SINGAPORE: A frustrated worker recently took to social media to share his experience with Singapore’s 44-hour work week, describing it as unsustainabl
SINGAPORE: A frustrated worker recently took to social media to share his experience with Singapore’s 44-hour work week, describing it as unsustainable and mentally exhausting. Posting on r/askSingapore on Sunday (March 17), he wondered if others felt the same way and questioned the long-term viability of this lifestyle.
“How am I supposed to keep this up for the next 40+ years? Weekends are spent catching up on sleep or handling things I didn’t have time for during the week,” he wrote. “Is anyone else struggling with the 44-hour work week in Singapore?” His post details a daily routine that starts at 5:45 am, followed by a crowded commute and a full day in front of a computer. By the time he gets home, he has limited energy and time for hobbies or relaxation.
“My evenings fly by; I have maybe one to two hours to myself before I’m too tired to do anything,” he shared, adding that his mother follows a similar schedule, which makes him wonder if this is his future as well.
Commenters on the post sympathized, sharing their own frustrations with demanding schedules. One user noted, “Yes, welcome to adulthood. I had the same shock when I realized this is what my life would look like.” Another added that while the office culture in Singapore often lacks flexibility, remote work options have made the routine more bearable for some.
Other commenters suggested that experience might eventually bring some relief, as workers may later be valued for their expertise rather than hours. Others highlighted that the 44-hour week is actually lighter than schedules in certain high-demand fields where 60-hour weeks are common. One user remarked, “Not trying to sound sarcastic, but I’d be happy getting home by 6:30 pm with weekends free.”
For those adjusting to their first full-time role, career experts suggest strategies for managing the transition. Building friendships at work, taking breaks, and setting boundaries between work and personal life can help. It’s also important to avoid comparing oneself to peers, as career paths are unique to each individual.
The discussion reflects a common sentiment among many office workers, who, like the poster, wonder if there’s a way to make a full-time career sustainable and fulfilling.
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