Think your office politics are bad? Feel the stress from your boss and colleagues? You might be surprised. Many Singaporeans believe low-paying jobs mean less stress. But what is the reality on the ground? HardwareZone forum discussions reveal a different story. The daily grind in some jobs is far more brutal than any email chain. Let’s see what Singaporeans are really saying about their workplaces.
The Brutal Reality
The difference between a kitchen and an office is stark. Forum users paint a clear picture. One is physically and verbally aggressive. The other is mentally draining. Both are challenging in their own ways.
- Blue-collar jobs are often openly hostile
Kitchen: Scold u with vulgarities. Kenna u stupid. Scold ur 18 ancestors… Disagreement saw people physically fight and threaten to use knife kill each other.
- White-collar offices can be more civilized
Office: Even if there is disagreement. People talk in a civilized way.
- A tough environment is expected in certain jobs
Some believe the nature of the job attracts a certain type of person. The work environment reflects this. It creates a cycle of harsh behaviour passed down to newcomers.
The lower you go, the uglier the human nature is. If you heng, then you meet the nice people.
Why It’s So Tough
Why are these environments so draining? It is not just about the work itself. The culture and the people play a huge role. These issues make even simple jobs feel impossible.
- A complete lack of team spirit
Many workers feel isolated. Colleagues refuse to help each other. They believe it is not their problem if someone else is struggling. This creates a lonely and inefficient workplace.
I busy like mad issuing medicine they also dun care, continue to chit chat till clock out time. To them, I am paid to do the work, why help me when they won’t get extra pay?
- Newcomers face systematic hazing
In many kitchens, new staff are targeted. Seniors push the hardest work onto them. There is no guidance or support. You are expected to learn on your own or fail.
Kitchen: Ownself learn. U die ur problem. Best u look stupid so they look good in front of bosses.
- The low-pay equals low-stress myth
This is a dangerous misconception. The emotional and physical stress in these jobs can be immense. The pay does not compensate for the toxic environment you have to endure daily.
some people mindset thought lowpay job = less stress is totally opposite
How to Survive & Thrive
Facing a toxic job feels hopeless. But you have options. HardwareZone members shared practical advice. You can take steps to protect your well-being. It is about knowing your rights and your limits.
- Know when to walk away
Sometimes, the best solution is to leave. If the environment is truly toxic, it is not worth your mental health. Find another job where you are treated with respect.
Conclusion is, since is low ses job env, not happy just switch to another one.
- Speak up and escalate issues
In an office setting, do not suffer in silence. If a colleague is making your work difficult, report it. Use the proper channels. Let management handle the problem.
if tat Jhk dun share his docs then let hod know. Not Ur fault if u can’t function properly without those docs. Push it to them.
- Adjust your own expectations
If the job is just a way to pass time, detach emotionally. Do not seek fulfillment from it. Focus on earning your pay and going home. This mindset can help you cope.
now is retirement mode, work to kill time… else I will become lazy at home.
Every job in Singapore has its own challenges. Whether it’s the loud shouts of a kitchen or the quiet whispers of an office, toxicity can exist anywhere. The key is to understand the environment you are in. Protect your peace, know your worth, and never be afraid to make a change for the better. Your well-being should always come first.
Read the original discussions on HardwareZone:
