Let's see, you have your health, your family, a roof over your head and are working. Sounds good to me. Being a late bloomer on career, family and such, it was stressful in the early years when I didn't have a career or family of my own. I also never did the Honolulu Marathon. Did I worry about it at the time? No. While I never trained or tried for it, I like to think of it, like my friend who ran it twice. First time, he did it okay. Second time, he tried to improve the time and pushed until the near the end coming back to Diamond Head. He walked to complete, coming in longer time, but he completed. You never know what's around the bend. Work to do your best, prepare and do your best, take care of family and health. Everything else, will come at its own time and circumstances. A door/dream closed, might be a opportunity for something else that might be as interesting or promising. Its willingness to seize the day and jumping. We sometimes create our own opportunities and successes. That basket full of sour lemons makes a great lemonade when you least expect it. Stay well, as it sounds like you're doing perfectly fine.
Money is relative in how and who spends. Look at who spends $1000 of fireworks and how they value money. The sam with Las Vegas gambling. They still survive and yet literally burning money. It is the entertainment value. Happy New Year!
For those struggling in the world (myself included got laid off from my job in NYC recently, and lost my father) if you're reading this, keep your head high, it's always ups, and downs... you might be down, but eventually it will come up, just focus on better yourself, and being excited for the future, not depressed. I pray for you, and your families to prosper. Take care of your mental health, stay positive, good things WILL come.. God bless to those struggling in Hawaii, and anywhere else in the world.
You’re happy someone is having a difficult time because of who they voted for? Aren’t we all Americans, whoever we voted for? Isn’t that what it means to live in the USA, to have the privilege to vote for our leaders? Why such mean thoughts?
Grew up middle class in Hawaii. Nowadays, middle class in Hawaii is not enough, considering the cost of living. Best decision I have ever made was leave. I love Hawaii and I will always call it my home, but I wanted absolute financial freedom... Hawaii couldn't give me that.
Even if you make $200K with a family of 4 is nothing in Hawaii. Middle class in Hawaii is making up to $350K in my opinion. Even when making that much trying to save for retirement is doable, but not optimal. If you don't have extended family for support its tough.
@@guam58 I agree and that's unfortunate. That's why leaving Hawaii early was the best option. Now in my 30s and I'm able to make/save/invest comfortably to retire by 40s to travel with my family.
My family bought and paid off a family home. Now my children have have a free place to live while they start their adult life. A hand up is the only way to have your children be able to afford to stay in Hawaii!
Yes, talking story. We are heading out of Hawai'i soon. My wife is born and raised in Hawai'i and we all love it here but it sucks to be making over 100K and still feel like your "just" making it in Hawai'i.
Chris, you are killing it IMO. 🤙🏼 The thing about living in Hawaii is we have the same access to the lifestyle, as the multimillionaires who come here for a visit, or live here part-time, but we have it all year. Nothing compares to island life. Oh, what fun we have. The beauty, the ocean and the weather is FREE. As a nurse, I did not own my own home here until my 40s. I bought the cheapest home on Maui and rented out a room, but it was mine, I loved it, it got me on the ladder. I sold it and got a bigger place. I did leave for 15 years, to a city on the mainland that had excellent pay for nurses, so when I came back my bottom line was improved. My second house, which I had rented out, had good equity, which I took out by selling it and buying my third home. This all happened over forty years. I see you crafting your life mindfully. I see your success, whatever that means for you and your family.
Lived in Hawaii my whole life till 38 and decided to leave the rat race. Best decision of my life. There is an abundance of opportunities on the mainland that just don’t exist in Hawaii.
I've been living on Oahu since December 2000. Life in Hawaii is getting harder due to inflation and stagnant pay. I'm already planning to move back to the mainland, after I retire. Don't get me wrong, I love living here in Hawaii. But it is getting too expensive to live here!
I kinda knew what my future would have been like in Hawaii 23+ years ago so I left Hawaii for good nearly 22 years ago and never looked back and never regretted my decision to leave Hawaii.
@@johnackenheil3145 Hawaii is too dependant on tourism for the economy, there's no blue collar manufacturing etc, soon after the sugar industry diminished and the pineapple industry following I knew the economy wasn't going to be what it used to be so I left for WA where there's an abundance of blue collar, white collar jobs in the tech and transportation industry.
I appreciate your balanced view. You always acknowledge the hardships in life and show multiple variables at play in our point of time and location. Then you offer tools to cope and healthy perspectives.
I lived in Hawai’i pretty much my entire life but moved in 2020 after a lot of consideration. I am getting older and noticed that there were several people that I had grown up with pass away and their families having to struggle to pay their loved ones medical bills. I did not want that to happen to any of my family members. I came to realize that medical costs anywhere in the US is daunting so I decided to move to another country where medical costs was more affordable. It was a very hard decision but I am relived to know that if anything should happen to me no one will be financially burdened by it. I now have great medical insurance for 1/10th the cost with no deductible and no copay in a place that has great medical facilities. My medical insurance will also cover me worldwide, except the US. Hawai’i is always going to be home, but not where I live.
I understand where you are coming from. As the oldest and surviving member of my immediate family, I bore the burden of my younger siblings who struggled with poor health and limited access to healthcare (we are part Native Hawaiian) Sadly, both my younger siblings passed away within the last few years. Frankly, it was a relief for me financially and for them too (poor quality of life). The fact is Hawaii has become a place for the rich, especially as we get older then need 24x7 care at 10k plus per month. Just read a stat where Native Hawaiians' average life span in Hawaii is 62 years (less than 16 years from the other ethnic groups). Being poor in Hawaii is hazardous to your health...wish you the best. Aloha
I live in a country where the government provides free medical care that is of a reasonable standard. If you have the means you can also pay for private care. I have used both services and they are not too different. To find out that America being such a wealthy country does not provide a free health care service and expects its citizens to go into debt to fund medical seems totally wrong. It means that US citizens will never feel secure about retirement unless they are the privileged 1 percent.
Always enjoy your videos. I have changed careers 4 times in my life (I am 71 and retired now). Each time was, in the long run, a positive move. Only remember, when you start at a new job, you are at the bottom again and need to have patience on the way back up. You loose vacation time, seniority, etc. But if you know it's the right move, and even when you feel like you are struggling, you will grow stronger and have more belief in yourself, which is the greatest learning experience. You always seem to be level headed so I know you will do fine. Keep faith in yourself and continue to live aloha. Thank you for your videos. Makes me feel like I have a friend in Hawaii. Aloha
@@HelloFromHawaii great vid bruddah Chris. I would like to suggest an important topic that you probably are already aware of... Water contamination! It's not your usual light-hearted and positive content, but sometimes... Sometimes people need information that typically is ignored or played down. Having a platform that is positive and informative as this is, would be great to help bring attention to this atrocious tragic situation we are facing here in Hawaii. Keep up the great work! MAHALO!
I don't view Hawaii as a "paradise" (yes, I lived there for some years 60's & 70's). But I definitely feel it is a place of "intensity", in the sense that everything there is kind of in a state of "enhancement". Quite a bit of it is positively enhanced. There are some enhancements there that are not so positive in nature. It can be a hard place to get by day to day. The Hawaiian ppl are absolutely the best part of Hawaii.
Chris, thanks for putting out another great video, it was inspiring and had a great message as well. Having money and a big place isn’t everything, whatever makes you happy is the most important thing. It’s inspiring to see you talking about taking on less paying job, allowing you to spend more time with your son, which proves that having more money can’t buy happiness. You have a great attitude and approach to things, and there is no doubt that as time goes, you will be able to fulfill other dreams and goals as well. There is always a next year for the Honolulu Marathon, I would have done it, but have a bad knee, so I am contended with long walks. Wishing you and your family a very Happy and a prosperous new year. Stay blessed 😇, and thank you 🙏 for all the videos you have done during the difficult days of pandemic.
I started watching this channel when I was about to visit Hawaii a couple weeks ago. I am now back from the Big Island but continue to watch because of the great content, and amazing delivery. This channel really deserves to blow up. Chris has so much wisdom. I am 51 years old and have lived quite a life… another story. Chris is like the friend I wish I had when I was in my 30’s, or at least the friend I would have listened to (I wasn’t good at listening to advice back then). When visiting Hawaii I made sure to tip as much as I could, knowing the struggle for housing as such that most are going through. I had seen a news broadcast about the housing & cost of living issue several years ago. I wish Hawaii could/would implement some sort of government grant program housing, specifically for those who have long family histories in HI. I live in another area of the country in which people have been priced out of their hometowns. It really sucks to have to move far from parents, etc. But in Hawaii, the option shouldn’t have to be to move to another island or the mainland. I hope something comes through for you. You really deserve it.
Mahalo for the kind words. I'm not sure they can establish a housing program like you describe, but there are reserved housing opportunities for Hawaii residents. Have a wonderful 2022. 🤙
You sound just like me! Last year, I moved to a new town, started a new job, had all kinds of wild expectations of how wonderful it was all going to be…. I started a TH-cam channel…. And then the music stops (insert needle crossing a vinyl record here…) Just like you said, old habits didn’t fit into the new place, so I got discouraged and felt like I was was failing. Now I see your video, and you have encouraged me SO much!! Thank you! I love your courage and your humility.
What’s great about Hawaii is once your home is paid for having lots of money doesn’t seem to matter. Getting outside and exploring isn’t outrageously expensive
Chris from this channel is probably the only chill real down to earth Hawaii youtuber available. There's others but they are either toxic fellow asians, haole wealthy retirees, or shallow surface level only fakers. You can see Paradise means the world to him but it's laced with poison and uncertainty. I wish him well with what little aloha spirit exists because hawaii has changed so much.
Mahalo. Glad you enjoy the content. While Hawaii has changed in a lot of ways, there are still many ways that it's still holding on to ol' time days. Have a safe New Year! 🤙
Great video -there are people struggling all over the US - if not financially then emotionally from all sorts of losses - you present lots of good lessons to ponder - I especially liked the one that reminds us to remember that where we're at now doesn't mean we'll be there forever
this genuinely made me cry. i’m turning 20 soon and although i haven’t really admitted it to myself but im so scared of my future and if i’ll be able to afford to live here, what my purpose is and what my next steps should be. thank you for this video it made me feel a little safer and more hopeful :)
I really appreciate the honesty in your videos. You are a very genuine and compassionate person and your videos and this one in particular are what helped me come to the conclusion NOT to move to Honolulu. I had almost everything booked but I came to realization that I was not moving for the right reasons. This video helped me see that sometimes letting things go, especially things you want very badly, is not failure. Somet things are not meant for everybody. A weird comment I know but I hope you can see where I'm coming from. Hawaii is beautiful and I will definitely visit again. Mahalo!
Mahalo for the comment. I hope you know that I'm not trying to discourage people from coming. I just hope people understand what they are getting into. 🤙
First off, CONGRATULATIONS on completing the virtual marathon! 26.2 miles!!?? 😳That is a HUGE accomplishment in itself! I have to agree that we are all running our own race whatever it may be. Thank you for the encouragement, most of us get caught up in our own made life timeline but trusting the process and timing is so important! Happy Holidays Chris!
Mahalo! Looking back at your channel to a year ago, great to see how you've grown as a creator on TH-cam. Mahalo for sharing your ideas and family moments. Refreshing to see 🤙
Thanks for making this video. So many times we only see people showing the great things going on in their life. They are all smiles or always posting the trips they go on or the gatherings they have had with others and I’ve wondered if it is just me feeling the anxiety of almost two years living in a pandemic. Your video is genuine and helps to remind me that social media paints a one sided picture. Yes, there are great things going on, but so many are struggling with the every day unknown that is not posted. Your video was a breath of fresh air. Thank you! Sending a hello from California. :)
Wow, where do I start without getting wordy. I worked hard for over 40 years for the same company. My wife worked hard. We finally bought our first place in Hawaii in 2009. I retired in 2019. Only then did I realize that life is truly a journey and like a long hike you never know where you are until you reach the destination. Then you realize it is so worth it. Each step doesn't define it. It is the entire journey that defines success. Keep going your on the right path.
These are the kind of discussions with a friend or family member over a beer, a drink, coffee, breakfast, or a long walk. Thanks for the food for thought. Happy New Year.
Have you considered moving to another island? I live on Kauai and raised my family here versus Oahu. Born and raised Papakolea I moved from the “city” with my husband.. With 4 kids. 5,4,3 and 1. In 1983 as young parents we felt the thing to do was move off the rock to the country which is what the neighbor islands was at the time. Big island seems to be the last frontier for affordable prices. Forget Maui, the transplants has taken over and here on Kauai we are becoming a playground for the rich. We do have some affordable housing being built on the west side (Eleele). I enjoy your channel and appreciate your insight about island living. At 66 years old with 4 kids, 19 grandchildren and two great grandchildren we see the changes in our islands and although we are comfortable in our retirement I tremble for the future of Hawaii
I have considered Kauai. I have family there, but it's a job issue. Not sure what I could do there to support the family. But would love to live there.
Serious talk: staying afloat and having your health is the win these past two years. Some of my extended family is seriously struggling and my family is hit hard with health issues on a normal basis... I am recovering right now from diabetes and GI tract issues. To health.
I was lucky (or unlucky) enough to be stationed in hawaii as a young airman from 2012-2015. I say unlucky because having been spoiled with being able to live there, nowhere else really compares! We live in Colorado now and am no longer in the military. My wife and I often talk about moving back to Hawaii, but just don’t know how to make it work with the cost of living being so astronomically high! Looking back I wish we would have bought a house over there back then, but as they say hindsight is always 20/20. Thanks for all your work on the channel, I enjoy your videos!
Thank you for your insight and philosophical ruminations. I really enjoy you videos, so please keep making them. God bless your family and you! Mahalo!🌺🪷
I love your videos, Chris. You do an amazing job. The things that impress me the most about you are your humility and transparency. I appreciate very much that you are REAL. My wife and I are hoping for a trip to Oahu in the next couple of years and your videos are so helpful. Thank you for your hard work.
#2 letting go of the dream in Hawaii. Trying to make it work here, while Im still here. The Aloha spirit is what makes it hard to leave, oh yeah and the weather and beaches.
Mahalo for the heartfelt insight. I just know that I could not retire here comfortably. Sometimes we have to make a hard decision like moving away, not because we want to... but we have to. 🤙 Aloha O’e.
keep saving and invest. Home prices will come down and then you’ll be ready! Buy a small multiunit (2-4 mine) first. Stay optimistic and grateful-you have a great family, weather, beaches, scenery.
I miss Hawaii moved here to Arizona in 2004 lots of ppl from Hawaii here!! Cheaper than California were I’m originally from. Lots of ppl move to Vegas also no state tax, just something to consider! Aloha
It's been a struggle man. Anti Social Aloha culture is being pushed at the top. Also some industries got hit and 2 family incomes turned into 1 or none. Yet the state don't remember money making laws that they put in before C19 that are gonna cause greater financial stress on people (like marco polo laws). Had some good stuff implemented like scheduling of appointments to eliminate busy crowds, and yeah, work from home, and more sanitary checks. But it don't look like the old Hawaii is ever coming back. And you know, get more people moving here from outside as the locals move out. At least you seem to be doing good. Love you channel man. Reminds me when I was that easy going local guy that loved everyone and everyone loved. Happy New Year Brah!
Recall in the song New York, New York if I can make it here, I can make it anywhere, It CAN be done in Hawaii. My dad told me at a young age; "you can live anywhere in this great country of ours if you put your mind to it and work very hard, nothing is for free, you get nothing for nothing but nothing it's up to you son" talk about a kick in the pants! The US Navy brought me here at first and I didn't want to leave back then from '94-'98 felt like home already to me and was fortunate to return 6 years ago and now looking forward to the future with a great optimism and living the life of Aloha!
Hi Chris. Thank you for your inspiring and positive video. Your perspective on life is spot on. The lessons you have learned and your approach to challenges you’ve faced will serve you well anywhere you go. Things may be more difficult in Hawaii in some ways but no matter where one lives it’s good advice that will help a person deal with and face life struggles as well. Keep the videos coming. I wish you and your family all the best in 2022!
You are in your peak earning years. You will not get them back. Scary… many things you going on around are not under your control. But, what keeps us going, prevents burnout, resentment and is under our control; it’s our positive ATTITUDE, Our attitude allows us to celebrate other’s achievements without jealousy. It is what sustains us in the dark days. However, it is not blowing smoke at ourselves and becoming a smiling idiot. Our positive attitude allows us to is be in the present, content, and grateful to the blessings we have. People with poor attitudes love contaminating others and bring them down. Walk away from them. Always take the high road. Life is more full when it’s not always about you. Doors will open because people and employers love someone with a good Attitude. Mahalo from Montana.
awww, thank you so much for this sharing. I couldn't agree more. You put them all very well, nothing more to add. I will just keep running appreciating Hawaii, without comparing. Happy New Year!
If you can make it in hawaii i promise you that much. Im born and raised waianae literally behind the intermediate. I made it out there. We didnt know what would of happened but i made the move to washingte state. Yes hawaii life is a struggle. But anyone can make it there if they put their mind to it. Aloha kanaka. Have a safe and new year with the ohana. Enjoy the free fire work show in hawaii. If peole dont know fireworks is illegal in hawaii but you may not know that does not matter lol. 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
The struggle is real. Everything is expensive, I've cut down on food budget and I love Costco. Because of this change, I've been having health problems because I'm eating less, not like before because I cannot afford to buy food anymore like I used to.
No matter the struggles in the island, I for one try to see the beauty in the island. Family , friends and pets and nature. Jesus is my cornerstone in this period of time. Be blessed and safe.🙏🙏😁
Mahalo for being so candid about Hawaii life. I was born and raised In Mililani but moved to California when I was 9. I love to visit the islands as often as we can but I have come to grips living in Hawaii is impossible. In fact living in California is not much better, my wife and I both have really good paying jobs but we live just an average life here. After 42 years in California we decided to move to Pennsylvania so we can finally live the life we wanted. Hawaii will always be home, even if I wear my slippah in another state 🤙🏾
Turn the envy into motivation 💯🤙 And that includes anger and our sorrow. #Example; like working out, making music, write a book, start a business. Etc.
Good message. I was told a long time ago to be grateful for what you have and not to worry about the things you don't have. This doesn't mean you can't keep chipping away at your goals. We had to close our biz over covid crap and loss 100k alone last year were still trying recover
Housing price will always increase. I never could purchase a house even 30 years ago. I find alternatives to survival in Hawaii. Families need double income to afford a home. All income needs to be 6 figures.
Aloha and mahalo! Thank you for posting this! I was born in Hawai'i on Oahu and left as a 3 year old after working for the Hawai'i Film Commission from the age of 2 months until we moved away when I was 3 years and 3 months. I was adamant about NOT leaving Hawai'i or Cali-Nava-Washi, my other homes, California, Nevada and Washington State, where I also worked. But, since my birth father was ill with leukemeia, I had to go with them to be closer to our great and grands and leave my foster father, who was also my grand dad in the West. Well, it was culture shock, to say the least and I have ALWAYS gone back to visit as much and as frequently as possibly. Don't give up, unless you find a much better situation. This year MUST get better, I am determined. How have you fared with the torential rains, gale winds and mini tsunamis so far? I wish you and your family much happiness, love, and success! Aloha! Pama
We all have a race to run and finish. The life journey teaches us that our paths are different. A person may seem to have it all, but that is only on the surface. Your race and life journey are unique only to you and no one else. I want to leave my present job but I can’t because I need the insurance to pay for my health issue (prostate cancer). I still look to the day when I will leave after finding that new thing (job or career). It’s easy for some people who have success to say that the reason that other people can’t succeed is because they don’t dream big, or, even more explicitly, they are weak. It is arrogance to assume that being successful is being like these successful people. But it’s not all that it’s cracked up to be. May this new year bring you much success.🤙 Peace.
I was fortunate to live on the Big Island the past 18 years and it was incredible! I thought I was going to live there forever. Covid came and shut my work down and so I was forced to either struggle and stay or leave the island. I ended up leaving the island and luckily found another good job on the mainland. I have a sad feeling that the good ole days that I endured are gone. Hawai'i will change a lot from this pandemic and what will follow. It's crazy that many of my friends are leaving Hawaii as well. The rich are pushing everyone out. Hawaii will never go back to prepandemic times.
Born and raised in Oahu. I’m glad someone understands, feels like despite the increase in prices, many of my peers continue to eat out, travel, buy new homes and cars while I can’t make sense of it. I also started a new job in 2021 to work from home but took a pay cut and am thinking I’ll need a remote (California) paying job to afford to buy a single family house in Oahu. Got approved for a mortgage loan in February 2020 but the housing market went insane. Definitely feel priced out… aloha for sharing!
So beautifully executed video. Mahalo for putting this out there. Yes, living here in Hawai’i is a privilege. My ohana has been here for over 30 years and to this day do not take any of it for granted and I am a malihini and will never take it for granted either. hauʻoli makahiki hou to you and your ohana!
Being born in Hawaii and am Hawaiian at 54 I moved to Washington a few months ago. I don’t want to pay 900k for a house 35 years old so me and wife moved to a house we could afford without broken anything in it. I’m heartbroken that I won’t be laid to rest in my home but sometimes you need to do something different…but lord I miss zippys chili. At least I can visit for two weeks a year.
@@HelloFromHawaii well we tried and looked around but in Olympia not so much. The Asian market is a mom and pop store and honestly you can get better local items from longs. Oh we do have a L&L but the flavor is off or the white rice junk but happy teriyaki isn’t that bad.
People will ALWAYS post what they want people to see. The struggle is always real no matter where you live. It just depends on what you do to make it better or just do the same things and expect things to change. Hawaii is difficult to live economically but money can’t buy Aloha, it’s priceless. People are very impatient in nature hence the rush to get things, house etc. Sometimes we worry about things that are out of our control. Focus and be happy with what you have rather than what you want. I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year!
Hawaii is EXPENSIVE! It will be harder to build wealth when your earnings keep going toward basic necessities. High housing costs, high food costs, high taxes, etc. How can you succeed when you cannot build wealth? I grew up there, UH Grad. Moved away after and opportunities were endless, or many. Working in CA was so empowering, as opposed to the micro-management style in Hi. You will grow so much, learn so much, accomplish so much, etc. You can earn twice as much, send your kids to private school, live in a nice house, travel more and do actual road trips, retire early in Hawaii, etc. 😁
@@HelloFromHawaii I really depends on what you want out of life. I think that most people raised in Hawaii can look forward 30 years and know exactly what their life will be like. If you're ok with that then great. Nothings wrong with that. But if you are not then ACT! No regrets... 😁
would you say the opportunities and the earning to living cost ratio is still pretty good in CA nowadays? Been trying to get a good gauge on this from an unbiased perspective.
@@bloodndestroy No, I tell my nieces/nephews to leave CA. I want to leave. I'm from Hi, wife from SF. Same problem as in Hi, she and family won't leave because her whole family is in the Bay Area. Many won't be able to buy a house, pay way too much in rent. They stay because of family and an easy default decision to stay. The way to do it is work for the government, get a pension and med at retirement, but when the government grows too big you'll get massive corruption and an unsustainable model.
@@darrylk808 Is it worse in HI or CA? I want to live in the beautiful Pacific in the future, but not have too insane of a living cost and crime problem, so I figured I'd aim for HI and have CA as backup. But at this rate, its looking like maybe Australia or NZ will be it? Definitely agree on the govt work.
I have friends who retired and live in Hawaii. Once a quarter, they fly to Las Vegas and buy food and clothes etc. Five to six large coolers stuffed with food. Then, fly back. Here is why. Jimmy Dean bacon 12 oz. $1.97! One dozen Grade AA extra large eggs $1.47! Milk one gallon $2.52! A loaf of bread $1.00! One red pepper $0.59! Used to be two or three for $1.00. A head of lettuce, cabbage and cauliflower $1.00 each! 5 or 10 lb bag of Idaho potatoes $1.99! Progresso soup $1.00 per can! 4 count value pack top loin NY strip steaks $18.98! One rack of extra meaty BBQ ribs $8.99!
I loved this video! The struggle is everywhere. It’s like an existential crisis of humans. Anyway, I’m trying to move back to Hawaii. Wish me luck. The islands are magical. And I don’t mean the Instagram version, I mean the bar b q squid from a box on the beach, I mean asking strangers, what’s the surf today? Where the status of the ocean is the hot topic of the day. :) ahhh miss it so much! Thank you bradda!!
Mahalo for the video. I've enjoyed watching your past videos as I am thinking about moving to Hawaii. I live in Seattle so I feel like I'm moving from one expensive place to another. However, as I near retirement, I'd rather live in Hawaii. Perhaps continue to work. Your videos do slap me with the reality of what it is like to live in Hawaii. Funny how the videos do discourage me but yet I bounce back into wanting to relocate. Hawaii is a special and unique place. To spend my final years/days in Hawaii would be awesome. Keep the videos coming! Mahalo Nui Loa!!
Another great topic, t'anks Chris. The greatest struggle is with one's own ego and don't go looking for happiness when it is right there at home. Stay safe. Much good health and happiness in the New Year. An early "akemashite omedetou gozaimasu" to you in Paradise.
Good kine talk story video. Mahalo for helping and encouraging others to keep going during these uncertain times. Good luck with your new job as well. Hau'oli Makahiki Hou!
Love your outlook on life. Not having bought a house last year may have been a blessing with the over-inflated prices which are slowly cooling. Sometimes things happen for a reason. I left Honolulu almost 45 years ago to live in Atlanta. Yes, the cost of living is lower here, but it’s not “home” where your family and roots are. Do I plan to return? Yes, without a doubt.
@@HelloFromHawaii I was disappointed with the L&L in Seattle. There's going to be a drive thru Hawaiian restaurant near my home but the menu doesn't sound authentic. L&L Georgia location will be about 50 miles from me, closer to the airport.
@@HelloFromHawaii The Taira family will be opening a drive-thru Hawaiian restaurant about 2 miles from me. A restaurant name isn’t finalized, yet, but the permit has titled it “Project Ohana”. I know they’ve built sit-down Hawaiian restaurant on the West coast. This may be toe in the water test.
Aloha! First time visiting Hawaii islands. Maui, Big Island, and Honolulu. Hawaii is very beautiful but seeing more homeless people live on the street. The cost of living is so high. More and more people can't afford it. Love Hawaii.. a good time for relaxing and the weather is best especially when you are on the beach.
I think we as humans are never satisfied but in the same token, ambition is also good. You need to have a financial plan of action on how you are going to get what you want. Otherwise, you're just dreaming.
Hello from California: I recently subscribed and found that your story was compelling to me. I bought my first home when I was 30 yo. My Economics teacher told us to buy our first home as soon as you can to avoid paying rent. He also told us to buy where homes would gain in value. So my wife and I bought as close to the beach as possible. As a Landscape Architect, I was able to evaluate an older home and it's floor plan to the size of the lot for future expansion or additions to the home when my income increased. Is that something you can do? Consult with an Architect for advice. It might solve your housing issue.
Mahalo for finding the channel. Even the older homes in Hawaii are expensive. The value is in the land so most of the prices reflect that. We're still looking 😁
Mahalo braddah. Surprised you didn't even mention that O'ahu water table is now destroyed because of the ineptitude of the u.s. government and its military branches. I get it, not your lane. But brah, the shit the Navy is pushing out regarding the aquifers astound me. Hopefully you can make mochi with the family this weekend. Aloha 🧡🧡
Just to add to your comment about the navy. They have known this for many years. I remember my father talking about the "damn navy" when I was in my early teens and how he suspected something was going on at Red Hill. I'm 72 now so its been that long ago. They've know for decades.
I appreciated your viewpoints in this video. I definitely agree with not comparing or competing with anyone else. SM definitely gives people a skewed view of other people's lives, usually set up to showcase positive or "brag worthy" situations. People only need to worry about what is important for their family. For everybody that can be different. Home ownership is a nice goal for some but is it necessary? Same goes for size of house..how many rooms does a family really need? Especially, in HI where you can usually go out and spend a good portion of each day outdoors..you may not need as many rooms as people in an area where you spend half the year indoors due to inclement weather. Do we need most of the stuff that people show off about having? Probably not. Most of the time the things that bring us true joy and that we appreciate the most, don't cost anything additional. Granted, things are just getting more expensive and it is hard for most to make ends meet- that is not only true in Hawaii either. Hoping that all goes well at your new job and congrats on that and running a marathon, even virtually, that is a major accomplishment 👏🏼
Thank you brudah! I am moving to Hawaii for health reasons! Was just saying to myself the key is to at least visit. 1 small step for Walter! 1 giant step for Walterkind! ~ Mister Walter
Great video can't wait to visit Hawaii this Sept 3 weeks holiday Gona climb the stairway to heaven stay n hostel 1 wk & buy a cheap tent ⛺ sleep out n the beach 2wks I'm a Savivor bn though alot n the past & if your a Savivor You can survive anything n this world bless God For the Joy of the Lord is my Strength hallelujah ☝️☝️☝️
I'm financially secure cuz I now live in Central Texas. Lotta Hawaii people here too. Even get hula and L&L. Won't be returning. It's given me financial dignity and a longer life. I'm retired. I actually believe due to my personal issues I would be dead now if I had stayed.
Good video. Happy Holidays to you and your family. Btw looking at Oahu from the mainland, it does look like it's not the same. Crime looks really bad. My mom just got robbed at her work. But my wife and I say that we will retire back on the islands. Just maybe the Big Island or Kauai.
No concept of "struggling" means. That's a good thing. Each generation works to make the next generation's life easier. I'm old. 40 years in the future this man will post the same. It's a crazy world.
People never advertise their struggles. What people post on social is almost always fake/staged/embellished. Best to not compare. Easier said than done, of course. My struggles here are not necessarily financial... But I tell myself I have options and nothing is permanent.
I'm glad you are saying that you have options. However, lots of people don't have options. You also said nothing is permanent which is also not true. Hardships can be permanent until the day God finally call you to heaven.
@@minlui2752 everyone has options. Not everyone wants to make the sacrifices and work hard, put be yourself out there (I've been unemployed many times in my life, almost homeless). It's easier to wallow and allow your current circumstances to become your identity. It's also easy to generalize. I don't know your story just like you don't know mine. I have options and don't need to explain nor defend myself. I do wish you the best. Outlook and perspective are everything.
@@effpatriarchy You don't need to explain or defend yourself which is just fine. However and generally speaking without being specific, there are just so many situations in life where you literally have no options whatsoever.
It's similar in northern Illinois. I left because it's getting to be too expensive, and there are not many good-paying jobs available. I will always call Illinois home, but it's not a great state to be in if you are entry-level, because of the low salaries for entry-level work, and higher cost of living.
Chris, the subjects you choose to talk about are wonderful. You really have a connection with real life situations everyone is experiencing. I have searched for a place to donate funds for all the work you invest in making videos for your viewers to enjoy. I cannot find a link for donations. Do you have a donation page?
Mahalo. I don't have a donation page, but TH-cam should be rolling out a Super Thanks feature that should appear below each video. I haven't used the feature myself, but that feature has already appeared for some creators on TH-cam. Have a safe New Year weekend. 🤙
good thing the news was after you posted ..... "Hawaii reported a record 3,484 new COVID cases Thursday, as a surge in new infections ....." (the positivity rate is 14%!!)
Hello, I don’t know what is your situation is but if you are in Hawaii bc you like island life or your native of Hawaii. But if you are looking for island life and does not have to be Hawaii try Puerto Rico. PR and Hawaii is almost same except few things but housing is very affordable
Back in the 80's I was in the restaurant business and many of the younger workers would go to Hawaii to work because of the money. They didn't stay long because rent was so high most had to work two jobs just to pay it.
Really hope this video encourages the people who need it. Have a safe and fun New Year's holiday. For us locals, enjoy the fireworks 😁🤙.
❤️
Let's see, you have your health, your family, a roof over your head and are working. Sounds good to me. Being a late bloomer on career, family and such, it was stressful in the early years when I didn't have a career or family of my own. I also never did the Honolulu Marathon. Did I worry about it at the time? No. While I never trained or tried for it, I like to think of it, like my friend who ran it twice. First time, he did it okay. Second time, he tried to improve the time and pushed until the near the end coming back to Diamond Head. He walked to complete, coming in longer time, but he completed. You never know what's around the bend. Work to do your best, prepare and do your best, take care of family and health. Everything else, will come at its own time and circumstances. A door/dream closed, might be a opportunity for something else that might be as interesting or promising. Its willingness to seize the day and jumping. We sometimes create our own opportunities and successes. That basket full of sour lemons makes a great lemonade when you least expect it. Stay well, as it sounds like you're doing perfectly fine.
Money is relative in how and who spends. Look at who spends $1000 of fireworks and how they value money. The sam with Las Vegas gambling. They still survive and yet literally burning money. It is the entertainment value. Happy New Year!
Thanks for your video and sharing your thought. My self and my family like visiting Hawaii. A dram place!
First New Years at home in 4 years. I forgot how loud it is. :)
For those struggling in the world (myself included got laid off from my job in NYC recently, and lost my father) if you're reading this, keep your head high, it's always ups, and downs... you might be down, but eventually it will come up, just focus on better yourself, and being excited for the future, not depressed. I pray for you, and your families to prosper. Take care of your mental health, stay positive, good things WILL come.. God bless to those struggling in Hawaii, and anywhere else in the world.
Mahalo for sharing. Hope things get better.
God bless you too! Stay well & safe!
You’re happy someone is having a difficult time because of who they voted for? Aren’t we all Americans, whoever we voted for? Isn’t that what it means to live in the USA, to have the privilege to vote for our leaders? Why such mean thoughts?
Grew up middle class in Hawaii. Nowadays, middle class in Hawaii is not enough, considering the cost of living. Best decision I have ever made was leave. I love Hawaii and I will always call it my home, but I wanted absolute financial freedom... Hawaii couldn't give me that.
Same. Mid-class is officially considered low class tier in hawaii as of late 2019 I wanna say. 2020 and 2021 just finished it.
you got dat right! If you had stayed it would have cost you between $100K to $200K over the years.
It will always be home 🤙
Even if you make $200K with a family of 4 is nothing in Hawaii. Middle class in Hawaii is making up to $350K in my opinion. Even when making that much trying to save for retirement is doable, but not optimal. If you don't have extended family for support its tough.
@@guam58 I agree and that's unfortunate. That's why leaving Hawaii early was the best option. Now in my 30s and I'm able to make/save/invest comfortably to retire by 40s to travel with my family.
My family bought and paid off a family home. Now my children have have a free place to live while they start their adult life. A hand up is the only way to have your children be able to afford to stay in Hawaii!
Congrats on paying off the house. 😁
+Russ Hall, that all could change under the present administration !!
@@papagigo1 All that could change under ANY administration.
I'm more comfortable with a sleepy Joe than a wanna be "dicktator."
@@russhall1414 dictator biden says get the shit or else
@@josechristopher1403 Ooh, scary 🙄
I guess we should have just let SMALL POX run wild too?
Yes, talking story. We are heading out of Hawai'i soon. My wife is born and raised in Hawai'i and we all love it here but it sucks to be making over 100K and still feel like your "just" making it in Hawai'i.
Sorry to hear that you're leaving. Vegas? WA?
Same here in NYC
@@HelloFromHawaii Texas
Chris, you are killing it IMO. 🤙🏼 The thing about living in Hawaii is we have the same access to the lifestyle, as the multimillionaires who come here for a visit, or live here part-time, but we have it all year. Nothing compares to island life. Oh, what fun we have. The beauty, the ocean and the weather is FREE. As a nurse, I did not own my own home here until my 40s. I bought the cheapest home on Maui and rented out a room, but it was mine, I loved it, it got me on the ladder. I sold it and got a bigger place. I did leave for 15 years, to a city on the mainland that had excellent pay for nurses, so when I came back my bottom line was improved. My second house, which I had rented out, had good equity, which I took out by selling it and buying my third home. This all happened over forty years. I see you crafting your life mindfully. I see your success, whatever that means for you and your family.
Mahalo and thank you for the kind words. Great perspective that it may take years to craft the life of my family.
Lived in Hawaii my whole life till 38 and decided to leave the rat race. Best decision of my life. There is an abundance of opportunities on the mainland that just don’t exist in Hawaii.
I've been living on Oahu since December 2000. Life in Hawaii is getting harder due to inflation and stagnant pay. I'm already planning to move back to the mainland, after I retire. Don't get me wrong, I love living here in Hawaii. But it is getting too expensive to live here!
You’re videos help me understand the day to day struggles of native Hawaiians -and why I’ve met so many in southern Arizona.
I kinda knew what my future would have been like in Hawaii 23+ years ago so I left Hawaii for good nearly 22 years ago and never looked back and never regretted my decision to leave Hawaii.
me too left in 99 after 20 years there havent been back since happy with my choice dont miss the high costs of living there one bit
@@johnackenheil3145 Hawaii is too dependant on tourism for the economy, there's no blue collar manufacturing etc, soon after the sugar industry diminished and the pineapple industry following I knew the economy wasn't going to be what it used to be so I left for WA where there's an abundance of blue collar, white collar jobs in the tech and transportation industry.
I appreciate your balanced view. You always acknowledge the hardships in life and show multiple variables at play in our point of time and location. Then you offer tools to cope and healthy perspectives.
I lived in Hawai’i pretty much my entire life but moved in 2020 after a lot of consideration. I am getting older and noticed that there were several people that I had grown up with pass away and their families having to struggle to pay their loved ones medical bills. I did not want that to happen to any of my family members. I came to realize that medical costs anywhere in the US is daunting so I decided to move to another country where medical costs was more affordable. It was a very hard decision but I am relived to know that if anything should happen to me no one will be financially burdened by it. I now have great medical insurance for 1/10th the cost with no deductible and no copay in a place that has great medical facilities. My medical insurance will also cover me worldwide, except the US. Hawai’i is always going to be home, but not where I live.
Mahalo for sharing. Yeah, it's tough to hear about families struggling with the medical care, especially at end of life.
I understand where you are coming from. As the oldest and surviving member of my immediate family, I bore the burden of my younger siblings who struggled with poor health and limited access to healthcare (we are part Native Hawaiian) Sadly, both my younger siblings passed away within the last few years. Frankly, it was a relief for me financially and for them too (poor quality of life). The fact is Hawaii has become a place for the rich, especially as we get older then need 24x7 care at 10k plus per month. Just read a stat where Native Hawaiians' average life span in Hawaii is 62 years (less than 16 years from the other ethnic groups). Being poor in Hawaii is hazardous to your health...wish you the best. Aloha
Sounds like you made a great choice! I've been looking for same. Do you mind sharing which country and insurance you found?
@@leeseh7137 how can one just change country? Visa?
I live in a country where the government provides free medical care that is of a reasonable standard. If you have the means you can also pay for private care. I have used both services and they are not too different.
To find out that America being such a wealthy country does not provide a free health care service and expects its citizens to go into debt to fund medical seems totally wrong. It means that US citizens will never feel secure about retirement unless they are the privileged 1 percent.
Always enjoy your videos. I have changed careers 4 times in my life (I am 71 and retired now). Each time was, in the long run, a positive move. Only remember, when you start at a new job, you are at the bottom again and need to have patience on the way back up. You loose vacation time, seniority, etc. But if you know it's the right move, and even when you feel like you are struggling, you will grow stronger and have more belief in yourself, which is the greatest learning experience. You always seem to be level headed so I know you will do fine. Keep faith in yourself and continue to live aloha. Thank you for your videos. Makes me feel like I have a friend in Hawaii. Aloha
Mahalo for sharing the perspective. Four career changes. Wow. I agree that good moves facilitate good change and I think that's happening where I am.
@@HelloFromHawaii great vid bruddah Chris. I would like to suggest an important topic that you probably are already aware of...
Water contamination!
It's not your usual light-hearted and positive content, but sometimes... Sometimes people need information that typically is ignored or played down. Having a platform that is positive and informative as this is, would be great to help bring attention to this atrocious tragic situation we are facing here in Hawaii. Keep up the great work! MAHALO!
I don't view Hawaii as a "paradise" (yes, I lived there for some years 60's & 70's). But I definitely feel it is a place of "intensity", in the sense that everything there is kind of in a state of "enhancement". Quite a bit of it is positively enhanced. There are some enhancements there that are not so positive in nature. It can be a hard place to get by day to day. The Hawaiian ppl are absolutely the best part of Hawaii.
Chris, thanks for putting out another great video, it was inspiring and had a great message as well. Having money and a big place isn’t everything, whatever makes you happy is the most important thing. It’s inspiring to see you talking about taking on less paying job, allowing you to spend more time with your son, which proves that having more money can’t buy happiness. You have a great attitude and approach to things, and there is no doubt that as time goes, you will be able to fulfill other dreams and goals as well. There is always a next year for the Honolulu Marathon, I would have done it, but have a bad knee, so I am contended with long walks. Wishing you and your family a very Happy and a prosperous new year. Stay blessed 😇, and thank you 🙏 for all the videos you have done during the difficult days of pandemic.
Mahalo. Yeah, the pay cut was an issue, but the tradeoff has been worth it. And who knows, pay may increase over time? Have a wonderful 2022. 🤙
I always said I'd rather be poor in HI than rich in the mainland
I started watching this channel when I was about to visit Hawaii a couple weeks ago. I am now back from the Big Island but continue to watch because of the great content, and amazing delivery. This channel really deserves to blow up. Chris has so much wisdom. I am 51 years old and have lived quite a life… another story. Chris is like the friend I wish I had when I was in my 30’s, or at least the friend I would have listened to (I wasn’t good at listening to advice back then). When visiting Hawaii I made sure to tip as much as I could, knowing the struggle for housing as such that most are going through. I had seen a news broadcast about the housing & cost of living issue several years ago. I wish Hawaii could/would implement some sort of government grant program housing, specifically for those who have long family histories in HI. I live in another area of the country in which people have been priced out of their hometowns. It really sucks to have to move far from parents, etc. But in Hawaii, the option shouldn’t have to be to move to another island or the mainland. I hope something comes through for you. You really deserve it.
Mahalo for the kind words. I'm not sure they can establish a housing program like you describe, but there are reserved housing opportunities for Hawaii residents. Have a wonderful 2022. 🤙
There are plenty of housing programs but understandably reserved for Native Hawaiians not just locals .
You sound just like me! Last year, I moved to a new town, started a new job, had all kinds of wild expectations of how wonderful it was all going to be…. I started a TH-cam channel…. And then the music stops (insert needle crossing a vinyl record here…) Just like you said, old habits didn’t fit into the new place, so I got discouraged and felt like I was was failing. Now I see your video, and you have encouraged me SO much!! Thank you! I love your courage and your humility.
Mahalo for the comment. Good luck and keep on going.
What’s great about Hawaii is once your home is paid for having lots of money doesn’t seem to matter. Getting outside and exploring isn’t outrageously expensive
Agree. Once housing costs are eliminated, it's not too bad.
Chris from this channel is probably the only chill real down to earth Hawaii youtuber available. There's others but they are either toxic fellow asians, haole wealthy retirees, or shallow surface level only fakers.
You can see Paradise means the world to him but it's laced with poison and uncertainty. I wish him well with what little aloha spirit exists because hawaii has changed so much.
Mahalo. Glad you enjoy the content. While Hawaii has changed in a lot of ways, there are still many ways that it's still holding on to ol' time days. Have a safe New Year! 🤙
Blessings to you, your loved ones, and to all your subscribers.
Mahalo!
Great video -there are people struggling all over the US - if not financially then emotionally from all sorts of losses - you present lots of good lessons to ponder - I especially liked the one that reminds us to remember that where we're at now doesn't mean we'll be there forever
this genuinely made me cry. i’m turning 20 soon and although i haven’t really admitted it to myself but im so scared of my future and if i’ll be able to afford to live here, what my purpose is and what my next steps should be. thank you for this video it made me feel a little safer and more hopeful :)
Hope that you can remain hopeful. Things will be tough, but if you have family here, that's a huge benefit.
I really appreciate the honesty in your videos. You are a very genuine and compassionate person and your videos and this one in particular are what helped me come to the conclusion NOT to move to Honolulu. I had almost everything booked but I came to realization that I was not moving for the right reasons. This video helped me see that sometimes letting things go, especially things you want very badly, is not failure. Somet things are not meant for everybody. A weird comment I know but I hope you can see where I'm coming from. Hawaii is beautiful and I will definitely visit again. Mahalo!
Mahalo for the comment. I hope you know that I'm not trying to discourage people from coming. I just hope people understand what they are getting into. 🤙
First off, CONGRATULATIONS on completing the virtual marathon! 26.2 miles!!?? 😳That is a HUGE accomplishment in itself! I have to agree that we are all running our own race whatever it may be. Thank you for the encouragement, most of us get caught up in our own made life timeline but trusting the process and timing is so important! Happy Holidays Chris!
Mahalo! Looking back at your channel to a year ago, great to see how you've grown as a creator on TH-cam. Mahalo for sharing your ideas and family moments. Refreshing to see 🤙
Thanks for making this video. So many times we only see people showing the great things going on in their life. They are all smiles or always posting the trips they go on or the gatherings they have had with others and I’ve wondered if it is just me feeling the anxiety of almost two years living in a pandemic. Your video is genuine and helps to remind me that social media paints a one sided picture. Yes, there are great things going on, but so many are struggling with the every day unknown that is not posted. Your video was a breath of fresh air. Thank you! Sending a hello from California. :)
Mahalo for the thoughtful comment. Yeah, there's more to life that Instagram moments. Most is pretty mundane, but that's okay.
Wow, where do I start without getting wordy. I worked hard for over 40 years for the same company. My wife worked hard. We finally bought our first place in Hawaii in 2009. I retired in 2019. Only then did I realize that life is truly a journey and like a long hike you never know where you are until you reach the destination. Then you realize it is so worth it. Each step doesn't define it. It is the entire journey that defines success. Keep going your on the right path.
Mahalo for the great insight. A long hike...
These are the kind of discussions with a friend or family member over a beer, a drink, coffee, breakfast, or a long walk. Thanks for the food for thought. Happy New Year.
Happy New Year! 🤙
Have you considered moving to another island? I live on Kauai and raised my family here versus Oahu. Born and raised Papakolea I moved from the “city” with my husband.. With 4 kids. 5,4,3 and 1. In 1983 as young parents we felt the thing to do was move off the rock to the country which is what the neighbor islands was at the time. Big island seems to be the last frontier for affordable prices. Forget Maui, the transplants has taken over and here on Kauai we are becoming a playground for the rich. We do have some affordable housing being built on the west side (Eleele).
I enjoy your channel and appreciate your insight about island living. At 66 years old with 4 kids, 19 grandchildren and two great grandchildren we see the changes in our islands and although we are comfortable in our retirement I tremble for the future of Hawaii
I have considered Kauai. I have family there, but it's a job issue. Not sure what I could do there to support the family. But would love to live there.
Serious talk: staying afloat and having your health is the win these past two years. Some of my extended family is seriously struggling and my family is hit hard with health issues on a normal basis... I am recovering right now from diabetes and GI tract issues. To health.
To a better 2022...🤙
I was lucky (or unlucky) enough to be stationed in hawaii as a young airman from 2012-2015. I say unlucky because having been spoiled with being able to live there, nowhere else really compares! We live in Colorado now and am no longer in the military. My wife and I often talk about moving back to Hawaii, but just don’t know how to make it work with the cost of living being so astronomically high! Looking back I wish we would have bought a house over there back then, but as they say hindsight is always 20/20. Thanks for all your work on the channel, I enjoy your videos!
Thank you for your insight and philosophical ruminations. I really enjoy you videos, so please keep making them. God bless your family and you! Mahalo!🌺🪷
Thank you. Appreciate it 🤙
I love your videos, Chris. You do an amazing job. The things that impress me the most about you are your humility and transparency. I appreciate very much that you are REAL. My wife and I are hoping for a trip to Oahu in the next couple of years and your videos are so helpful. Thank you for your hard work.
Mahalo. Appreciate the kind words. Hope you enjoy your future trip.
#2 letting go of the dream in Hawaii. Trying to make it work here, while Im still here. The Aloha spirit is what makes it hard to leave, oh yeah and the weather and beaches.
Hawaii is a place that sings to my soul!
Mahalo for the heartfelt insight. I just know that I could not retire here comfortably. Sometimes we have to make a hard decision like moving away, not because we want to... but we have to. 🤙 Aloha O’e.
stay strong , raise your vibration, believe things will get better, and they will, your not the problem.
keep saving and invest. Home prices will come down and then you’ll be ready! Buy a small multiunit (2-4 mine) first. Stay optimistic and grateful-you have a great family, weather, beaches, scenery.
I miss Hawaii moved here to Arizona in 2004 lots of ppl from Hawaii here!! Cheaper than California were I’m originally from. Lots of ppl move to Vegas also no state tax, just something to consider! Aloha
It's been a struggle man. Anti Social Aloha culture is being pushed at the top. Also some industries got hit and 2 family incomes turned into 1 or none. Yet the state don't remember money making laws that they put in before C19 that are gonna cause greater financial stress on people (like marco polo laws). Had some good stuff implemented like scheduling of appointments to eliminate busy crowds, and yeah, work from home, and more sanitary checks. But it don't look like the old Hawaii is ever coming back. And you know, get more people moving here from outside as the locals move out. At least you seem to be doing good. Love you channel man. Reminds me when I was that easy going local guy that loved everyone and everyone loved. Happy New Year Brah!
Mahalo. You know, that easy going local guy is probably still in you too. Happy New Year 🤙
@@HelloFromHawaii 8)
Recall in the song New York, New York if I can make it here, I can make it anywhere, It CAN be done in Hawaii. My dad told me at a young age; "you can live anywhere in this great country of ours if you put your mind to it and work very hard, nothing is for free, you get nothing for nothing but nothing it's up to you son" talk about a kick in the pants! The US Navy brought me here at first and I didn't want to leave back then from '94-'98 felt like home already to me and was fortunate to return 6 years ago and now looking forward to the future with a great optimism and living the life of Aloha!
Hi Chris. Thank you for your inspiring and positive video. Your perspective on life is spot on. The lessons you have learned and your approach to challenges you’ve faced will serve you well anywhere you go. Things may be more difficult in Hawaii in some ways but no matter where one lives it’s good advice that will help a person deal with and face life struggles as well. Keep the videos coming. I wish you and your family all the best in 2022!
Mahalo for the comment. Wishing you and your family the best.
You are in your peak earning years. You will not get them back. Scary… many things you going on around are not under your control.
But, what keeps us going, prevents burnout, resentment and is under our control; it’s our positive ATTITUDE,
Our attitude allows us to celebrate other’s achievements without jealousy. It is what sustains us in the dark days. However, it is not blowing smoke at ourselves and becoming a smiling idiot.
Our positive attitude allows us to is be in the present, content, and grateful to the blessings we have.
People with poor attitudes love contaminating others and bring them down. Walk away from them.
Always take the high road. Life is more full when it’s not always about you. Doors will open because people and employers love someone with a good Attitude. Mahalo from Montana.
Mahalo for the comment. Attitude is key. So true.
Great chat session with lots of wisdoms. Thoughts abound.
*Sharing*
BTW ....Happy New Year!!
Happy new year! Stay safe!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Regards from 🇦🇺
awww, thank you so much for this sharing. I couldn't agree more. You put them all very well, nothing more to add. I will just keep running appreciating Hawaii, without comparing. Happy New Year!
If you can make it in hawaii i promise you that much. Im born and raised waianae literally behind the intermediate. I made it out there. We didnt know what would of happened but i made the move to washingte state. Yes hawaii life is a struggle. But anyone can make it there if they put their mind to it. Aloha kanaka. Have a safe and new year with the ohana. Enjoy the free fire work show in hawaii. If peole dont know fireworks is illegal in hawaii but you may not know that does not matter lol. 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
Mahalo for sharing. Yeah, enjoy the free fireworks show 😁
@@The.Hawaiian.Kingdom how is it deceitful anyone can make it there. I did. People just lazy.
The struggle is real. Everything is expensive, I've cut down on food budget and I love Costco. Because of this change, I've been having health problems because I'm eating less, not like before because I cannot afford to buy food anymore like I used to.
Sorry to hear about the struggles. Even our food budget is going to get tighter in 2022.
No matter the struggles in the island, I for one try to see the beauty in the island. Family , friends and pets and nature. Jesus is my cornerstone in this period of time. Be blessed and safe.🙏🙏😁
I needed this. Keep up the content. More success to you and your family.
Thank you! You too!
Thank you for sharing… so true….
Aloha
Thanks for watching!
Mahalo for being so candid about Hawaii life. I was born and raised In Mililani but moved to California when I was 9. I love to visit the islands as often as we can but I have come to grips living in Hawaii is impossible. In fact living in California is not much better, my wife and I both have really good paying jobs but we live just an average life here. After 42 years in California we decided to move to Pennsylvania so we can finally live the life we wanted. Hawaii will always be home, even if I wear my slippah in another state 🤙🏾
Mahalo! Glad Hawaii is always home. Lots of people wear slippers in PA?
Turn the envy into motivation 💯🤙
And that includes anger and our sorrow.
#Example; like working out, making music, write a book, start a business. Etc.
Good message. I was told a long time ago to be grateful for what you have and not to worry about the things you don't have. This doesn't mean you can't keep chipping away at your goals. We had to close our biz over covid crap and loss 100k alone last year were still trying recover
Hope you are able to recover in 2022
Housing price will always increase. I never could purchase a house even 30 years ago. I find alternatives to survival in Hawaii. Families need double income to afford a home. All income needs to be 6 figures.
😆 Originally read "Housing will always increase" to mean that there will be more housing built, but you're talking about price of housing. 😁
Aloha and mahalo! Thank you for posting this! I was born in Hawai'i on Oahu and left as a 3 year old after working for the Hawai'i Film Commission from the age of 2 months until we moved away when I was 3 years and 3 months. I was adamant about NOT leaving Hawai'i or Cali-Nava-Washi, my other homes, California, Nevada and Washington State, where I also worked. But, since my birth father was ill with leukemeia, I had to go with them to be closer to our great and grands and leave my foster father, who was also my grand dad in the West. Well, it was culture shock, to say the least and I have ALWAYS gone back to visit as much and as frequently as possibly. Don't give up, unless you find a much better situation. This year MUST get better, I am determined. How have you fared with the torential rains, gale winds and mini tsunamis so far? I wish you and your family much happiness, love, and success! Aloha! Pama
Hope you get a chance to come back. Case counts are rising, but hoping they go back down.
We all have a race to run and finish. The life journey teaches us that our paths are different. A person may seem to have it all, but that is only on the surface. Your race and life journey are unique only to you and no one else. I want to leave my present job but I can’t because I need the insurance to pay for my health issue (prostate cancer). I still look to the day when I will leave after finding that new thing (job or career).
It’s easy for some people who have success to say that the reason that other people can’t succeed is because they don’t dream big, or, even more explicitly, they are weak. It is arrogance to assume that being successful is being like these successful people. But it’s not all that it’s cracked up to be.
May this new year bring you much success.🤙
Peace.
Mahalo for the thoughtful comment
I was fortunate to live on the Big Island the past 18 years and it was incredible! I thought I was going to live there forever. Covid came and shut my work down and so I was forced to either struggle and stay or leave the island. I ended up leaving the island and luckily found another good job on the mainland. I have a sad feeling that the good ole days that I endured are gone. Hawai'i will change a lot from this pandemic and what will follow. It's crazy that many of my friends are leaving Hawaii as well. The rich are pushing everyone out. Hawaii will never go back to prepandemic times.
Born and raised in Oahu. I’m glad someone understands, feels like despite the increase in prices, many of my peers continue to eat out, travel, buy new homes and cars while I can’t make sense of it. I also started a new job in 2021 to work from home but took a pay cut and am thinking I’ll need a remote (California) paying job to afford to buy a single family house in Oahu. Got approved for a mortgage loan in February 2020 but the housing market went insane. Definitely feel priced out… aloha for sharing!
Yeah, it's tough to see people spending so much. I guess that's what happens when the economy is pumped with extra cash. We'll see how 2022 turns out.
So beautifully executed video. Mahalo for putting this out there. Yes, living here in Hawai’i is a privilege. My ohana has been here for over 30 years and to this day do not take any of it for granted and I am a malihini and will never take it for granted either. hauʻoli makahiki hou to you and your ohana!
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Being born in Hawaii and am Hawaiian at 54 I moved to Washington a few months ago.
I don’t want to pay 900k for a house 35 years old so me and wife moved to a house we could afford without broken anything in it.
I’m heartbroken that I won’t be laid to rest in my home but sometimes you need to do something different…but lord I miss zippys chili.
At least I can visit for two weeks a year.
I'm surprised there isn't Zippys chili at the Asian supermarkets in WA. Uwajimaya?
@@HelloFromHawaii well we tried and looked around but in Olympia not so much.
The Asian market is a mom and pop store and honestly you can get better local items from longs.
Oh we do have a L&L but the flavor is off or the white rice junk but happy teriyaki isn’t that bad.
People will ALWAYS post what they want people to see. The struggle is always real no matter where you live. It just depends on what you do to make it better or just do the same things and expect things to change. Hawaii is difficult to live economically but money can’t buy Aloha, it’s priceless. People are very impatient in nature hence the rush to get things, house etc. Sometimes we worry about things that are out of our control. Focus and be happy with what you have rather than what you want. I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year!
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Hawaii is EXPENSIVE! It will be harder to build wealth when your earnings keep going toward basic necessities. High housing costs, high food costs, high taxes, etc. How can you succeed when you cannot build wealth?
I grew up there, UH Grad. Moved away after and opportunities were endless, or many. Working in CA was so empowering, as opposed to the micro-management style in Hi. You will grow so much, learn so much, accomplish so much, etc.
You can earn twice as much, send your kids to private school, live in a nice house, travel more and do actual road trips, retire early in Hawaii, etc. 😁
Mahalo for the perspective. Always nice to hear what others have experienced. Hard for some locals to hear, though.
@@HelloFromHawaii I really depends on what you want out of life. I think that most people raised in Hawaii can look forward 30 years and know exactly what their life will be like. If you're ok with that then great. Nothings wrong with that. But if you are not then ACT! No regrets... 😁
would you say the opportunities and the earning to living cost ratio is still pretty good in CA nowadays? Been trying to get a good gauge on this from an unbiased perspective.
@@bloodndestroy No, I tell my nieces/nephews to leave CA. I want to leave. I'm from Hi, wife from SF. Same problem as in Hi, she and family won't leave because her whole family is in the Bay Area. Many won't be able to buy a house, pay way too much in rent. They stay because of family and an easy default decision to stay. The way to do it is work for the government, get a pension and med at retirement, but when the government grows too big you'll get massive corruption and an unsustainable model.
@@darrylk808 Is it worse in HI or CA? I want to live in the beautiful Pacific in the future, but not have too insane of a living cost and crime problem, so I figured I'd aim for HI and have CA as backup. But at this rate, its looking like maybe Australia or NZ will be it? Definitely agree on the govt work.
Great “ Tell it like it Is “ Content
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I have friends who retired and live in Hawaii. Once a quarter, they fly to Las Vegas and buy food and clothes etc. Five to six large coolers stuffed with food. Then, fly back. Here is why. Jimmy Dean bacon 12 oz. $1.97! One dozen Grade AA extra large eggs $1.47! Milk one gallon $2.52! A loaf of bread $1.00! One red pepper $0.59! Used to be two or three for $1.00. A head of lettuce, cabbage and cauliflower $1.00 each! 5 or 10 lb bag of Idaho potatoes $1.99! Progresso soup $1.00 per can! 4 count value pack top loin NY strip steaks $18.98! One rack of extra meaty BBQ ribs $8.99!
I loved this video! The struggle is everywhere. It’s like an existential crisis of humans. Anyway, I’m trying to move back to Hawaii. Wish me luck. The islands are magical. And I don’t mean the Instagram version, I mean the bar b q squid from a box on the beach, I mean asking strangers, what’s the surf today? Where the status of the ocean is the hot topic of the day. :) ahhh miss it so much! Thank you bradda!!
Good luck with the move. Hope you're able to make it back.
Mahalo for the video. I've enjoyed watching your past videos as I am thinking about moving to Hawaii. I live in Seattle so I feel like I'm moving from one expensive place to another. However, as I near retirement, I'd rather live in Hawaii. Perhaps continue to work. Your videos do slap me with the reality of what it is like to live in Hawaii. Funny how the videos do discourage me but yet I bounce back into wanting to relocate. Hawaii is a special and unique place. To spend my final years/days in Hawaii would be awesome. Keep the videos coming! Mahalo Nui Loa!!
Another great topic, t'anks Chris. The greatest struggle is with one's own ego and don't go looking for happiness when it is right there at home. Stay safe. Much good health and happiness in the New Year. An early "akemashite omedetou gozaimasu" to you in Paradise.
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I agree way too much there's alot of things that might of helped but we would never know since its not in schools
Good kine talk story video. Mahalo for helping and encouraging others to keep going during these uncertain times. Good luck with your new job as well. Hau'oli Makahiki Hou!
I appreciate it!
Love your outlook on life. Not having bought a house last year may have been a blessing with the over-inflated prices which are slowly cooling. Sometimes things happen for a reason.
I left Honolulu almost 45 years ago to live in Atlanta. Yes, the cost of living is lower here, but it’s not “home” where your family and roots are. Do I plan to return? Yes, without a doubt.
Mahalo for sharing. I heard Georgia is getting a L&L soon. 😄
@@HelloFromHawaii I was disappointed with the L&L in Seattle. There's going to be a drive thru Hawaiian restaurant near my home but the menu doesn't sound authentic.
L&L Georgia location will be about 50 miles from me, closer to the airport.
@@HelloFromHawaii The Taira family will be opening a drive-thru Hawaiian restaurant about 2 miles from me. A restaurant name isn’t finalized, yet, but the permit has titled it “Project Ohana”.
I know they’ve built sit-down Hawaiian restaurant on the West coast. This may be toe in the water test.
Aloha! First time visiting Hawaii islands. Maui, Big Island, and Honolulu. Hawaii is very beautiful but seeing more homeless people live on the street. The cost of living is so high. More and more people can't afford it. Love Hawaii.. a good time for relaxing and the weather is best especially when you are on the beach.
I think we as humans are never satisfied but in the same token, ambition is also good. You need to have a financial plan of action on how you are going to get what you want. Otherwise, you're just dreaming.
Exactly, well said.
Very uplifting! I appreciate the video!
When you buy a house, buy one that has an apartment attached to it for rental income to help pay for the house.
Ohana unit? Great idea.
Hello from California: I recently subscribed and found that your story was compelling to me. I bought my first home when I was 30 yo. My Economics teacher told us to buy our first home as soon as you can to avoid paying rent. He also told us to buy where homes would gain in value. So my wife and I bought as close to the beach as possible. As a Landscape Architect, I was able to evaluate an older home and it's floor plan to the size of the lot for future expansion or additions to the home when my income increased. Is that something you can do? Consult with an Architect for advice. It might solve your housing issue.
Mahalo for finding the channel. Even the older homes in Hawaii are expensive. The value is in the land so most of the prices reflect that. We're still looking 😁
Mahalo braddah. Surprised you didn't even mention that O'ahu water table is now destroyed because of the ineptitude of the u.s. government and its military branches. I get it, not your lane. But brah, the shit the Navy is pushing out regarding the aquifers astound me. Hopefully you can make mochi with the family this weekend. Aloha 🧡🧡
Just to add to your comment about the navy. They have known this for many years. I remember my father talking about the "damn navy" when I was in my early teens and how he suspected something was going on at Red Hill. I'm 72 now so its been that long ago. They've know for decades.
Yeah, the water issue would be a video on its own. Have a safe weekend! Aloha! 🤙
Very encouraging. It's true that everyone is running their own race, it's not productive to compare yourself to someone else, because they aren't you.
I appreciated your viewpoints in this video. I definitely agree with not comparing or competing with anyone else. SM definitely gives people a skewed view of other people's lives, usually set up to showcase positive or "brag worthy" situations. People only need to worry about what is important for their family. For everybody that can be different. Home ownership is a nice goal for some but is it necessary? Same goes for size of house..how many rooms does a family really need? Especially, in HI where you can usually go out and spend a good portion of each day outdoors..you may not need as many rooms as people in an area where you spend half the year indoors due to inclement weather. Do we need most of the stuff that people show off about having? Probably not. Most of the time the things that bring us true joy and that we appreciate the most, don't cost anything additional. Granted, things are just getting more expensive and it is hard for most to make ends meet- that is not only true in Hawaii either. Hoping that all goes well at your new job and congrats on that and running a marathon, even virtually, that is a major accomplishment 👏🏼
Mahalo for the thoughtful comment. You raise some great points about what we actually need. 🤙
Thank you brudah! I am moving to Hawaii for health reasons! Was just saying to myself the key is to at least visit. 1 small step for Walter! 1 giant step for Walterkind! ~ Mister Walter
I love your positivity.
I just started watching your video. Go for broke! Braddah. Mahalo nui loa braddah
Mahalo!
Not a problem, take care and stay safe and healthy 💓
My first time here, just subscribed 😀
Mahalo!
Your name is Chris. Ok. I’ve been watching your video for a while. Lol
Great video can't wait to visit Hawaii this Sept 3 weeks holiday Gona climb the stairway to heaven stay n hostel 1 wk & buy a cheap tent ⛺ sleep out n the beach 2wks I'm a Savivor bn though alot n the past & if your a Savivor You can survive anything n this world bless God
For the Joy of the Lord is my Strength hallelujah ☝️☝️☝️
Mahalo for sharing! with a heavy heart I'm letting go of my dream of making Hawaii my home due to the high cost of living.
There is still hope.
I'm financially secure cuz I now live in Central Texas. Lotta Hawaii people here too. Even get hula and L&L. Won't be returning. It's given me financial dignity and a longer life. I'm retired. I actually believe due to my personal issues I would be dead now if I had stayed.
L&L in Texas? Nice.
Good video. Happy Holidays to you and your family. Btw looking at Oahu from the mainland, it does look like it's not the same. Crime looks really bad. My mom just got robbed at her work. But my wife and I say that we will retire back on the islands. Just maybe the Big Island or Kauai.
Sorry to hear about your mom's situation. Some things are the same, but others have changed. Crime, well, that probably warrants its own video.
No concept of "struggling" means. That's a good thing. Each generation works to make the next generation's life easier. I'm old. 40 years in the future this man will post the same. It's a crazy world.
If I'm still posting videos in 40 years, that will be amazing 😁
People never advertise their struggles. What people post on social is almost always fake/staged/embellished. Best to not compare. Easier said than done, of course. My struggles here are not necessarily financial... But I tell myself I have options and nothing is permanent.
I'm glad you are saying that you have options. However, lots of people don't have options. You also said nothing is permanent which is also not true. Hardships can be permanent until the day God finally call you to heaven.
@@minlui2752 everyone has options. Not everyone wants to make the sacrifices and work hard, put be yourself out there (I've been unemployed many times in my life, almost homeless). It's easier to wallow and allow your current circumstances to become your identity. It's also easy to generalize. I don't know your story just like you don't know mine. I have options and don't need to explain nor defend myself. I do wish you the best. Outlook and perspective are everything.
@@effpatriarchy You don't need to explain or defend yourself which is just fine. However and generally speaking without being specific, there are just so many situations in life where you literally have no options whatsoever.
It's similar in northern Illinois. I left because it's getting to be too expensive, and there are not many good-paying jobs available. I will always call Illinois home, but it's not a great state to be in if you are entry-level, because of the low salaries for entry-level work, and higher cost of living.
Aloha Aina 🌺
The Navy is poisoning the water @ Red Hill !
A topic for another video 😁
Chris, the subjects you choose to talk about are wonderful. You really have a connection with real life situations everyone is experiencing. I have searched for a place to donate funds for all the work you invest in making videos for your viewers to enjoy. I cannot find a link for donations. Do you have a donation page?
Mahalo. I don't have a donation page, but TH-cam should be rolling out a Super Thanks feature that should appear below each video. I haven't used the feature myself, but that feature has already appeared for some creators on TH-cam.
Have a safe New Year weekend. 🤙
Everything you said about housing really hit Home for my family.
Hoping there is some kind of solution to the housing issue.
good thing the news was after you posted ..... "Hawaii reported a record 3,484 new COVID cases Thursday, as a surge in new infections ....." (the positivity rate is 14%!!)
Yeah. Saw that. That positivity rate 😮
Hello, I don’t know what is your situation is but if you are in Hawaii bc you like island life or your native of Hawaii. But if you are looking for island life and does not have to be Hawaii try Puerto Rico. PR and Hawaii is almost same except few things but housing is very affordable
Good luck in the future!
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Loved this video.
Glad you enjoyed it!
if you struggle to live in Honolulu, then you must find out where you can live without the struggle.
Back in the 80's I was in the restaurant business and many of the younger workers would go to Hawaii to work because of the money. They didn't stay long because rent was so high most had to work two jobs just to pay it.
I just subscribed, I really enjoyed your message.
Mahalo 🤙