I have been traveling abroad lately, which is the first time I have traveled since the pandemic broke out. Everything feels familiar and yet nothing has been the same: there are still many people wearing a face mask, social distance becomes a norm nowadays. I noticed one thing seems to be more crucial than ever: everyone is trying their best to make a living.

The country I am traveling in now is neither developed nor poor. The standard of living is quite affordable compared to western countries’ but does not mean low compared with many poor countries’. In my spare time, I talked to the locals about their life and they all try their best to keep the job they have now or try to find a side hustle to make a living.  Many of them are living paycheck to paycheck without savings.

I calculated their income and living expenses on average and find out that if there is no money inherited from parents, a young man can barely afford a house or a car, all he can do is try to work to meet ends meet.

I have passed the stage of life to buy expensive things to show off and really come to appreciate the importance of making a living in whatever economic situation. I respect all those who are trying hard to make life easier. What are your thoughts about making a living ? Is it hard or easy in your home country ? Please let me know.