From Stability to the Unknown — Why I Chose to Drift

Change has been a constant theme in my life, shaping who I am and where I stand today. Growing up in a densely populated, historic city in northern China, I always dreamt of exploring the world beyond my hometown. My journey took me from Sun Yat-sen University in southern China to the United States, where I pursued my passion for biology and eventually found my calling in bioinformatics and data science. Each step was a leap into the unknown, fueled by curiosity and the desire to grow.

Relocating to Singapore with my family felt like another chapter in this journey of change. It wasn’t just a physical move; it was an opportunity to reassess my priorities and explore new possibilities. After years of dedicating myself to a career I loved, I found myself craving something different — the chance to travel, spend more time with family, and embrace the unpredictability of life, even if that meant occasionally forgetting what day of the week it is.

Drifting isn’t about being lost; it’s about allowing life's currents to carry you to places you never imagined. As I navigate this new phase, I’m learning to measure success not by titles or paychecks, but by experiences and personal growth. That said, letting go of a well-established career path can feel vulnerable. There are moments of doubt, of wondering whether stepping away from the familiar was the right choice. These insecurities don’t overwhelm me, but they do remind me that growth often comes with discomfort, and that it's okay to question while still moving forward.

In the past few months, I’ve shifted from working within structured goals set by others to charting my own path — exploring East Asia, meeting new people through consulting, diving into startup ideas, and regaining my physical health — all while settling into life in Singapore. I’m learning to redefine success on my own terms. It’s not about checking someone else's boxes anymore — now I’m following my own evolving list, driven by curiosity, a desire to create meaningful work, and the intention to stay present in the everyday moments. Whether I’m navigating life abroad or simply pausing to reflect, I’m finding meaning in the freedom to grow and explore on my own terms.

Through this blog, I hope to share the highs and lows — the travels, the transitions, and the transformative moments that come with starting over. I want this space to be a testament to the beauty of embracing change and the courage it takes to drift.

If you’ve ever found yourself at a crossroads, wondering what lies beyond the horizon, I invite you to join me. Let’s drift together, embracing the journey one adventure at a time.

Welcome to drifttoshift.