Four things all Singaporeans are unknowingly addicted to
The first step to getting over an addiction is to admit it.
As a true blue Singaporean, there are a couple of things we do that are uniquely…for lack of a better word…Singaporean.
As much as we do not want to admit it, no other citizen of the world is as crazy as us when it comes to these things.
Here are the top four things that all Singaporeans are addicted to.
What is up with Singaporeans and rankings? We are obsessed with lists of the best in everything. Best primary schools, best secondary schools, top PSLE students. Even the government’s recent efforts to cease the naming of top PSLE scorers did not stop parents from crowd-sourcing a list of their own.
Perhaps it is the kiasu nature in us and that strong sense of not wanting to lose that pushes Singaporeans to these extremes.
The word “free” is probably every Singaporean’s favourite word. It is also the best way to capture our attention. Free food, free bag, free vouchers…You would be surprised at what we Singaporeans are willing to do to get something for free.
And it does not stop there. How many of us are guilty of taking stuff from hotels? When you travel overseas, do you tend to take all the free amenities that are provided such as toiletries, toothbrushes, hotel slippers and bath robes? You would be lying to yourself if you answered no.
Even though the word “free” is one of the most persuasive words in the English language, it seems to be even more so in Singapore as compared to other countries.
3. Queueing
But what all Singaporeans especially love to queue for are limited edition items.
4. Boasting
Singaporeans have mastered the skill of boasting without sounding like we are obviously showing off. You hear these Singaporeans almost anywhere, in the train, on holiday and most often, at family gatherings.
“The COE is so expensive nowadays but we still bought a new BMW anyway,” shared that annoying auntie that everyone rolls their eyes at.
Geez, we get it, your son is super smart.
Like any other addiction, I think it is best if we Singaporeans take our competitiveness down a notch. I hope these kiasu obsessions do not tarnish Singapore’s reputable name.
