Approaching 30 made me realize how real the “hedonic treadmill” is. At 22, I once thought: “Once I graduate and pass the board exam I’ll be happy.” “Once I get the job, I’ll feel successful.” “Once I save money, I’ll finally relax." Then I achieved those things… and my brain immediately created a new target. The goalpost keeps moving. A degree, license or certification becomes “not enough.” Savings become “still lacking.” Progress becomes invisible because comparison never stops. Especially today, where social media lets you compare yourself to everyone: the millionaire your age, the young professional traveling the world, the politician or businessman who inherited a position or business, the person who seemed to figure life out earlier. As a Filipino nearing 30, there’s also silent pressure: “May bahay ka na?” “Kailan ka mag-aasawa?” “Magkano sweldo mo?” You start measuring your worth through milestones instead of fulfillment. B...