I Took 3 Months Off Work, Here's What I Learned

05 Nov, 2026

In 2024, I relocated to Saskatoon, Canada for work. In 2026, I relocated back to Singapore and took 3 months off (Aug-Oct) to rest and recharge before starting a new role. Here's what I learned.

1. Having time freedom is the real luxury. I love having the time, space, and energy to do the things I love (reading, writing, hiking in nature).
2. We need to learn to just be and let ourselves be bored sometimes. That's when we get to reflect about life, our existence, the purpose and meaning of things, and get to know ourselves better in the process.
3. I've lived in big cities my whole life, but or maybe precisely because of it, I have a yearning for a slower, quieter life, of doing/making things myself instead of seeking the convenient ways.
4. Home is not a place for me; it's a feeling of belonging, comfort, and being surrounded by people I love.
5. I am grateful for my life and happy to be here, but I want something different now for my future.
6. We experience life through our bodies. Keeping ourselves healthy is more important than pursuing wealth.
7. How much is enough? The older I get, the simpler happiness feels.