By the founder of “From Monday Meetings to Moments that Matter”

They say security is everything — a steady paycheck, a predictable routine, and a title that tells the world you’ve “made it.” For 10 years, I lived that script. Monday to Friday, from 8 to 5, promoted to 9 to 6: chasing deadlines, attending meetings, and filling out performance reviews. I had what many would call a “stable life.”

But stability isn’t the same as fulfillment.

Somewhere between the deadlines and daily grind, a voice inside me grew louder. It didn’t demand a raise or a promotion — it demanded freedom. I knew I don’t want to chase “success” anymore. I want to chase life.

The Decision to Leave

Walking away wasn’t easy. In fact, it took me 6 months to manifest this life, every single day. After all, I had invested a decade building my career. I worked with incredible teams, held leadership roles, and even made a significant mark in the corporate world. But I realized something crucial: my life wasn’t supposed to fit neatly into a calendar invite. As Time Management Expert, I thought I was the one actively managing my time, but no, it was my executive assistants, supervisors, subordinates, clients, and workmates, who own my time.

So, I made the leap. No, I didn’t have a million in my bank account or a perfect plan. What I had was faith in my skills, a willingness to adapt, and a deep belief that experiences matter more than pay slips.

I wasn’t “quitting” my career — I was redefining it.

Trading Schedules for Sunsets

People think traveling the world is all beach views and Instagram shots. It’s not. It’s waking up at 2 AM to catch flights, learning to navigate foreign cities, and sometimes wondering if you made the right choice.

But here’s the thing — every new place I visit, I meet a new version of myself. Standing on mountain peaks, walking through bustling markets, and sitting in quiet cafes far from home — these moments shape you. Ahh, the joy.

I remember my first trip to New York. Walking through the towering skyline felt like stepping into a living, breathing dream. The energy, the ambition, and the cultural fusion on every street corner inspired me to think bigger and aim higher.

Then came Switzerland. I stood at the edge of Lake Geneva, watching the calm waters reflect the towering Alps. It reminded me of something I’d forgotten — that growth isn’t always about rushing forward; sometimes, it’s about finding stillness and strength in reflection.

And then there’s India recently, where I learned that life doesn’t need to move at full speed all the time. My experience with Hari Krishna Exports taught me that patience and relationships matter far more than expertise. This lesson has stayed with me in every new country I visit.

Each country teaches you something — about the world, about people, and most importantly, about yourself.

I’m no longer “working for the weekend.” Every day feels like a Saturday now. I have a serious theory that Mondays should be optional.

How I Fund This Life

No, I’m not “on vacation.” I’m still working — just on my terms.

With years of experience in management, IT, media, and marketing, I now help businesses grow as a consultant and strategist. My laptop became my office, and Wi-Fi is my new “boss.” I offer branding, strategy, and management support to clients from different parts of the world. I get to do work I love, with people I respect, all while seeing the world. Ahh, the joy again.

Now, I help clients run their businesses while I’m on the other side of the world. I’ve held client calls from airport lounges, co-working spaces, and quiet cafes.

I also have passive digital products that has helped many people land job, become outstanding public speaker or accomplished graphics designer, or find remote jobs. Most of these have free coaching as my brand’s added value.

Some people save for retirement. I’m saving through experiences.

What I’ve Gained (Besides Stamps in My Passport)

The biggest shift wasn’t logistical — it was mental. I no longer view success as a title or salary. Success, for me, is being able to move freely, work anywhere, and say “yes” to life-changing experiences.

Money is not the goal, freedom is. I’m not just “earning.” I’m living.

I’ll never forget the night I stood on a rooftop in Kathmandu, Nepal, with the Himalayan mountains faintly visible in the distance. It wasn’t planned, and it wasn’t something you’d find in a travel brochure. But it was real. The air was cold, the city lights flickered below, and in that moment, I realized I didn’t miss my old life at all.

I’ve gained far more than a paycheck could ever provide.

I’ve learned to trust my instincts, stay uncomfortable, and adapt on the fly. I’ve built friendships across cultures, witnessed sunrises that no camera can capture, and discovered parts of myself that a 9-6 never could.

If You’re Thinking About Doing This…

Here’s my advice: Don’t wait for “perfect.” There’s no perfect time, perfect plan, or perfect amount of money to have saved. You don’t live forever.

You only need one skill, the drive, and a bit of courage, you can carve your own path. I can help you discover and unlock your full potential.

I won’t lie — it’s scary at first. You’ll doubt yourself. You’ll second-guess every decision. But once you see the sun rise over a new city skyline, you’ll know it was worth it.

Not everyone will understand your choice. Some will call it reckless. But remember, no one else is living your life.

Final Thoughts

When people ask me what I’ve saved, I smile and say, “Moments.” Sunsets in places I can’t pronounce. Conversations with strangers who became friends. Pieces of myself I’d lost in the grind.

I left the 9-6 to find myself. And every day, I’m finding a little more.

If you’re waiting for a sign to leave the “safe” path and follow the one calling you — maybe this is it.

Because one day, when it’s all said and done, you won’t measure your life by paychecks, promotions, or possessions. You’ll measure it by the people (you met), process (you went through), and productivity (you achieved) – you’ll measure it by the moments that made you feel alive.

And I promise you, those moments are worth every risk.

— Jhay
Let’s focus on what matters.

P.S. I wrote this in Sydney Airport (just so I’d remember)