In my 30s era

I moved to Singapore from Bangkok during COVID when I was 28 years old. Working overseas was a part of a big master plan. It started as a career opportunity, turned into a new chapter, and somewhere along the way, it (almost) became home. Living in a foreign city as a thirty-something woman has taught me more about myself than any self-help book ever could. Here’s a glimpse into how I’m navigating this phase — still learning, still wobbling, but overall, standing stronger than ever.

Career Progression: Building Not Just a Resume, but a Life

In your 20s, you chase titles and money. In your 30s, you crave meaning. Working overseas has fast-tracked my growth in unexpected ways — I’ve learned to navigate cultural nuances, lead with empathy, and stay grounded amidst uncertainty. The professional world in Singapore is fast-paced and competitive, but I’ve also learned to pause and ask: Does this role challenge me? Am I learning? Do I feel seen? Growth isn’t just about climbing. Sometimes, it’s about redefining what success means.

Balancing Work and Life: The Myth, the Mess, the Magic

I used to think work-life balance meant a perfect split — 9 to 6 for work, evenings for life. That illusion shattered quickly. Some days I’m replying to emails at 10PM; other days, I take a long lunch to catch a breath. What I’ve learned is that balance isn’t symmetry — it’s fluid. It’s setting boundaries without guilt, saying no without explaining, and choosing rest even when there’s more to do. Living abroad, far from family, makes self-care non-negotiable.

Social Life, Workouts & Alone Time: The Real Trinity

Making friends in your 30s is… humbling. People have their circles, their rhythms. But I’ve learned to be intentional — joining classes, saying yes to dinners, sending that “let’s grab coffee” text. My social life now is about quality, not quantity.

Working out has become more than staying fit — it’s therapy, clarity, and a confidence boost rolled into one. And alone time? It’s golden. I stay in, play music on the background, cook something comforting, or just stare out the window. In the stillness, I hear myself again.

TLDR;

Living overseas in your 30s isn’t all romantic sunset views and solo trips (though I’ve had those too). It’s confusing, empowering, and lonely in waves. But it also gives you the space to evolve on your own terms. You meet different versions of yourself — the brave one, the tired one, the blooming one. And every version is worth showing up for.