Introduction

Delonix Tan’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Once a textbook troublemaker, he struggled academically and became entrenched in a lifestyle fueled by poor choices and violent tendencies. Failing to steer clear of the wrong crowd, he was on a fast track towards a life defined by delinquency. However, everything changed after his second stint in juvenile detention.

The Life-Changing Book

After being expelled from school, it was his cousin who offered him a book that would alter his life's course: *Rich Dad Poor Dad*, written in 1997 by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter. The book emphasizes the significance of financial literacy through the contrasting lives of a “rich dad,” who amassed wealth through smart investments, and a “poor dad” - Kiyosaki’s biological father - who worked tirelessly but never achieved financial security.

A Pivotal Moment

This was a pivotal moment for Delonix. The insights gained from this book ignited his passion for learning and entrepreneurship—a stark departure from the life he had been leading. From that point on, he embraced a relentless pursuit of knowledge, determined to evolve into a self-proclaimed “progress junkie.” He sought higher education and delved into various business ventures, including playing a crucial role in expanding his family’s fishball business, SanDai Fishball.

Reflections on Resilience

In a recent podcast episode of *A Letter to Myself*, hosted by Joel Chua, Delonix recounted his harrowing experiences and the lessons they taught him about resilience and risk-taking. Reflecting on his second detention experience, he recalled, “The first time I went to lock-up, frankly speaking, I was really quite scared, but it wasn't enough to deter me. It was only during the second detention, along with being expelled from school, that my mum expressed her concern, saying she didn’t want to see me continue down this path.”

Changing Perspectives on Failure

Delonix's perspective on failure also evolved dramatically. 'In Singapore's education system, not doing well often translates to being viewed as a loser, with limited life options,' he explained. 'I was bitter in my younger days because I struggled academically.'

A Beacon of Hope

Fast forward to today, at just 26 years old, Delonix is not only a successful entrepreneur but also an inspiring figure who overcame his past. Through candid storytelling, the podcast aims to shed light on transformative experiences, showcasing individuals who have triumphed over adversity.

This compelling narrative not only highlights Delonix's incredible turnaround but also serves as a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with similar challenges. Tune in to *A Letter to Myself* on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to hear Delonix's inspiring story and many others like it, airing every weeknight on CNA938.