Da Bang Zi Yi is back with a new talk show episode, addressing the pervasive topic of savings, especially as it's discussed and often distorted on the internet. She aims to tackle the anxiety surrounding "how much you should be saving at your age," a question that plagues many, especially young people.
The Little Red Book Phenomenon: A Hotbed for Anxiety
Da Bang Zi Yi describes Little Red Book as an "anxiety vending machine," suggesting that the platform often presents an unrealistic view of financial success. The platform is often filled with users showcasing their wealth and achievements, creating a sense of inadequacy for those who are not in the same financial bracket. She advises those who are still finding their footing in life to avoid Little Red Book to avoid unnecessary anxieties.
The Problem with Online Comparisons
The host points out the absurdity of seeing posts from 20-year-old college students claiming to have savings of RM100,000. These posts, along with lists dictating how much one should have saved at a specific age, contribute to a culture of comparison and anxiety. She argues that such comparisons are meaningless because everyone's situation is different.
The Flawed Standard of Savings and its Contributing Factors
Da Bang Zi Yi emphasizes that there's no universal standard for savings, especially between the ages of 20 and 30. She argues that factors such as education, career path, family background, and even health significantly influence one's ability to save.
The Bullshit Behind Anxiety-Inducing Posts
She calls out these posts as "bullshit," designed to sell anxiety and provide a platform for rich people to flaunt their wealth or for individuals to recruit others into specific companies. She likens these posts to "formless hypnosis," similar to misleading business opportunities.
Living in the Moment vs. Saving for the Future
Da Bang Zi Yi acknowledges the appeal of living in the moment but also warns against the dangers of neglecting savings entirely. She shares her personal experience of having virtually no savings despite working for three years, prioritizing experiences like travel and entertainment instead.
The Turning Point: The Responsibility of Pet Ownership
Her perspective shifted when she became a cat owner. The potential cost of veterinary care highlighted the importance of having a financial safety net. The host points out that veterinary bills can be far more costly than human medical expenses and without savings, this can cause a lot of stress and anxiety.
The Confidence of Having Savings
Da Bang Zi Yi believes the primary benefit of having savings is the confidence it provides. She contrasts the anxiety of traveling with little to no savings with the peace of mind that comes from having a financial cushion. She argues that even a modest sum (50,000 to 60,000 RMB) can significantly improve one's mentality and resilience. She feels that savings is not something to flex but should be seen as a way to face any emergency you might encounter.
Finding the Balance: Earning More to Do More
While advocating for saving, she leans more towards the idea of "living in the moment" in moderation. The key, she suggests, is finding a balance and earning more to support both experiences and savings.
Defining Success on Your Own Terms
Da Bang Zi Yi concludes by emphasizing that saving money should be for oneself and not for comparison. She challenges the societal definition of success, urging viewers to define it for themselves. Rather than focusing on unrealistic expectations, she encourages everyone to be responsible for their actions. She suggests that one should strive to enjoy the world responsibly without causing hardship for themselves in the future.
The Reality of the Internet
Ultimately, Da Bang Zi Yi advises viewers to be realistic about the internet and their capabilities. She discourages comparing one's progress with others, especially those who may present an unrealistic picture of their financial situation. She encourages her audience to save, but only in a way that is suited to their own abilities and circumstances.