OpEd: The Psychological Toll of Hustle Culture

In the fast-paced world we live in today, hustle culture has taken over as the rule of the contemporary workplace. This culture emphasizes productivity, ambition, and accomplishment, often neglecting the importance of relaxation, self-care, and work-life balance. We're frequently reminded that success belongs to those who work harder than everyone else, continuously pushing themselves without a break. Initially appearing to be a surefire way to achieve success, it's easy to see why many buy into this philosophy. Isn't it true that the most successful individuals are often the ones who work the hardest? However, with the rise of hustle culture deeply embedded in our work routines and expectations in work environments, it's crucial to ponder— what sacrifices are we making in pursuit of success?

The glorification of being productive at all times and working long hours while striving to exceed expectations has had a detrimental impact on the mental well-being of many individuals. The psychological costs of hustle culture are often overlooked amidst its portrayal of success. However, it leads to increased stress levels, burnout, and a distorted view of maintaining a work-life balance, resulting in employees feeling drained, lacking recognition, and ultimately unhappy.