Burnout stories are common. What is rare is someone who actually steps off the “helicopter track” and rebuilds life from scratch. Dr Faith Nadine Choo, The Side Quest Doctor, did exactly that. After clocking 70 to 80 hours weekly and surviving 30‑hour hospital calls, she realised she was running on empty. Her turning point came during a palliative posting, watching a patient her age face terminal illness. That moment forced her to confront what she was truly chasing.
Dr Faith eventually broke her medical bond, paid a six‑figure penalty, and redesigned her life around freedom, health and meaningful work. Today she works 20 to 25 hours weekly, earns 8 to 10K, writes, podcasts and builds a life that fits her values.
This conversation is for anyone questioning the grind, exploring FIRE or wondering what “success” should look like in Singapore’s high‑pressure system.
Save this if you’re navigating burnout, career pivots or planning your own version of financial independence.
Tell us: What does a life built around freedom look like for you?
What We Discuss:
00:00 - How do you avoid being influenced by everyone else around you?
02:01 - Introduction
06:43 How did burnout lead you to FIRE?
10:11 When did things start to break down?
17:48 How does breaking your bond work?
24:42 How much do you earn working 20-25 hours a week?
25:56 How does that compare to your peers?
32:15 How did you block out the influence of high achievers around you?
37:33 Is it too early to think about end-of-life priorities, or is this a generational shift?
43:58 Where does your certainty come from?
48:04 What advice would you give before committing to medicine?
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