After I graduated with my degree in Electrical Engineering from one of the top schools in Canada, I was set on securing a job as a Process Engineer in a big corporation like most of my peers. Being hardworking, responsible and commitment, I dreamt my job would enable me to give my parents a better lifestyle and reduce their financial burdens. I also aimed to achieve financial freedom at a younger age, so I could spend more time volunteering and giving back.

However, after working hard for 1.5 years at a US disk drive manufacturing plant, my situation remained average. I was working 10-12 hour work days, including weekends. Yet, I felt unappreciated due to office politics and poor benefits. I also soon got bored after a year, due to the rotating job scope. But most frustrating was that I was still not financially able to reduce my family's burdens, despite working so hard.

So, I started to ask myself: where will be my future be 5 years from now? To be honest, I couldn't imagine my future in this industry. This inspired me to start searching for alternative career pathways.

One day, I was introduced to the insurance industry. Being an engineer at heart, I analyzed the career opportunities and found that it offered me a better chance to fulfilling my dream to work flexibly and be financially free.

My parents and friends objected to my career switch at first. However, I realized that I would regret it if I didn't give it a try! So I focused my mind on a single success principle: I am willing to learn, somebody is willing to guide me; I just need some time to pick up. I will make it through!

This turned out to be the biggest turning point in my life. At first, I explored this new career as a part-timer. After work days, I would continue my part-time job by meeting up with people till 10pm, followed by paperwork till midnight. For 6 months, I pursued this hardship and finally, was able to quit my unhappy office job and focus on insurance full-time. I had made it!

With hard work, I climbed the career ladder, and finally achieved MDRT, an international recognition of my success. Many opportunities also opened up for me to start my own business — Dignity Consultant — and to mentor the next generation of financial planners, which are deeply rewarding experiences. And happily, I am financially able to treat my family to free cruise holidays!

I am thankful for the career I have, not only for the flexible perks and rewards, but also for the opportunity to give back to society. As a financial planner, I have had the privilege to help over 750 families and individuals manage their finances better. My career has enriched me with countless learning opportunities and I am thankful my job lets me "pass it on" to others.

My career journey:

• 1992 - Process Engineer, FTZ Penang

• 1993 - Part-time, Great Eastern

• 1994 - Nov: Full-time, Great Eastern (140 cases)

• 1994 - Supremacy Award (25x)

• 1999 - MDRT (1st time)

• 2002 - GSM, MDA

• 2010 - MDRT life membership

• 2011 - Senior Group Sales Manager, Great Eastern

• 2015 - Chartered Insurance Agency Manager (CIAM)