In a poignant post shared on Reddit, a Singaporean man expressed his growing disillusionment with his homeland, stating that it no longer feels like the welcoming place he once knew. On October 29, he detailed his feelings of helplessness in the face of escalating layoffs, exorbitant housing costs, and increasing competition for jobs in the city-state.

In his heartfelt message, the man lamented, “As an average Joe with average capabilities, I feel helpless against this new wave of change." He articulated the frustration of simply trying to maintain his livelihood during a tumultuous economic period, questioning the feasibility of upskilling for individuals who find it difficult to keep pace with rapid transformations.

The emotional toll of comparing oneself to others was evident in his words. “It’s hard not to feel left behind when you see others flourishing,” he wrote, admitting to feelings of envy towards those who seem to breeze through life’s challenges. “Being average in Singapore feels like it’s becoming synonymous with being below average.”

As he navigates the workplace, he articulated a growing sense of despair, comparing his declining mental state to sinking under pressure. “I’m increasingly exhausted from battling a society that seems to value only my economic contribution, not my humanity,” he shared.

His sentiments resonated widely on Reddit, sparking a discussion among fellow Singaporeans grappling with similar anxieties. Many voiced their agreement, echoing feelings of inadequacy despite hard work. One user reflected, “It feels like our worth is tied solely to our ability to generate wealth, overshadowing our cultural identities.”

In a broader societal context, these concerns reflect unease over the widening wealth gap in Singapore. The statistics paint a concerning picture: while Singapore boasts one of the highest GDPs in the world, many average citizens struggle to cope with the increasing cost of living and limited job prospects. With Singapore's economy shifting towards higher-tech industries, those without necessary skills feel increasingly marginalized.

Furthermore, the pressure on residents to perform and succeed can be overwhelming, particularly in a digitally driven society where success is constantly broadcasted on social media. The pressure to keep up can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and despair.

As discussions unfolded online, many in the community began to seek strategies for coping with these feelings. The American Psychological Association suggests trying to focus on gratitude by noticing the positives in life, cultivating optimism, accepting change as a part of life, and seeking help if needed.

In the face of these present-day challenges, the question looms: How can Singapore evolve to become a city that is inclusive of all its residents, not just the affluent? As citizens grapple with this new reality, their voices grow louder, calling for a society where value is placed not just on financial success but also on community and diversity. Could this be the start of a significant shift in Singapore’s socio-economic landscape? Only time will tell.