Introduction

SINGAPORE: As we find ourselves approaching the midway point of the 2020s, one Singaporean is compelled to ponder the increasing complexities of modern life.

A Personal Reflection

On January 21, during a heartfelt post on the r/askSingapore forum, he asked, “Is it just me, or has life become increasingly more difficult every year since 2020? Looking back, it seems 2019 was the peak.”

He reflected on how the downward spiral began with the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns in 2020-2021, which upended daily life for many. The turmoil intensified as layoffs soared, particularly after Elon Musk's controversial mass layoffs in 2022, leading to feelings of insecurity in the workforce.

“Those who managed to keep their jobs now face heavier workloads,” he lamented. “The job market has become fiercely competitive, with many 'ghost vacancies' appearing on job boards and public transportation becoming less reliable.” He noted a stark shift in employment trends, including a rise in short-term contracts replacing permanent roles, and an alarming increase in outsourcing to countries with cheaper labor.

Impact on Employment and Morale

The impact of these changes has been felt not just in job security but in employee morale. Many companies have exploited the strained job market to slash benefits, withdraw work-from-home options, and cut bonuses and salary increases, all while expecting employees to contribute more with fewer resources.

Historical Context and Broader Perspectives

However, the thread of conversation revealed that some users believe the struggles predate the pandemic. “Since 2008, my friend,” one user remarked, reflecting on a decade of economic challenges that have consistently been exasperated by global events, from financial crises to political upheaval.

Another contributor, a graduate from the early 2000s, pointed out that throughout his career, good news about the economy has been a rarity. “Housing prices were high then, but now they seem absolutely insane. The cost of living has tripled over the last 20 years.”

Personal Growth and Accountability

A number of commenters argued that the difficulties of adulthood extend beyond external circumstances. One user expressed, “You’re just growing older. Adult responsibilities can be overwhelming, and it’s only natural to feel the weight of those expectations.”

In a lighter vein, another took the opportunity to remind readers that adult life is fraught with challenges, playfully stating, “Welcome to adult life, son. It just gets worse from here…”

Cost of Living Insights

In a separate but related discourse, another Singaporean recently suggested a creative way to gauge the cost of living in the city-state. On January 17, a Facebook user named Daniel Tan pointed out that tracking the price of *kopi-o kosong* (black coffee) is a simple, effective method to understand rising living expenses. “This cup costs $1.30,” he shared, attaching an image which ignited discussions about the true cost of living in Singapore.

Conclusion

As citizens share their personal narratives and insights, it’s becoming clear that the challenges brought about by recent global events may have merely amplified an already complex reality for modern Singaporeans. Are we navigating new difficulties, or are we just seeing the same ones through a different lens? The discourse continues.