Hustle culture is dangerous and here are five ways to avoid it
What is it and why is it so dangerous?
Hustle culture is a term for a type of work style that rewards working long hours, aggressively going after big goals and ambitions, and pushing oneself to the limit without taking care of your long-term well-being and health.
The problem with this mindset is the burnout and stress it brings to the people that practice it. Hustlers praise overwork and consider self-care (aka sleep) a weakness or lack of drive.
What does hustle culture look like in a workspace?
“First in, last out” of the office is rewarded.
Work is the most important thing for everyone.
Staff and leaders talking about not having enough sleep or skipping meals.
Messages or emails at night and during the weekends.
Employees are praised for working long hours, going to late meetings and working on the weekend.
Employees don’t have support or resources and don’t feel safe asking for help.
Rest is considered a luxury when it’s actually a biologic need (and not “naps in the break room” kind of rest).
Impacts of hustle culture on mental health
Anxiety. “Out of sight, out of mind” is real, and if you’re anxious your boss is going to reward those who are the most visible, you’re probably right.
Toxic positivity and productivity. Doing more with less at all odds is expected, and the group mentality around it only spreads it.
Guilt. You feel like you’re letting your team down.
Apathy. Quiet quitting, complacency, and lack of focus.
Can it impact your physical health, too? Absolutely
Lack of sleep can lead to all sorts of issues like work-related fatigue and a feeling of chronic over-tiredness.
The stress can lead to shifts in eating patterns too, weight fluctuations, and high blood pressure. See your doctor if you’re having physical and mental affects from being overworked.
How to avoid letting hustle culture take over
Ask for help. Your boss is here to remove roadblocks, and having more on your plate than you can physically handle is part of that.
Define your version of success. You don’t need to compare yourself to the boss’ favorites. Do your job well and keep your eye on your Vision.
Learn to say no. Setting a precedent by saying “yes” once can sometimes lead to more requests. Be prepared to have repeated conversations about what you need to realistically get the job done, and a reasonable date to expect it.
Take a rest. Use your PTO. Rest. Sleep. Do nothing. Don’t feel guilty for it.
Take care of yourself and your priorities. Use a sick day to go to the doctor and the dentist. Call your best friend and do your favorite meal prep. Put yourself first for a few days unapologetically.
