Siao liao! Feeling stuck in Singapore’s rat race? You’re not alone. Many Singaporeans are facing tough realities, and sometimes, we need a wake-up call to level up. Let’s unpack some uncomfortable truths and, more importantly, find ways to overcome them.
Singapore’s Reality Check
Aside from the whole ‘companies don’t care about you, will fire you when they need to save cost’ examples, what are some OTHER harsh truths that you think Singaporeans ought to hear(even if they don’t like it)
- Singaporeans often overestimate their value in the job market. There’s a perception that high median salaries are a given, but are we really delivering the goods?
For me, the one will be that Singaporeans don’t ask if they’re valuable enough or providing enough value to ask for the high median salaries they think they deserve.
- Many are frogs in a well, unaware of opportunities beyond our shores and sometimes even within our own Little Red Dot. We might be too comfortable to explore.
- Even the beloved CPF isn’t universally loved, but it’s arguably a necessary evil.
Challenges Sinkies Face
Everyone is replaceable is the harsh truth. You’re just a line item in excel
- The hard truth is, many Singaporeans are easily replaceable in the workforce. Companies prioritize the bottom line.
- We complain about the cost of living, but sometimes our priorities are skewed. We balk at $5 hawker food but happily splurge on $7 matcha lattes.
- Our English standard, while decent, isn’t always as *atas* as we think. This can hinder career progression.
Most Singaporean’s English is cmi but they think their English is damn satki. Mine is also cmi, but at least I know my English cmi
Level Up, Singaporeans!
I disagree that it’s just because you are mediocre.
I know many people I find bang average doing good roles and vice versa. I think the key is
1. Planning your career. It’s extremely vital.
- Plan your career strategically. Don’t just *chiong* without a clear direction. Identify skills gaps and actively address them.
- Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Leaving your comfort zone, like a stable government job, can lead to faster career growth.
- Sharpen your communication skills. Effective English is crucial for career advancement.
The high ranking Singaporeans I’ve come across in the corporate world have one common trait – great communicators and strong command of the English language. Smarter and more talented people work for them. Harsh truth.
- Network like a pro. Connections can open doors you never knew existed.
