The Singapore education system was designed to produce people to fill jobs that will form the foundation of our economy. In the earlier days, we produced more blue collars, and as we moved up the value chain, we needed more white collars. This is very pragmatic because we are small and vulnerable. Without a strong economy, we are nothing.
I am not familiar with the writing industry but I think that we have reached the time where we can indulge in some luxury. We no longer have to just mass produce workers; we can risk some creativity. And together with the world, we are entering an age of gig economy. I think it is probably a good time for aspiring writers to dabble with the market and see what are the opportunities out there.
In my case, it's about 3000 words a day -- while juggling a full-time job. The day I can ditch the full-time job, that number is bound to get higher.
I like how you think; it is pragmatic and mature. It is too idealistic to expect that you can survive just by writing. There is still a need to keep your full-time job while growing your side income. I am doing the same here.
To create more Singaporean writers, you can't follow the Singaporean approach to writing. You can't be a hobbyist. You have to be a pro. You have to study the market, formulate a winning strategy, write the best stories you can, and stick to it until you succeed.
I also agree to the above. To be successful, you need a gameplan and you have to stick to it. I wish you well and hope that you will succeed.
Upvoted, resteemed and I am going to follow you on Steemit as I am looking forward to your success stories!
Thanks! Good luck with your side gig too!