Success. What does success mean? To many, especially the older generations in Singapore, it refers to succeeding in academics, achieving full marks on a latest test, or earning a position in a high paying job. However, in recent years, the youth’s focus switching from only academics to a wide range of interests, from jobs in the performing arts industries to digital creation. This has resulted in much displeasure from the older generation, believing the younger generation to be pampered, lazy, and that theylack foresight in managing their lives.  

Success is now evaluated in different ways based on the interests of the youth, instead of conventional standards of excelling academically. The Singaporean older generations grew up in a society in which academic success was used as a marker of social standing and wealth. Education was limited to the upper classes, and those of lower socio-economic status were deprived and denied opportunities for formal schooling. More routes were open to those with better academic performance, while those who were not strong academically, or worked in the arts industries, faced poor employment rates, quality of life and standard of living, leading to them struggling to make ends meet and support their families. A clear social divide was formed, allowing the educated to enjoy higher status and privileges. This plays a crucial role in the formation of the stereotype among the older generation that success solely relies on academic performance.  

However, with the rapid development of society, there are increasingly more avenues for exploration for the youths. The focus of the international community is now changing from simply just academic success, to other holistic activities such as the arts, dance, and music. For example, recently, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said in his speech at the launch of the Forward Singapore Festival in 2023 that Singaporeans’ ideals are moving towards fulfilment, meaning and purpose in life, rather than the traditional five Cs:  material possessions namely a condominium, car, cash, credit card, and country club membership. Ms Megan Lau, a NUS graduate with a degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, traded climbing the corporate ladder for aerial ropes to fulfill her childhood dream of performing as a “water princess” in a Macau circus. Furthermore, these people pursuing their own career choices are equally happy. The IPS Youth STEPS Survey in 2022 reported that youth in non-traditional careers reported equal or higher life satisfaction scores compared to peers in corporate roles. They also scored higher in “sense of identity” and “time for hobbies,” which are linked to long-term happiness.  

However, some may point out that society still prioritizes academic achievement, for it is a key factor in employability, social mobility and long term stability. Careers in arts, dance and music are still highly financially unstable, placing youth pursuing it at a disadvantage in life should they prioritize it over their academics. In a knowledge-based economy like Singapore, academic qualifications still are a gateway to many opportunities, neglecting this might hinder one’s ability to compete globally. Yet, success is not a one size fits all concept, as overemphasis on academic success has led to mental health issues, burnout and stifled creativity among youths. While it is true that most industries still prioritize academic success, society is slowly moving away from that. The changing nature of global economy has created demand for skills such as innovation, adaptability and communication, qualities often developed through non-academic pursuits, and the government is working towards supporting these individuals. 

For example, MOE is pushing for a shift away from an excessive focus on academics towards more holistic learning based on children’s strengths, interests and chosen pathways. They now offer varied pathways and customised learning experiences to support students’ diverse potential, through initiatives such as Full Subject-Based Banding, Direct School Admission, new technologies, and support for students with Special Educational Needs. These allow for customisation of a more personalised education journey, where students can pursue areas where they excel and align their journey with their interests and abilities. To better support progression, post-secondary and tertiary pathways will provide more flexibility such as allowing students to spread out their learning to pursue side interests or build up a stronger academic foundation. Furthermore, passion-driven careers, while risky, can lead to higher life satisfaction and personal fulfillment, which are equally valuable indicators of success. As long as youths balance passion with practical planning, diverse definitions of success can empower individuals to thrive in ways that academics alone cannot achieve. 

Contrary to the fears of older generations, choosing a path in the arts, sports, or entrepreneurship does not doom youth to financial struggle. Data shows that many in these industries match or even exceed national income medians, and enjoy high life satisfaction, with little compromise. Yet, the disapproval of the older generations may hold back the younger generation from fully expressing themselves and growing towards their fullest potential. We must learn to accept and respect others despite their differences and interests, for these all contribute to the progress of our Singapore society as a multitalented nation, allowing it to remain competitive in our rapidly developing and changing world.