Thailand’s rich most satisfied with work-life balance
Thailand’s rich topped a recent survey on work-life balance conducted by a Swiss private bank. The survey, aimed at Asia-Pacific countries, also found that Singaporean millionaires were the least satisfied.
Here are the details from the survey.
72% of rich Thais are happy with their work-life balance
Image for illustration purposes only
Image credit: LYCS Architecture via Unsplash
The survey asked over 460 people with an investable wealth of more than $1 million within Asia-Pacific countries if they were happy with their current work-life balance. Thai millionaires were the most satisfied with over 72% responding positively.
This was closely followed by Australia in 2nd with 68% and the Philippines in 3rd at 64.3%.
Singapore among the lowest at 30%
Image for illustration purposes only
Image credit: nrd via Unsplash
At the very bottom of the list were Singaporean millionaires, with only 30% responding that they were satisfied. This puts them lower than Hong Kong (52.8%), Japan (48.8%), and Taiwan (41.3%).
As to why this might be, many point towards Singapore’s long working hours as well as frequent overtime. According to Instant Offices, Singapore is the most overworked country in the Asia-Pacific region – clocking in at 45 hours per week.
Thailand, on the other hand, sits somewhere in the middle with 40 hours per week. Australia is the lowest at only 33 hours per week.
What does this mean for the middle-class?
Image for illustration purposes only
Image credit: Mimi Thian via Unsplash
It is important to keep in mind that Banque Lombard Odier & Cie SA surveyed millionaires for the report. This means that while the survey might shed some light on a part of the population, it does not tell the whole story.
There are other cultural factors to consider as well. Many point out that the lower rate of satisfaction from Singaporeans may be due to a shift away from the “work is life” mentality.
Another thing to note is that although Australia has the lowest amount of work hours in the region, it is only ranked second in satisfaction behind Thailand, who are in the middle of the pack in regards to work hours.
Balance your own life too
This report is a good reminder that you should take care of your own work-life balance as well. With tons of deadlines and social obligations approaching towards the end of the year, it can be easy to forget that you have an obligation to your own happiness too.
So if you’re looking for help with that, check out our guide to using the last of your annual leave this year. If you’re looking for something young and vibrant to brighten up your mood, Siam Music Fest promises to be one of the biggest music festivals and is completely free.
Cover image adapted from: Mimi Thian via Unsplash and LYCS Architecture via Unsplash