that my luggage had gone AWOL! Immediately I bought an airtag online to prevent this from happening again. After a quick trip to Target to grab some essentials, I was ready to make the most of my time there. The flight back included a lengthy layover in Melbourne, where I caught up with an old friend, Rosalie. It felt amazing to reconnect after so many years. I even ventured out for an early morning run in five-degree Celsius weather.

Definitely one of the coldest runs of my life! I also stayed with Rosalie in Melbourne, who graciously opened her home to me.

Vancouver: All-Hands and Japanese Snacks

Later, I headed to Vancouver for the annual all-hands event with my client. One of the highlights of that trip was the transit experience in Japan. I couldn’t resist buying snacks, only to learn that many had very short expiry dates. Sadly, some ended up in the bin, but the culinary adventure was a memorable one nonetheless!

Scandinavia: Denmark and Norway

Recently, I traveled with my boys to Denmark and Norway. This particular trip was interesting due to the freezing temperatures, and I was unsure of what to expect. One of the funniest (yet slightly painful) moments happened when we craved Mala and ended up at a restaurant where food was sold by weight. My oldest son, famished and excited, managed to pile on 1.4 kg of food, resulting in an 80 SGD bill! In Singapore, I doubt I would ever pay more than 20 bucks for something similar.

We also took a cruise ship to Norway, which was a unique experience in its own right. Typically, we opt for Airbnbs, which give us a kitchen and a home-like feel. Plus, it was great to catch up with Evie, a school friend who has been living there for the last 15 years. It had been over 11 years since we last saw each other back in Singapore, when we were just secondary school friends. The nostalgia of sharing our experiences over a cup of coffee was simply priceless.

I also had the chance to visit Norway’s only BFT 3 times in a row.

Part Six: Reconnecting with Old Friends

Life often presents us with the opportunity to reconnect with those who have played significant roles in our past. Despite my tendency to enjoy solitude, I’ve come to realise just how much I cherish these moments of catching up with old friends. It’s a beautiful reminder of the paths we’ve crossed and the memories we’ve created together.

Throughout the year, I’ve had the chance to catch up with several other wonderful people. I bumped into Wah, who was my colleague at StarHub, my very first job post-national service. It was fantastic to reminisce about those early days in the professional world.

Then there was Boonchoo, my former colleague from PeopleStrong, and a few ex-colleagues from Ingues. Each encounter was filled with laughter, shared stories, and a rekindled camaraderie that felt as though no time had passed at all.

Unexpected meetings have also enriched my year. I ran into Wayne, a teammate from my days when I was still managing a social football club. Another pleasant surprise was catching up with Ramon, an influencer I collaborated with during my PeopleStrong days. It’s always inspiring to see where life’s journey takes us after our time working together.

I also had the pleasure of meeting up with Terence Chiew, who, interestingly, published his first book through the same publisher as I did. During my time in Thailand for an HR event, I finally met my Htoo Pyae, who managed my paid ads campaigns across many of my clients in person. We had dinner along the river just outside IconSiam.

These reconnecting moments serve as a gentle reminder of the importance of nurturing our relationships. In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to lose touch with those who matter. But taking the time to reach out, catch up, and share experiences adds depth to our lives and enriches our personal journeys.

So, whether it’s a long-awaited reunion with old friends or a spontaneous meeting with someone from the past, I encourage you to embrace these opportunities. Each connection has the potential to spark joy, inspire growth, and remind us of the bonds that have shaped who we are today.

Part Seven: Looking Forward to 2026

Professional Plans: Scaling Back and New Opportunities

So, what’s on the horizon for 2026? Well, I have to scale back from one of my assignment due to budget cuts so I need to explore new ones to make up for it. This has been my plan for a long time as I much prefer to have 3 clients with smaller commitments versus one client with a big one. But I never put that into action given the master procrastinator in me. Writing my next book is also on my to-do list, assuming my upcoming health check goes well. On a travel note, my commitments will lessen, although I do have an exciting trip to South Africa planned for sixteen days in August.

Financial Goals: Debt Repayment and Future Security

On a more personal note, financial stability is also a significant focus for me this year. I’m determined to pay down my outstanding debts by 2026. Though I admit, I’ve often fallen into the cycle of committing to new big expenses right when I think I’m close to being debt-free. It’s a frustrating two-steps-forward, one-step-back situation. With budget cuts affecting my core responsibilities, I’ve also started contemplating how much longer I’d like to continue working.

While the idea of retirement, as traditionally conceptualised, feels unrealistic for me at this stage, I’m hoping to slow down my workload. Even a scenario where I work just ten hours a week and enjoy my time like a tourist in my own city sounds delightful! To achieve this, I know I must focus on clearing my debts and saving for the future. Since I’m still in the process of settling my mortgage without additional income sources, prioritising my finances is essential.

As we approach the holiday season, I’ll be taking a break from writing on LinkedIn for the next few weeks. I plan to return in January, provided I survive my treadmill workouts! Until then, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for being a part of my journey - and I look forward to reconnecting in 2026!

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

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• What it is: An AI‑native workspace that unifies Doc, Data, and Slides with an auditable Process.

• Why it matters: Board‑ready outputs with traceable numbers and on‑brand design—no copy‑paste shuttle.

• Time to value: From prompt + CSVs to a defensible deck in about 60 minutes.

• Key benefits: Speed, polish, traceability, and consolidation into a single platform.

• Best for: Executives, chiefs of staff, strategy/ops, finance leads.

• Pricing note: Free while in beta; paid plans coming; some partner links include a 1‑month Pro trial.

If you’ve ever juggled Google Docs for writing, PowerPoint for slides, a BI tool for charts, and five research tabs (and only to ship something that still feels stitched together), you know the pain. Today’s workflow is too often copy‑paste gymnastics, writer’s block, and generic AI that can’t back up its claims.

Even if you’re using ChatGPT for drafting, Gamma for slides, and Perplexity for research, you’re still hopping tools—like cycling to the bus interchange, taking a bus to the train station, then catching a train to your destination.

AnyGen is the direct flight: one seat, one ticket, end‑to‑end. It’s an AI‑native creation platform that unifies the journey from rough idea to polished, multi‑format publication. I put it to the test to see if it lives up to the promise.

The Big Idea: An Integrated Creation Hub

Remember when Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone in 2007 ‘an iPod, a phone, and an internet communicator’, and then revealed they were one device? Same energy here.

AnyGen is an AI writer, an AI PPT creator, and an AI data analyst. These aren’t three separate platforms (think ChatGPT, Gamma, and Perplexity). They’re one unified system—and it’s called AnyGen.

Because the parts are tightly integrated, there are fewer moving pieces; like an EV versus an ICE car. You spend less time context‑switching and more time thinking. By combining research, writing, data analysis, and design in a multi‑agent system, you get fewer transfers and faster arrival. The platform is built around three core modules:

AI Doc

A collaborative document editor for multi-round co-creation with rich formatting.

AI PPT

Professional presentation software with superior manual editing and enterprise templates.

Traceable Data Analyst

An AI analyst that uncovers deep, reproducible insights from your data.

What’s Different? The Key Benefits

• Faster Iteration, Higher Quality: Multi-round AI co-creation and real-time collaboration help you produce better documents, faster.

• Professional Polish and Control: Create enterprise-grade presentations using best-in-class manual editing tools and custom brand templates.

• Deep, Verifiable Insights: No more embarrassing hallucinations. It delivers fully traceable data and a clear audit trail, so you can defend every number.

• Lower Tool-Stack Cost: It consolidates writing apps, presentation software, and data platforms into a single subscription.

Road Test

Does it work as well as the brochure says? Let’s find out.

I’m assuming I’m pitching a new client. First, I’ll create a GTM proposal, then dive into their sales data, and finally turn everything into a deck.

Doc

Starting off with the GTM proposal, I will get it to focus on the HR Tech segment.

And in case you think I am some kind of expert prompt engineer so it works better for me, the prompt you see here came entirely from one of the provided template. I just need to fill in the blanks in purple.

I expected plain text, but it generated well‑structured formatting and illustrations out of the box.

Take it and ship, or keep refining. Crucially, edits aren’t all‑or‑nothing. Unlike many tools that force a full regeneration, AnyGen lets me adjust a single paragraph in place.

And of course, you can invite teammates to collaborate in real time.

Here is my final page

Data Analysis

Now for the heavy lifting.

Using demo data, I asked it to analyze sales trends and surface actionable insights.

By the time I made a Nespresso, insights were ready—from cleaned datasets to clear charts.

then into these:

You can even do a one-click to trace where the data come from. And finally into a report like this:

See it for yourself here.

Slides

Given my storyboard, next up would be to explain why Account-Based Marketing is an important priority.

With a one-shot prompt, AnyGen is able to churn out a Slides that you can export to PowerPoint for further adjustments.

What is amazing is the checkpoints prior to the start of generation as the AI confirms with me certain criteria so it won't blindly create something that isn't what I want.

Submit your form, and the slides will be created in the next few minutes.

Here is the link to the slides

What I Liked vs. What Could Be Better

Pros

• The "Trace Source" culture is a huge win for credibility.

• Seamless continuity between Docs/Report and Slides.

• Precise manual controls where they matter most.

• Collaborative Process notes ensure transparency.

Cons

• The learning curve is slightly steeper for power users. Would be good if it can align to industry norms for shortcuts such as / for action items.

• More industry-specific starter templates would be a great addition.

• Slide design library could be richer.

It also shines for long‑form content like marketing pages or help-centre articles. Multi‑round co‑creation helps you develop and refine comprehensive pages with advanced formatting - fast.

Who Is It For?

Industry Leaders & Operators

If you present to executives or clients, the trust and polish pay off. Decks look intentional, and your numbers are defensible, with confidence built‑in.

Pricing and Access

At the time of this review, AnyGen is free to use in beta, with paid plans expected soon. For my readers only, get your 1‑month Pro trial when you sign up with this link.

The Verdict

Most AI tools help you draft faster. AnyGen helps you ship better. It combines speed with the standards high‑stakes work requires: traceable analysis, strong writing, and polished design. If you value both efficiency and credibility, AnyGen is a powerful addition to the stack. I’m keeping it.

Adrian Tan
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WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

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This was the final act of my first business. I thought these scenes only existed in movies - the desperate entrepreneur, unravelling at the seams while trying to hold everything together. But here I was, living it. Turns out I was method acting for a role I never auditioned for. Even now, years later, I still shudder when those memories surface.

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The Biology of Breaking Down

I was reminded of these dark episodes recently after meeting JT from the Price of Tomorrow live podcast I hosted. She shared her own story of struggle - tasked with teaching a course she felt completely out of her depth for, drowning in imposter syndrome. The more she described her experience, the more I was transported back to my own moments of desperation.

Here's the thing nobody tells you about stress: it's not just "in your head," despite what that one uncle at every family gathering likes to say while dispensing unsolicited life advice.

What happens to us when we struggle to cope isn't just psychological. It's profoundly biological. The brain physically changes its architecture and neurochemistry under chronic stress, directing metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune systems in ways that lead to long-term health damage. Diseases linked to chronic stress include cardiovascular dysfunctions, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune syndromes, and mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety disorders.

Your body essentially begins to attack itself from the inside out. This creates what researchers call "allostatic load"—the cumulative wear and tear on the brain and body that leads to pathological changes.

So when people ask me why I look like I aged ten years in two, well, science backs me up on this one. Finally, an excuse that's peer-reviewed.

The Mask We Wear

Let's look at a more common example: going against your personal values. It's something we more often than not have to navigate in the course of work, which leads us to putting on masks in the office - pretending to be someone we're not so we can stomach the nonsense we keep witnessing.

I experienced this in my last job, where markers for performance leaned heavily toward vanity metrics rather than meaningful impact. Nothing says "fulfilment" quite like optimising for numbers that look good on slides but mean nothing in reality. And most recently, in a discussion with the representative of a client who seemed to have no limit to how big he could talk, regardless of reality. I sat there nodding along, my internal monologue screaming while my professional smile stayed frozen in place. Oscar-worthy performance, really.

Living out of sync with your values creates cognitive dissonance - the tension we feel when our actions contradict our beliefs. That tension doesn't just stay in your head. Research has found that the average person spends over 90,000 hours at work in their lifetime, and when your values aren't aligned with your organisation, you will experience chronic stress, which affects your mental and physical health over time.

That's 90,000 hours. I've spent less time learning to be decent at anything else in my life, and yet here we are, potentially spending it all pretending to care about things we don't.

Not About Resilience

Is it a case of low resilience, as some may argue? I don't think so.

Many of us can really push ourselves and enter the zone when we truly enjoy the work and believe in it. We become unstoppable when aligned with our purpose. I've pulled all-nighters on projects I believed in and woke up energised. Meanwhile, give me eight hours of sleep before a meeting about quarterly targets I don't care about, and I'm still dragging myself through the door like a zombie.

Conversely, no amount of motivation can push you to work well on something you fundamentally don't believe in. Trust me, I tried. Motivational podcasts, morning routines, vision boards - the whole Instagram wellness package. Turns out you can't manifest your way out of being on the wrong path. Who knew?

Your body knows. Your mind knows. And eventually, they both rebel.

Tapping Out Isn't Failing

JT decided to drop the course and pursue other areas where she felt stronger. I exited from my business and felt immediate relief the moment I signed those exit papers. We both tapped out, but we also went on to better things.

The same goes for Jaslyn Ng, who tapped out from a global HR director role after consistent 20-hour workdays led to asthma relapses. Or the MOE teacher who left the service years ago when a thyroid condition began creeping in - her body's way of screaming that something was deeply wrong.

We are what I consider the lucky ones. People who ultimately managed to step off a boat sailing in the wrong direction in their lives. Some of us just needed our bodies to literally start breaking down before we got the memo. Subtle, we are not.

The Question That Matters

So here's what I want to ask you: Are you in the wrong boat in your life?

Are you waking up with that familiar knot in your stomach, dreading the day ahead? Are you finding yourself needing just one more drink to unwind, one more cigarette to calm the nerves? Are you performing well on the outside while crumbling on the inside?

Misalignment burnout manifests through emotional, physical, and psychological symptoms. Employees experiencing it often report feelings of apathy, anxiety, fatigue, and purposelessness. It's not just about being tired. It's about feeling like you're betraying yourself every single day.

The cold sweats, the chain smoking, the drinking. Those weren't character flaws. They were distress signals. My body was telling me in the only language it knew that I was heading in the wrong direction. Apparently, I needed it to shout before I'd listen. Not my finest moment of self-awareness, I'll admit.

The real question isn't whether you can tough it out. It's whether you should. Life is too short to spend 90,000 hours rowing a boat toward a shore you never wanted to reach.

Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is admit you're on the wrong boat and jump.

Even if, like me, you're not the most graceful swimmer. The water's cold, the landing isn't pretty, but at least you're finally heading in a direction that's actually yours.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for HR Tech Vendors - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

The first one was so severe I had to relearn how to walk. You know, that thing toddlers figure out around 12 months?

Yeah, I got to experience that again in my 40s. Humbling doesn't quite cover it.

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The second surgery left my fourth left finger constantly tingling. A permanent reminder that my body is apparently held together with biological duct tape and wishful thinking.

Both injuries might have been preventable. If I'd been stronger. If I'd been healthier. If I'd paid attention before my spine staged a dramatic exit.

❝

You can't improve what you don't measure.

Peter Drucker

When I turned 46, a sobering thought hit me: I've crossed the halfway point of my human journey. That’s assuming I make it to 90. Which, given my genetic lottery winnings, is optimistic at best.

But even if I make it to 90, would that be ideal? Body parts worn down, memory resembling Swiss cheese, possibly needing help with basic dignity. I watched my late mother become increasingly frail in her 80s, her world shrinking with each passing year. My father died of a heart attack. My mother battled high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Diabetes runs on my father's side. My mother had dementia.

So my DNA is basically a greatest hits compilation of "Ways Your Body Can Betray You."

That's why health and fitness became non-negotiable. Not inspirational-Instagram-quote non-negotiable. Actually non-negotiable.

It started simply enough. I just wanted to keep carrying my kids as they grew heavier. But when hoisting two 30kg children made my lower back scream in protest, the ghost of those surgeries came rushing back. Nothing says "peak dad fitness" like your spine threatening to file for divorce mid-piggyback ride.

(Thankfully, my petite fourth kid still gets the full swing-around treatment. She's my ego-saver.)

Beyond the physical capability, I want to witness as much of their lives as possible. Not as a pro bono babysitter for grandkids. Let's be clear, I've done my time in the parenting trenches. But I want to be there for the milestones: watching them find their partners, walking them down the aisle, meeting their children.

More than that, I want independence. At 79, I want to travel the world, go on hikes, and roam around freely. Maybe even paraglide or skydive. You know, normal old-person activities that terrify your adult children.

Not shuffling with a walking stick or confined to a wheelchair, playing the world's saddest game of "Which Body Part Gave Up Today?"

Mobility is freedom. And I've already had a preview of what losing it looks like.

So the health journey began. But how do I know I'm on the right track? My Apple Watch shows calories burned, but what about cholesterol levels? Blood pressure? Calorie intake? How many seemingly fit athletes have dropped dead from clogged arteries while their Strava stats looked immaculate?

Turns out, "I feel fine" is not a reliable health metric. Shocking, I know.

I needed to start measuring everything.

Gentler Streak (6 months in)

This is the friendlier version of Apple's Fitness app, less "CLOSE YOUR RINGS OR YOU'RE A FAILURE" and more "Hey, maybe don't destroy yourself today."

I've been using it for half a year now, and I love the at-a-glance insights: Am I pushing too hard? (Yes, usually.) Do I need to move more? (Also yes.) It translates burned calories into food equivalents, which is both motivating and depressing. "Congratulations, you just burned off half a sandwich."

The phone app displays heart rate zones in real-time. Far more intuitive than Apple's native Activity app, which seems designed by people who think everyone naturally understands their VO2 max.

Welling (5 months in)

At $49.99 a year, Welling is a sophisticated calorie tracker that's basically the financial equivalent of a daily latte habit, except it makes you lose weight instead of gaining it.

Snap a photo of a nutrition label, barcode, or your meal, and it analyzes everything instantly. It's like having a judgmental nutritionist in your pocket, minus the judgment.

My daily target is 1,500 calories as I work toward 78kg. But here's what surprised me five months ago: Welling revealed my macronutrients were completely off. I thought my protein intake was high. You know, because I ate chicken sometimes and felt very proud of myself.

Turns out I was nowhere near enough. The app basically said, "LOL, cute try."

That data motivated me to incorporate protein shakes and lean more heavily toward protein-rich foods. The kind of course correction I couldn't have made without measurement, or without accepting that my nutritional intuition is approximately as reliable as a weather forecast three months out.

The results? Weight loss is happening. Slowly but steadily. My energy levels have climbed. I'm far less reliant on coffee than I used to be, which means I'm down to only three cups a day instead of "yes."

Hume Band (2 months in)

I've always used my Apple Watch for tracking, but sleep monitoring remained elusive. By day's end, the battery is drained, and I need a full charge for the morning so my watch spends nights on the charger instead of on my wrist.

Essentially, Apple created a health device that can't actually track one-third of your health because it needs to sleep more than you do.

I considered the Oura ring, but beyond the hefty price tag, I couldn't imagine lifting weights with it on. Nothing says "I've made poor life choices" like accidentally destroying a $300+ ring doing bicep curls.

So I went with the Hume Band two months ago.

With nearly seven days of battery life, it tracks everything: steps, sleep, heart rate, HRV, stress levels, body temperature, and SpO2. There's no screen to distract you. All data lives in the phone app, which is refreshing in a "not everything needs to buzz and ping at me" kind of way.

The impact? My sleep has improved noticeably. I'm waking up less during the night, which explains the energy boost and why I'm only moderately cranky now instead of full goblin mode.

There's one persistent bug, though. The app won't pick up my exercises from Apple Health, leaving my "metabolic momentum" reading blank. Customer service promised a fix in future updates, which is tech-speak for "we'll get to it when we get to it."

It's frustrating buying something to use now, not in the mythical future when all software bugs are magically resolved and we're all driving flying cars.

Still, I kept it past the 30-day return window. Why?

Hume Pod (1 month in)

From the same company and integrated into the same app, the Hume Pod is a body scanner that measures far more than weight.

It tracks body fat percentage, muscle mass by major body parts, skeletal muscle mass, visceral fat index, and probably your deepest insecurities if you look at the data long enough.

Combined, these metrics generate a comprehensive health score. A single number that tells me if I'm on track for healthy aging or if I should start saying goodbye to my knees now.

One month in, and this feels like the missing piece. The Pod is basically the brutally honest friend who tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.

The Pullup Grandma

I recently watched a video about Charlotte Lim, better known as the "Pullup Grandma." She started her fitness journey at 72 after retiring from a sedentary corporate career—which means she looked at retirement and thought, "You know what sounds fun? Pullups. Lots of them."

At 79, she performs up to 100 pull-ups and maintains a 15% body fat percentage. She looks like she's in her 50s.

Meanwhile, I struggle to do 10 pullups and look like I'm in my... well, 46.

She's the complete opposite of how frail my mother became. And given my genetic hand (heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, dementia), Charlotte isn't just inspiring. She's proof that DNA isn't destiny if you're willing to work against it.

Or, as I like to think of it: genetic revenge.

I don't need 100 pull-ups. But matching her mobility, her energy, her independence at 79? That's the goal. That's the "screw you" to my family's medical history I'm working toward.

Is It Worth It?

At this moment, the costs feel justified. Nearly $50 a year for Welling, plus the hardware investments. It's cheaper than future medical bills, and considerably cheaper than early retirement because my body gave up.

Even though tracking can become obsessive, I don't let it rule me. When I'm on holiday, I ignore everything. If you can't take two weeks off to enjoy life without obsessing over macros, the regimen is pointless. What's the point of living longer if you're miserable the entire time?

But for now, every data point is a step toward the future I want: travelling freely, hiking mountains, maybe even jumping out of a plane at 79.

Not because I'm chasing immortality. I'm not delusional. But because I refuse to let my body become a prison. Been there, done that, have the surgical scars and tingling finger to prove it.

I've already had two surgeries. I've already relearned how to walk once.

I'm not doing that again.

This time, I'm measuring my way out.

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for HR Tech Vendors - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!

Based on recent stellar examples from Singapore's F&B and creative sectors, here's your comprehensive guide to shutting down with maximum destruction.

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Step 1: Master the Art of Surprise

Timing is everything. Why give employees advance notice when you can spring it on them like a birthday party they never wanted?

• The "5 pm on Wednesday" Special: Wait until your staff are wrapping up their workday before sending in the liquidators. Nothing says "we value you" like finding out you're jobless while you're still at your desk.

• The "WhatsApp Night Before" Manoeuvre: Send a cryptic message at 10 pm telling workers not to come in tomorrow. Mystery is romantic!

• The "Lock 'Em Out" Classic: Let your employees arrive for their shift only to find the premises repossessed. The look on their faces? Priceless. Also, you save on awkward conversations.

Pro tip: Make sure this happens right before payday. Why let them have that month's salary when they've already done the work? That's just poor business sense.

Step 2: Communication is for Amateurs

Remember: explaining yourself is a sign of weakness.

• Don't tell anyone about financial difficulties beforehand

• Ignore all emails and calls from affected parties

• Let the liquidators do the talking (they're paid for it, after all)

• Take down your social media accounts immediately—evidence is so inconvenient

• If pressed, release a vague statement thanking people for their "support and partnership" without addressing anything substantial

Bonus points: Hire new employees weeks before closure. Give them hope! It builds character when they realise they'll never see that first paycheck.

Step 3: CPF? More Like "Can't Pay, Forget!"

Central Provident Fund contributions are really more of a suggestion than a legal requirement, right?

• Stop paying CPF months before closure

• When workers ask about it, look confused and say funds aren't "available"

• Promise to pay "next month" repeatedly

• Remember: it's not lying if you genuinely have no intention of following through

Step 4: The Waiting Game

Make them work for nothing—literally.

• Owe workers 1-3 months of salary minimum

• Tell them payment is coming "by end of the month"

• Move that deadline repeatedly

• Bonus: Promise a "letter of guarantee." Never send it.

The Masterstroke: String along a 74-year-old who's worked for you for over a decade. When her son insists she claim her rightful wages, drag it out through mediation while paying nothing. Chef's kiss!

Step 5: Creative Asset "Management"

If you're in the art world, you have extra opportunities for chaos!

• Hold onto artists' works worth tens of thousands of dollars

• Stop responding to emails about payment for sold pieces (for at least six months)

• Provide vague promises when cornered

• When liquidation hits, leave 14 pieces from one artist alone valued at $100,000 in limbo

Remember: These artists trusted you as partners. Weaponise that trust!

Step 6: The "Downsizing" Excuse

When media comes knocking:

• Call it a "downsizing exercise"

• Claim a mysterious new owner is taking over (never name them)

• Promise everything will be resolved "by end of week/month" (it won't)

• Insist new capital is coming and expansion is planned

• Say you're "resigning" while remaining listed as director

Important: Make these statements while workers still haven't received months of back pay. The contrast is delightful.

Step 7: Maximise Vulnerability

Target those who can least afford to fight back:

• Elderly workers who've given you years of service

• Foreign workers who need income for rent and basic necessities

• Artists who depended on you as their main income source

• Part-timers who think $1,000 isn't worth pursuing legally

Their quotes make great headlines: "I will just treat it as charity," "We come from overseas to make a living," "I have no mood to work." Success!

Step 8: Legal Minimums Only (Maybe)

When unions call your behaviour "completely unacceptable and unfair":

• Shrug

• Sign payment agreements during mediation with no intention of honouring them

• Drag your feet even after Employment Claims Tribunals order payment

• Let MOM investigate you (slap on the wrist incoming!)

• If you have a history of underpaying workers, don't change course now - consistency is key!

Step 9: The Aftermath

Once liquidation hits:

• Let your employees apologise to clients on your behalf (they're so selfless!)

• Allow liquidators to store other people's property at third-party facilities

• Watch as your staff, despite being unpaid and blindsided, remain "committed to assisting the liquidation process"

• Observe workers scrambling for jobs during hiring freezes

• Note the ones who can't make rent next month

Beautiful irony: They're more professional in your company's death than you were during its life.

Step 10: Sleep Soundly

You've successfully:

• ❌ Destroyed 80+ livelihoods without warning

• ❌ Trapped elderly workers into treating their labour as "charity"

• ❌ Left artists without their main income source

• ❌ Caused foreign workers to stress about rent and food

• ❌ Made a mockery of employment laws

• ❌ Earned union condemnation

• ❌ Prompted MOM investigations

• ❌ Generated negative press

But hey, you saved some money on final salaries! And isn't capitalism beautiful?

Adrian Tan
Say hi 👋 on LinkedIn

WHENEVER YOU'RE READY, HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU:

1. No More Bosses - My book on the journey to sustainable self-employment
   

2. Fractional Marketing Lead for HR Tech Vendors - Looking to scale? Leverage my expertise in driving marketing strategies and business growth.
   

3. Promote to my 16,000+ subscribers by sponsoring my newsletter.

Want to ruin my day? No problem! Unsubscribe below.

Do you want to share your journey or have feedback? Just hit reply - I'd love to hear from you!