The Journey of My First Salary: A Memoir in Dollars and Experience

Life is a journey full of milestones, and for me, receiving my first salary at the tender age of 24 in the year 2016 was a significant one. Having trudged through the trials of obtaining an MBA degree and enduring a multitude of job interviews, obtaining my first job finally brought a modicum of relief. My monthly salary of Rs. 25,000 ($350) was a stark reminder of the hard work that had gone into achieving this position. At that time, I felt like a failure, but the salary marked a new phase of independence in my life. The little I earned was enough to alleviate my financial dependence on my parents, bringing a measure of autonomy to my life.

In 2022, my salary had climbed to approximately Rs. 80,000 ($1100) per month, and despite the sizeable jump from my first salary, I still felt that I was underpaid. With six years of experience and living in a metropolitan city which comes with hefty expenses, I still felt that the figure was far from satisfactory. However, I came to understand that growth and progress take time, and the key was to keep pushing forward.

Living in a Metropolis

My first salary of Rs. 23,000 ($328) hit my account right after Diwali in the previous year. This number seemed huge to me because of my background. Having come from a humble upbringing, where I witnessed my mother saving every last paisa, I learned the true value of money early on. Growing up, I never sought financial support from her nor entertained myself with expensive purchases. However, on this day, I was not thrilled nor excited. Instead, I felt a striking sense of homesickness. Absorbed in my thoughts throughout the day, I kept thinking about the 23,000 Rs as the cost of my freedom, of living away from home and on my own for the rest of my life.

While my parents were excited, and it was only then that I felt a sense of excitement, something I could not share, my emotions remained quiet. Despite the financial stability, I yearned for the comfort and warmth of home. My focus remained on saving every penny rather than spending it on gadgets or other luxuries. My primary aim was to give everything to my parents, as I believed their pride in me was the greatest form of happiness I could attain in life.

Lessons and Reflections

The journey of receiving my first salary was a double-edged sword. It marked a step forward in my career but also highlighted the challenges of living in a metropolitan city and the impact of money on personal feelings. Understanding these lessons has been crucial for my growth and personal well-being. While my salary has increased over the years, the importance of financial independence and the value of family remains a constant in my life.

For many, the first salary is more than just a financial milestone; it represents a transition into a new phase of life, one marked by independence and responsibility. My experience is a reminder that while numbers on a paycheck are important, the real value lies in the experiences, emotions, and relationships that shape our lives.

Conclusion

The journey of my first salary is a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and personal growth that one undergoes when entering the workforce. It is a reminder that sometimes, it is the small victories, like saving every single rupee, that add up to the greatest achievements in life. As I hike up my salary over the years, the lessons of my first paycheque remain ever-present, guiding me towards a fulfilling and contented life.