THE TOXIC HUSTLE CULTURE

In popular culture, the “grind” lifestyle is gaining popularity and it’s having a detrimental impact on the working population. Hustle culture seems to have gained traction for a large section of millennials (but that doesn’t mean that those outside of that generation aren’t vulnerable). These days, the idea of a work/life
balance is sometimes viewed as “lazy” and the desired work ethic is one of a “24/7 hustle” or “go big and don’t go home”. Stay at work as late as possible and come in earlier than anyone else. Far from any idea of a balance.

It’s the new ideal that people are starting to aspire to, the goal to always be “on” and to work yourself past your capacity every second, of every minute, of every hour, of the day. Minimal sleep, eat on the go, no vacation, no leisure. Weekends are for the weak. Unfortunately this is the reality of many, and it is dangerously unhealthy. Studies have shown that individual who do not have a work/life balance are at
risk for deteriorating mental and physical health, poor relationships, and (ironically) shorter careers. If you’re not healthy, you’re probably not going to be able to work as long as your peers who have more of a balance.

Those who adhere to the hustle lifestyle are driven by external pressure such as deadlines, work demands, and pleasing others. Individuals may also place unreasonably high expectations on themselves, attempting to “do it all”, rather than admitting that they may require more time or need a few days off. This eventually backfires and generally leads to unnecessary stress and burnout. Also sleep deprivation is terrible for your overall health and usually leads to a lack of presence and coherence during the day.

That’s not to say that there are not going to be times when things will be difficult or you will be faced with challenges that will require you to step out of your comfort zone. It just should not always feels that way and you don’t need to abandon your life outside of work in order to be considered successful. There is value in being able to take a break, and taking care of your own personal needs. Attend to your personal relationships and balance the time you spend working and the time you are spending with loved ones.