Eh, Singaporeans, ever feel the pressure to settle down? You know, get married, have kids, the whole shebang? It’s a common thing lah, especially when you hit your late 20s or early 30s. But what if you, like many others, are perfectly happy flying solo?
Singlehood in Singapore: The Current State
- Increasing Acceptance
“Everyone can chose the lifestyle they want whether it’s single, married or with 20 cats 🙂 as long as I think we are content w our choices that’s really all that matters”
More and more Singaporeans are choosing to stay single, and it’s becoming less of a taboo. The traditional pressure to marry is still there, but attitudes are shifting. The number of single households is slowly rising, reflecting changing priorities. The government also recognizes this and has policies that support singles, like HDB schemes. Some statistics show that the median age of first marriage is increasing, indicating a growing acceptance of delaying or foregoing marriage altogether. You’re not alone if you’re considering this path.
Singles’ Struggles in Singapore
- Societal Pressures
“Many relatives pushing you to get married may be projecting…The truth is that for many of them their quality of life isn’t as good as when they were carefree, young and single (it’s a necessary trade off for having kids).”
The pressure to conform can be intense. Family gatherings can feel like a gauntlet of questions about your relationship status. There’s a certain expectation that you’ll eventually follow the ‘married with kids’ script. The HDB system, while improving, can still make it tougher to get a flat as a single person. Some might find it difficult to navigate the dating scene in Singapore, with its unique social dynamics. The fear of being ‘left behind’ or missing out on life’s milestones is a real concern for many.
Living Your Best Single Life in SG
- Embrace Your Freedom
“Ignore those old windbags. You do you. Single life can be just as fulfilling and un-lonely if not more so. It’s better to be alone than to find yourself in a bad relationship.”
First, own your choice. It’s your life, your call. Focus on building a life you love. Explore your hobbies, travel, and invest in your personal growth. Network with like-minded friends who support your choices. Take advantage of all the opportunities Singapore offers, from hawker centers to cultural events. Consider investing in your financial independence. This will give you more freedom and security. If family pressure gets too much, gently but firmly set boundaries. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all path to happiness. There are also many single Singaporeans living full lives. Find them and build a supportive network.
