Nation

35-Year-Old Singaporean Security Officer Contemplates Career Change - Is It Too Late?

2025-03-30

Author: Ming

In a heartfelt plea shared on the r/singaporehappenings forum, a 35-year-old security officer from Singapore has sparked a conversation about career transitions, a subject that resonates with many facing similar dilemmas. After dedicating a decade of his life to security work, which brings in a modest monthly salary of S$2,300, he openly expressed his frustrations and uncertainties about his future.

The man revealed that his current job was a result of personal circumstances, including a recent divorce, which left him feeling trapped professionally. "I'm tired of working this job that barely pays the bills," he wrote. With a child to support and only an ITE certificate in Mechanical and Electrical Services, he is questioning whether it's too late to restart his career and pursue something more fulfilling. "Am I wasting my time? What can I do to restart my career?" he asked the community.

Many commenters rallied around him, offering words of encouragement and affirming that 35 is still young enough to embark on a new path. One user advised, "Think beyond the S$3k target. Ask yourself: what would you pursue if money were no object?" This question can open doors to discovering passions that lead to job satisfaction beyond mere financial incentives.

Others shared their own stories of late success, with one fellow poster mentioning, "I'm in my late 40s doing a PhD. It’s never too late!" This sentiment resonated with many, illustrating that it's possible to chase dreams and achieve significant milestones regardless of age or past decisions.

There were practical suggestions too, with users recommending that he consider enrolling in courses to enhance his skills in high-demand fields to secure better-paying job opportunities. Suggestions ranged from culinary school to roles in disability services, logistics, and even trades like plumbing. “Utilize your SkillsFuture credits to gain certification in a growing industry,” advised one commenter, advocating for proactive steps that can lead to a sustainable and rewarding career.

Meanwhile, in a related slice-of-life story, a 17-year-old Singaporean girl took to the r/SGexams forum to voice her outrage after learning her parents had secretly placed a tracker in her school bag. This revelation highlighted ongoing tensions over parental control and privacy, reflecting a broader generational divide in attitudes towards independence and security.

As discussions around career changes and personal autonomy unfold, it's clear that the desire for professional fulfillment and respect for individual privacy are critical topics for many in Singapore. Whether it's a 35-year-old contemplating a shift or a teenager advocating for respect, these stories reveal the complexities of modern life and the shared human experience of seeking growth and understanding in our journeys.