Gen Z's Guide to Achieving Work-Life Balance in Singapore's Fast-Paced Workplace

Contributed by Sng Ler Jun, Singapore National Co-operative Federation

Note: The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not represent that of Young NTUC.

In the heart of Singapore, where bustling streets and towering skyscrapers paint the backdrop of daily life, a new generation of young professionals is redefining what it means to thrive in the workplace.

Generation Z (Gen Z), or those born between 1997 and 2012, is now at the forefront of Singapore's evolving workforce, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. However, as they embark on their careers, they often find themselves grappling with the elusive quest for work-life balance and mental wellness.

Here, tips and tricks for our fellow Gen Z workers to follow:

1. Embrace Remote Work and Flexibility

One of the most significant changes to the workplace in recent years has been the rise of remote work. Gen Z has fully embraced this shift, recognising the benefits it brings to their mental wellness. Remote work allows them to better manage their time and energy, reduce the stress of commuting, and gain more time for self-care.

2. Prioritise Self-Care

Gen Z understands that mental wellness is non-negotiable. They prioritise self-care routines that help them recharge and stay resilient in a fast-paced environment. Regular exercise, meditation, and a balanced diet are part of their daily routine. Taking care of physical health directly impacts mental well-being.

“Regularly exercising at least once a week to kick in those endorphins and stay physically healthy!” says a scholar from the Singapore National Co-operative Federation (SNCF) Corrine Chong, 26. “I also like to spend quality time with my family and friends over the weekends to recharge.”

Chong adds: “Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive. Occasional spending is okay too, though we should all weigh out and prioritise our expenses.”

3. Set Boundaries

In a world where work emails can flood your inbox at any hour, setting boundaries becomes crucial. In the NTUC Youth Taskforce, it was revealed that Gen Z believes in the power of clear communication with their team and supervisors. They've learned to communicate their working hours and be honest about their capacity, maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.

“It is so important to take care of yourself first, if you want to have the mental headspace to do your work well. So, don’t feel guilty for enforcing good habits that will keep you from getting burnt out,” says SNCF’s Lim Yih Ching, 25. “It’s intimidating to communicate differences but it’s always better to align expectations early than to be stuck in awkward situations.”

Lim suggests: “Consider blocking time out in your schedule to do ‘deep focus work’, if you find yourself overwhelmed with meetings throughout the week and end up spending time outside of office hours to catch up on your work.”

4. Encourage Wellness Initiatives

Gen Z is also keen on kickstarting wellness initiatives in the workplace. They understand the importance of creating a supportive and healthy work environment. Initiatives such as group fitness activities (Wellness Wednesday, anyone?), mental health workshops, and mindfulness programs can foster a sense of community and well-being among colleagues too.

5. Seek Mentorship and Support

Navigating the complexities of the workplace can be daunting, especially for Gen Z who are relatively new to it. They emphasise the importance of seeking mentorship and support. Don't hesitate to reach out to experienced colleagues or mentors; they can provide invaluable advice.

Singapore's fast-paced workplace can be challenging, but Gen Z has proven that it's possible to excel in your career while prioritising mental wellness. By embracing remote work, setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and encouraging wellness initiatives, they've found a formula that works for them. With a strong support network, they're navigating the intricacies of the workplace with grace and resilience.

As Gen Z pioneers a new era of work in Singapore, they inspire us all to reevaluate our priorities and embrace a healthier, more balanced approach to our careers. In their pursuit of mental wellness, they're not only reshaping the workplace but also setting a powerful example for future generations to come.

This story was first published on Singapore National Co-operative Federation.

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