I am 26, a central government employee and my monthly in-hand salary is 52k. Let’s do a quick scan of my expenses.

10k -EMI (till October, 2020)

3k - Younger brother’s pocket money.

₹649 - Netflix monthly membership

5–7k - Misc. expenses. (Includes commute, recharges etc.)

That’s me in my office. We have to adhere to a color code. (Black and white)

I manage to save around 25k per month.

Coming back to the question, if I am happy with my salary? Yes. It helps me maintain a dignified life. Allows me with the means to help my family and friends whenever they need.

Am i satisfied with it? Honestly, no. And it’s not because the money is less. I’m earning more than enough to manage my expenses and one can anyway never have enough money.

My dissatisfaction is with my potential not being fully explored. And that dissatisfaction is what will make me grow, personally and professionally. Money should never be a parameter of happiness. It’s always about how satisfied one is with one’s growth. If money becomes a deterrent to your growth, no matter how much you earn, you will always be unhappy, and that is something I don’t wish to see myself dealing with.

Wisdom and Smiles.

-Komal Sahay