First Paycheck Nostalgia

Oh, I still remember my very first paycheck, sealed inside a brown envelope. It was January 15, 2000—two and a half months before my Uni graduation. It was my first fortnight's earnings after accepting an offer for a permanent position at the consultancy firm where I was having my apprenticeship.


Oh boy, was I delighted, not for the amount received, but the thought of being a so-called "regular employee," or having a "salaried job" while I was still in school. That first paycheck confirmed it, and I understood then that I would no longer need to fight for a space in the job market after my university days were over, since I already had my place secured.

I felt proud, and my family couldn't be prouder. Dad even teased me, saying they would cut off my allowance since I was already earning my keep. Well, it was okay by me, because I was receiving money (salary), which marked the beginning of my independence. There was no need to rely on my parents to pay for my apartment rentals, utility bills in the city, food, movie dates, and such. I believe they saved big since I stopped leeching off them, lol!😁

Joke aside, it was truly a wonderful feeling. Yes, I didn't experience the struggle of earning and supporting myself while studying, but being able to live on my own and pay my bills through my own sweat (effort) before my 20th birthday felt so good. It turned me into an adult who knew how to fend for herself, and that boosted my confidence. Dad, I can finally have a boyfriend! LOL😅

But yeah, I treated my best friend to a sumptuous meal and a movie, and bought a mobile phone with my first pay. Probably not the best thing to do, but what can I say? I was so delighted! With my second month's salary, I bought two dresses and high heels, rented a cap and gown for my graduation ceremony, and paid for the beauty salon services. Aah, the joy of spending your own earnings is quite incomparable. Although a few months later, the need to budget one's hard-earned money started to set in.

It felt nostalgic looking back today. I also recognize that receiving my first pay may have been the kick (inspiration) I needed to dream bigger. After three years of employment in that consultancy firm, I found myself yearning for more thrills and experiences, so I quit and explored other opportunities, which led me to working in the corporate world abroad for years.

My first job's paycheck discreetly lit the fire within, paving the way for something better and a more exciting adventure, teaching me many things, and enriching my life in more ways than one. I will always be grateful for it and look back with fondness, no matter how much time passes.

And that is my little first paycheck story for my participation in India United Community's question for the week, re: "My First Earning/ First Pocket Money.". I invite you to check it out and share your experiences too.

Speaking of firsts, I discovered that this is my very first post in this vibrant community. Thank you for this space and opportunity.💚



Smile... laugh often... love more... be grateful always!



Lead image by John-Mark Smith via Pexels. No copyright infringement intended. 28012026/11:50ph



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Seems like everyone have some story with their first salary except me. I guess, maybe simple things can't give me any inspiration. I felt very normal when I received my first salary, and I was not excited either.

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Yes, little things make me happy :) Maybe you were expecting much more?😅

!BBH

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My first salary I remember it was used just to cover the expense for the car 😂 needed the car to go to work so that and some next ones were used to it, no personal gift and such 😂

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Aah, that's even better. At least your first pay was well-spent :)

!BBH

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interesting, the first pay check is what we always remember, thanks for sharing your story.

!PIZZA

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It sure is. Thank you too for the interesting question, which brought back some nostalgia :)

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ha haa you are welcome.

!PIZZA

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You are so right! The joy of spending one’s own money is incomparable. It must be a wonderful feeling for you then. It’s always a nostalgic experience for those who received their first paycheck.

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Yeah, it was a nice experience :) Those firsts are lovely memories to keep :)

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Naalala ko yung akin sis, binili KO Ng milk at diaper Ng baby KO😬. Hindi KO na treat sarili KO that time🥵

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Okay na rin yon sis :) Worth it yung pinanggamitan ng first pay.

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That is so awesome you cna recall your first paycheck with such detail and wonder. My first regular paycheck I was still in high school. I was working for a local restaurant, but not long. Before and after I worked in fields for farmers, but not regularly. It wasn't until I turned 18 and left high school for the military did I get a regular pay.

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Yes, it felt like it was just yesterday :) I can still remember even my boss' face, lol! It's awesome that you had your first in high school! Reminiscing about them must have made you feel nostalgic too, or not?

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It did bring back fond memories. Thank you.

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It might be years late to say it, but congrats on getting that job before graduation! I had a similar experience, getting a job before finishing school... and my parents couldn’t stop bragging! 😆 I remember giving them my first paycheck, thinking I was helping out in a huge way 😂 being the great eldest daughter and all that… but in reality, it was just some extra money for them to use however they wanted. Still, that little gesture felt amazing. Seeing them happy made me feel like I’d done something big 😊

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Thank you, and congrats to you too😉 You're amazing for giving your first paycheck to your parents. That is a warm gesture, and surely a big thing for them too :)

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I don't think you need boyfriend that moment because if not careful anyone coming at that time will be for the pay lol 🤣 getting your own money is the best thing that can happen to anyone

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I actually had a boyfriend months before I got the job, hehe. And yes, earning your own money is a lovely experience

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I can imagine how you felt, like an independent working - class lady. 🤣 There's dignity in earning from your efforts. It gives joy.

Thanks for sharing.

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Haha, yeah. I never thought I'd be hired, but it was a great experience. Thank you !LADY

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I see...😊 It's my pleasure.

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