Conversation With A Millionaire

Every now and then, one gets an opportunity to speak to a millionaire. Afterall, the number of millionaires in Singapore are increasing each year.

As part of the Chinese New Year visitation process, we make it a point to visit our relatives every year.

This year, I got the chance to meet a rich relative who had just upgraded his house.

The house was stunning and it was everything that one could wish for in a dream home. A stunningly good view, central location, spacious and with really nice furniture and paintings.

The wind was blowing in my face as I stood at the balcony observing the wonderful view while the rich uncle sat down there giving us a brief tour of the various sights that were in front of us.

The thoughts that ran through my head was this: "How long more before I can give my family such a life?"

The rich uncle was living alone with his wife as his children had all grown up and left home to set up their own families.

I wish I will be able to replicate his success while my child is still young. But how much time must I sacrifice in return?

Yet, there was no opportunity for me to ask him how he achieved his success. He was too busy talking to other relatives. I also wasn't very close to him so I did not dare probe him about it less I appeared over-intrusive into his personal affairs.

The conversation just went about things like renovation works, the scenery that we were enjoying and of course about children.

There is a certain aura that accompanies successful men. And I felt that aura. It is not something boastful. It is something I call a "gentle and quiet confidence". Just being in the presence of somebody rich, you can feel this aura that surrounds the person. The way he talks, the way he carries himself, the way he eats...

And all I could do was observe. I observed as much as I could and this was my unspoken conversation with a millionaire. I paid attention to what were his likes and hobbies. I caught a glimpse of his passion for certain things. And I got a clearer picture of the rich in Singapore.

I am sure I could have learnt a lot more if I had just asked.

Conversation with A Millionaire

It is not everyday that one gets to speak face to face with a millionaire.

Today, I got the chance to do so.

In fact, I spent one and a half hours with him speaking about various things in life like success, job satisfaction and wealth building ideas.

I am putting it down in words to share with all as I believe that not many people have actually gotten a chance to speak to successful people or millionaires.

About Money

Money does not buy happiness. But it does buy you the time and the alternatives. Basically, money gives you a wider range of options compared to the average person.

About Discouragement

Everyone feels discouraged now and then. It is important to not dwell on it and instead mix with people who are positive and successful.

About Helping Others

Sometimes, it might not be possible to be directly involved in helping others. How much can one help? Instead, use your God given abilities and channel your energies there. Every job essentially helps some one or somebody at some level or another. If you are able to make more money, you could donate to charity and get others to help.

For example, the leaders of our country might be good in terms of defence and security measures. But you don't see them sitting at the customs office right?

About Careers and Jobs

There are no dream jobs in the world. Each job has its pros and cons. The most important thing is to put your heart into it while at the job. Don't work for your boss or the company. Work for yourself and your family.

Being at the top has its loneliness. Even big bosses and CEOs think of quitting their jobs too.

Riches versus Wealth

Having access to riches does not guarantee wealth. Earning alot of money might not bring you wealth if you squander your money away.

Property Investment

The returns from rental property is very low based on his own experience. Instead, buying and selling properties makes money much faster.


Work Hard Play Hard

It is important to work hard and play hard. The reason why you are able to play hard is because you get a good income from your work.

All work sucks. It is how much you are compensated for it in monetary terms that matters.



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