From S$20k to S$2k: Redditor shares journey from advertising VP role to warehouse night shifts after layoffs

A Reddit user has shared a frank and emotional account of his career downturn, detailing how he went from earning S$20,000 a month in a senior advertising role to working night shifts at a warehouse for about S$2,000.

In a post shared on 11 November, the 44-year-old — who once held a vice-president title in the advertising industry — wrote that he used to manage teams, clients and late-night brainstorming sessions, navigating the fast-paced world of constant pitches, tight deadlines and the pursuit of awards.

He believed his position was secure until the pressures of the industry “took everything” from him.

Layoffs and a Harsh Reality Check

When layoffs hit his company, the user said he initially believed he could “bounce back” quickly due to his experience, network and track record. Instead, he faced repeated rejection.

He shared that prospective employers told him he was “too old, too senior, too expensive”, and even former contacts stopped responding to him.

The abrupt shift left him unable to secure another role in an industry he had spent years building his career in.

He now works night shifts at a warehouse, earning around S$2,000 a month — a stark contrast to his previous income.

While he described the work as “honest” and something he is grateful for, he acknowledged that it is “a long way” from where he once was.

Reflecting on his journey, he said he often thinks back to the boardrooms, campaigns and late nights he once believed would guarantee lasting success.

Gratitude and a Shift in Perspective

Despite the dramatic change in circumstances, the user said he remains thankful that his CPF contributions still help cover his housing loan.

His focus now, he added, is on ensuring stability for his wife and daughter.

He concluded his post by saying he is no longer angry — only tired. Tired of chasing job titles, tired of equating success with happiness, and unsure of what life is trying to teach him.

He wrote that he “just needed to let this out”, hoping his story might resonate with others facing similar struggles.

Reddit Users Praise His Resilience

Many Reddit users praised him for his resilience and honesty, with one user commenting that the value of a person’s life cannot be measured by wealth, but by character and resilience.

Another wrote: “You are not alone bro. I suggest you take this opportunity to enjoy your family.”

“Many others will appreciate what you have shared, especially those who experienced something similar than yours,” another user added.

One commenter reflected: “I’m glad you still find the reason to see that sometimes money isn’t everything. I feel success comes within the contentment and peace in life. Don’t worry, I’m sure things will always find a way.”

Several users also shared their own experiences of hardship.

One commenter described going through a similar setback 20 years ago at the same age, when both the commenter and spouse lost their jobs while expecting a third child.

A chance encounter later led to a business that grew to 3,000 employees and was eventually sold, which became the “greatest turning point” of that period.

The commenter encouraged the original poster to hold on and not lose hope.

Another user said that a similar situation happened, and losing the job unexpectedly brought a sense of liberation.

Although the family is now entering a difficult period, the commenter remains grateful that the challenges are only material and financial, adding that everything feels manageable as long as the family stays healthy and happy.

Suggestions from the Community

Some users offered practical advice, suggesting that, given his experience, he could secure a higher-paying role.

One user recommended exploring teaching in polytechnics, noting that the user knew someone who successfully made the transition after a similar career setback.

Another wrote: “I think you probably need to see where your skillset lies, and perhaps with some upgrading, you will be ready to bounce back into the workforce. Perhaps not at S$20k a month, but maybe around S$7–8k for someone who’s senior and able to give clients proper advice.”

One commenter encouraged him to use his free time to prepare project ideas and speak to his supervisor about opportunities to showcase his expertise to the company’s marketing or sales team, saying it might help him pivot into a role better suited to his skills.

The original poster acknowledged that while he wishes he could earn S$20,000 again, there is a certain kind of freedom that comes with warehouse work. It is menial, he said, but less stressful on his mind.

Advice on Savings and Side Hustles

One user posed a reflective question, asking if he would encourage others to save more during better times.

The original poster responded that beyond saving, he would advise everyone to take up side hustles.

He added that he had put “too much into one job”, was “way too loyal”, and eventually realised that “you’ll always be disposable to the needs of any company”.