I never started my career thinking that, eight years later, I'd be working part-time.
So, how did it happen?
There came a season when both my physical and mental health had taken a toll. Adding on to nights of palpitations and anxiety, I woke up to physical pain. I wasn't able to perform some of the basic functions; went through blood tests, biopsy, trial medications...
At that point, slowing down wasn't a lifestyle choice. It was a decision I needed to make.
Looking back, I don't think those days were simply something to get through. There were signs that I wasn't coping. I felt fortunate that I was able to listen before it was too late. To me, they were life's way of redirecting me towards a different way of living.
"Out of the rat race"
Those days didn't just change my outlook on work. They changed my perspective on life. As I reflected, what once felt like a setback slowly became, in many ways, a blessing in disguise.
.........
Fast forward to today, I'm in my seventh year of working part-time.
It hasn't always been easy.
There have been moments of doubt, and times when it's been hard to ignore the constant noise telling me I could go back to doing more, earning more and achieving more... so that I can contribute more to the organisation which has given me much, I can have more to spend and perhaps, I can "upgrade" my lifestyle, standard of living and experiences.
“And this constant noise can be especially louder when we work and live in Singapore”
But over the years, I've realised the greatest thing this decision gave me wasn't more free time. It was balance and more space.
Space to recuperate and recharge.
Space to be present.
Space to travel differently.
Space to nurture relationships.
Space to rediscover what brings me joy.
And, space to rethink what a rich life really means.
.........
If you're still reading, thank you.
This isn't a guide on why everyone should work part-time. We all have different circumstances, responsibilities and definitions of what a good life looks like.
I'm in no position to say that this is the right path for everyone.
This is simply my way of documenting a journey so far.
How it feels,
The comments and questions I get,
The trade-offs,
What works and what doesn't,
Needs vs Wants
The discovery of life meaning
I don't have all the answers. In fact, the past five months have been a season of self-reflection and realignment, reminding me that growth isn't a one-time decision, but an ongoing journey.
But I can say this: I'm in a season of life that feels more true to who I am than ever before.
If any part of this resonates with you, I hope you'll join me for the chapters ahead.
Welcome to The Part-Time Project. 🌿
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