Lost at 22: The Singaporean Woman Earning $4.5k a Month Who Doesn't Know What She Wants

SINGAPORE: In a curious twist of modern adulthood, a 22-year-old woman who earns approximately $4,500 monthly has expressed her uncertainty about her life's direction. Her candid reflections appeared on an online forum, igniting conversations surrounding the struggles of young professionals today.

Despite her financial success, she finds herself questioning the norms of adult life. She wonders, “Do most adults really work a 9 to 5 then binge-watch Netflix at home?” and "Is it typical for everyone to aim for a savings goal of $100,000 before turning 30?" Those thoughts lead her to ponder if there is something more fulfilling beyond the conventional lifestyle.

Providing insight into her unusual journey, she noted, "I was quite rebellious during my teenage years, eventually getting demoted from express classes to Normal Academic." After navigating through challenges, including a switch to a private O-level program, she achieved a diploma in Marketing. This knowledge ultimately paved her way to a part-time marketing role that has blossomed into her current position.

From starting with a part-time job in healthcare earning $2,800, she quickly ascended to a managerial role that netted her about $3,800 monthly. After a brief six-month hiatus, she recently secured her current job with a pay increase to $4,500.

However, despite her rapid ascent, she admits her passion lies elsewhere. “I realized I have zero interest in marketing,” she shared, revealing a sense of disillusionment with her field of study. Despite nearly completing a degree that she only pursued for its perceived financial viability, she feels a disconnect between her career path and her personal interests.

The woman acknowledges that although she lives comfortably—thanks to her parents covering essential expenses like education and phone bills—her spending habits often land her living paycheck to paycheck. Her penchant for luxury, from travel to daily rideshare commutes, may also be a contributing factor.

Feeling "sian" or drained, she reflects on her peers who appear much more certain about their aspirations, from aspiring influencers to entrepreneurs. Seeking advice, she posed a question to Singaporeans online: “At what age did you discover what you wanted to do in life? Should I just go with the flow?”

In a follow-up message, she reassessed her lifestyle choices and the support she receives from her parents, recognizing the importance of truly “adulting.” She’s planning to contribute to her household expenses and save more toward an emergency fund. Additionally, she expressed interest in community engagement by exploring volunteering opportunities and joining hobby groups.

Amidst her journey of self-discovery and striving for purpose, experts from BetterUp highlight that navigating these uncertainties is a crucial element of finding one's calling. The feelings of anxiety and confusion faced by many young people mirrors a broader societal concern—are we genuinely pursuing our passions, or are we merely checking boxes in a prescribed adult life?