8th year in Singapore
Happy 8 years self!!!
Is it worth it?
Are you happy like how you were 8 years ago?
When I started working in Singapore, my 1st 6months was overwhelming. I was soooo happy and I cant believe that I am working here already.
I came in Nov 2017, asked to go back to PH in Jan 2018. Thought my Singapore work dream will be over. Around Feb 2018, one company got in touched with me. Interview me thru Whatsapp and hired me, process my Visa and asked me to be in Singapore in March.
Forever thankful and grateful to Ms.Joyce. She’s the Filipino Manager that hired me. Little did I know, she was leaving the company so she needed someone to be in their Finance dept.
I’m in my 3rd company here since 2018. I know everything happens for a reason. When I left my 2nd company, I helped one Kabayan to also be hired as my replacement. He was from the Philippines and struggling to find a work here. He is always a reminder that my 3rd company was not an impulse decision but its because I needed to help him, so I should not regret leaving that company.
Yes, I heard so many Filipino tales that they are the one who pull down their own Kabayans here.. but my story is not the same.
I’m forever thankful to the first Filipino who helped me get to SG so (in return).. I should also help my fellow Kabayans.
In 2021, my brother and his family migrated to Europe. I thought my life will be more exciting as I will be totally alone in a foreign land. But nope, I missed my niece and nephew who were more real and fun to talk to, than any adults that I encounter daily. Lol.
In 2022, my bestfriend also migrated in the States. Before she left, I spent most of the time in her house, eating free food and more more gifts.
Then 2 of my closest friends also migrated and have their own family in Europe lol.
In the past years, I spend a lot of money for material things, which honestly now I want to regret coz I wanna dispose all of them already. Lol
So, the real question is… am I still happy now? 8 years of being single in Singapore. 8 years of being away from my parents and family. 8 years of adulting?
Sometimes, I wish to just go back to the Philippines. Not much money but for sure the happiness will be different.
I can’t say im not happy now.. but Im not also super sad. I guess Singapore really got my heart so numb. Lol. Not sure if its a good or bad thing.
Again, Happy 8years to me!! Let’s see how long we can stay here.
Living and working abroad for nearly a decade truly reshapes your perspective on life and happiness. As I reflect on my own experience inspired by this story of 8 years in Singapore, I realize how complex the immigrant experience can be. The first few months are often filled with excitement and optimism, much like when the author started in 2017 and felt overwhelmed but happy. However, the reality soon sets in—being far from family and close friends can leave a strange void that material things and career achievements cannot fully fill. One important lesson I've learned is the value of community and helping fellow countrymen, just like the author who assisted a fellow Filipino struggling to find work. Supporting each other not only builds stronger networks but also brings comfort and a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place. Even when some believe that competition among OFWs is tough, stories like this show solidarity and kindness prevail. Another aspect is how migration affects personal relationships. The author's experience of seeing family and friends migrate to different countries while she remains in Singapore highlights the bittersweet nature of being an OFW. While careers and financial stability grow, emotional connections sometimes fade or become more distant, leading to feelings of isolation. Financially, it’s easy to spend on material things, hoping for happiness through possessions, but as shared, these often lose their appeal over time. This resonates with many expatriates who find true contentment in relationships and meaningful experiences rather than material accumulation. Ultimately, the question “Am I happy?” is a nuanced one for many working abroad. Singapore, while a land of opportunity, can also make hearts feel numb from the loneliness and long years of being away from loved ones. Recognizing this complexity is vital — happiness isn't just about success but balance, connection, and personal fulfillment. For those considering or starting their own journey as Overseas Filipino Workers or immigrants, be prepared for ups and downs. Embrace the new culture, cherish your roots, build a community, and don't hesitate to seek support. Your story, like this one, will have moments of joy, struggle, and growth that define you uniquely.
