{
  "id": 4203376,
  "title": "When is the right time to take the risk and start something of your own? Singaporeans share their experiences",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/when-is-the-right-time-to-take-the-risk-and-start-something-of-your",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-29T04:32:09.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Independent Singapore",
    "slug": "the-independent-singapore",
    "url": "https://theindependent.sg/when-is-the-right-time-to-take-the-risk-and-start-something-of-your-own-singaporeans-share-their-experiences/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Singaporeans, burdened by the demands of their corporate jobs, family responsibilities, and everyday financial obligations, often dream of breaking away from the standard 9-to-5 work routine to build something they can call their own. However, many wonder if an average person can afford this risk. In a Reddit discussion, a netizen asked when Singaporeans who have taken the plunge to start their own venture decided to do so. They also questioned if people typically wait until they have paid half of their BTO (public housing), have $200,000 in savings, or if they simply go for it even when life becomes more complicated.\n\nIn response, many netizens shared their thoughts and experiences. One suggested that the best time to start is when people are young, as opportunity costs are lower and they can still afford to make mistakes. They recommended starting with a service-based business, as the capital requirements are low, and it allows for learning the basics of running a simple business before moving on to more complex ventures.\n\nAnother netizen argued that if people seek excuses not to pursue their dreams, they will find countless reasons not to. They emphasized that life is not solely about money. A third netizen suggested that people should take the time to plan their desired venture, calculate all the risks, and scrutinize the business plan. They also noted that starting before having children is preferable, as life will become more complicated afterward. They believed that having a solid plan makes it easier to attract investors, especially when all the groundwork is completed.\n\nThe netizen concluded that readiness for starting a venture is not determined by having one's BTO half paid or reaching a specific savings amount. Instead, it comes from understanding the potential downsides, accepting the sacrifices one is willing to make, and ensuring that failure will not ruin one's life. They emphasized that waiting forever and risking everything are not mutually exclusive.\n\nUltimately, the discussion concluded that there is no definitive \"right time\" for people to start their own venture. Success can be achieved through bold leaps of faith, regardless of doubts. The key is to prepare smartly and embrace opportunities with courage, rather than dwelling on regrets.",
  "summary": "How much savings is enough to start something of your own? This article ( When is the right time to take the risk and start something of your own? Singaporeans share their experiences ) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}