Reflections on the Attention of Youth: A Journey Through Twenties

The twenties are often a time of self-discovery, boundless energy, and, sometimes, attracting the attention that comes with being young, attractive, and vibrant. Looking back at my own twenties, it’s a mix of good, bad, and downright strange memories, some of which still make me chuckle or shudder.

The Good, The Bad, and The Uncomfortable

In my twenties, I seemed to attract attention wherever I went. Some of it was flattering, while some of it was the kind of attention no one ever asks for. The most uncomfortable experiences involved unwanted encounters with flashers and perverts on the streets and public transport. Those were situations I wouldn’t wish on anyone and ones that taught me the importance of being vigilant.

In another scenario, I also attracted the attention of this dirty old man who’s now a Datuk who used to jog at the park where I jogged. He would often tease me, though he knows my hubby quite well. That was over 20 years ago before I had children. Recently I bumped into him and he again, teased me in the presence of other men, saying that I still look young with a teenager silhouette.  

Professional Challenges and Jealousy

One of my earliest jobs was as a secretary for a husband-and-wife-run company. The job didn’t last more than a week, not because of my lack of skills, but because of the wife’s jealousy. She couldn’t stand the idea of someone younger and, in her eyes, prettier, working in close proximity to her husband. While it was a tough experience at the time, it taught me the importance of standing my ground and knowing when to walk away from toxic environments.

Opportunities and Admirers

My second job in a bank brought a mix of professional and personal attention. One memorable moment was being scouted by a headhunter from Citibank while walking from the bus stand to my office. My boss, who knew the headhunter, called him and jokingly told him off for trying to poach me.

The workplace also had its fair share of admirers. A charming head of a big division frequently visited the HR department where I worked, persistently asking if I’d join his team. He even convinced me to model for the bank’s magazine—a cringe-worthy experience when I look back at the photo!

One of the most flattering encounters was with a young, handsome doctor from the clinic on our bank’s panel. It’s moments like these that make me ponder: what if I had pursued those connections? Would my life be different? Better?

The Road Not Taken

Life is full of crossroads, and it’s natural to wonder about the “what ifs.” But I believe every decision I made, every road I took, was part of God’s greater plan for me. While it’s fun to reflect, I’ve learned to cherish where I am now, knowing that the past shaped the person I am today.

That's me in my late 20s. How I wish I could turn back the clock and look young and vibrant again!