Turning 40: Reflections and Future Aspirations
It's the second half of 2024, and I'm going to be 40 in just five months. I moved to this city 15 years ago, transitioning from EP to SPR to SC. Lots of sweet and bitter memories. Especially the huge decision to make Singapore my home back in 2021.
Since turning 30, I’ve been setting goals (after getting tired of partying every weekend). Each year, I’ve achieved small goals, from pursuing my dream as a freelancer and getting media exposure, to winning competitions, appearing in TV ads, being featured in magazines and newspapers, converting to citizenship, setting up my company with the right business partner, and getting a house.
Recently, I've been thinking: what's next? What do I want in my life? How am I going to plan for my retirement? To be very honest, I'm feeling a bit clueless. I suddenly feel lost about what I want next as I step into my 40s. What are the next achievements I want?
But you know what? Today, I started to think differently. Instead of focusing on what I want, I’m considering what I can offer to contribute to society. I've faced many challenges in life and have been fortunate to meet great people who have lifted me in my personal life and career, and I really appreciate it.
Although I don’t have a concrete plan yet, I’m praying that a solid idea will come very soon.
Turning 40 can feel like a pivotal moment, and I’ve realized it brings a unique opportunity not just to reflect, but to reshape our outlook. While many focus on goals and achievements, I've started exploring the idea of contribution—how my experiences and challenges can be tools to help others. One thing I’ve learned is that personal growth doesn’t stop with milestone birthdays. Approaching 40, I’ve begun to appreciate the power of embracing vulnerability and using my voice to inspire change. Whether it’s pursuing artistic passions, supporting my community, or simply sharing stories that resonate, these actions create meaningful impact. I also discovered that the feeling of approaching 40 is a blend of excitement and fear, but it’s important to lean into that fear and use it as a catalyst for bold decisions. Reflecting on life’s lessons helped me see that no matter what I’ve accomplished, there’s always room to grow and reinvent myself. Planning for the future—like retirement or new ventures—is daunting but can be made manageable by focusing on what really matters: values, relationships, and purpose. By shifting focus from what I want to what I can offer, I feel more grounded and motivated. To anyone feeling unsure about their next steps as they near their 40s, I’d say: take time to reflect, embrace your journey, and remember that every new decade offers a fresh canvas. Lean on those who've supported you and be open to new ideas—you never know where your next breakthrough might come from.
Age is just numbers . You don’t look like you are turning 40