Meet Timothee Yap, Singapore’s Embodiment of Brains and Brawn
Years of intense training and discipline have allowed Timothee Yap to enjoy an enviable work-sport-life balance
The lawyer-olympian with streamlined style
Most of us have experienced preparing for and taking a life-defining academic exam. Only some of us know how it’s like to train for and participate in an international athletic competition. Even fewer are those who’ve done both—simultaneously. Singaporean lawyer and Olympian Timothee Yap belongs to that niche group.
In 2019, he had to study and take the bar exam while conditioning for and sprinting in the Southeast Asian Games, all within two weeks.
“I had to stay disciplined. I managed my time extremely well, and I cut off all distractions then,” the thirty-year-old recalls. “Knowing that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, reminding myself that I chose this path, and understanding that my choices were beneficial for my future kept me focused and determined.”
Sixteen years of training had prepared Timothee for that arduous moment. And while he retired in 2020, he maintains the disciplined lifestyle of an Olympian to this day.
“Being in competitive athletics from a young age has built my composure, especially in high-pressure situations. In a race, you only have ten seconds to showcase what you have worked on over the last few months or years. You have to be calm and clearheaded,” he notes.
This philosophy has always guided him, especially now with his demanding work as a lawyer. However, Timothee is quick to dismiss the notion that people in his profession are—because of the pressure— always stoic, serious, and uptight.
“You can still have fun, exercise daily, and hang out with your friends, all while meeting your deadlines and delivering quality legal advice promptly. Work is important, but it’s not your entire life.”
“As I share my life on social media, I hope people can see that being a lawyer doesn’t mean you have to give up your social life,” he muses.
Years of intense training have allowed Timothee to manage and enjoy an enviable work-life balance. He’s previously dabbled in the Singaporean entertainment industry, and he’s currently based in Shanghai, China for work. He travels the world and regularly attends fashion and lifestyle events around Asia.
It’s a different kind of busy now for Timothee—one that lends itself to a disciplined lifestyle. “I don’t take any sugar, and I avoid snacks. I only have two meals a day: a light lunch, and a heavy dinner. I also make it a point to do some exercise every day, be it the gym or a quick run.”
“Training and exercise time are sacred. It’s when I take my mind off work, focus on my body, and shut myself off from the outside world. I always push myself during training and maintain a disciplined routine,” Timothee adds.
In terms of grooming, he has had the same fresh cut for over seven years. He’s also been more diligent with skincare to combat the damage caused by years of training and competing under the harsh Southeast Asian sun.
Timothee has also adapted a streamlined sense of style. “Lately, I prefer cleaner and more youthful looks; no accessories, just basics. For work, I wear suits on a daily basis—three-piece and double-breasted suits are my favorites. Off-duty, I prefer comfort: straight cut jeans, a well-fitted tee, and a clean jacket.”
While his habits and experiences make him quite the superhuman, Timothee keeps himself grounded. “I’m just an ordinary guy from Singapore sharing his life. Social media is a way for me to showcase happy and beautiful moments. But if my lifestyle motivates you to become better, then I am extremely honored.”
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