“Turning 40 and Wondering: What Are Singapore’s 20-Somethings Really Thinking? “

A clear sign of aging is when the ways of younger generations start seeming a bit… unusual. As I approach 40, I notice the new slang at work—phrases like “sending,” “slaps,” and “snatched”—and observe trends like “quiet quitting” among my younger colleagues. This lingo and lifestyle approach belong to today’s 20-somethings, many of whom are entering the workforce post-Covid.

Curious to understand rather than judge, I spoke to a few younger Singaporeans about their attitudes toward work and life. Here’s what I gathered from my conversations with 21-year-old undergraduate Chai Ru and 28-year-old HR professional Alice Yeap.

1. Purpose and Fulfillment Over Paychecks
“Money matters, but it shouldn’t be the only goal,” Chai told me, explaining her outlook on a “good” job as one that supports both financial and personal growth. Young people today expect employers to foster an environment where they can thrive, not just fit into a role. It’s no surprise that “quiet quitting”—doing the bare minimum—has become a way for younger workers to set boundaries when their expectations aren’t met.

2. Work Doesn’t Define Their Identity
While my generation often ties identity to career, younger employees are changing this narrative. Many told me they refuse to let work overshadow their lives, seeing career changes as opportunities rather than setbacks. This approach has led to trends like “rage applying,” where workers apply to new jobs en masse to escape dissatisfaction. One young worker admitted to sending over 50 applications while still employed, explaining simply, “Sian lor”—a Singaporean phrase for feeling unmotivated.

3. Structured, Clear Work Environments Are Key
Young professionals value workplaces with clear processes and organized systems. They believe well-structured environments provide a foundation for growth, while chaotic, unstructured workspaces drain energy. Alice Yeap advises using platforms like Glassdoor to understand a company’s culture before joining. For today’s youth, transparency and structure are essential for a productive work experience.

4. Expanding Skills and Experience
The desire to learn and grow drives young workers. Rather than staying in repetitive roles, they pursue “career cushioning”—building skills that open up future career paths. This “seeker’s mentality” aligns with recent studies from the National Youth Council, which found that nearly 70% of Singaporean youths plan to upskill in the next five years. The younger generation wants roles that challenge them, preparing them for a rapidly evolving job market.

Conclusion: Youths Today Are Future-Focused
Talking to younger Singaporeans has given me a fresh perspective. Far from being aimless, they’re navigating a fast-paced world, keen on making meaningful contributions without compromising their personal values. This generation is both optimistic and realistic about the future, balancing ambition with an awareness of the challenges they face. Platforms like Mentoring SG and NYC’s career guidance programs provide valuable resources to help them achieve their goals, ensuring that their evolving aspirations are supported every step of the way.