Why Earning Above Average Still Feels Like Never Enough

Based on online data, males in my age group should be earning about $6,049 per month, including employer CPF. In my trade, real estate services, the median is around $4,908 per month.

To be transparent, I’m currently earning $8,760 per month, including employer CPF. On paper, it looks great, above average both in general and within my industry.

And yet, why do I often feel like there’s never enough money? The reason is simple: I’m actively putting my money to work, building a future where I don’t have to rely solely on a paycheck.

How I Balance Life and Financial Discipline

1️⃣ I don’t compromise my lifestyle. I still enjoy good lunches, dinners, and occasional treats. Life is to be lived, not just saved.

2️⃣ I set aside at least 25% of my monthly income for my warchest. This acts as my buffer, my optionality fund, and the foundation of my long-term financial plan.

3️⃣ I have a clear goal: I aim to stop working full-time for someone else by the age of 40, that’s in 2041. Every decision I make now, every investment I put my money into, is geared toward that milestone.

Final Thoughts

Earning more than average feels comfortable, but comfort doesn’t create freedom. Feeling “never enough” isn’t a flaw, it’s a signal that your money is doing its job: working for you and your future.

Financial security isn’t just about how much you earn, it’s about how strategically you deploy it.

Comments

  1. Hello WorldNovember 23, 2025 at 8:32 AM

    Hi, thanks for sharing. I think your objective of FIRE by 40 is great, but could be one of the reasons why you have the money not enough feeling. If you stretch your target to FIRE by 50, at the same income level, I think you will feel that your above average income is enough as your savings/investment rate doesn't need to be so high to achieve a later FIRE goal.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SgHustleManNovember 23, 2025 at 9:25 PM

      I guess what you mention is true to a certain extend. Maybe i am too aggressive.

      Delete

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