When I first started work, its wasn’t really that difficult for me to save more than 70% of our income. After all, I was staying with my parents. There wasn’t utility bills, groceries or mortgages to contend with. In this aspect, I am not the odd one out in this country. Unlike our Western counterparts, most Singaporeans stay with their parents after they start work. Due to our society’s emphasis on filial piety, we are seen as filial children instead of parasites who live off Daddy and Mummy. Therefore, many of my friends are able to save a significant portion of their income just like us. Most couples view these savings as absolutely important and necessary for their future.
But before you congratulate and praise me for being such a positive influence on my friends, I would like to point out that these savings are not earmarked for retirement or to create a 15 Hour Work Week. Far from it. It’s ......