Candace, a 30-year-old globetrotter, is redefining the traditional life script often followed by young Singaporean women. Unlike many of her peers, Candace embraces an unconventional lifestyle that allows her to work from anywhere in the world, including cities like Berlin and Hong Kong. This departure from the expected path—a path that typically involves studying hard, dating sensibly, applying for public housing, marrying, and having children—highlights a growing trend among young women in Singapore who prioritize personal freedom over societal expectations.
Tessa, a 27-year-old Singaporean woman, exemplifies this shift in priorities. Recently, she decided to step away from dating due to mounting frustration, despite many of her friends already being married. Her decision was sudden, but it underscores a broader movement among young women who are choosing to forge their own paths rather than adhere to a predetermined life script.
Candace's approach to life is marked by her desire for freedom and flexibility.
“I like the freedom to leave anytime I want and do anything I want,” – Candace
Her work enables her to live in various global cities, and she relishes the ability to explore different cultures and experiences. This contrasts sharply with the traditional expectations placed on many young Singaporean women.
The typical life script in Singapore is well-defined. It involves excelling academically, finding a suitable partner, securing public housing, and starting a family. However, Candace views her life plan as "unconventional" compared to her peers. Her ability to work remotely in cities like Berlin and Hong Kong offers her a unique sense of independence.
For Tessa, the realization of her friends’ early marriages seemed to happen almost overnight.
“It’s like I blinked and most of my friends in Singapore were already married.” – Tessa
Despite the societal pressure to follow suit, Tessa has chosen to prioritize her personal fulfillment over conforming to traditional norms.
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