Me in Singapore over 2 years ago

Contrary to popular belief, living and working in Singapore wasn't easy. I stayed there for more than 2 years and those were the saddest and most terrible years of my life. I'm not kidding! Don't get me wrong. I wasn't depressed the whole time. I had good days there and met a lot people I've never thought I would ever meet but for the most part, I was sad. I spent days and nights wishing I was home and I'm with my friends and family.

Singapore has taught me a lot of life lessons that's why I'm still grateful that I have experienced living there. To share a few:

1. You need to trust your gut because sometimes it's all you have.

2. You don't need too many friends. A handful of people you trust and feel comfortable with is more than enough.

3. Walking without a planned destination is the cheapest therapy. Bus rides, too!

4. Everything goes on sale. Do not buy your "wants" at full price!

5. Always find a way to keep going but it's okay to stop when you feel overwhelmed.

6. You can be vulnerable sometimes but you need to be strong to survive.

7. You need to show people that you are not a pushover so they won't take advantage of you. Bitch face on. Always. Or at least most of the time.

8. When you get to know a person up close, things change. Most of them are not who you think they are.

9. You can choose and build an unbiological family (Angel, I know you're reading this. Thanks for being my unbiological sister, and your mom for being my unbiological mom... and sometimes a sister, too!)

10. Family always comes first... at least those who treat you like one. And I'm referring to my mom who has been super supportive and my sisters who have been discreetly proud of what I have become.