MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

Find your ikigai if you want a mid-career switch

So you want a mid-career switch? Or you’re in the midst of considering jumping into a different field? Kudos to you for even having the courage to want to take a step forward.

But hold your horses because you will have to find your ikigai (ee-key-guy) first. In short, ikigai is a Japanese concept referring to “finding joy in life through purpose”. You can read more about the philosophy of ikigai here.

According to Adrian Tan, a human resource practitioner, folks thinking about a mid-career switch should approach the matter via the ikigai concept. These are the main elements that make up the idea:

Loving what you do
Doing what the world needs
Getting paid for it
Being good at it

Need some inspiration? Let’s look at two mid-career switchers who have successfully done it.

From journalist to a veterinary surgeon

Journalist-turned-veterinarian Amanda Tan

Image Credits: Dr Amanda Tan

Amanda Tan is the name to note. The 34-year-old recalled her experiences of frequently visiting the vet because of her pet cat. She said she was impressed with how knowledgeable the doctor was and how meaningful the profession helped pet owners like her gain reassurance.

Dr Tan took the leap of faith in her mid-20s and is now a veterinary surgeon at the Gentle Oak Veterinary Clinic along Ghim Moh Road.

At this point, some of you must be thinking if Dr Tan had some prior qualifications to becoming a veterinary surgeon. Well, the quick answer is no.

After Dr Tan left journalism, she took on a part-time job that provided her with volunteering opportunities at a veterinary clinic. The valuable hands-on experience thus led her to the decision to move forward with the career switch.

She then furthered her studies through a five-year Doctor in Veterinary Medicine course at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia.

“Whatever effort that you put in is going to directly affect your outcome. You’re not too old to make a change… It just requires a bit of sacrifice and courage,” she noted.

Dr Tan also mentioned that she had met a few colleagues who graduated in their late 30s after a mid-career switch. Hence, don’t let age become a stumbling block for you to take that next step forward.

Still unsure if you should risk your current job stability? Read on for Mr Law Kia Wei’s story.

A switch from engineering to sales

Former-engineer-Law-Kia-Wei-second-from-left

Image Credits: Mr Law Kia Wei

What prompted Mr Law to switch to sales is his realisation of a missing essential soft skill – interpersonal communications. Therefore, when he was presented with an opportunity to become a medical equipment salesperson at IDS Medical Systems, he took it in stride.

Of course, not without a little hesitation because he lacked both sales and medical field skills.

The 36-year-old said he did not have it easy for the first year. He struggled a great deal before getting into the hang of things. Seven years have passed, and he now has his own business unit at the same company.

Ready for a pay cut?

Image Credits: hcamag.com

Yes, we have not forgotten about the drop in salary. “If you jump industry, it’s expected since you have not proven yourself. It was something I had to make peace with,” Mr Law shared.

To that, Ms Carmen Wee, a veteran human resource practitioner, highlights that the salary crawl could take a few years. Thus, the risks and financial trade-offs for a younger professional might be lower than for someone older. One should also factor in their current financial commitments and the readiness for drastic lifestyle changes.

Ms Wee also added that older workers should be realistic about the level of seniority that they can achieve as they make a job jump. Since it will take a while to catch up, she advised mid-career switchers to do their due diligence in the new field. Remember that you are in competition with other people who already have the relevant experience.

But with all that said, Mr Tan encourages older workers not to be discouraged. “If you’ve done logistics but wish to get into marketing, what are the things you learned in logistics that are applicable? Perhaps it is the way you plan things, which can be applied to a marketing department running a webinar?” the HR professional remarked.

Final thoughts

Cameron Brett, Managing Director of Randstad Technologies in Japan, suggests, “Something I recommend for everyone is to do a skills assessment – to better understand where they are today, where they need to be in five years. Take a look at the skills they currently have and what they are lacking.”

You can easily find out your strengths and weaknesses with an online test using the Career Explorer or Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). The results could be your answer to your next career move based on your aptitude and interests.

Next, find a reliable mentor or someone you look up to. LinkedIn is one good way to reach out to professionals in a specific field. Connect sincerely and ask for practical advice so you can decide for yourself if a switch makes sense for you.

Before you go, allow me to quote from an article, “It’s never too late to give it a try. Changing careers at 40 is not uncommon. 40s are the new 30s. 30s are the new 20s.”

Here’s wishing you the best of luck in taking that plunge!

Top Airbnb vacation rentals under S$125 in the heart of Berlin, Germany

We bet you’ve read the news on Singapore’s first vaccinated travel lanes with Germany and Brunei starting from 8 September.

Without having to serve a stay-home notice for fully vaccinated travellers departing from Germany, this means that our year-end plans to restart travelling could become a reality soon.

For those planning to celebrate Christmas in the capital of Germany, let us introduce to you the top Airbnb vacation rentals under S$125 in the heart of Berlin.

*Prices reflected are accurate at the time of writing.

1. Simple studio flat next to Denkmal Rosenstraße

Price: S$95/night

This simple studio flat has a double bed and a bathroom with a bathtub. There is also a kitchen equipped with an oven, electric stove, and microwave for your cooking needs. We think it’s great for pairs or solo travellers looking for accommodations near the public transport. You may also request an extra bed if you’re travelling in a group of three. By booking a stay here, you will find yourself right next to Denkmal Rosenstraße and within walking distance to Berlin Dungeon and Illuseum Berlin.

2. Minimalist studio apartment nearby Teutoburger Platz

Price: S$102/night

Travellers who appreciate minimalism will adore this studio apartment with white furnishings. The kitchenette comes with a fridge and induction cooker for light cooking. There is one double bed for two guests and a bathroom with a shower. Exploring is made easy since you will be just a stone’s throw away to the Museum of architectural drawing and a short walk to U Senefelderplatz transit station. The hosts live in the apartment next door, so you can get instant help if needed.

3. Cosy two-bedroom flat next to the train station

Price: S$102/night

If you’re seeking a convenient place to stay, consider this cosy flat located right next to U Spittelmarkt train station and a short walk to Alnatura Super Natur Markt. The iconic Checkpoint Charlie is about a 10-minute bus or train ride away. There are two bedrooms, and the bathroom comes with a shower-tub combination. Up to three guests can sleep comfortably in this vacation rental. Recent guests have given a five-star rating on location and check-in experience, so we know you will be in good hands.

4. Entire unit in a lively neighbourhood

Price: S$110/night

This entire unit is situated in a lively neighbourhood close to U Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz train station. There is only one bedroom with a double bed by the window for two persons. The kitchen comes with a toaster, microwave, and a gas stove. There is a bathtub in the bathroom for you to take a warm bubble bath after a long day out exploring nearby attractions such as DDR Museum, Berlin Dungeon, and Alexanderplatz.

5. Clean and tidy studio loft for two people

Price: S$113/night

You will find yourself in the vicinity of Winsviertel if you book a stay here. Volkspark Friedrichshain is about a 10-minute walk away. This clean and tidy studio loft comes with a double bed and a sofa with a coffee table. The bathroom has a walk-in shower area. There is also a wall-mounted television and a small desk by the wall for you to do some reading before bed or work on your laptop during the day.

6. Studio guest suite with a private entrance

Price: S$115/night

This studio guest suite is a short walk away from Oranienburger Tor train station. You will be about 15 minutes on foot to Bode Museum, Neues Museum, and Berlin Dungeon. There is one sofa bed and a couch that can be converted to a single bed space. Hence, up to three guests can stay in this vacation rental. There is no need to worry about privacy as the accommodation has a separate entrance from the main flat. Do note that there is no air-conditioning, only a fan.

7. Spacious studio apartment along Zehdenicker Street

Price: S$118/night

Light sleepers will be glad to know that this spacious studio apartment along Zehdenicker Street has minimal street noise. To access the vacation rental, you will have to climb to the second floor. There is a futon double bed, a bathroom with a bathtub, and a small kitchen area. There is also a washing machine for your laundry needs, so feel free to pack light for your trip. You will find yourself in between two train stations – U Rosenthaler Platz and U Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz.

8. One-bedroom apartment in the heart of Helmholtzkiez

Price: S$124/night

This one-bedroom apartment is sited right in the heart of Helmholtzkiez, with a good range of cafes and restaurants in the area. Its last renovation was in November 2017, so you can expect relatively new furnishings. It’s located on the ground floor and has a small garden with seatings. When the weather is nice, have your morning tea or coffee outdoors! Alexanderplatz is about a 20-minute train ride away from the property.

Can’t wait to book your stay? Check out this step-by-step guide as you begin planning for your trip:

4 Things that Prove It’s Better to Hire Movers in Singapore Instead of Doing a DIY Move

So you decided to move to a new apartment in Singapore. Congratulations on taking the big step! It is pretty rewarding when all your hard work has paid off and you can finally get a place of your own. But before the moving date, have you considered the possibility of hiring movers in Singapore or do you plan on doing it yourself? If you’re someone who has a jam-packed schedule all the time, the former can be the best choice for you. But of course, you ask – how much will hiring movers cost?

The most common misconception of moving with the help of movers in Singapore is that it burns a hole in the wallet because hiring one is more expensive than doing a DIY move. What they fail to account for is the costs of renting a truck, paying a couple of your friends to help you move the boxes from the old address to the new one, and of course, the day that you have to spare to spearhead the moving process. It’s not as easy as a day of hard work.

If there is one thing that Singapore movers know, it’s that moving is a long, tedious, and complex process. Plus there are also things that you need to understand when doing the move by yourself. Below are some of them that every mover, including you, should take into consideration.

The pieces of equipment you’ll use in the move

First thing on the list is the truck. Of course you will need to rent a moving truck and be sure to get the one that can transport all your belongings. And if you think that’s it, think again. It’s not as simple as throwing your things to the truck and going to the new address.

What you need to understand is when you choose to move all by yourself, you won’t have access to the following materials used by moving companies:

Fuel to be used in the truck you rented for transportation (sometimes, you have to fill the tank multiple times).
Pieces of equipment like furniture pads, ropes, moving dollies, stretch wrap, and straps
Huge packing boxes, tapes, scissors and other packing supplies.

If you move to the new address all by yourself, you might have to rent or purchase most of the things mentioned above.

A bunch of your time will be allotted to the moving process

We know. Most people think that time is not commonly quantified as a “cost” but the time you allot in completing the entire moving process yourself will eventually add up as the moving date is nearing.

Before the actual moving date, you will have to spend a couple of days packing all of your things and trying to find ways on how to organize them all for easier access. And of course, on the big day, you might have to take more than one trip from your old home to the new one during the transportation process (especially when the truck you rented cannot carry all of your stuff in one go).

Stress, damages, and potential accidents and injury

Since you’re not a professional mover, the risk of some of your fragile stuff getting broken or damaged is very likely. When this happens, it can become pricey as you try to get it repaired. Additionally, you may lack the knowledge and techniques that professional movers have which can inflict injury to you and your friends and knock on wood, costing you trips to the hospital.

Going through these hardships can make the entire process stressful, which in turn, makes the moving experience horrible.

Finding people who can help you and paying them

Even if you’re the strongest person in the world, you won’t be able to do the entire moving process alone. Save yourself the hassle. Ask for the help of some people to make the process smoother. But apparently, in order to keep them happy as they lift the boxes and transport the stuff, you will have to feed them and buy them drinks, which means that’s another cost on your end.

Wrapping Up

When you think about the things mentioned above and the actual costs of doing a DIY move, we bet you’d drop the idea right away. While hiring movers in Singapore means adding another cost on your move, if it’s going to save you from the hassle and unexpected expenses that moving brings, we think it’s worth it.

A family therapist shares with us signs signalling a marriage has reached its endpoint

When two lives come together to build a new family, there’s bound to be friction. While some people try to work around it and eventually see success through prolonged counselling sessions, not everyone manages to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Sometimes, the risks of staying together may even outweigh the benefits. So how does one realise that it’s meaningless to hold on any further? A family therapist shares with us signs signalling a marriage has reached its endpoint.

#1: Varying values and personalities

While there’s some truth in the belief on how “opposites attract”, couples with varying values and personalities may not be able to stay together for long.

Dr Stephanie Azri, a family therapist with two decades in clinical settings, asks us to picture these scenarios:

A partner who hates physical activities but married to one who loves hiking every weekend.
An introverted person with an extroverted spouse who needs to invite friends over every night.

These are fundamental differences we’re talking about, and if negotiations cannot get a couple anywhere, it could be a telltale sign to let go.

#2: Prey to domestic violence

Do you know that domestic violence may include physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, and emotional abuse?

No one is deserving of domestic violence because it hurts, and the experience tends to stick through one’s adult years. If you’ve been prey to aggressive partners for some time now, don’t keep mum about it.

Call the 24-hour National Anti-Violence Helpline at 1800 777 0000 if you need to speak with trained social workers regarding abuse and violence. Even if you’re not a direct victim but know of someone who may be undergoing domestic violence, reach out.

#3: Communication and compromise breakdowns

Image Credits: bestlifeonline.com

Communication is vital in any relationship. An obvious result of a communication breakdown is that you can’t seem to get on the same page anymore.

“I found that when one or both partners stop using manners, talk with a tone that speaks volume, or a body language that serves to intimidate, it can be a sign that the marriage got to a point where it is time to get some serious relationship coaching, or move on,” says Dr Azri.

Let’s not forget to mention that communication and compromise go hand in hand. When communication is through, at least one party attempts to give in for the greater good. But if there’s a crack in both areas, then maybe your marriage has reached its final stages.

#4: Missing common goals

Are you and your spouse heading in the same direction? Different individuals have different marriage goals, and it’s not possible to be 100% in sync all the time.

However, there should be at least a few common goals that both of you share. Think of it as a compass guiding you two on the same path. It could be a dream trip somewhere, buying a new condominium, or starting a new family journey with little ones.

If you find yourself missing common goals, this could indicate that it’s time to get back on track and walk together or take steps to move on mutually.

#5: Running the show alone

Image Credits: thejournal.ie

Some people don’t mind running the show alone, but flying solo isn’t all that great a balance in a marriage.

It’s impossible to reach a 50-50 contribution for the family since everyone has their fair share of routine and responsibilities. What we’re suggesting is that you shouldn’t be doing everything alone and feeling bitter and lonely about it.

“It is not normal to find yourself in a relationship where you don’t feel like you can share, discuss and/or negotiate roles, jobs, and responsibilities with your partner. If you are in this situation, I’d advise seriously talking about it,” noted Dr Azri.

#6: Zero or unfulfilling sexual intercourse

Dr Azri is also an accredited sexologist, and she feedbacks that there are many married couples with zero or unfulfilling sexual intercourse routines.

“Sex is an important part of a relationship and if a couple is disconnected, not attracted to their partner, unable to sexually relax, or simply not interested in having sex together, it may be safe to say that this relationship is more of a friendship (at best) rather than an intimate one,” she explains.

While couples may seek sexual therapy to find out the underlying issues, the absence of sex in any relationship is a big red flag that your marriage has reached its endpoint.

#7: Forgiveness is out of the question

Image Credits: thelist.com

As we come to a close, know that in every relationship, there’s bound to be some lies told. But when these lies get bigger, they can lead to mistrust, betrayal, and even relationship trauma.

If you can’t seem to move on, this indicates that forgiveness is out of the question. When there’s no forgiveness, grudges will slowly build-up, and this may lead to hatred over the long term. This is especially so if your partner continues to cheat on you or does hurtful things without considering your feelings.

“A healthy separation is better than a bad marriage. Accept that divorce isn’t a failure, but rather, the maturity to acknowledge that our needs have evolved and we are strong enough to step outside the present to look ahead to the future,” highlights Dr Azri.

A Comprehensive Guide On Buying Pre-Constructed Homes In Ontario, Canada

“Buy them pre-built or customize the floorplan?” That question is one of the most compelling aspects of a new home purchase for many people in Canada. It’s a choice that comes with complications including cost and terms associated with building your own home.

To determine which option is most advantageous for most, this guide delves into various facets of pre-constructed home purchases processes and their influence on buyers in Canada, most especially Ontario.

Taking Advantage of the Pre-Construction Process

One distinct feature of pre-constructed homes is the opportunity for buyers to deposit smalldown paymentsin early project phases and watch them appreciate over time. Individuals who purchased such buildings back then have seen these structures risen in value.

Intending buyers are encouraged to invest futuristically by purchasing newly pre-constructed homes that will appreciate some years from now, provided that the Canadian real estate market continues to expand.

Most of these residential homes are developed in the Canadian suburbs where competition is low. Is this a significant factor? Of course. These homes are more likely to be situated on larger lots and have increased living space, compared to earlier residential structures. But there is more.

Buyers don’t have to compete aggressively in bidding wars as seen in urban housing markets in locations like Montreal, Greater Toronto Area, Greater Vancouver Area, and Calgary. But before venturing on a hunt for pre-construction homes, take some precautionary measures to prevent unforeseen issues.

Understand Legal Requirements and Purchase Agreements

As with other building types, pre-construction homes come with legally binding agreements, which both parties must honour. On the surface, these agreements appear harmless and mouth-watering. However, upon closer study, some unfavourable provisions may be lurking in the fine print.

Signing such contracts on the spur of the moment without reading the fine print may lock the buyer in a never-ending cycle of disparaging commitments, most of which would be financial. In Ontario, buyers can wait within a stipulated timeframe to ascertain their decision to sign the contract.

This duration is commonly referred to as the “cooling-off” period, which is a legal obligation. The province also mandates warranty coverage on pre-construction homes, which buyers can leverage to ensure that they are not receiving a terrible bargain.

A buyer would also need to sign a purchase agreement with the builder. This legal document is a prerequisite to claiming full ownership of the pre-construction home and it comes with the Tarion Addendum, which comprises:

The Addendum — Documentation showing the critical dates
The Purchase Agreement — Purchase and sale agreement forms

Before signing the agreement, the buyer should seek legal advice from a lawyer to ensure that the transaction is fair and that the buyer is protected legally against potential difficulties.

Know More About the Pre-Construction Builder

Finding out more about a home builder is one method to guarantee that a pre-construction property does not come with any unlawful baggage. One way to do that is to use the Ontario Builder Directory (OBD).

OBD is an online database that provides detailed information about home builders in Ontario, including probable convictions for unlawful construction projects. Potential buyers can use this resource to figure which builder to consult.

Reputable builders in Ontario are licensed to construct new residential structures. They also have a track record of previous homes they’ve built, as well as genuine testimonials to back up their work.

Explore the Warranty Coverage

As previously noted, Ontario legislation provides for warranties on new houses. This coverage is available in a variety of warranties (one, two, and seven years) and caters to:

Materials
Workmanship
Defects
Ontario Building Code violations
Water penetration, and many more

Keep an eye on hidden costs

Charges may appear out of nowhere, leaving the homeowner perplexed. Purchasers may be unaware of them until a few days before closing. In certain circumstances, the fees might be as much as 6% of the initial purchase price.

To be cautious, purchasers should enquire about additional fees and create a budget to avoid unexpected expenditures such as development fees, utility installation fees, and the rest. The maximum charge should ideally be 2% of the purchase price.

Anticipate Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)

During the construction process, the builder will invite the buyer over to inspect the home. This is to ensure that the building meets the client’s requirements and satisfaction.In case of an unusually large project, or as a part of the pre-delivery inspection and acceptance, some aspects of the building may be examined.

The builder may furnish the buyer with detailed data in respect of the plumbers, electricians, plasterers, tiler, drainage consultant, roofing company, and other professionals, as part of the pre-delivery inspection and acceptance process. As a tip, buyers can review the PDI checklist available online to know what to examine when on a PDI.

A month before the warranty expiration highlighted in the Addendum, the buyer can conduct a second inspection. Why is this necessary? It is advisable to give the pre-construction building time to settle over the course of varying seasons.

As a result, the customer will be able to assess the structure’s performance under various situations. During this time, possible flaws in the construction may begin to show up. After the second inspection, the buyer can decide whether or not to proceed with the deal.

If Unsatisfied, Get a Real Estate Broker

Working with a real estate broker or agent, particularly one who is familiar with pre-construction properties, expedites the transaction process and guarantees a decent bargain. In most cases, house buyers are only shown model homes to get a sense of what the finished construction will look like.

Real estate brokers, on the other hand, are familiar with the ins and outs of pre-construction developments as a result of their relationships with developers and builders. What exactly does this imply? Builders and developers frequently hire real estate agents to represent them. They are, in other words, the sellers’ agents.

As a result, these professionals work in the best interests of their clients, not the buyer. They guarantee that the builders receive the best deal possible by offering pre-constructed homes at premium prices. It is then in the best interests of house purchasers to choose real estate agents who will represent their interests.

In Conclusion

Most Canadians spend a lot of money on a new house and then find out that’s not the one for them. Before buying a pre-construction house have an experienced broker or agent with a large network to strike a good bargain. A lawyer will come in handy as well. Finding the ideal agent and lawyer may necessitate an extensive search, but the outcomes are rewarding.