Slogging from 9 to 6 (more like 7 to 8, right?) got you feeling sian? You’re not alone, lah! Many Singaporeans struggle with the grind of full-time work, especially after the relatively chill days of school. But don’t worry, can one! Let’s explore how to cope with the demands of working life in Singapore.
Current Working Life Trends
- Many fresh grads find the transition to full-time work tough, with long hours and little personal time.
Just started my first FT job after graduation for approx 3 months and I am already feeling extremely terrible. Although my work timing is 8-6 it feels more like a 7-8 including all the travel and wash up time. Theres barely enough “self” time before I have to sleep so that I dont feel and look like a zombie the next day.
- The pressure to earn a good salary is a major driving force, even if it means sacrificing personal well-being.
Anyway for me it’s the $. I need to eat, so I need $. My bank account cannot sustain for the rest of my life if I don’t work.
- There’s a growing awareness of the importance of work-life balance and mental health, with some advocating for minimalist lifestyles. 65% energy at work is enough.
Challenges of SG Work Life
- It can be challenging to find a job that aligns with your interests and values, leading to dissatisfaction and burnout.
Grind first, look for something that interests you, talk to more colleagues. Treat it like an adventure. It will be tougher for the first few years.
- Singapore’s competitive work environment can create a sense of constant pressure and anxiety.
Not only that but there will always be people trying to give you anxiety about what will happen if you decide to stop the chase and just want a rest. It’s frankly absurd, and an absolute waste of the short time we have on this earth.
- The long commute times in Singapore exacerbate the problem, eating into personal time and adding to stress levels.
Actionable Solutions for Singaporeans
- Prioritize self-care by incorporating exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep into your routine.
try to exercise, eat well, and sleep sufficiently. This gives you energy to do things you enjoy out of work. Otherwise you spend weekends catching up on sleep and bed rotting time (which will perpetuate the cycle of dread).
- Make the commute more enjoyable by listening to podcasts, reading, or watching TV shows.
Make the travel part fun – read, watch your favourite TV show, listen to podcasts you like. I personally do shopping on the train to work. It saves time.
- Find ways to connect with colleagues and build friendships at work, but be mindful of workplace dynamics.
- Set realistic career goals and focus on acquiring valuable skills that can benefit you in the long term.
- Explore alternative career paths, such as starting a small business, if corporate life isn’t for you.
