A Singaporean Father's Dilemma

SINGAPORE: A Singaporean individual, known as u/BoringCheapAsian on Reddit, has opened up about a pressing decision many might face while working abroad: Whether to stay in a lucrative position in the US or return home for family.

In a post shared on October 31 on the r/askSingapore subreddit, the 40-year-old father revealed that he is currently earning an impressive $200,000 a year in his corporate job in the United States. Despite this high salary—considered substantial regardless of whether it's in SGD or USD—he expressed a profound sense of homesickness. The emotional toll of being away from his wife and young child weighs heavily on him, leading to his uncertainty about the future.

Job Security and Homesickness

Describing his current situation, he shared that he holds a US green card, granting him permanent residency in the country, and highlighted that the industry he is in remains stable, providing a sense of job security. However, the Singaporean's efforts to find employment back home have yielded little to no response, leaving him frustrated and concerned about his future in Singapore.

Living Costs and Lifestyle

High living costs in Singapore are also causing him anxiety. On one hand, friends encourage him to remain in the US, where he enjoys a favorable work-life balance and a comfortable lifestyle—including a house and car. On the other hand, the absence of his family fuels his feelings of loneliness.

Community Support

Reddit users were quick to jump in with advice and support. Many suggested that while his professional prospects appear brighter in the US, the real challenge is figuring out how to reunite with his family. One user suggested that the author’s son, currently in polytechnic school and facing National Service soon, might consider attending a university in the US, potentially easing the transition for the family.

Another commenter raised the question of whether the man could work remotely, which could allow him more time with his family without sacrificing his job. A particularly poignant comment from a user who experienced similar challenges highlighted the importance of family unity and warned that long-term separation could impact his relationship with his child, making it crucial to reunite soon.

Weighing Options

Ultimately, the blend of financial opportunity and familial obligations presents a complex web of choices for the Singaporean father. As several Reddit users pointed out, there are no easy answers to his dilemma, and he must weigh his options carefully. The journey ahead may require sacrifices, but many urged him to follow his instincts and prioritize what truly matters—his family.

This story resonates with countless others navigating the balance between career ambitions and the love of family, serving as a reminder that sometimes, the heart must guide our decisions.