WHEN Patrina Ligairi first entered the workforce, she was doing what most young professionals do — learning to manage income, balance obligations, and make sense of financial choices.
But one thing stood out.
“Life moves fast,” she says.
At that stage of her life, Patrina says her focus was on building and growing, both personally and professionally.
She was taking opportunities to learn, supporting her family whenever needed, and thinking seriously about being financially prepared for the future.
As the eldest in her family, responsibility was inevitable. That shaped how she approached planning and why she wanted to make decisions that would benefit not only herself, but the people around her.
Rethinking life insurance
Like many of her peers, her initial perception of life insurance was that it was meant for people much further along in life.
“It felt like something you worry about later in life,” she says.
“I used to think life insurance was only for older people or parents with kids.”
She had only just started working and was trying to figure out how to invest in her future.
“I realised that being young doesn’t mean you’re too early to prepare,” she says.
“I wanted to make sure I was ready for whatever came my way.”
“I didn’t want to wait until something forced me to care. Anything can happen,” she says.
Understanding the benefits of starting early — particularly affordability and the ability to build value gradually — shifted her thinking. Starting young meant she could grow with her plan over time.
The biggest difference, however, was not financial.
“It was reassurance,” she says. That reassurance stayed with her daily.
Protecting peace, building confidence
While life insurance does not come with dramatic moments, its value shows up in quieter ways.
“Peace of mind,” Patrina says.
“Knowing I’ve put something solid in place for myself.”
Starting early removed the pressure of postponing an important decision.
“It takes away that ‘I’ll worry about it later’ feeling,” she explains.
“Because later can sometimes come unexpectedly. It helps me feel more prepared for unexpected events.”
While some young people worry that a life insurance policy might limit their lifestyle, Patrina says her experience has been the opposite.
“I can still enjoy life now while knowing my future is secure.
“For me, it’s about protecting my growth, my dreams, and the hard work I’m putting in.”
“It’s one less thing I have to worry about,” she says.
“Having a policy in place makes me feel more organised, like I’ve already taken a smart step that future-me will thank me for.”
One stress less
Since taking out her policy, Patrina says the biggest shift has been internal.
“Less stress, less pressure, and more time to build value,” she says.
“Most importantly, it gave me confidence.”
Patrina does not believe life insurance requires certainty.
“It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out yet,” she says.
“We’re all still learning. The important thing is to just start small.”
Her advice to young people is simple.
“Don’t wait — start now while it’s easier and affordable,” she says.
“You never really regret being prepared, but you do regret being unprepared.”
