1 in 2 workers find work-life balance in Singapore awful

But they get the biggest paychecks.

Working is Singapore is hard for almost 1 in 2 employees, a research by Emolument.com found out. According to the study, 47% of Singapore employees find work-life balance awful. 

"Countries such as Hong Kong, Singapore and UAE are at the bottom of the table," the study said, noting that while these locations offer top salaries to expatriate employees, they expect a high commitment in return.

Out of all the jobs, the survey found out that consultants are notorious for working long hours, and unsurprisingly are the most unhappy.

"49% consider their work-life balance to be awful. At their clients' beck and call, they are rarely in control of their working location and hours," the study revealed.

Based on gender, 9% more women than men think their work-life balance is awful.

"With more pressure on women to cover for childcare commitments (sickness, school events..), housework and logistics, it is not surprising to see such a gap, as for many pursuing a successful career alongside a fulfilled personal and home life resembles a juggling act," Emolument said.

Emolument.com COO Alice Leguay said work-life balance has been touted by large corporations for years, it has finally become a key factor choosing a career.

"Upcoming generation Y and Z are certainly expecting more flexibility, less face-time, and rather than having to account for half-day annual leave, attending school plays or meetups, expect to be trusted to do the job on their terms," she said.

She furthered, "In some industries, implementing such a shift in perception and practice is still a long way off as client demands in terms of reactivity and timeliness remain unchanged. However, employers understand that dissatisfaction with work-life balance is more and more likely to be a reason for quitting, and that higher pay struggles to compensate for time spent away from family and friends.'"