Feeling burnt out, Singaporean? Thinking of ditching your high-stress job for a simpler life? You’re not alone. Many Singaporeans are grappling with the same question: is it time to prioritize mental health over career progression? Let’s dive into what local Redditors are saying about the possibility of career breaks and lower-paying jobs with a $1M safety net.
Reddit Insights
- $1M is a good start, but not ‘FU Money’ for everyone: Many users pointed out that while $1 million is a substantial amount, it might not be enough for a comfortable long-term retirement, especially with rising housing costs in Singapore. One user mentioned, “$1m is not FU money nowadays… If he buys a resale hdb at median 600k, he’s only left with 400k.”
- ‘Simple’ jobs aren’t stress-free: Several comments highlighted that low-paying jobs, such as retail or F&B, often have their own set of challenges, including workplace politics and demanding customers. One Redditor shared, “One of the most political and worst jobs I’ve worked in are in retail/f&b. They don’t even pretend to be nice.”.
- Mental Health First: Many users emphasized the importance of mental and physical health over chasing career success. They encouraged taking a break if needed. One user put it simply, “Your life is more important. Go pursue what you really want to do instead of entry level.”
- Sabbaticals are worth considering: Many Redditors suggested exploring the option of a sabbatical or unpaid leave before making any drastic decisions about quitting. It gives time to recharge and re-evaluate.
- It’s not a race, it’s your life: Several comments challenged the notion of ‘falling behind’ and encouraged the OP to prioritize personal well-being and purpose over societal expectations. One user shared, “After all, how much do we need to earn before we can buy back our youth?”
SG Context: What It Means For You
Singapore’s work culture is known for being demanding and competitive. The pressure to climb the corporate ladder, coupled with the high cost of living, can lead to burnout. Recent discussions about mental health awareness have prompted more people to re-evaluate their priorities. HDB prices remain a major concern for many Singaporeans, impacting their financial planning. Remember, recent cooling measures may affect your purchasing power and eligibility for grants. It’s also worth noting that the CPF system plays a huge role in Singaporean retirement planning, so do factor that into your long-term calculations.
Singaporean Experiences on Reddit
“The thing is, with $1M, every 1% increase in annual return gives you 10k more, which is like 5 months of your 2k salary. At this point, one wonders what is the purpose of doing that 2k job when you will be giving up 40hrs of your life each week?”
SweetCloudFly
“I understand u as I was in the same position, the stress at work can kill. Every day feels like the last day and always thinking of quitting and find a less stressful job but OK to accept lower pay. I actually tried but those lower paying jobs, a lot of the hirers are losers or they think u are not what they look for.”
snowmountainflytiger
“For me, it was only after I got the money did I realise I’m on a meaningless grind. Now that I have the savings I keep asking myself how much more I need before I can do what I want to do rather than spend more months working 9-6.”
SgSouthSider
“Not all high paying work places is stressfull. So instead of findling a low pay job why not find a median pay job but a good company, i used to work for a company 11-5pm most days and with lunch i work effectively 4 hrs a day.. was still paid 90k a year”
CrazyPizzza
Your Practical Action Plan for Singaporeans
So, what can you do after reading all this? Here’s a practical plan:
- Assess your finances realistically: Don’t just look at the $1M. Consider housing costs (HDB/Condo), inflation, and your desired lifestyle. Consult a financial advisor if needed.
- Explore your options: Instead of jumping straight to a low-paying job, consider a sabbatical, a career switch within your field, or a less demanding role at a different company.
- Prioritize your mental health: If your job is making you miserable, it’s time to make a change. Don’t be afraid to take a break and recharge.
- Network and Seek Advice: Talk to people in similar situations. Share your experiences and learn from others. Remember, many Singaporeans are struggling with the same issues.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try a part-time job or side hustle in something you’re interested in before making a permanent switch.
Ultimately, the decision to quit your job is a personal one. But by carefully considering your finances, mental health, and long-term goals, you can make an informed decision that’s right for you. Don’t let the Singaporean rat race define your life. Remember, your well-being matters most.
Source: Is it career suicide to quit my job and find a simple/entry level job instead? (more context inside)