Singapore has always been known for its dynamic work culture and bustling pace, but the pressures seem to be taking a toll.
In a recent study of 30 cities by Instant Offices, a workspace solutions provider, Singapore was named the third most burnt-out city globally, following London and Melbourne.
This burnout isn’t just a buzzword—it’s becoming a harsh reality for Singaporean employees struggling to stay motivated and energised.
Let’s break down what this means and what people can do to cope.
The rise in burnout searches
Across the world, burnout is on the rise. Online searches for terms like “burnout signs and symptoms” have surged by 50% over the past year.
Instant Offices analysed burnout-related searches in 30 cities, including phrases like “Am I burnt out?” and “How to cope with burnout?”
Unsurprisingly, Singapore landed near the top of the list, ranking third in burnout sentiment after London and Melbourne, with 950 burnout-related searches.
For comparison, London registered a staggering 2,240 searches, and Melbourne trailed with 1,040. Singapore’s high rank signifies an increasing number of people actively looking for answers, likely driven by the city’s notoriously fast-paced lifestyle and demanding work culture.
Why Singaporean workers are feeling the burn
According to the study, 47% of Singaporean workers report feeling mentally or physically exhausted at the end of their workday. Nearly half of the city’s workforce is dealing with a persistent feeling of depletion, struggling to recharge for the next day.
A deeper issue that emerged was motivation. Over two in five Singaporean employees reported difficulty finding the drive to complete their daily tasks.
This erosion of motivation not only impacts job performance but also takes a toll on mental well-being.
Chronic stress in high-demand environments is often the culprit here, a point that resonates with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) characterisation of burnout.
What exactly is burnout?
Burnout is officially recognised by the WHO as an “occupational phenomenon” stemming from ongoing, unmanaged workplace stress. According to WHO, burnout is marked by three main symptoms:
1. Energy depletion: Persistent exhaustion that doesn’t go away with a good night’s sleep.
2. Negativity toward work: Feelings of cynicism or detachment, making work feel like a burden.
3. Reduced efficiency: Difficulty performing tasks, even those that were once manageable.
If left unchecked, burnout can manifest through physical symptoms too, like headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and even changes in appetite or sleep.
Recognising these signs is the first step toward managing this pervasive issue.
Top five tips for managing burnout
Fortunately, there are practical strategies that can help ease burnout. Here’s what Instant Offices recommends:
1. Prioritise physical health
Exercise, nutrition, and adequate sleep all play a major role in combating stress. Even small lifestyle changes, like a morning walk or a switch to a balanced diet, can provide an energy boost and improve mood.
2. Talk about it
Talking about burnout can be the first step to recovery. Chat with a manager about redistributing work, or share your feelings with friends and family who can offer support. For ongoing stress, consider seeing a mental health professional who can offer tools to manage anxiety and stress.
3. Take a tech break
Scheduling daily “tech breaks” can be a game-changer. Unplugging from screens for even 30 minutes can offer much-needed mental rest and allow the mind to recharge.
4. Focus on priorities
Knowing which commitments matter most can help eliminate unnecessary stress. Declining low-priority tasks frees up time and energy for high-impact work and personal pursuits, promoting a better work-life balance.
5. Relax and reconnect
Mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can ease stress. Building these activities into your daily routine creates space for relaxation and mental clarity.
Reducing burnout in a fast-paced world
As cities like Singapore face rising burnout levels, businesses and organisations can take steps to create a healthier work environment. This includes advocating for work-life balance, offering flexible work options, and cultivating a culture where mental health is prioritised, according to Instant Offices.
Personal initiatives, however, are equally vital. Whether it’s practising self-care or talking openly about stress, taking small steps can make a big difference.
With a better understanding of burnout, employees and employers alike can foster a work culture that not only enhances productivity but also well-being.
Featured Image Credit: Reeracoen Singapore
