King Sasanka – Sri Lankan Writer & Retired Aviation Professional.

The "Pay You First" Philosophy: Why Self-Investment is the Ultimate Strategy for Success.   In the world of personal finance, there is a golden rule that separates the secure from the struggling: Pay Yourself First. The premise is simple—before you settle your utility bills, pay your rent, or buy groceries, you divert a percentage of your income into savings. You treat your future self as your most important creditor. But what if we applied this logic to more than just a bank account? The "Pay You First" principle is a powerful mental model for holistic living. It’s an intentional shift from being reactive —constantly responding to the demands of the world—to being proactive , ensuring your own tank is full before you try to fuel others. Here is how to apply this high-impact strategy across every pillar of your life. 1. Financial Security: Building Your Foundation Most people treat savings as "whatever is left over" at the end of the month. Th...

During a recent friendly conversation, one of my friends remarked that the younger generation is far more selfish than those who came before them. I smiled and said, “Good for them.” Needless to say, he was taken aback. Why Being ‘Selfish’ Isn’t Always a Bad Thing The word "selfish" has been burdened with negativity for generations.  We associate it with greed, arrogance, and disregard for others. But in reality, there’s a healthier, more meaningful version of selfishness, one rooted in self-preservation and personal growth . My rationale is simple: If you’re not selfish, you may never be truly successful. And if you’re not successful, how can you possibly help anyone else? A Lesson from 40 Years in Aviation Having spent over four decades in aviation, one piece of advice from every in-flight safety briefing has stayed with me: “In case of a depressurization, oxygen masks will drop from the panel above you. Put on your own mask before assisting others.” T...