Feeling like your life in Singapore is on repeat? Weekends blurring into weekdays, and that spark seems to have gone missing? You’re not alone. Many Singaporeans feel this way, and Reddit’s been buzzing with discussions about it.
Reddit Insights
Here’s what fellow Singaporeans are saying on Reddit:
- Boredom is a signal: Many feel that boredom stems from a lack of purpose or excitement outside of work and marriage. As one user put it, “If you literally do nothing except work and be married, of course you’d be bored.”
- Kids aren’t the solution: A strong message is: don’t have kids to cure boredom. Many parents on Reddit emphasize the sheer amount of work involved, and the potential for resentment if the decision isn’t made out of genuine love for children. One user stated, “please don’t have kids out of boredom. i am a father of 2 and i can tell you it’s A LOT of work.”
- Comparison is a joy thief: Social media often paints an unrealistic picture. It’s important to focus on your own journey and avoid comparing your life to others. As one user aptly said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
- Hobbies are key: Finding hobbies and interests outside of work is crucial. This includes outdoor activities, learning new skills, or exploring Singapore’s hidden gems. Reddit users suggested a variety of options, from pickleball to language classes.
- Intentional planning is essential: A fulfilling life requires effort and planning. You need to actively seek out things that excite you and make an effort to plan them into your schedule. “After a while , you will realize. A fulfilling and fun life, need ‘Intentional planning’ and effort to make it happen.”
SG Context: What It Means For You
In Singapore, we often get caught in the ‘kiasu’ rat race, focusing on work and career progression. This can lead to burnout and a feeling of emptiness. The pressure to follow societal expectations, like getting married and having kids, can also contribute to feeling lost if those aren’t your genuine desires. Recent trends show more Singaporeans are questioning these norms, prioritizing personal fulfillment and mental well-being.
Singaporean Experiences on Reddit
Many Singaporeans shared their personal struggles and offered relatable advice:
“You are unironically most free among all your friends. You may earn less but you definitely also spend less. You can do all the things they cannot do like travel during off peak and on short notice, go places they can’t and do thing they can’t. I suggest you make use of it before you lose it”
stormearthfire
“There is no need to feel like you need to have kids to be able to connect with others. For those who only seem to keep talking about their kids, likewise life is more than just revolving around them.”
cheerfulknight
“The gym is your therapy my friend”
thedyingudon
Some users also shared their negative experiences with parents who resented them, highlighting the importance of conscious parenting. One user shared, “When I was younger, my mother liked to complain that we’re a burden… She’s not exactly a good mom.” These experiences underscore the need to carefully consider the decision to have children.
Your Practical Action Plan for Singaporeans
Here’s what you can do to break free from the rut:
- Explore your interests: Make a list of things you’ve always wanted to try. Consider outdoor activities like hiking at MacRitchie Reservoir or cycling along East Coast Park.
- Plan a weekend adventure: Check out hidden gems in Singapore – use resources like the Time Out Singapore list for ideas.
- Limit social media: Take a break from social media to focus on your own life. Even a few days can make a difference. One user said, “I deleted IG for 3 days and just reinstalled today. I immediately felt worse. It’s super liberating to uninstall social media and have a break and focus on yourself.”
- Connect with your spouse: Plan activities together, whether it’s a staycation or a new hobby. Discuss your feelings and goals with each other.
- Consider volunteering: Find a cause you believe in and volunteer your time. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people and make a difference.
Remember, life in Singapore doesn’t have to be a repeat cycle. By taking action and exploring your passions, you can find your spark again. Don’t let boredom define you!
Source: Mid 30s, married, no kids and bored