It doesn't take too long to realise that, Singapore is a city of consumption with strong spending power. Heck, not a single day goes by without spotting Rolexes on people's wrists. This culture slowly but surely affected me and eventually, I was ready to buy a Rolex for myself. I have more than doubled my salary, I live in a prestigious condo with a maid and a cook who helps me get through the week effortlessly. I thought I was successful both professionally and personally; happiness seemed to be a natural byproduct of my success. But ever since I started making more money, I had times where I was more angry, furious and upset about myself, contemplating to leave Singapore and its vast opportunities and be on a plane back home. Then I realised, it's not how much you spend in life, but how you spend your life that matters and defines success. Below are five true meanings of happiness and how you can attain them:

P.S. I eventually did quit my job. Here's what I learned from that experience.

1. Health is Your #1 Asset

As a chiropractor, I've always appreciated my body and its limitless ability to heal and prosper. But in truth, I've never looked after my health as I should be, blaming my busy schedule and the physical limitations of a busy chiropractor. What is the point in pursuing your life goals, if your health deteriorates in the process?

In my office, I see a lot of elderly patients who have worked their entire life, oftentimes bearing decades of pains and aches. Although I have my deepest respect for those people, I find it very ironic and unsettling to see them use that hard earned money to try and gain their health back. There is no point in working so hard, having a blind eye on your deteriorating health, just to make some money and support your loved ones. In the end, it's your life, your retirement and you deserve to do the things you love in life.

The best way to be healthy is to act NOW. Don't take your health for granted -- your knees aren't going to be same as they are today. Exercise and strengthen your body, refine your mental health through practising mindfulness and meditation. You are what you eat; eat a healthy diet to boost your immune system. And most importantly, stop blaming your busy schedule for the lack of time. It all comes down to our determination. We always seem to have no problems finding time for lunch and coffee, then why can't we schedule a workout?

2. Realise Your Goals

Knowing your purpose in life is a difficult journey and requires a lot of soul searching.

Your goal should never to be happy -- happiness is just a byproduct of doing something that you are passionate about.

Your goal should never to be wealthy -- who doesn't want money? Money should be a natural byproduct of your work and the value you provide to others.

Call me idealistic, but if you don't like your job and you are miserable, maybe that job isn't for you. If you find your work mundane, see no light at the end of the tunnel, what does it matter that it pays your rent and bills? Every moment of your life is your life. If you are not passionate about what you do, if your job is not in align with your higher purposes in life; the chances of earning more and getting that promotion at your workplace is slim to none. Realise your dreams and visions, when you know what you want in life, the opportunities, the people and the resources will naturally gravitate towards you.