January was spent catching up on belated birthday celebrations and birding, so many rare birds appeared that month. I also began freelancing at last. The income is modest, but it gives me a sense of purpose, a feeling that I am contributing again, and that satisfying rhythm of working hard and playing hard. After a day of work, heading out for birding feels like a genuine reward. Perhaps we do need a little struggle before we can truly enjoy the harvest, though I say that half in jest.
As part of my freelance work, I completed a certification in assessing early cognitive impairment. It was a meaningful experience working with older adults and carrying out the assessments. However, the arrangement is not sustainable in the long term. I have to wait for available slots and book them in order to conduct each assessment, and payment is made per case. The unpredictability makes it difficult to plan ahead. Also right now the work places are all in the far west. So I began applying for short term roles and positions closer to home.
I secured a three month contract with a government agency. I suspect it will be relatively straightforward work (customer service), which probably explains the modest salary. Still, it is enough to cover daily expenses and allow me to set aside savings for my next birding trip, which was my main motivation for getting a paycheck. There is also CPF which helps to grow the retirement pot.
For now, I have put the assessment work on hold. A few freelance opportunities are circulating, but nothing is confirmed. With income so uncertain, I would rather commit to something stable and time limited.
I am not sure whether I will complete the full three months. I will see how the training in February unfolds and take it from there. Fingers crossed.