SINGAPORE: A woman earning S$3,600 a month has opened up on social media, expressing her exhaustion from the financial demands of supporting her family back home. This candid confession has resonated with many, prompting discussions about family responsibilities, personal finance, and the pressures of modern living.

In her post on Reddit's r/askSingapore, the woman explained that she moved to Singapore seven years ago to pursue her studies, a journey funded entirely by the government, including a generous allowance. However, upon entering the workforce four years ago in the healthcare sector, she began financially assisting her family, which included two brothers still pursuing their education and a father with a fluctuating income from his business.

The situation became more complex with her older sister also working in Singapore under commission-based terms, leading to an unpredictable income. This sister has occasionally borrowed money for rent and basic living expenses, adding to the woman's financial burdens. "I felt happy to help at first," she said, "but now I just feel burnt out. My sister, who should be supporting us too, isn't contributing anything."

Despite her attempts to help her family, the pressure has left her feeling overwhelmed. She expressed concern about falling behind her peers, who frequently boast online about their substantial incomes and savings. "People talk about making $10K a month while I struggle," she lamented.

In the Reddit thread, many users urged her to avoid comparisons, emphasizing that happiness does not stem from financial metrics. One user shared, “There are those earning far less who find joy in life. It’s about understanding your own journey, not dwelling on others’ highlights.” Perspectives varied, but a common thread emerged—financial health should not come at the cost of personal well-being.

Moreover, some commenters advised her to reassess her role in her family's finances. “It's not your responsibility to fix their problems with your earnings,” one user pointed out, advocating for a more balanced approach to her family obligations.

In addressing her financial concerns, budgeting expert Miriam Caldwell offered practical advice. She highlighted the importance of creating a monthly budget to clearly visualize income versus expenses. This would help her determine how much she could realistically afford to send home without sacrificing her own financial stability. Caldwell suggested listing both fixed costs—like rent and bills—and variable expenses—like groceries and entertainment—to ensure a comprehensive understanding of her finances.

The woman’s story highlights a growing issue faced by many expatriates and young professionals: the burden of familial expectations versus personal aspirations. As financial landscapes shift and the cost of living rises, the conversation around family support and financial autonomy becomes increasingly critical.

For those feeling the strain of supporting loved ones from afar, consider taking a step back, reassessing your priorities, and ensuring that your financial health remains intact. After all, finding the balance between compassion and self-preservation is essential in today’s fast-paced world.