About LiveWithValue

Last Updated: April 16, 2025

Hi there! I’m the founder of LiveWithValue, and while I’m keeping my name private for professional reasons, I want to share the story behind this website. It’s a story that spans continents, cultures, and a lifelong journey toward understanding what “value” truly means.

From Frugality to Value: A Personal Journey

I grew up in Southeast Asia, in a middle-class family where every dollar mattered. We didn’t have a lot of extra money for luxuries. Branded clothes were a rarity, hand-me-downs from older cousins were the norm, and public transport was our lifeline. We focused on making things last. We had three meals a day, and we were grateful for that.

This upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for frugality, but it also sparked a curiosity. I started to question: What really makes something worth buying? Is it the lowest price? The biggest brand name? Or is it something more?

Fast forward to today. I’ve lived and worked in Canada for over a decade, in the financial services industry. I’ve seen firsthand how people make decisions about money, investments, and purchases. My work is hybrid – split between a downtown office and working from home – which has also given me a deep appreciation for the importance of a comfortable and productive workspace (hence the ergonomic chairs!).

Discovering True Value: Beyond the Price Tag

Through all of this, I’ve become a big proponent of the FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early) – but not just for the “retire early” part. To me, FIRE is about intentionality. It’s about making conscious choices about how you spend your money and your time, so you can build a life you truly value.

And that’s where LiveWithValue comes in. This website is the culmination of my personal journey and my professional experience. It’s about recognizing that “value” is a multifaceted concept. It’s not just about the lowest price, or the highest return on investment. It’s about:

• Productivity & Comfort: Creating a workspace that supports your well-being and allows you to do your best work.
• Financial Wellness: Making smart financial decisions that build long-term security and freedom.
• Personal Growth: Investing in yourself, learning new skills, and expanding your horizons. (And potentially other categories to come!)

It’s about finding the right balance between cost, quality, and long-term benefit, in every area of your life. It’s about asking: “Will this purchase add value to my life, not just today, but for years to come?”

Our Approach: Honest Reviews, Long-Term Thinking

At LiveWithValue, we’re committed to providing honest, in-depth reviews and guides to help you make informed purchasing decisions. We go beyond surface-level features and focus on the true cost of ownership. We analyze:

• Initial Quality: How well is the product made? What materials are used?
• Longevity: How long is it likely to last, based on real-world use and manufacturer warranties?
• Cost Per Use: What’s the actual cost of using the product over its lifespan?
• Opportunity Cost: What are the hidden benefits (or drawbacks) of choosing one product over another? (Think: increased productivity, improved health, reduced stress).
• Environmental Impact: We look at sustainability and waste reduction too.
  • Product Lifespan: How long can you realistically expect this product to last with proper care?
  • Reduced Consumption: Does choosing this product help you avoid buying multiple, less durable alternatives, ultimately reducing overall consumption?

We’re not about pushing the most expensive products; we’re about finding the best value for your specific needs and budget. We believe that informed decisions lead to a more valuable life.

Join the LiveWithValue Community

LiveWithValue is more than just a website; it’s a community of people who believe in making intentional choices and investing in a better future. We’re constantly expanding our content and exploring new categories, all with the goal of helping you live a richer, more fulfilling life.

Sign up for our email list to stay updated on our latest reviews, guides, and exclusive deals. And welcome to the journey!