A remarkable story of financial discipline and relentless hard work from China is capturing global attention. A 25-year-old food delivery rider has managed to save an astonishing sum of money in just five years, turning his life around from debt to significant savings.
From Business Failure to Gig Economy Success
Zhang Xueqiang's journey began with a setback. In 2020, after a breakfast shop he ran with a friend in his hometown of Zhangzhou, Fujian province, shut down, he was left with a debt of 50,000 yuan (approximately US$7,000 or ₹5.8 lakh). This prompted his move to Shanghai, where he started working as a delivery rider for a major platform.
Determined to clear his debt and build a future, Zhang adopted an incredibly frugal and focused lifestyle. He revealed to the Xinmin Evening News that over five years, his delivery work earned him a total of 1.4 million yuan. After repaying his initial debt and covering all his basic living costs, he was left with savings of 1.12 million yuan (about US$160,000 or ₹1.3 crore).
The Discipline Behind the Savings
Zhang's achievement is a direct result of extreme discipline and sacrifice. "I do not have other expenditures except very basic daily necessities," he stated. His daily routine is a testament to his work ethic: he works for roughly 13 hours a day, seven days a week, starting at 10:40 AM and finishing at 1 AM the next day.
To maintain his energy for this gruelling schedule, he ensures he gets 8.5 hours of sleep daily. He takes only a few days off during the Chinese Spring Festival. "Other than eating and sleeping, I spend all my time sending food to customers," Zhang explained.
His productivity is extraordinary, often completing more than 300 orders a month, with each delivery taking about 25 minutes. Over the years, he has covered a total distance of 324,000 km delivering food.
Earning Admiration and Planning a New Start
Zhang's dedication has made him a legend among his peers, earning him nicknames like "Great God" and "Order King". Yan, the director of his delivery station in Shanghai's Minhang District, noted his unique drive. "He is not talkative, just devotes himself to delivering food. I have never seen him walk; he is always running," Yan said. "In our industry, a worker can earn more money by working harder. Zhang is a rare case who works extremely hard and is thrifty."
In late November, Zhang posted a video online sharing his achievement, driven by pride. "After all, I have paid off my debts and accumulated a big amount of savings through working hard," he said.
Now, with his financial safety net secured, Zhang is looking to become an entrepreneur again. He plans to invest 800,000 yuan (US$113,000 or ₹93 lakh) to open two breakfast shops in Shanghai in the first half of next year. "I failed last time. I want to try it again," he declared, showcasing the resilience that defines his story.
Zhang Xueqiang's tale is more than just a savings milestone; it's a powerful narrative about perseverance, financial control, and the relentless pursuit of a second chance, offering inspiration to gig workers and aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
