Goodbye 2025 Hello 2026. Soon, we will be saying goodbye to 2025 and welcoming the New Year, 2026. Just like last year, I completed my self‑assessment using the Wheel of Life. It is a powerful coaching and personal development tool that helps evaluate different areas of one’s life. The Wheel is usually presented as a pie chart divided into sections such as career, health, relationships, and personal growth.
Career and work refer to my professional achievement and fulfilment. I achieved 73% in this category. In 2025, I expanded my job scope by seizing every opportunity to take on more responsibilities. This growth naturally widened my professional network as well, giving me a broader circle of colleagues and potential supporters.
Two years ago, a promised promotion never materialised despite my strong performance. And this year, I watched someone else rise to a higher position despite contributing far less. It was a clear reminder that in the corporate world, doing good work does not always guarantee recognition or advancement.
This year, I shifted my mindset. I now believe that the purpose of work is not to chase recognition or rewards. It is to become truly valuable. When you focus on being valuable, the recognition and rewards will eventually follow in their own time and in many different forms.
Fun and joy refer to my dedication of time to the passions and hobbies I love. I scored 45% in this category. I love listening to the sound of the waves it has a calming effect on my mind. That is why I bought a bicycle, so I can cycle to the beach on weekends and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I cannot do it as often as I do like, but I go whenever my schedule allows.
Money and finances refer to building personal wealth and living a life of abundance. I scored 88% in this category. In 2025, I reached a financial milestone that I had set for myself many years ago. My goal has always been to build enough wealth to support my future needs, especially retirement without ever having to rely on my children. Through disciplined investing, I earned a total passive income of $20,289.89 this year.
When it comes to money, I am often misunderstood. Some people see me as overly money‑minded, but they do not recognise the discipline required to live within my means or the effort that goes into building a resilient dividend portfolio. Even my own family sometimes overlooks the hard work behind it. Still, I remain committed to saving and investing wisely so that I can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful retirement.
Home life refers to feeling contented, relaxed and nourished in my own space. I scored 60% in this category. I am content living in my cosy 5‑room HDB flat, but I know it is time to clear out the clutter and let go of the things I no longer need.
Personal growth refers to my investment into continual learning and growth. Last year, I became aware that I had not devoted enough time to my personal learning and growth. To change that, I enrolled in a leadership course offered by my company, and it broadened my perspectives while elevating my leadership capabilities.
Just yesterday, I used my SkillsFuture credits to sign up for several online courses that I can pursue at my own pace. This is a practical approach for me, especially since I often struggle to set aside time for in‑person classes.
Health and Wellbeing refer to the power and energy of a healthy body. I scored 43% in this category. As I grow older, my metabolism has slowed significantly, and I often feel my energy levels dip. Even though I am still overweight, I am grateful that I have managed to keep my weight steady at around 71kg. I have been putting in consistent effort through disciplined eating and regular exercise to bring down my uric acid levels, which have triggered gout attacks. This year alone, I experienced two episodes.
Friendships refer to supportive and valued friendships. I scored a low of 28% in this category. In 2025, two of my close friends chose to leave Singapore and start new chapters overseas. I will always treasure the memories we created together. At the same time, I made the conscious decision to distance myself from a few others who were never truly supportive. Their behaviour was draining and often disrupted my inner peace, so I have chosen to limit my contact with them.
Family and romance refer to strong bonds with loved ones and lasting, passionate connections. I scored 50% in this category. Travelling to different countries has helped me strengthen my bond with my family. It is the only time I can truly disconnect from work and enjoy meaningful moments with them. In 2025, we spent our holidays exploring China and Japan together.
Summary of Goodbye 2025 Hello 2026
Below is a breakdown of what I have shared. Life is never perfect, and I hope to do better in those weaker categories in 2026. Happy New Year 2026!
