Does Work-Life Balance Exist in Singapore?

Did you know that Singapore ranked 26th in Remote’s Global Life-Work Balance Index 2024? While this reflects progress, many Singaporeans continue to struggle with maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life.

According to a 2022 study by recruitment agency Randstad, seven out of 10 Singaporeans reported poor work-life balance, primarily due to overwhelming workloads. By 2023, 41% of employees expressed intentions to leave their jobs in search of better work-life harmony.

Among these employees, burnout remains a pervasive issue. A 2022 study by NTUC’s U Women and Family Unit revealed that 78% of respondents felt burnt out at work, largely due to the normalization of hybrid and remote work setups during the pandemic. This could stem from blurred boundaries between work and home or the lack of a conducive workspace.

Interestingly, some experts argue that the concept of work-life balance is evolving. Instead of compartmentalizing work and personal life, a growing perspective views them as fluidly interconnected, blending into a single holistic experience.

SNAPSHOT OF SINGAPORE’S WORK-LIFE BALANCE

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Based on the Manpower Research and Statistics Department’s survey, the Prevalence of Work-Life Harmony Initiatives in Singapore 2022 report highlights these key findings:

1. Rising Demand for Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs)

Flexible work is no longer a perk but a priority. The proportion of employees requiring FWAs rose from 39.5% in 2012 to 53.6% in 2022. Employers have made significant strides, with 84.1% of employees requiring FWAs receiving them in 2022, compared to 58.6% in 2012. Furthermore, employees are increasingly willing to decline or leave roles if FWAs are unavailable.

2. Accessibility of Non-Statutory Leave (NSL) Benefits

NSLs remain widely accessible. In 2022, 93.6% of employees requiring at least one type of NSL received it, maintaining consistency with previous years.

3. Enhanced Annual Leave Entitlements

Generous leave entitlements have become a norm, especially in competitive industries. 64.7% of full-time resident employees enjoyed 15 or more days of annual leave in 2022, exceeding statutory requirements.

ACHIEVING BETTER WORK-LIFE BALANCE

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Reclaiming the balance in your life is possible by following these actionable strategies:

a. Set Boundaries: Establish clear work hours and communicate them to coworkers, family, and supervisors. Personally, I do not encourage answering work calls beyond work hours.

b. Take Breaks: Incorporate regular pauses to sustain focus and avoid burnout.

c. Prioritize Well-Being: Dedicate time to self-care practices like yoga, exercise, or meditation.

d. Delegate Tasks: Lighten your workload by assigning responsibilities where possible.

e. Say No: Be firm when declining tasks that compromise your balance.

f. Take Vacations: Use your leave to unplug and to try new things. This is my favorite way to recharge.

g. Open Communication: Discuss workload concerns openly with your employer or manager.

h. Encourage a Help-Seeking Culture: Foster an environment where seeking assistance is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Work-life balance is more than a buzzword…it’s essential for sustaining mental and emotional health in today’s demanding professional landscape. So, don’t feel guilty about taking a well-deserved break before the year ends.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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7 Red Flags That Indicate You Might Be a Bad Boss

Hey there, boss! Let’s get real for a second. Are you the leader your team looks up to, or are you secretly the reason they’re eyeing the exit? Being a boss isn’t just about titles and paychecks as it’s about leading with integrity, consistency, and respect.

As an HR consultant, I’ve seen it all, from inspiring leaders to toxic bosses driving talented employees to resign. Take a moment to reflect. Do you recognize yourself in any of these signs of being a bad boss?

#1: LACK OF TRANSPARENCY

Picture this: a company offers over 10 employee benefits, yet the staff still grumbles about their salaries. Why? Because their boss failed to communicate clearly about the incentive packages.

Transparency doesn’t mean spilling all the beans, but it does mean keeping your team informed about what directly impacts them. Good bosses build trust by being open, while bad bosses create a veil of secrecy that widens the gap between themselves and their employees. Ask yourself, are you bridging that gap or making it wider?

#2: INCONSISTENT DECISION-MAKING

Few things frustrate employees more than inconsistency. If you’re constantly changing your approach to the same issues, you’re leaving your team in the dark, unsure of what to expect.

Great bosses create stability by applying consistent frameworks to their decisions. When flexibility is needed, they explain the reasoning behind it. This builds confidence and helps everyone, including you, stay on track. Are you consistent, or are you keeping your team guessing?

#3: MICROMANAGING THE TEAM

Let me tell you about a company I left because of relentless micromanagement. Every move I made was scrutinized including my pronunciation of certain words, and it crushed my confidence.

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Micromanagement screams one thing: I don’t trust you! Great bosses delegate tasks and let their team figure out the best way to succeed. If you feel the urge to hover, ask yourself why you hired these people in the first place. Trust them to deliver and focus on the bigger picture.

#4: TAKING THE CREDIT & PASSING THE BLAME

Oh, this one gets me every time! I’ve seen countless bosses in Singapore who light up when it’s time to claim credit but vanish when it’s time to take responsibility.

A good boss knows success is a team effort and isn’t afraid to own mistakes. Passing the blame might save your ego momentarily, but it quickly earns you a reputation as a turncoat. Be the boss who steps up. Your team will respect you for it.

#5: USING INTIMIDATION INSTEAD OF EARNING RESPECT

Here’s a truth bomb: employees don’t quit jobs; they quit bosses. Intimidation might get you short-term compliance, but it will never earn genuine respect.

Respect is a two-way street. If you want your team to respect you, start by showing respect to them. A healthy manager-employee relationship thrives on mutual trust, not fear.

#6: FAILING TO ADVOCATE FOR YOUR TEAM

Are you a cheerleader for your employees? A great boss champions their team, pushing for recognition, promotions, and growth opportunities.

If you’re promising salary bumps or promotions that never materialize, or if you’re not fighting for your team’s visibility, you’re doing them a disservice. Advocate for them – it’s your job.

#7: PLAYING OFFICE FAVORITES

Imagine that your boss frequently has lunch with one team member, shares exclusive updates with him, and hands him all the high-profile assignments. Sound familiar?

Favoritism isn’t just unprofessional, it’s toxic. Sure, it’s natural to have preferences, but as a leader, you need to treat everyone fairly. You’re not running a popularity contest. You’re managing a team united by shared goals.

IN A NUTSHELL

No one sets out to be a bad boss. However, self-awareness is key to becoming a better one. If you’ve spotted yourself in any of these behaviors, it’s not too late to change. Lead with transparency, consistency, and respect, and watch your team thrive.

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So, are you ready to be the boss your team deserves?

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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Do Dream Jobs Still Exist?

As kids, we’re often asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Do you remember your answer? I wanted to be a teacher, then a doctor, and even an astronaut at one point. Childhood dreams feel boundless, shaped by those we admire such as our parents, teachers, or other figures in our communities. Back then, we rarely considered the skills or resources needed to make them a reality.

As adults, our dreams evolve, shaped by experiences and personal growth. I used to think a career meant doing something I loved, working 9 to 5, and steadily climbing the corporate ladder. Promotions and titles felt like the ultimate goal.

But today, I question whether the concept of a dream job still holds.

For most, work is about earning a living. Yet, the choice between jobs often comes down to personal interests, strengths, and factors like salary or work-life balance. While I still believe in the idea of a dream job, it’s no longer about one ideal position as it’s about finding a role that aligns with my values.

In fact, a Forward SG report shows that the Singapore Dream has shifted. Younger generations now seek meaning in their work, not just a high salary. As Prime Minister Lawrence Wong once highlighted, “The Singapore Dream is more than just about material success…it is also about fulfillment, meaning, and purpose in what we do.” This explains the rise of job-hopping, as people search for fulfillment over financial reward. The path to a dream job is rarely straightforward. It’s often a journey of self-discovery, career changes, and constant adaptation, especially after the pandemic reshaped how we view work.

If you’re seeking your dream job, here are a few tips:

1. KNOW YOUR VALUES
Find a role that aligns with what truly matters to you, whether that’s work-life balance or a fast-paced environment. Understanding your values is key to staying and persevering in the role.

2. STAY FLEXIBLE
Be open to industry shifts, freelance opportunities, and continuous learning as your dream job might evolve over time.

3. BUILD A NETWORK
A strong network and a willingness to learn will help you grow. Seek mentorship and always look for ways to improve your skills such as taking free online classes.

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In the end, no two visions of a dream job are the same. What you prioritize might not resonate with others. But that’s the beauty of it – your career path is uniquely YOURS.

Sources: 1 & 2

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4-Day Work Week? 69% of Singapore Employers Say It’s Feasible!

In April 2024, a poll by payroll and HR solutions provider ADP found that nearly a third of Singaporean workers expect the four-day work week to become standard within the next five years. Notably, 21% of workers reported that their employers have already implemented this model to promote better mental health at work.

As the year progressed, another survey by recruitment agency Robert Walters revealed that 69% of Singaporean employers now consider the four-day work week “a feasible concept.” Employee enthusiasm, however, was even greater as 93% of workers expressed interest in a trial of the shorter work week. Neighboring countries like Malaysia and Thailand echoed this sentiment, with 94% and 95% of workers in these nations, respectively.

The survey, which gathered insights from over 5,000 professionals across 11 Asian markets, placed Singapore in the middle regarding support for the four-day work week.

SOUTHEAST ASIA LEADS

Southeast Asia appears to be the most optimistic region about this shift in work culture. Compared to places like Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and South Korea, professionals and businesses in this region are more open to experimenting with a shorter work week.

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WORKPLACE CHANGES

While many HR experts agree that a four-day work week could improve work-life balance, boost employee happiness, and even enhance productivity, they caution that Singapore may not embrace this change immediately.

Aslam Sardar, CEO of the Institute for Human Resource Professionals, noted that Singaporean employers’ hesitancy could stem from the country’s highly competitive business environment. Concerns about operational impact, especially in specific industries, and the complexities of implementing such a shift are key reasons for their caution. Significant organizational changes, cultural adjustments, and technological advancements like automation and job redesign will be critical to making this model work, according to Sardar.

FUTURE IMPLEMENTATION

Despite the hurdles, many Singaporeans are eager to give the four-day work week a try. They view it as a way to improve work-life balance and spend more time with their families. In fact, 96% of professionals surveyed said they would be more inclined to apply for jobs at companies offering this flexible arrangement.

However, when it comes to making compromises, most workers are unwilling to trade reduced salaries or bonuses in exchange for shorter hours, signaling that while the demand for change is high, financial security remains a top priority.

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While the four-day work week is gaining traction, it may take time before it becomes the norm in Singapore, as businesses and workers balance the potential benefits with the challenges of implementation.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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10 Tips for Surviving on a Low-Paying Job in Singapore

In Singapore, a low-paying job is generally defined as one where the monthly wage falls below the national median salary. According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), jobs with salaries under SGD 2,500 per month are often classified as low-wage. Approximately 10-15% of employed residents are in such positions, equating to around 200,000 to 300,000 people.

Navigating life in Singapore on a low income can be quite challenging. However, with determination and careful financial planning, you can improve your situation. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your circumstances.

#1: TRANSPORTATION

Rethink your daily commute. Public transportation in Singapore is efficient and affordable, so consider taking the bus or MRT instead of hailing a cab. If you must ride a car, look into carpooling options with colleagues to share the costs.

#2: LIVING EXPENSES

Living frugally doesn’t mean sacrificing quality of life. It means being mindful of your spending. Cut down on non-essential expenses like dining out frequently or subscribing to multiple streaming services. Instead, cook at home more often and enjoy free or budget-friendly entertainment options like parks and community events.

#3: INTERNET ACCESS

Take advantage of free Wi-Fi available at local coffee shops, libraries, and community centers. If you need internet at home, see if your employer offers any allowances or find bundle deals that include other services you need, such as cable or phone.

#4: DEBTS

Imagine the relief of no longer having to worry about monthly mortgage or credit card bills. Prioritizing debt repayment can free up your finances, reduce stress, and provide more flexibility in your career choices. While it’s easier said than done, start by addressing your smallest debts to build momentum, and then gradually tackle larger ones.

#5: FINANCIAL SUPPORTS

Many low-income individuals are eligible for financial assistance from government agencies. The Singaporean government, for instance, has set S$2,906 per month as a reasonable starting point for a living wage.

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If you earn less than S$2,500 per month and are over 30, you might qualify for the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, which provides cash payments and additional contributions to your Central Provident Fund (CPF). See if you qualify.

#6: BACK-UP PLAN

Saving for emergencies can be tough, especially when you are living from paycheck to paycheck, but it’s crucial. If you can’t build an emergency fund quickly, consider having a credit card with available spending power as a backup for urgent situations. Just be cautious with its use to avoid accumulating debt.

#7: UPSKILL

Investing in your education and skills can open up new opportunities and potentially higher-paying jobs. Look for free or low-cost courses online or at community centers. For starters, SkillsFuture Singapore offers credits that can be used for a wide range of courses.

#8: SUPPORT NETWORK

A strong support network can provide emotional and practical help. Connect with family, friends, and community groups. Sometimes, just talking to someone who understands your situation can make a big difference.

#9: HEALTH CONCERNS

Staying healthy can prevent costly medical bills. Regular exercise and a balanced diet improve health and reduce medical needs.

Furthermore, Medisave and MediShield Life provide additional support. Medisave is a savings scheme for medical expenses, while MediShield Life covers up to 80% of hospitalization costs. These schemes, along with government subsidies, ensure affordable access to medical care.

#10: FINANCIAL GOALS

Finally, set achievable financial and personal goals. Try to be as positive as you can while doing so. A positive mindset can make a significant difference in how you handle financial challenges.

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Living on a low income in Singapore can present significant challenges, but with careful planning and a commitment to improving your financial situation, it is possible to manage your finances more effectively and enhance your quality of life. Remember, small steps and a willingness to adapt can make a meaningful difference.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

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