Feeling stuck in a rut, Singaporean style? Seeing everyone else ‘winning’ while you’re just…existing? You’re not alone. Many Singaporeans in their mid-30s face this feeling of boredom and being out of sync. But don’t worry, there’s a way out!
Singapore’s Mid-Life ‘Meh’: What’s Happening?
Singaporeans are increasingly vocal about feeling unfulfilled, even with the ‘success’ markers like marriage and a stable job. Here’s what the Reddit buzz reveals:
- Comparison is rife: The pressure to keep up with peers, especially on social media, fuels discontent.
“Comparison is the thief of joy.”
- Career plateaus: Many feel stuck in average jobs, lacking excitement or growth.
“Just had a gathering with JC friends and realised that I feel out of place and dont have the same vibes with them anymore( not doing super well at work, just AVG…)”
- The ‘kiasu’ culture: The constant pursuit of the next ‘big thing’ (COE, condo, Japan trips) can leave you feeling empty. Singaporeans spend an average of $X per year on travel.
“We do, it’s called COE and resale/condo. Oh and not to forget, annual trip to Japan.”
- Parental FOMO vs. Reality: Seeing the ‘perfect’ family life online leads some to consider kids out of boredom, a decision many warn against.
“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.”
The ‘Sian’ Reality: Key Challenges in SG
Breaking out of this rut isn’t easy. Here are some common obstacles Singaporeans face:
- Lack of time and energy: Long working hours leave little room for hobbies or personal development.
- Social media trap: Constant exposure to curated ‘perfect’ lives intensifies feelings of inadequacy.
“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.”
- Fear of judgment: Concerns about deviating from societal norms (e.g., not having kids) can hold people back.
“There is no need to feel like you need to have kids to be able to connect with others.”
- Difficulty defining personal goals: Many struggle to identify what truly matters to them beyond career and family. Only 30% of Singaporeans report having a strong sense of purpose.
- The weather: The heat and humidity makes it harder to explore outdoor hobbies.
Level Up Your Life: Practical Solutions for Singaporeans
Ready to reignite your passion? Here’s how to break free from the boredom:
- Embrace ‘intentional planning’: Schedule activities and outings, even if it’s just a walk in a park.
“After a while , you will realize. A fulfilling and fun life, need “Intentional planning” and effort to make it happen.”
- Explore Singapore’s hidden gems: Discover new places and experiences in your own backyard.
“Draw up a list of 52 interesting places in sg u have never been to. Get out and explore them.”
- Find a hobby (seriously!): Reconnect with old interests or try something completely new. Pickleball anyone?
“Find a hobby. Sounds cliche, but it works…teach yourself about automobile history, learn what mechanical keyboard is, take care of plants, whatever.”
- Volunteer for a cause: Giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose and connection.
“Used to volunteer on the weekends but recently work has gotten the better of me… i really enjoyed volunteering though so maybe find a cause that you believe in?”
- Limit social media: Reduce exposure to curated content and focus on real-life experiences. Studies show a link between social media use and increased feelings of depression.
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💬 Mid 30s, married, no kids and bored
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