How a career rut led me to redefine the meaning of home

Nearly a decade has slipped away since I left Kuala Lumpur with my belongings and my beloved cat, leaving behind the comforts of my homeland for new adventures. It feels like just yesterday when I made that life-altering decision to trade the known for the exciting promise of a new life in Singapore.

Feeling trapped in a career rut and a draining relationship, I’d yearned for a change. When a job offer in Singapore presented itself, it felt like a sign. A bold move, yes, but one that promised a fresh start and a chance to reinvent myself. The early years were a challenging period of adjustment.

The absence of close friends and family weighed heavily on me, and the stress of my new role took a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. I was fortunate to have the support of a few dear friends who helped me navigate this new chapter.

Over time, I expanded my social circle, forging meaningful connections that made my journey far less daunting. I used to traverse the distance between my adoptive country and my homeland every few months, a recurring cycle of departure and return. With my life firmly rooted in Singapore, I now return to my homeland only twice a year, a stark contrast to the frequent visits of my earlier years.

They say home is where the heart is, and mine has found its place in this bustling city.

My community is a tapestry of friendship, woven with shared laughter and heart-warming moments. The kindness and generosity of friends and clients, who have opened their homes to me during festive occasions, have made a lasting impact on my life.

While I understand that everyone’s journey is unique, I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a city that has provided me with a sense of belonging and love.

It’s this comforting embrace, woven by the threads of friendship and community, that truly defines what homecoming means to me.