My first paycheck came when I was 16 years old. That feels like a lifetime ago now. I was not earning much at the time, but because my parents were still giving me an allowance, I was fortunate enough to save most of what I earned. I used part of my paycheck to cover essentials like transportation and food, and, of course, to indulge in some personal wants. However, I did not know much about managing money back then. I simply deposited my savings in a bank account that offered a meager 0.05% interest rate. In hindsight, it was not the best financial decision.

Over the years, I have become much wiser with how I handle my money. Nowadays, after covering my expenses, I make it a point to invest the rest wisely. I allocate some funds to my CPF (Central Provident Fund), invest in stocks and bonds, and keep a portion in high-interest savings accounts. Experience and age have taught me the value of making my money work for me, and I am more intentional with my financial planning now. What I lacked in financial knowledge back then, I have gained through years of learning and making smarter choices.