The Pursuit of Happiness
Amidst Singapore’s culture of high expectations and relentless pursuit of success, this piece challenges the notion that achievement alone guarantees fulfilment.
Story by Namirah Kamsir
Photos courtesy of Syahid Solihin
In the bustling metropolis of Singapore, a growing chorus of voices question the true essence of happiness. For the ambitious and driven Generation Z population, the hunt for success has become an all-encompassing journey, leaving little to no room for self-discovery and personal fulfillment. However, I cannot help but wonder if anyone has thought of this before, “What happens if this relentless pursuit comes at the cost of our own happiness?”
In my academic journey as a student in Singapore, I first-handedly witness the paradox of my nation’s success-driven culture everyday. From the day I enrolled in preschool, the pressure to excel in my grades was instilled in me. In this unforgiving symphony of academia, the crescendo of my efforts harmonized with that of my parents’ expectations; “good grades” resounded as golden keys that unlocked somewhat unattainable applause and recognition. My relentless pursuit of these goals slowly but surely tore me away from my own passions, that mainly included dancing. A chained ambition - pirouettes abandoned for financial security.
Capturing a memorable moment from my time at Kranji Modern Dance Club, here is one of my dance performances for a concert. I’m the one third from right.
Although it is undeniable that the stake and competitiveness amongst Singaporeans when it comes to jobs and positions in school are at an all-time high, it is crucial to address the negative impacts they have on the mental health of Generation Z individuals. I soon came to realize that my happiness cannot be locked away behind the towering walls of societal expectations. It is a multifaceted concept that encompasses not only professional success, but also personal growth, emotional well-being, and the pursuit of one’s true passions.
Overtime, I began to internalize the true meaning of success. Today, I strongly believe that it is never too late to act on your own desires, and that is exactly why I have picked up dancing again to heal my destroyed inner child.
Upon sharing my story with my peers, I was saddened by the fact that we shared such similar pressures growing up. However, their stories will truly hold a place in my heart as their grit and determination to defy and find fulfillment in unconventional paths are such admirable and priceless lessons for me: Success does not adhere to a predefined mould.
A remarkable example is Syahid Solihin. A business and entrepreneurship student, he uses his skills to work on his passion in the fashion industry. He founded Shutdown Collective in 2018, a small business focused on bringing high quality and pre-loved clothing to the growing community of local thrift shops. Syahid believes that people he meets are what exactly makes him feel fulfilled. It brings a certain kind of happiness that can never be achieved any way else when he sees someone wear a sold garment.
Syahid in the Shutdown Collective store, a small business he founded that focuses in bringing high quality and second hand clothing, ranging from vintage to high end fashion labels.
There are various encouraging initiatives championing mental health awareness and support, with organizations and schools implementing programs that prioritize emotional well-being and self-care. For example, the Singapore Youth Action Plan (SG YAP) started by the Ministry of Culture Community and Youth (MCCY) gives youths the opportunity to express their own vision for Singapore in 2025. Conversations sparked range from the topic of arts, culture and sports, race and religion, people with disabilities and issues revolving around the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.
By placing emphasis on youth-led initiatives and engagement through education, community outreach, and innovative digital platforms, this transformative plan empowers young Singaporeans to take an active and responsible role in shaping their mental well-being landscape. It fosters a sense of ownership and agency among the local Generation Z community , allowing them to advocate for their needs and concerns effectively in an inclusive support system.
As Will Smith’s character, Chris Gardner, famously said in the film ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’, “Our journey towards true fulfillment often lies in embracing our dreams, defying odds, and finding the courage to paint our own masterpiece of happiness.” Upon navigating our way through life, it is essential for us to recalibrate.
