The Essence of Money

When asked to encapsulate her view on money in a single word, Dong describes it as “fuel”. This reflects her belief that money powers the economy, fulfills dreams, and enriches lives.

A Letter to Money

If she could write a letter to money, it would express gratitude: “Dear Money, thank you for your generosity in helping me complete my education, travel, and fulfill responsibilities. You are divine, and I respect and use you carefully in both work and daily life.”

The Formation of a Financial Relationship

Dong likens her relationship with money to a marriage, developed through a process of pursuit, a honeymoon phase, and ongoing maintenance. This reflection reveals the evolution and care required in financial management.

Lessons from Family

Her mother’s influence is profound, particularly in understanding the importance of boundaries in financial assistance. Dong recalls, “I used to lend money and assist people freely, but now I realize it may not always be helpful to finance others without expecting a return.”

Financial Conversations

Discussing financial matters is essential to Dong, who engages with trusted individuals and views these discussions as crucial rather than taboo. She has learned extensively from books, social media, and financial experts, reflecting on the significance of continuous learning.

Profound Lessons Learned

One pivotal experience highlighted the need to respect money. Dong shares that lending without clarity can lead to loss, reinforcing her view that money is to be handled with care.

Life in the UAE and Its Impact

Living in the UAE has transformed her perception of wealth as a source of opportunity and growth. “The UAE is a truly wealthy place where money supports living, business, and expansion,” she notes.

Advice Across Generations

For her child and younger self, Dong emphasizes the importance of saving, asset management, and using money to foster growth: “This creates a foundation for long-term financial security.”

Investment Priorities and Financial Planning

Dong values investments in gold, stocks, and property, which tend to appreciate over time. She actively plans her finances, primarily focusing on real estate with projected returns of 8 to 10 percent, to build wealth gradually.

Long-term Goals

Her ultimate aspiration is to achieve financial freedom, allowing her to enjoy life and work on her terms. She aims to save enough by the age of 65 to ensure comfort and the ability to support her family while continuing to invest in meaningful ventures.

Reflecting on Decisions

Among her financial decisions, her early investments in property stand out as the most significant, yielding consistent returns and providing long-term security. Conversely, Dong expresses regret over lending money without clear terms, recognizing the importance of structuring financial agreements thoughtfully.